Affordable Dubai: A Shoestring Budget Itinerary

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at Arabian Tea House

Start your day with a traditional Emirati breakfast including foul medames and khameer bread.
Take the metro to Al Fahidi Station.
AED 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Dubai Museum

Visit the Dubai Museum located in Al Fahidi Fort to dive into Dubai's history and culture.
Walk to Al Fahidi Museum.
AED 3, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Al Fahidi Historical District

Wander through the lanes of this historic neighborhood dotted with art galleries and cafes.
Easy walking distance from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at 3 Fils

Enjoy a delicious and budget-friendly meal at this popular eatery known for its Asian fusion dishes.
Take a bus or taxi to Jumeirah Beach.
AED 45, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Jumeirah Beach

Unwind on the pristine shores of Jumeirah Beach and enjoy stunning views of the Burj Al Arab.
Walk to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Explore this traditional market, which offers a variety of goods and stunning waterways.
Take the bus to Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Al Beiruty

Savor Lebanese dishes in a casual setting, great for budget travelers.
Walk to the restaurant.
AED 50, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dubai Fountain Show

Catch the enchanting Dubai Fountain show at the Burj Khalifa lake, a free spectacle of light and music.
Take the bus to the Dubai Mall.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Modern Discoveries

Dubai, UAE

7:30AM

Breakfast at Tim Hortons

Grab a quick and affordable breakfast sandwich and coffee to fuel your day.
Find the nearest branch via metro.
AED 25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Burj Khalifa

Marvel at the iconic Burj Khalifa; consider viewing it from the outside to save on observation deck fees.
Take the metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Walk through Dubai Mall

Explore the world's largest mall with impressive displays, shops, and an aquarium from outside.
Stroll around the mall.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Head to Old Dubai

Travel to the older section of Dubai to contrast its modernity with traditional markets.
Take the metro to Al Ras Station.
Free, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Ravi Restaurant

Savor authentic Pakistani dishes at this beloved restaurant known for its affordability and taste.
Walk to the restaurant.
AED 40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Gold and Spice Souks

Wander through these bustling markets; browse unique items and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Walking distance from Ravi Restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Al Seef

Experience the blend of old and new at Al Seef, along Dubai Creek with shops and waterfront cafes.
Walk towards Al Seef area.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Bu Qtair

Relish fresh seafood at this iconic beachside restaurant, a hit with locals and tourists alike.
Take a taxi or bus back to Jumeirah area.
AED 60, 1 hour

7:00PM

Walk by Kite Beach

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Kite Beach, perfect for walking off dinner.
Get there via bus or taxi.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 3: Adventure Awaits

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Sum of Us

Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at this urban café known for its artisanal fare.
Walk to the café from your accommodation.
AED 40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dubai Marina Walk

Stroll along the picturesque Dubai Marina and enjoy the skyline.
Take metro to Dubai Marina Station.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)

Relax at the popular beach area and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Easy walk from Dubai Marina.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Shake Shack

Grab a quick bite at this iconic burger chain offering tasty options.
Walk along the beach to JBR.
AED 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit The Frame

Experience stunning views of old and new Dubai from this architectural marvel.
Take a taxi to The Frame.
AED 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Zabeel Park

Relax in one of Dubai's beautiful parks and enjoy the greenery.
Walk to Zabeel Park from The Frame.
AED 5, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Al Iwan

Dine on traditional cuisine in a beautiful setting at the Burj Al Arab.
Take a taxi to the restaurant.
AED 70, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Visit La Mer

End your day at this beachfront destination filled with shops and entertainment.
Take the metro or bus to La Mer.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 4: Desert Escape

Dubai, UAE

7:30AM

Breakfast at Café Rider

Enjoy a delicious coffee and a light breakfast at this quirky café loved by locals.
Take metro or taxi there.
AED 30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Desert Safari (Budget Option)

Join an economical morning desert safari for camel rides and dune bashing.
Pick-up from hotel or designated location.
AED 150, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch in the Desert

Enjoy a traditional Emirati meal as part of your safari package.
Provided within the tour.
Included, 1 hour

1:00PM

Return to Dubai

Head back to the city after an exhilarating morning.
Return transport provided.
Included, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Your Accommodation

Take some time to freshen up and recharge for the evening.
Walk back to your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Dubai Aquarium

Explore the incredible marine life at Dubai Mall's aquarium without entering the building.
Walk to the Dubai Mall.
AED 50, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Walk through Dubai Souk

Visit the mall's food court for snacks and explore the vibrant dining options.
Walk around Dubai Mall.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Food Court in Dubai Mall

Select budget-friendly dishes from a variety of cuisines available at the food court.
Located within Dubai Mall.
AED 50, 1 hour

8:00PM

Evening Marina Cruise

Enjoy a budget-friendly evening cruise along Dubai Marina to see the city from the water.
Book in advance for pick-up.
AED 70, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Nature and Leisure

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at GLO

Start the day with a light breakfast and great coffee at this café known for its cozy ambiance.
Find the nearest location to your stay.
AED 35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dubai Miracle Garden

Stroll through this magical garden featuring millions of blooming flowers.
Take the metro to Mall of the Emirates, then a taxi.
AED 55, 2 hours

11:30AM

Head to Global Village

Explore the multicultural festival park showcasing food, culture, and shopping.
Taxi from Miracle Garden.
AED 15, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Global Village

Experience international dishes at various food stalls catering to all tastes.
Within the Global Village.
AED 40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Global Village

Enjoy entertainment, shopping, and cultural workshops at Global Village.
All on foot, no transport needed.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Head back to Dubai

Return to the city after a delightful time at Global Village.
Taxi back to your accommodation.
AED 40, 1 hour

5:30PM

Light Shopping at The Outlet Village

Browse through high-end brands at discounted prices across an outlet mall.
Taxi from your accommodation.
Free to browse, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Shake Shack

Wind down with casual dining at this global favorite to enjoy their comfort food.
Walk through The Outlet Village.
AED 50, 1 hour

8:30PM

Evening at The Dubai Fountain

Unwind with another showing of the evening fountain show, a sight to behold.
Back to the Dubai Mall.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 6: Final Day Highlights

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your accommodation's café, absorbing the Dubai vibe.
In-house.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Jumeirah Mosque

Experience one of the few mosques open to non-Muslims and learn about Emirati culture.
Take a taxi to the mosque.
AED 35, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at KFC

Grab a quick and familiar meal at this fast-food chain before your adventures continue.
Taxi close to your location.
AED 25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Palm Jumeirah

Take a leisurely walk along this iconic man-made island with stunning views.
Take the monorail to the Palm.
AED 30, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit The Lost Chambers Aquarium

Explore the underwater world at this stunning aquarium, part of the Atlantis resort.
Walk to the aquarium from the Palm.
AED 80, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Light Shopping at Mall of the Emirates

Spend your last few hours shopping at one of Dubai’s most famous malls.
Take the metro to Mall of the Emirates.
Free to browse, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

For a satisfying farewell dinner, feast on a dynamic menu with options for all tastes.
Inside Mall of the Emirates.
AED 70, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dubai Night Market

End your trip by exploring the vibrant Dubai Night Market for last-minute souvenirs.
Taxi to the night market.
Free, 2 hours
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