9-Day Budget-Friendly Itinerary in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Day 1: Explore Old Dubai

Dubai, UAE on March 8, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Al Mallah

Start your day with some delicious Manakish and fresh fruit juice at Al Mallah, known for its authentic Arabian flavors.
AED 30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Dubai Museum

Explore the history and culture of Dubai at the Dubai Museum located in Al Fahidi Fort.
AED 3, 1 hour

12:00PM

Stroll through Al Fahidi Historic District

Wander through the narrow lanes filled with galleries and cafés, soaking in the traditional architecture.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Ravi Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Pakistani meal with options like Biryani or Karahi at this budget-friendly restaurant.
AED 40, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Spice and Gold Souks

Explore the vibrant souks and shop for spices, textiles, and gold at bargain prices.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Bu Qtair

End the day with some fresh seafood grilled to perfection at this charming, budget-friendly eatery by the beach.
AED 60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Modern Dubai

Dubai, UAE on March 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Bateel

Indulge in a healthy breakfast with freshly brewed coffee and Mediterranean pastries.
AED 40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Burj Khalifa Park

Experience stunning views of the Burj Khalifa from the park without spending on tickets.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Walk around The Dubai Mall

Explore the world's largest mall, with impressive fountains and the Underwater Zoo (if budget permits).
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Shake Shack

Enjoy a budget burger meal in The Dubai Mall for a taste of American classics.
AED 50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Take the Metro to Jumeirah Beach

Relax at the beach and enjoy views of the iconic Burj Al Arab.
AED 6, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Al Iwan Restaurant

Savor a buffet dinner at this Arabic restaurant known for its grand setting and diverse dishes.
AED 120, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cultural Day in Dubai

Dubai, UAE on March 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pastry Boutique

Enjoy freshly baked pastry and coffee in this quaint café to start your day.
AED 35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dubai Opera Garden

Take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful gardens with a view of the opera, perfect for photos.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Dubai’s Art District, Alserkal Avenue

Check out contemporary art galleries and pop-up events in this cultural hub.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at One Life Kitchen & Café

Enjoy a healthy and wholesome meal with a variety of choices to refuel your day.
AED 50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Dubai Frame

Get panoramic views of the city at the Dubai Frame, a great spot for photography.
AED 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Manousheh

Try traditional Lebanese flatbreads at this inexpensive eatery in the city.
AED 40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Transition to Abu Dhabi

Dubai, UAE on March 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Sum of Us

A cozy café offering a unique breakfast experience with artisanal bread and specialty coffee.
AED 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Dubai Aquarium (optional)

Explore one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world inside The Dubai Mall.
AED 70, 2 hours

12:00PM

Travel to Abu Dhabi

Take a budget bus to Abu Dhabi, which is economical and comfortable.
AED 25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Al Dhafra

Enjoy local Emirati dishes at a popular and affordable place in Abu Dhabi.
AED 45, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Marvel at the stunning architecture of this iconic mosque, a must-see in Abu Dhabi.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Al Khaima

Experience a true Emirati experience with traditional dishes, offering a cultural insight.
AED 70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Delve into Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE on March 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at 29th Street Cafe

Savor a hearty breakfast in this local café known for its variety and value.
AED 40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi

Explore the stunning artworks and architecture at this world-renowned museum.
AED 63, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Yas Island (optional)

Visit the free attractions or take the chance to see the Ferrari World amusement park.
Free / AED 295, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Yas Mall Food Court

Grab an affordable meal at one of the many food stalls in Yas Mall.
AED 50, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Emirates Palace

See the exterior of one of the most luxurious hotels in the world without spending on entry.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Abu Dhabi Marina Mall Food Court

Close the day with a variety of budget-friendly dining options in the vibrant food court.
AED 50, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Historical Adventures

Abu Dhabi, UAE on March 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Al Shorfa

Delight in Middle Eastern breakfast dishes to energize your day ahead.
AED 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Qasr Al Watan

Explore the cultural landmark, which shows the heritage of the UAE through its stunning architecture.
AED 60, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Al Ghoori

Experience a range of Middle Eastern cuisine in a traditional setting.
AED 50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Heritage Village

Step back in time and experience traditional Emirati life through exhibitions and crafts.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Corniche Beach

Relax and enjoy the beautiful beach along the Abu Dhabi Corniche.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Karak House

End the day with comforting dishes and traditional Karak tea at this budget-friendly location.
AED 40, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Return to Dubai

Dubai, UAE on March 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The One Café

Start your day with healthy breakfast dishes and artisanal coffee.
AED 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel back to Dubai

Take the bus back to Dubai for a smooth return journey.
AED 25, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Global Village

Recharge and enjoy various cultural pavilions filled with crafts, food, and entertainment.
AED 15, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Karak House

Have a light lunch with a wide range of dishes that are both affordable and tasty.
AED 40, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Kite Beach

Enjoy a beautiful day at Kite Beach, play volleyball or just unwind.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Zaatar w Zeit

Enjoy Lebanese fast food with delicious wraps, pizzas, and manakish.
AED 50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Final Day in Dubai

Dubai, UAE on March 15, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Wild & The Moon

Start your last day with organic dishes and fresh juice in this trendy spot.
AED 60, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Dubai Miracle Garden

See the stunning floral displays in this unique garden, best visited in the cooler months.
AED 55, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Urban Bistro

Enjoy a laid-back lunch with an eclectic menu offering plenty of vegetarian and meat options.
AED 50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Dubai Marina

Wander along the marina promenade, enjoy spectacular views, and take couple of selfie.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Al Tannour

Finish your trip with a delicious Lebanese dinner at this cozy spot known for its hummus.
AED 70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Departure

Dubai, UAE on March 16, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel/Hostel

Enjoy a simple breakfast before preparing for your departure.
AED 30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Leisure Time

Spend your last hours shopping for souvenirs or enjoying a final walk.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Food Court

Grab a quick lunch before heading to the airport.
AED 50, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability