10-Day Ultimate Dubai Itinerary: Explore Modern Marvels & Cultural Gems

Day 1: Downtown Dubai Highlights

Dubai, UAE on June 28, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Sum of Us

Start your day with artisanal coffee and freshly baked pastries at this popular café located near Downtown Dubai, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious breakfast options.
AED75, 1h

10:00AM

Visit Burj Khalifa Observation Deck

Discover breathtaking views from the tallest building in the world. Booking tickets in advance is recommended; the observation deck opens at 10 AM.
AED149, 1h30m

12:00PM

Explore Dubai Mall

Enjoy shopping, visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, or simply wander the world’s largest mall featuring hundreds of stores and entertainment options.
Free entry; Aquarium tickets extra, 2h

2:30PM

Lunch at Social House

This family-friendly restaurant overlooks the Dubai Fountain, offering a diverse international menu perfect for a relaxing midday meal.
AED100, 1h

4:00PM

Dubai Fountain Show

Watch the captivating Dubai Fountain water, music, and light show in the late afternoon, starting from 6 PM daily, but the afternoon rehearsal show can sometimes be seen earlier.
Free, 30m

6:30PM

Dinner at Atmosphere Restaurant

Dine on elegant cuisine on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa with spectacular nighttime views of the city skyline.
AED350+, 1h30m
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Day 2: Dubai Marina & Jumeirah Beach

Dubai, UAE on June 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker & Spice

Enjoy organic and locally sourced breakfast offerings in the Marina area, perfect to fuel your day by the water.
AED65, 1h

9:30AM

Walk along Dubai Marina Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along the marina promenade, lined with shops, cafes, and luxury yachts, appreciating the waterfront views and modern architecture.
Free, 1h30m

11:30AM

Visit JBR Beach

Relax on the sandy public beach, swim or engage in water sports. The beach opens throughout the day and is a lively spot with great views.
Free, 1h30m

1:30PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory, JBR

Enjoy a variety of American favorites with views of the sea and beachfront hustle and bustle.
AED100, 1h

3:00PM

Dhow Cruise Marina

Take a relaxing dhow boat cruise around Dubai Marina to see the stunning skyline and architectural marvels from water. Evening cruises start at 7 PM; afternoon options vary.
AED150, 2h

7:30PM

Dinner at Pier 7

Choose from multiple dining venues in this iconic seven-story dining tower overlooking the marina, offering diverse cuisines.
AED150+, 1h30m
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Day 3: Palm Jumeirah & Atlantis

Dubai, UAE on June 30, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Shore at Palm West Beach

Casual beachfront dining spot offering breakfast with sea views on Palm Jumeirah’s western crescent.
AED90, 1h

10:00AM

Visit Atlantis The Palm

Explore the famous Atlantis resort, including Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. Aquaventure opens at 10 AM.
AED320, 4h

2:00PM

Lunch at Bread Street Kitchen, Atlantis

Enjoy relaxed British cuisine by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay in Atlantis with views of the Palm and the Arabian Gulf.
AED180, 1h

3:30PM

Relax at Nasimi Beach

This private beach at Atlantis provides a chill atmosphere to swim and sunbathe in the afternoon.
Free with Atlantis entry, 2h

6:00PM

Dinner at Ossiano

Experience fine dining underwater-themed setting with views of the aquarium at Atlantis. Reservations recommended.
AED400+, 1h30m
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Day 4: Old Dubai Culture

Dubai, UAE on July 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Arabian Tea House

Enjoy traditional Emirati breakfast dishes in the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood.
AED60, 1h

9:30AM

Explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Wander through the restored historic district showcasing traditional architecture, art galleries, and cultural exhibits.
Free, 1h30m

11:00AM

Dubai Museum

Located inside Al Fahidi Fort, this museum offers insight into Dubai’s pre-oil history and culture. Open 8:30 AM–8:30 PM daily.
AED3, 1h

12:30PM

Lunch at Local Arabic Restaurant - Al Bait Al Qadeem

Taste authentic Emirati and Arabic cuisine in a historic setting near the Dubai Creek.
AED80, 1h

2:00PM

Abra Ride on Dubai Creek

Take a traditional wooden boat to cross the creek and experience the vibrant souks on the Deira side.
AED1, 30m

3:00PM

Visit Gold and Spice Souks

Browse the bustling open-air markets filled with glittering jewelry and fragrant spices.
Free, 1h

6:30PM

Dinner at Bayt Al Wakeel

Enjoy seafood and Middle Eastern dishes on the waterfront with views of Dubai Creek lit up at night.
AED120, 1h30m
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Day 5: Desert Safari Adventure

Dubai Desert, UAE on July 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before the desert excursion.
Included, 1h

10:00AM

Free morning for relaxation or optional activities

Use this time to rest or explore local cafes nearby in Dubai on your own.
Varies, 3h

