7-Day Dubai Itinerary on a Budget: Experience Iconic Sights and Culture for AED 2000

Day 1: Affordable Historic Dubai

Dubai, UAE on May 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Local Cafés near Al Fahidi

Start your day with a budget-friendly Emirati breakfast at nearby street cafés offering traditional dishes at low prices.
AED20, 1h

9:30am

Walk Around Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Enjoy exploring restored traditional homes and cultural centres free of charge, soaking up Dubai's heritage.
Free, 2h

11:45am

Visit Dubai Museum

Experience Dubai’s rich history inside Al Fahidi Fort with a minimal entrance fee.
AED3, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Ravi Restaurant, Satwa

Taste authentic Pakistani cuisine at a pocket-friendly neighbourhood favourite under AED 30 per person.
AED30, 1h

2:30pm

Abra Ride across Dubai Creek

Take an inexpensive traditional boat ride for stunning views of the old trading port.
AED1, 30m

3:15pm

Explore Gold and Spice Souks

Window shop and absorb the lively market atmosphere with no cost unless you choose to buy souvenirs.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Al Mallah Dhiyafah

Enjoy delicious Lebanese shawarma and falafel at budget-friendly prices in a casual setting.
AED40, 1h
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Day 2: Budget-Friendly Modern Dubai

Dubai, UAE on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tim Hortons, Downtown Dubai

Affordable breakfast options including coffee and sandwiches just minutes from the Burj Khalifa.
AED25, 45m

9:00am

Visit Burj Khalifa: Ground Lounge and Souvenir Area

While skipping the pricey observation deck, admire the building’s awe-inspiring exterior and capture photos.
Free, 30m

9:30am

Walk The Dubai Mall and visit Aquarium viewing window

Explore the mall and enjoy views of the Dubai Aquarium from the free public areas without entering the paid sections.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Food Court, Dubai Mall

Choose from a large variety of inexpensive international dishes perfect for budget travellers.
AED35, 1h

1:00pm

Relax at Burj Park & watch Dubai Fountain shows

Watch the spectacular Dubai Fountain performances for free from the park with great views of Burj Khalifa.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Karak House

Experience affordable local fusion meals and traditional karak tea at a casual dining spot.
AED40, 1h
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Day 3: Seaside Budget Day

Dubai, UAE on May 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Street Food Vendors near Jumeirah

Enjoy inexpensive fresh juices and pastries from local vendors by Jumeirah Beach.
AED20, 45m

8:30am

Relax at Jumeirah Public Beach

Spend a free day swimming, sunbathing, and walking along one of Dubai’s top public beaches.
Free, 4h

12:45pm

Lunch at Al Mallah near Jumeirah Beach

Affordable Middle Eastern dishes perfect to enjoy alfresco near the beach.
AED35, 1h

2:00pm

Walk Dubai Marina Promenade

Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the atmosphere of the marina without cost.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Self-guided visit to Pier 7 public areas

Browse restaurant lobbies and public spaces without dining, admiring views of luxury yachts.
Free, 30m

5:00pm

Return to accommodation and rest

Take a break after a busy beach and marina day.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Local Shawarma Stand

Try budget-friendly shawarma wraps or falafel for a quick and delicious dinner.
AED15, 45m
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Day 4: Affordable Desert Safari

Dubai Desert, UAE on May 8, 2025

7:00am

Light homemade breakfast

Prepare a quick, low-cost breakfast to carry with you for the day.
Minimal (AED10), 30m

8:00am

Affordable Morning Desert Safari

Join a budget desert safari tour featuring dune bashing and camel rides, selecting options from reputable providers offering morning trips.
AED180, 5h

1:30pm

Packed Lunch or Snack

Bring your own lunch or enjoy the included simple meal from the safari operator to keep costs down.
Included in safari or AED20, 1h

3:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Relax after your desert adventure and freshen up.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Eat & Drink Restaurant, Al Karama

Budget-friendly Indian and Pakistani cuisine in a casual atmosphere.
AED30, 1h
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Day 5: Budget Shopping & Sights

Dubai, UAE on May 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Karak House

Enjoy an affordable breakfast with karak tea and small plates to start your day.
AED25, 1h

9:30am

Walk Through Madinat Jumeirah Souk

Explore the atmospheric traditional souk with boutique shops and beautiful waterways, free to browse.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Local Emirati Eatery near Souk

Try inexpensive local Emirati or Middle Eastern dishes at cafes in the area.
AED30, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Mall of the Emirates (window shop)

Explore the mall, enjoying the atmosphere and window-shopping without expensive activities.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Coffee break at Costa Coffee or similar

Relax with an affordable coffee or snack break.
AED15, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Man'oushe Street

Enjoy inexpensive Lebanese flatbreads and wraps in a casual setting.
AED25, 1h
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Day 6: Art & Culture on a Budget

Dubai, UAE on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Local Bakery

Start your day with affordable pastries and coffee at a nearby bakery.
AED15, 45m

9:30am

Visit Alserkal Avenue Galleries

Explore contemporary galleries and creative spaces, most free to enter and open from 10am to 7pm.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at nearby budget café

Enjoy a low-cost meal from healthy options offered near the arts district.
AED30, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Dubai Frame

A low-cost ticket grants access to the city’s famous frame, offering dual views of old and new Dubai.
AED50, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax in Zabeel Park

Spend time enjoying greenery and walking in one of the city’s largest parks, entrance fee minimal and affordable.
AED5, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Local Emirati Fast Food

Sample affordable traditional snacks like luqaimat (sweet dumplings) and other treats in a casual setting.
AED20, 1h
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Day 7: Leisure & Departure

Dubai, UAE on May 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel or Nearby Budget Café

Finish your trip with a relaxed, affordable breakfast to prepare for departure.
AED20, 1h

10:00am

Walk The Walk at JBR

Enjoy a free morning stroll along this lively beachfront promenade filled with street art and affordable shops.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Shake Shack or Similar

Opt for moderately priced fast food with beach views to round off your final meal in Dubai.
AED40, 1h30m

2:00pm

Relax or pack at hotel

Use the afternoon to pack and unwind before departure, avoiding extra costs.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Transfer to Dubai Airport

Take an economical taxi or public transport to get to the airport for your onward flight.
AED50, 1h
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