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3-Day Ultimate Dubai and Abu Dhabi Itinerary: Explore Iconic Landmarks and Cultural Gems

Viewed by 79 travelers

Day 1: Dubai Highlights

Dubai, UAE on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Baker & Spice

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast made from organic ingredients at Baker & Spice, located at Souk Al Bahar. They open from 7am to 11pm, perfect for a fresh start.
AED60, 1h

9:30am

Visit Burj Khalifa - At The Top

Experience panoramic views of Dubai from the observation deck of the world's tallest building. Book tickets online in advance to avoid queues. Open from 8:30am to midnight.
AED150, 2h

12:00pm

Dubai Mall Exploration

Explore the Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination. Visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo inside. Open 10am to midnight.
Free entry; Aquarium AED100, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Social House

Enjoy an international menu with views of the Dubai Fountain at Social House. Open noon to 11pm, this is a relaxing spot for lunch near Dubai Mall.
AED120, 1h

3:30pm

Dubai Fountain Show & Walk along Dubai Canal

Watch the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show by the Burj Khalifa Lake and then enjoy a leisure walk along the scenic Dubai Water Canal. Fountain shows are every 30 minutes from 6pm to 11pm.
Free, 1.5h

5:30pm

Marina Walk

Take a stroll at Dubai Marina Walk, enjoying the luxury yachts and vibrant atmosphere. Ideal during the cooler evening hours. Open 24/7.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pier 7

Dine at one of the several gourmet restaurants in Pier 7, Dubai Marina. Options range from Lebanese to steakhouse. Open from 6pm to midnight.
AED200, 2h
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Day 2: Abu Dhabi Culture

Abu Dhabi, UAE on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Abu Dhabi

Start early to reach Abu Dhabi in approximately 1.5 hours by car or taxi. This will help maximize sightseeing time in the city.
AED150 (taxi), 1.5h

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Arabia

Enjoy traditional Emirati breakfast and coffee at Café Arabia inside the Manarat Al Saadiyat cultural center. Open from 8am to 6pm.
AED50, 1h

10:30am

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Visit the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture. Guided tours available. Open 9am to 10pm (closed Fridays 4:30pm onwards).
Free, 1.5h

12:30pm

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Explore art, culture, and history at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a stunning museum on Saadiyat Island. Open 10am to 8pm (closed Mondays).
AED60, 2h

2:30pm

Lunch at Manarat Al Saadiyat Beach Club Restaurant

Enjoy lunch with sea views. Offers a variety of fresh seafood and Emirati dishes. Typically open 12pm to 5pm.
AED120, 1h

3:45pm

Emirates Palace Walk & Photography

Visit the luxurious Emirates Palace hotel’s exterior and gardens, a photo-worthy landmark. Open ground areas accessible any time.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Return drive to Dubai

Head back to Dubai for your last night stay. Leave Abu Dhabi by 5pm to avoid traffic and arrive comfortably by evening.
AED150 (taxi), 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Al Iwan, Burj Al Arab

Treat yourself to an exquisite Arabian dinner at Al Iwan inside Burj Al Arab. Reservations recommended. Open 7pm to 11pm.
AED400+, 2h
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Day 3: Dubai Leisure

Dubai, UAE on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabian Tea House

Enjoy traditional Emirati breakfast items and a variety of teas in the old town Al Fahidi area. Open 8am to 11pm.
AED60, 1h

9:30am

Visit Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Walk through the heritage Al Fahidi neighbourhood, exploring museums and art galleries. Open daily from 8am to 8pm.
Free, 1.5h

11:15am

Dubai Creek Abra Ride & Gold & Spice Souks

Take a traditional Abra boat ride across Dubai Creek and explore the vibrant Gold and Spice Souks. Abra rides start from AED1, open 24/7.
AED1-5, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe

Savour authentic Emirati cuisine in a traditional ambiance at Al Fanar, open 11am to 11pm.
AED100, 1h

2:45pm

Shopping at Mall of the Emirates

Spend your afternoon shopping or visit Ski Dubai, the indoor ski resort inside the mall. Mall open 10am to 10pm; Ski Dubai open 10am to midnight.
Free entry; Ski Dubai AED200 approx, 3h

6:00pm

Relax at JBR The Beach

Unwind at Jumeirah Beach Residences’ open-air beach promenade with cafes, shops and the beach. Open 24/7.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Enjoy wide-ranging American and international dishes at The Cheesecake Factory in Dubai Marina Mall. Open 12pm to 12am.
AED150, 1.5h
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