1:00PM

Desert Safari Pickup

Experience dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and cultural performances with a desert safari tour starting in the afternoon, typically around 1 PM or later.
AED300, 6h

7:30PM

Desert Dinner and Show

Enjoy a traditional BBQ dinner accompanied by belly dancing and Tanoura show under the stars in the desert camp.
Included in safari price, 2h
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Day 6: Global Village & Miracle Garden

Dubai, UAE on July 3, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Wild & The Moon

Enjoy organic, vegan, and gluten-free breakfast options to start your day on a healthy note.
AED75, 1h

10:00AM

Visit Dubai Miracle Garden

Explore the world’s largest natural flower garden featuring elaborate floral installations. Open 9 AM – 9 PM in summer.
AED55, 2h

1:00PM

Lunch at Outlet Village Food Court

Diverse and casual dining options in the themed shopping area near the Miracle Garden.
AED60, 1h

3:00PM

Relax at hotel or pool

Rest before an evening of cultural and shopping experiences.
Included, 2h

6:00PM

Visit Global Village

Open from 4 PM to midnight, this multicultural festival park offers pavilions representing countries around the world with shopping, dining, and entertainment.
AED15, 4h

9:00PM

Dinner at Global Village

Sample international street food and enjoy live performances from various cultures within the park.
AED80, 1h
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Day 7: Shopping & Entertainment

Dubai, UAE on July 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Comptoir 102

Chic café offering organic and healthy breakfast options in a stylish and serene setting.
AED70, 1h

9:30AM

Visit Mall of the Emirates & Ski Dubai

Explore this expansive shopping mall and experience indoor skiing or snowboarding at Ski Dubai. Mall opens at 10 AM, Ski Dubai from 10 AM onward.
Free entry; Ski Dubai AED200+, 3h

1:00PM

Lunch at Din Tai Fung

Enjoy Taiwanese dumplings and noodles at this popular international chain inside the mall.
AED90, 1h

2:30PM

Visit City Walk

A modern urban shopping and dining destination with street art, boutiques, and entertainment; perfect for afternoon exploration.
Free, 2h

5:00PM

Relax at hotel

Take a break to refresh before evening plans.
Included, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Zuma Dubai

Enjoy contemporary Japanese cuisine at this trendy and upscale spot in DIFC.
AED350+, 1h30m
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Day 8: Beaches & Leisure

Dubai, UAE on July 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caroline’s, La Mer

Start your day with Mediterranean-inspired breakfast facing the beach in La Mer, a modern beachfront destination.
AED90, 1h

9:30AM

Beach Time at La Mer

Relax on the sandy beach, swim or explore shops and cafes along the La Mer boardwalk.
Free, 3h

12:30PM

Lunch at Bareburger, La Mer

Enjoy organic burgers and fresh salads at this casual dining spot with outdoor seating.
AED80, 1h

2:00PM

Visit Kite Beach

Head to Kite Beach for kite surfing lessons or simply to enjoy the active water sports scene and jogging track.
Free, 2h

5:00PM

Coffee Break at Café Rider

Stop for specialty coffee and light snacks in a friendly café near Kite Beach.
AED40, 30m

7:00PM

Dinner at Salt Bae’s Nusr-Et Steakhouse

Savor premium steaks and signature presentations at the famous Nusr-Et in Dubai.
AED400+, 1h30m
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Day 9: Expo City Dubai

Dubai, UAE on July 6, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Expo City Café

Fuel up with quick breakfast options inside Expo City Dubai, the revamped Expo 2020 site with ongoing activities and pavilions.
AED60, 1h

9:30AM

Explore Expo City Dubai

Discover innovative pavilions, art installations, and cultural exhibits at the Expo City campus, open from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Free to AED50 depending on pavilions, 5h

2:30PM

Lunch at Pavilions’ Restaurants

Choose from various pavilions offering international cuisines and specialty foods inside Expo City.
AED100, 1h

3:30PM

Attend scheduled performances or workshops

Participate in cultural workshops or watch performances, timings vary – check on-site schedules.
Free or paid, varies, 2h

6:00PM

Return to hotel and relax

End your day with downtime at your accommodation.
Included, 2h

8:00PM

Dinner at Al Hadheerah

Experience traditional Arab dining with live entertainment in the desert-themed restaurant at Bab Al Shams Resort.
AED350, 2h
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Day 10: Relax & Departure

Dubai, UAE on July 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel to prepare for departure.
Included, 1h

9:30AM

Spa and wellness session

Indulge in a morning spa treatment or massage to unwind before your journey home.
AED300+, 2h

12:00PM

Leisure stroll or last-minute shopping

Visit a nearby mall or souk for any last souvenirs or gifts.
Free, 2h

2:30PM

Lunch at Pier 7 or hotel

Enjoy a calm meal with your favorite cuisine before packing up.
AED100, 1h

4:00PM

Check-out and transfer to airport

Prepare for departure to Dubai International Airport with ample time for your flight check-in.
Taxi approx AED100, Varies
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