12-Day Ultimate Dubai Itinerary: Culture, Adventure, and Luxury

Day 1: Iconic Landmarks

Downtown Dubai, UAE on April 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Dubai Mall's Social House

Start your day with a delicious breakfast offering views of the Dubai Fountain; their variety ranges from classic English breakfast to healthy options, open from 7:00AM.
AED80, 1h

9:30AM

Burj Khalifa Observation Deck

Visit the world's tallest building to enjoy stunning panoramic views of Dubai from the 124th and 125th floors. Book tickets in advance; open from 8:30AM to 11:00PM.
AED169, 1h30m

11:30AM

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Located inside The Dubai Mall, explore thousands of aquatic animals in one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, open from 10:00AM to 12:00AM.
AED100, 1h

1:00PM

Lunch at Armani/Deli

Dine in style with Italian-inspired dishes in Burj Khalifa’s Armani Hotel, a sophisticated spot for a luxurious lunch experience, open until 5:00PM.
AED150, 1h

2:30PM

Dubai Fountain Show & Walk

Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Souk Al Bahar with views of the spectacular Dubai Fountain shows that run every 30 minutes in the afternoon and evening.
Free, 1h

4:00PM

Visit The Dubai Opera

Tour the iconic Dubai Opera house and check for evening shows; the building architecture is stunning and represents Dubai’s cultural investment.
AED50 (tour), 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Thiptara

Indulge in exquisite Thai cuisine with fountain views at Thiptara, located in Palace Downtown, perfect for a relaxing end to your day.
AED200, 1h30m

Day 2: Heritage & Creek

Al Fahidi, Dubai Creek, UAE on April 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Arabian Tea House

Savour traditional Emirati breakfast and tea in the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, open from 8:00AM.
AED50, 1h

9:30AM

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood Tour

Explore the restored historic district with its wind towers and art galleries to experience Dubai's rich cultural heritage.
Free, 2h

11:30AM

Dubai Museum

Discover over 150 years of Dubai’s history and the transformation from fishing village to modern metropolis, open from 8:30AM to 8:30PM.
AED3, 1h

1:00PM

Lunch at Bu Qtair Seafood Shack

Experience fresh, simple seafood dishes at a local favourite near the Creek, open lunch hours, typically 12:00PM to 4:00PM.
AED70, 1h

2:30PM

Abra Ride on Dubai Creek

Take a traditional wooden boat ride along the creek to absorb the vibrant atmosphere and waterfront views, operating 24/7, cost effective.
AED1, 30m

3:30PM

Visit Gold and Spice Souks

Explore the bustling traditional markets for gold jewellery and exotic spices; ideal for souvenir shopping and photography.
Free, 1h30m

6:00PM

Dinner at Al Bait Al Qadeem

Dine on authentic Emirati dishes in a historic setting by the creek, open till 11:00PM.
AED120, 1h30m

Day 3: Marina Beach Leisure

Dubai Marina & JBR, UAE on April 21, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Walk JBR - Eggspectation

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with beachfront views at Eggspectation, open from 7:00AM.
AED75, 1h

9:00AM

Relax at JBR Beach

Spend the morning relaxing, swimming, and sunbathing on one of Dubai’s most popular beaches, open all day with facilities available.
Free, 2h

11:30AM

Dubai Marina Walk

Stroll along the waterfront promenade lined with shops, cafes, and yachts, excellent for photography and light shopping.
Free, 1h

1:00PM

Lunch at Pier 7 - Asia Asia

Hit this chic multi-level dining spot with a stunning view of the marina, serving pan-Asian delicacies, open until 11:00PM.
AED140, 1h

3:00PM

Dhow Cruise Marina

Enjoy a scenic relaxing harbour cruise on a traditional dhow boat with refreshments included, available in afternoon and evening timings.
AED160, 2h

6:30PM

Free time at The Beach Mall

Explore shops and entertainment options at The Beach Mall with beachfront access before dinner.
Free, 1h

8:00PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory, The Beach

Enjoy an extensive menu with American favourites and great views of the beach, open until late night.
AED120, 1h30m

Day 4: Desert Safari Adventure

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, UAE on April 22, 2025

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at hotel

Have a quick and energising breakfast at your hotel or nearby café to be ready for the desert trip.
Included in hotel stay, 30m

8:00AM

Depart for Desert Safari

Travel to Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve for a morning of dune bashing, camel rides, and desert exploration with a licensed operator.
AED350, 6h

