Dubai, the shimmering jewel of the United Arab Emirates, offers a captivating blend of modern architecture, luxury shopping, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. This 7-day itinerary will help you explore the city’s highlights, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, all while providing a realistic budget to guide your adventure.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Downtown Dubai
Morning: Arrival at Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- After arriving, take a taxi or the Dubai Metro to your hotel. Recommended hotels in downtown include the Radisson Blu or JW Marriott Marquis (average $150/night). Check-in, freshen up, and get ready to explore.
Afternoon: Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall
- Head to the Burj Khalifa for breathtaking views from the 124th-floor observation deck. Tickets are approximately $40. Afterward, wander through the Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping center. Enjoy a quick lunch at The Cheesecake Factory (budget around $25).
Evening: Dubai Fountain Show
- Don’t miss the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show in the evening. Grab a spot near the lake, and watch the water dance to music. For dinner, enjoy traditional Middle Eastern cuisine at At.mosphere in Burj Khalifa or Al Hallab in the mall (budget around $50).
Estimated Budget for Day 1:
- Hotel: $150
- Meals: $75
- Burj Khalifa Tickets: $40
- Transportation: $30
- Total: $295
Day 2: Cultural Experiences and Souks
Morning: Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
- Explore the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, where you can discover Dubai’s heritage. Visit the Dubai Museum (entry fee: $1) housed in the Al Fahidi Fort.
Afternoon: Dubai Creek and Gold Souk
- Take an abra (water taxi) across the creek (cost: $1) to visit the Gold Souk and Spice Souk. Bargain for some unique souvenirs! Enjoy lunch at a local eatery like Al Ghurair (budget: $20).
Evening: Dhow Cruise Dinner
- Experience a romantic Dhow Cruise along Dubai Creek, complete with dinner and entertainment (around $60).
Estimated Budget for Day 2:
- Hotel: $150
- Meals: $80
- Museum and Abra: $2
- Dhow Cruise: $60
- Transportation: $20
- Total: $312
Day 3: Adventure and Nature
Morning: Desert Safari
- Book a Desert Safari that includes dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding (around $75). The tour typically picks you up from your hotel.
Afternoon: Lunch in the Desert
- Enjoy a BBQ lunch in the desert as part of your safari package.
Evening: Return to Dubai and Relax
- After your adventurous day, return to your hotel and unwind. Consider a light dinner at the hotel or a nearby café (budget: $30).
Estimated Budget for Day 3:
- Hotel: $150
- Meals: $30
- Desert Safari: $75
- Transportation: Included in the safari
- Total: $255
Day 4: The Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis
Morning: Visit the Palm Jumeirah
- Head to Palm Jumeirah and enjoy the views. Take a stroll on the Boardwalk and snap photos at Atlantis, The Palm.
Afternoon: Aquaventure Waterpark
- Spend the afternoon at Aquaventure Waterpark, which features thrilling rides and a lazy river (entry: $80). Grab a casual lunch at Shark Bites within the park (budget: $25).
Evening: Explore The Walk at JBR
- Head to The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence for shopping and dining. For dinner, try Mamma Mia for Italian cuisine (budget: $40).
Estimated Budget for Day 4:
- Hotel: $150
- Meals: $65
- Aquaventure Tickets: $80
- Transportation: $30
- Total: $325
Day 5: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi
Morning: Travel to Abu Dhabi
- Take a bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi (cost: $15). Visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (free entry).
Afternoon: Explore Yas Island
- Head to Yas Island and visit Ferrari World (entry: $80). Enjoy lunch at Yas Mall (budget: $25).
Evening: Return to Dubai
- Return to Dubai and have dinner at La Mer (budget: $40).
Estimated Budget for Day 5:
- Hotel: $150
- Meals: $65
- Bus Ticket: $15
- Ferrari World Tickets: $80
- Transportation: $30
- Total: $340
Day 6: Modern Wonders and Relaxation
Morning: Dubai Marina and Sky Dive (Optional)
- Start your day in the Dubai Marina area. For thrill-seekers, consider booking a tandem skydiving experience over the Palm (around $600). If not, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café (budget: $30).
Afternoon: Dubai Frame
- Visit the Dubai Frame for stunning panoramic views of old and new Dubai (entry: $14). Lunch at Dubai Garden Glow (budget: $25).
Evening: Dubai Opera or Rooftop Bar
- If available, catch a performance at the Dubai Opera (tickets vary) or enjoy drinks at The View at The Palm (budget: $60).
Estimated Budget for Day 6:
- Hotel: $150
- Meals: $55
- Dubai Frame Tickets: $14
- Sky Dive: $600 (optional)
- Transportation: $20
- Total: $239 (or $839 with skydiving)
Day 7: Leisure and Departure
Morning: Relax at the Beach
- Spend your last morning at Kite Beach or JBR Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying water sports (budget: $50 for rentals).
Afternoon: Last-Minute Shopping
- Head to Mall of the Emirates for any last-minute shopping. Grab lunch at Sushi Art (budget: $25).
Evening: Departure
- Return to your hotel, check out, and take a taxi back to the airport (cost: $30).
Estimated Budget for Day 7:
- Hotel: $150
- Meals: $75
- Beach Rentals: $50
- Transportation: $30
- Total: $305
Total Estimated Budget for the 7-Day Trip
| Item | Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | 295 |
| Day 2 | 312 |
| Day 3 | 255 |
| Day 4 | 325 |
| Day 5 | 340 |
| Day 6 | 239 (or 839) |
| Day 7 | 305 |
| Total (without skydiving) | $1,766 |
| Total (with skydiving) | $2,366 |
This 7-day itinerary balances exploration, relaxation, and adventure, ensuring you experience the best of what Dubai has to offer. With a mix of cultural landmarks, thrilling activities, and luxurious dining, your time in Dubai will be unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking adventure or leisure, Dubai is a destination that caters to all, promising an experience you’ll cherish forever.
