5-Day Dubai Budget Trip with Nightlife and Affordable Stays

Day 1: Downtown Exploration

Dubai, UAE on January 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Karak House

Enjoy authentic Emirati karak chai and affordable breakfast options to start your day full of energy in Downtown Dubai.
AED 20, 1h

9:30AM

Visit Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall

Explore the world’s tallest building and the vast Dubai Mall with its free aquarium view areas and the Dubai Fountain show outside.
Free entry to mall; Burj Khalifa At The Top ticket around AED 150-200, 3h

1:00PM

Lunch at Ravi Restaurant

Sample delicious, budget-friendly Pakistani cuisine at Ravi, a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
AED 30, 1h

2:30PM

Walk through Souk Al Bahar

Experience the traditional Arabian marketplace atmosphere with craft shops and cafés, great for afternoon browsing.
Free entry, 1h

4:00PM

Relax at Burj Park

Enjoy an afternoon stroll and stunning views of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain in Burj Park.
Free entry, 1h

6:00PM

Check-in at Citymax Bur Dubai Hotel

Budget-friendly hotel offering clean rooms and central location with easy metro access for night activities.
From AED 150/night, Rest and freshen up

8:00PM

Dinner at Bu Qtair

Enjoy fresh seafood in a laid-back outdoor setting, well-loved by locals for its affordable prices.
AED 50-70, 1.5h

10:00PM

Night walk at Dubai Marina Promenade

Take a nighttime stroll alongside the lit-up yachts and skyscrapers of Dubai Marina – lively and free to enjoy.
Free entry, 1.5h

Day 2: Marina & Beach Day

Dubai, UAE on January 8, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Shakespeare and Co.

Start your day with healthy, budget-friendly breakfast dishes and pleasant café vibes near the Marina.
AED 40, 1h

10:00AM

Relax at JBR Beach

Spend a few hours at the public Jumeirah Beach Residence beach with free entry and beautiful sea views.
Free entry, 3h

1:00PM

Lunch from Food Trucks at JBR

Choose from various affordable street food options offered at JBR food trucks and kiosks.
AED 25-40, 1h

2:30PM

Explore The Beach Mall

Stroll through The Beach Mall with outdoor shops and cafés, perfect for a casual afternoon.
Free entry, 1h

4:00PM

Return to Hotel & Rest

Rest and freshen up at Citymax Bur Dubai before the evening.
Included in stay, 1.5h

6:00PM

Dinner at Calicut Paragon

Experience affordable and authentic Kerala cuisine, a great local favorite for dinner near your hotel.
AED 40-60, 1.5h

8:00PM

Night Visit to Global Village

Discover the cultural pavilions, street food, and entertainment options open until midnight.
AED 15 entry, 3h

Day 3: Cultural & Historic

Dubai, UAE on January 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Arabian Tea House

Enjoy traditional Emirati breakfast dishes in the charming Al Fahidi neighborhood.
AED 35, 1h

9:30AM

Al Fahidi Historical District

Walk through Dubai’s heritage area with restored wind-tower houses, museums, and art galleries.
Free entry, 2h

12:00PM

Abra Ride across Dubai Creek

Take a 1 AED water taxi ride for an authentic local experience and great views.
AED 1, 30m

12:30PM

Lunch at Al Ustad Special Kabab

Famous for its inexpensive and flavorful Iranian kebabs near Gold Souk.
AED 30-40, 1h

2:00PM

Explore Gold Souk & Spice Souk

Bargain for jewelry and spices while soaking in the vibrant souk atmosphere.
Free to browse, 2h

4:30PM

Rest at Hotel

Return to Citymax Bur Dubai to relax before dinner.
Included in stay, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Ravi Restaurant (repeat)

Enjoy more budget-friendly Pakistani cuisine to end your cultural day.
AED 30, 1.5h

9:00PM

Evening walk at Creekside Park

Peaceful and beautifully lit park ideal for a night stroll.
Free entry, 1h

Day 4: Nature & Adventure

Dubai, UAE on January 10, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Circle Café

Enjoy a hearty and wallet-friendly breakfast to prepare for the adventurous day ahead.
AED 30, 1h

9:00AM

Desert Safari Tour

Book an affordable desert safari (including dune bashing, camel rides, and BBQ dinner) to experience Dubai’s spectacular desert landscape.
Around AED 150-200, 6h

3:30PM

Return & Rest at Hotel

Get some rest at Citymax Bur Dubai after your desert adventure.
Included in stay, 2h

6:00PM

Dinner at Al Mallah

Savor affordable and delicious Lebanese street food to end your exciting day.
AED 30-50, 1.5h

8:00PM

Night Market Visit - Ripe Market

Explore Ripe Market for local crafts, fresh produce, and light eats open in the evenings.
Free entry, 2h

Day 5: Leisure & Shopping

Dubai, UAE on January 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Clinton Street Baking Company

Enjoy affordable and hearty international breakfast favorites downtown.
AED 40, 1h

9:30AM

Shopping at Dragon Mart

Discover affordable shopping for souvenirs, electronics, and homewares at this giant marketplace.
Free entry, 3h

1:00PM

Lunch at Al Ibrahimi Restaurant

Enjoy budget-friendly and filling Pakistani and Indian dishes near Dragon Mart.
AED 40, 1h

2:30PM

Relax at Creekside Park

Have a relaxing afternoon picnic or walk with views of Dubai Creek.
Free entry, 2h

5:00PM

Return to Hotel & Pack

Prepare for departure the following day, rest well.
Included in stay, Rest

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Karak Time

End your trip with flavorful Emirati street food and traditional tea in a cozy, budget-friendly setting.
AED 30-50, 1.5h