2:00PM

Lunch in the Desert Camp

Enjoy an authentic Arabian buffet and cultural performances like belly dancing and tanoura shows, usually included in the safari experience.
Included in safari, 1h

4:00PM

Return to Dubai

Arrive back in the city with time to rest or light activities for the evening.
Included, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Zuma Dubai

Experience high-end Japanese dining in a stylish environment, perfect to unwind after an adventurous day, open until late.
AED250, 1h30m

Day 5: Shopping & Modern Dubai

Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, UAE on April 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mall of the Emirates - Baker & Spice

Enjoy fresh, organic breakfast options with a relaxed atmosphere, open from 7:00AM.
AED70, 1h

9:30AM

Ski Dubai Indoor Ski Resort

Experience snow fun in the desert with skiing, snowboarding, or just playing in the snow, open from 10:00AM to 11:00PM.
AED250, 2h

12:00PM

Shopping at Mall of the Emirates

Explore a wide range of international brands, luxury stores, and unique shopping experiences.
Free entry, 2h

2:00PM

Lunch at Al Hallab Restaurant

Savour Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine in a luxurious setting inside the mall, open throughout the day.
AED120, 1h

3:30PM

Visit Magic Planet (Indoor theme park)

Enjoy family-friendly rides and games, ideal for a fun afternoon, usually open until 10:00PM.
AED70, 1h30m

5:30PM

Relax in Coffee Club

Grab a coffee and light snack before dinner to unwind.
AED40, 30m

7:30PM

Dinner at Din Tai Fung

Relish famous Taiwanese dumplings and authentic Asian dishes, located in Mall of the Emirates, open until 11:00PM.
AED120, 1h30m

Day 6: Theme Parks & Family Fun

Dubai Parks and Resorts, UAE on April 24, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Eat early for a full day at Dubai Parks and Resorts; enjoy a variety of options before departure.
Included, 30m

9:00AM

Visit Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend your day exploring Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and Legoland for thrilling rides and family entertainment; parks open from 11:00AM to 8:00PM.
AED295, 8h

7:30PM

Dinner at Riverland Dubai

Choose from multiple restaurants offering diverse cuisines inside the Dubai Parks end of day dining options till late.
AED150, 1h30m

Day 7: Cultural Day & Art

Alserkal Avenue, Dubai, UAE on April 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wild & The Moon

Enjoy organic vegan breakfast options in Dubai’s trendy art district, open from 8:00AM.
AED65, 1h

9:30AM

Explore Alserkal Avenue Galleries

Visit contemporary art galleries and creative spaces showcasing Dubai's thriving art scene.
Free, 2h

11:30AM

Visit The Jam Jar Café

Relax with artisan coffee and light snacks in an artsy café setting, open until 5:00PM.
AED40, 1h

12:30PM

Lunch at Wild & The Moon Market

Try wholesome healthy meals and juices made with locally sourced ingredients.
AED80, 1h

2:00PM

Visit the Dubai Design District (d3)

Explore design studios, shops, and exhibitions dedicated to creative industries, open till 7:00PM.
Free, 2h

5:00PM

Evening Coffee at Raw Coffee Company

Sample single-origin coffees and relax at this specialty coffee roastery and café.
AED30, 45m

7:00PM

Dinner at SALT, Kite Beach

Enjoy gourmet burgers and casual dining in a lively waterfront food truck spot, open till 10:00PM.
AED90, 1h

Day 8: Luxury Shopping

City Walk & La Mer, Dubai, UAE on April 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tasha's, City Walk

Start your day with an upbeat breakfast at Tasha’s, offering contemporary international cuisine in a bright setting, open from 8:00AM.
AED75, 1h

9:30AM

Shopping at City Walk

Explore trendy boutiques and designer stores in this modern outdoor shopping and entertainment area.
Free, 2h

11:30AM

Visit La Mer Beach

Enjoy a relaxed coastal vibe with trendy cafes, murals, and a beach promenade open all day.
Free, 2h

1:30PM

Lunch at Brigadiers, La Mer

Savour Indian BBQ and street food with excellent views and lively atmosphere, open all afternoon.
AED130, 1h

3:00PM

Relax or watersports at La Mer

Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply unwind on the beach with great amenities.
AED100 (optional equipment hire), 2h

