Ultimate 7-Day Dubai Itinerary: Explore the City's Iconic Attractions and Hidden Gems

Day 1: Historic Dubai Exploration

Dubai, UAE on May 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Arabian Tea House

Enjoy a traditional Emirati breakfast in the courtyards of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, offering authentic ambience and fresh Arabian coffee.
AED75, 1h

9:45am

Explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Wander through the restored wind-tower houses and interpretive centres that tell the story of old Dubai’s way of life.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Dubai Museum visit

Discover Dubai's heritage at the Dubai Museum housed in Al Fahidi Fort, showcasing traditional artefacts and historical exhibits.
AED3, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe

Taste traditional Emirati cuisine in a setting inspired by Dubai in the 1960s, near Dubai Creek.
AED120, 1h30m

3:00pm

Abra ride across Dubai Creek

Take a traditional wooden boat ride to cross the Creek, experiencing the old trading port’s charm and skyline views.
AED1, 30m

4:00pm

Explore the Gold and Spice Souks

Browse dazzling jewellery and aromatic spices while soaking in the bustling marketplace atmosphere.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Bu Qtair Seafood

Enjoy fresh, simple, and affordable seafood at this local gem in Jumeirah, popular among residents and visitors alike.
AED70, 1h
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Day 2: Modern Dubai Adventures

Dubai, UAE on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Sum of Us

Start your day with gourmet coffee and artisan bakery treats at this popular contemporary café Downtown Dubai.
AED60, 1h

9:30am

Visit Burj Khalifa – At The Top

Ascend to the observation decks of the world's tallest building for breathtaking panoramic city views. Book tickets in advance to avoid queues.
AED169, 2h

11:45am

Explore The Dubai Mall

Tour one of the world's largest malls featuring shopping, the Dubai Aquarium, and the underwater zoo.
Free entry (additional charges for aquarium), 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Social House

Dine with views of the Dubai Fountain and a diverse menu blending international and regional flavours.
AED100, 1h30m

3:30pm

Relax at Dubai Fountain Lake Ride

Experience the iconic fountain show from a traditional abra boat on the Burj Lake, available in the afternoon and evening.
AED65, 30m

5:00pm

Visit Souk Al Bahar

Stroll through this boutique shopping and dining destination with boutique shops and gallery spaces.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Thiptara

Enjoy exquisite Thai cuisine in an elegant setting overlooking the Dubai Fountain.
AED140, 1h30m
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Day 3: Beach & Marina Day

Dubai, UAE on May 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Baker & Spice in Souk Al Bahar

Savour organic and fresh breakfast options with a casual atmosphere near the Dubai Fountain.
AED55, 1h

9:00am

Relax at Jumeirah Beach

Spend the morning sunbathing, swimming, or walking along the pristine public beach with views of the Burj Al Arab.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill

Delight in fresh oysters and seafood in a chic setting in Dubai Marina.
AED180, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore Dubai Marina Walk

Stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade filled with cafes, shops, and luxury yachts.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Marina Dhow Cruise

Enjoy a 1.5-hour dhow boat cruise around Dubai Marina with sunset views, often including refreshments.
AED120, 1h30m

6:00pm

Return to hotel and freshen up

Rest and prepare for dinner after a day by the sea.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pier 7 – Asia Asia

Experience a vibrant mix of Asian flavours and rooftop views in one of Dubai Marina’s landmark buildings.
AED150, 1h30m
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Day 4: Desert Safari Adventure

Dubai Desert, UAE on May 8, 2025

7:00am

Light breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast to energise for the desert activities ahead.
Included with hotel, 30m

8:00am

Pick up for Desert Safari

Begin your morning desert safari with dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides in the Arabian Desert. Most morning safaris last about 4-5 hours.
AED250, 5h

1:30pm

Lunch at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort

Relax with a traditional Arabic meal in a beautiful desert resort setting, ideal after your morning adventures.
AED150, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Dubai city

Head back to your accommodation to rest and cool down after the desert experience.
Included in safari, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Al Hallab Restaurant, Dubai Mall

Taste Lebanese cuisine with an extensive menu and lively atmosphere to close your day.
AED130, 1h30m
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Day 5: Iconic Landmarks & Shopping

Dubai, UAE on May 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Comptoir 102

Enjoy healthy, organic breakfast dishes in a stylish concept store in Jumeirah.
AED70, 1h

9:30am

Visit Burj Al Arab from outside

Photograph the iconic sail-shaped hotel from the public beach area and nearby viewpoints.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Explore Madinat Jumeirah

Wander this traditional Arabian marketplace with waterways, boutique shops, and cafes.
Free, 2h

12:45pm

Lunch at Pai Thai

Take a gondola ride and enjoy authentic Thai dishes at this charming market-side restaurant.
AED160, 1h30m

2:30pm

Visit Mall of the Emirates

Shop or enjoy the famous indoor ski resort Ski Dubai, which is open daily from 10am to 11pm.
Free entry (ski experience extra), 3h

6:00pm

Return to hotel and refresh

Get ready for the evening’s entertainment and dinner.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Zuma Dubai

Experience contemporary Japanese dining with stylish decor, a favourite among food lovers.
AED200, 2h
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Day 6: Culture & Leisure

Dubai, UAE on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wild & The Moon

Start with healthy, vegan options and fresh juices at this trendy café in Alserkal Avenue.
AED65, 1h

9:30am

Visit Alserkal Avenue

Explore Dubai’s contemporary art hub with galleries, installations, and creative spaces open from 10am to 7pm.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Wild & The Moon or surrounding cafes

Enjoy a light, plant-based lunch in the artistic district with a relaxed atmosphere.
AED80, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Dubai Frame

Walk on top of this iconic frame structure for views of old and new Dubai, open daily 9am-9pm.
AED50, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Zabeel Park

Relax in one of Dubai’s largest parks nearby and enjoy natural surroundings and recreational areas.
AED5, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Logma

Savour modern Emirati dishes with a contemporary twist at this vibrant restaurant in Boxpark.
AED90, 1h30m
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Day 7: Leisure and Departure

Dubai, UAE on May 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at your hotel or close café

Relax and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your last day in Dubai.
Included or AED50, 1h

10:00am

Visit The Walk at JBR

Stroll along this beachside promenade filled with shops, street art, and cafés, open all day.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory, JBR

Enjoy American-style comfort food and a wide variety of dishes with beach views.
AED100, 1h30m

2:00pm

Relax at hotel or last-minute shopping

Use this time to pack, relax by the pool, or grab any last souvenirs.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Prepare for departure

Check out and head to Dubai International Airport for your onward journey.
Taxi or transfer cost approx AED70, 1h
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