5:30PM

Coffee and dessert at The Hamptons Café

Enjoy mint tea or coffee with signature desserts in a charming setting, open till 7:00PM.
AED45, 45m

7:00PM

Dinner at The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill

Experience fresh seafood and New England inspired cuisine with a sophisticated atmosphere, open till 11:00PM.
AED220, 1h30m

Day 9: Adventure & Thrills

Aquaventure & Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, UAE on April 27, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start early with breakfast to get a full day at Aquaventure Waterpark, located at Atlantis, The Palm.
Included, 30m

9:00AM

Aquaventure Waterpark

Enjoy thrilling water slides, river rides, and shark diving experiences in the largest waterpark in the Middle East, open 10:00AM to 6:00PM.
AED320, 7h

5:30PM

Explore Atlantis The Palm

Visit The Lost Chambers Aquarium for a fascinating underwater world experience after the waterpark closes, open till 8:00PM.
AED120, 1h30m

7:30PM

Dinner at Bread Street Kitchen

Enjoy Gordon Ramsay’s modern British cuisine in a vibrant setting within Atlantis, open till 11:00PM.
AED250, 1h30m

Day 10: Nature and Relaxation

Dubai Miracle Garden & Global Village, UAE on April 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Comptoir 102

Start the day with healthy, organic breakfast choices at this stylish café near Dubai Miracle Garden, open 7:30AM to 5:00PM.
AED70, 1h

9:30AM

Dubai Miracle Garden

Explore the world’s largest natural flower garden with creative floral displays and sculptures, open 9:00AM to 9:00PM.
AED55, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at The Salad Boutique

Enjoy fresh, healthy meals close to the garden, open until 7:00PM.
AED60, 1h

2:00PM

Relax at hotel or poolside

Take some downtime resting or using hotel amenities to recharge during the hottest hours.
Included, 2h

5:00PM

Visit Global Village

Explore cultural pavilions, crafts and street food from around the world in this seasonal attraction, open 4:00PM to 12:00AM.
AED15, 3h

8:00PM

Dinner at Global Village Food Stalls

Dine on a wide variety of international street food specialties available within the village.
AED50, 1h

Day 11: Modern Culture & Parks

Zabeel Park & City Centre Deira, Dubai, UAE on April 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wildflower Café

Enjoy a fresh and vibrant breakfast menu in a relaxed garden environment, open from 8:00AM.
AED60, 1h

9:30AM

Zabeel Park Visit

Explore this large urban park with gardens, lakes, and Dubai Frame nearby; open from 8:00AM to 10:00PM.
AED10, 2h

12:00PM

Visit Dubai Frame

Take in unique city views from the iconic golden frame that blends old and new Dubai; open 9:00AM to 9:00PM.
AED50, 1h

1:30PM

Lunch at City Centre Deira Food Court

Enjoy quick and diverse cuisine options in one of Dubai’s older yet popular malls, open till midnight.
AED60, 1h

3:00PM

Shopping and Leisure at City Centre Deira

Browse numerous stores or catch a movie at the cinema for afternoon entertainment.
Variable, 2h

6:00PM

Relax at hotel

Unwind and prepare for your final day with some rest.
Included, 1h30m

8:00PM

Dinner at Al Safadi Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Lebanese dishes in a casual setting near Deira, open till late.
AED100, 1h30m

Day 12: Final Day & Relaxation

Jumeirah Beach, Dubai, UAE on April 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker & Spice Organic Café

Relax with an organic breakfast close to Jumeirah Beach, open early from 7:00AM.
AED70, 1h

9:30AM

Morning at Jumeirah Beach

Take a leisurely walk or swim at this iconic beach with excellent facilities and stunning city views.
Free, 2h

12:00PM

Visit Madinat Jumeirah Souk

Explore this traditional-style market with shops, cafes, and views of the waterways for last-minute shopping and photos.
Free, 2h

2:00PM

Lunch at The Meat Co.

Enjoy steakhouse dining with views of the Burj Al Arab, located within Madinat Jumeirah, open until 4:00PM.
AED200, 1h

3:30PM

Spa time at Talise Spa, Madinat Jumeirah

Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment to unwind before departure, spa open 10:00AM to 10:00PM.
AED450, 2h

6:00PM

Early Dinner / Light Meal at Shimmers

Enjoy seafood with a stunning beachfront view to finish your Dubai trip, open until 10:00PM.
AED150, 1h30m