7 days in dubai what to do

HOW TO ENJOY AMAZING 7 DAYS IN DUBAI

ENJOY AN EPIC 7-DAY DUBAI ITINERARY

If you plan a trip to this exciting city, you might be wondering about a great 7-day Dubai itinerary so you can see the best it has to offer.

Most people do not realize that you can easily fill an itinerary for 7 days in Dubai, or even 14 days and more, with fun activities. So, this itinerary will take you to the main attractions of the city but you will also get to see some less busy places, too. If you stay longer than one week in Dubai, this post will also give you some more recommendations for the best day trips.

At the end of this post, you´ll also find many travel tips – including information on how to get around, where to stay, and many more travel tips for 7 days in Dubai.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product (at no extra cost to you) after clicking on my link. More about it here.

7 DAYS IN DUBAI ITINERARY

Here are my ideas on how to spend your one week in Dubai.

DAY 1 OF 7 DAYS IN DUBAI – LA MER

Before getting to the busiest place in the city, start with some beach time. You will have enough hustle and bustle in 7 days in Dubai – so why not start slowly? After arriving and settling in, visit La Mer.

Dubai La Mer

Spend your whole day and evening at La Mer.

Whether you arrive in the morning, evening, or afternoon, my recommendation is to head to La Mer first. With one week in Dubai, you can stay at La Mer for more than just 2-3 hours and I suggest staying here the rest of the day.

It is a great way to get adjusted to Dubai. While you enjoy the nice views of Burj Khalifa, you can take it easy on the first day and hold off on getting into the crazy parts of Dubai. After all, you might still have jetlag or just be tired from your flight.

La Mer is fun in the daytime, but it gets even better in the evening! So before leaving too early, make sure to end your day at La Mer and spend time even after sunset.

TIPS FOR DAY 1 IN DUBAI

HOW TO GET TO LA MER : I admit, I am not the biggest fan of public transportation in Dubai. The bus connection is not great yet, but you can get there via RTA Buses 9 and 88. Taking a taxi/uber is another way to get here. If you arrive there by car, you have free underground parking. If you have a City Sightseeing hop-on and hop-off ticket, you can get off at Jumeirah Mosque and only have to walk two minutes to arrive at La Mer.

OPENING HOURS/PRICES : La Mer is open every day, all day, and there is no entrance fee. The shops are normally open between 10 am to 10, 11 or 12 pm.

DAY 2 OF 7 DAYS IN DUBAI – DOWNTOWN

After your first slow day in Dubai, it is time to dive into the craziest part of Dubai – Downtown Dubai. This will probably be one of the busiest places during the one week in Dubai. There are several main attractions in Downtown – so, plan a full day for this area.

Dubai Mall

You can start your day in Dubai Mall, the biggest mall in the world with more than 1,200 fashion, food & entertainment options. Dubai Mall has its own aquarium, ice skating rink, and much more!

HOW TO GET TO DUBAI MALL : You cannot miss Dubai Mall as it is located next to Burj Khalifa. And you cannot miss Burj Khalifa… Just because it is sooooo tall. You can get there by metro/bus. If you get off at “Dubai Mall Metro Station,” you can either take another bus that drops you off at the mall or you have to walk about one more kilometer from Dubai Mall Metro Station to get into Dubai Mall.

Dubai Mall is also a popular drop-off point for sightseeing buses.

The most convenient way to arrive at the mall is probably via taxi, though.

OPENING HOURS DUBAI MALL / PRICES : Dubai Mall is open from 10 am to 1 am, restaurants and the food court are open to 2 am (!). There is no entrance fee for the mall itself, but you have to pay for the ice-skating rink and other activities.

Burj Khalifa

Afterward, it is time to head to Burj Khalifa. If you are not scared of heights, you can get to the “top of Burj Khalifa” and either visit levels 124+125 or level 148.

Before you get to the top of Burj Khalifa, take pictures of Burj Khalifa during daylight. Explore the area around the skyscraper – it looks nice especially from outside Dubai Mall, next to Dubai Fountain.

Click here to find out about the ticket prices for Burj Khalifa:

HOW TO GET TO BURJ KHALIFA : While you while seeing Burj Khalifa from everywhere, getting at the top is a bit more tricky. At least, that is how I felt. You have to go to Dubai Mall, and then you will see signs that leave you to “At the top of Burj Khalifa.” The ticket center/entrance is located in the Lower Ground Level of Dubai Mall. You cannot enter it from outside the mall as a regular guest.

OPENING HOURS/ TICKETS: “At the Top of Burj Khalifa” – opens around 10 am, and the last admission is at 9 or 10 pm (depending on the day).

Dubai Fountain

After your time at “The Top” and a lot of time indoors, it is time to get out of Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa and spend time in the fresh air. By the way, the Dubai Fountain spot is also the perfect place to end your day.

WATER FOUNTAIN SHOW SCHEDULE / PRICES: Evening shows 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM every 30 minutes

HOW TO GET TO DUBAI FOUNTAIN: There is a metro station (Dubai Mall station), and many buses go there. You could reach the fountain even without entering Dubai Mall (e.g., coming from Dubai Opera), but if you are at Dubai Mall, you will see signs that lead you to the fountain as well.

DAY 3 OF 7 DAYS IN DUBAI – OLD DUBAI

The third day is all about “traditional” Dubai and some more amazing views. Today it is about:

Dubai Frame

You could start your day with a visit to one of the newer attractions: Dubai Frame. It is located in Zabeel Park, one of the biggest and lushest parks in Dubai.

HOW TO GET TO THE FRAME: By metro: get out at the Al Jafiliya metro stop and then take a bus or walk for the last 2-3 km.

OPENING HOURS / PRICES : Open every day from 9:00 am to 09:00 pm. Tickets are around 12€ for adults.

Zabeel Park

If you need to rest, you could chill at Zabeel Park. The park is very neat, clean, and lush! If you visit with kids, they will love this break, as there are some playgrounds. It is also not crowded and thus a perfect place after the craziness of Dubai Downtown.

HOW TO GET TO ZABEEL PARK: There are several entrances. If you come from Dubai Frame, you will see an entrance close by.

OPENING HOURS/TICKETS: F rom Sunday to Wednesday from 8 am to 10 pm, from Thursdays to Saturdays and on public holidays from 8 am to 11 pm, and during Ramadan from noon to 11 pm. Ticket prices are about 1,20€ (payment via RTA-issued Nol Card), kids under the age of 2 do not have to pay.

Dubai Gold and Spice Souks

Afterward, jump into a taxi/bus and get to the Gold Souk of Dubai.

HOW TO GET TO THE GOLD/SPICE SOUK: From Zabeel Park – ADCB Metro Station 1- you have to catch a metro and get to Burjuman, then change metro lines and get to Al Ras, and then you just have to walk for a few minutes.

You can also take a taxi/Uber or use the hop-on and hop-off sightseeing buses, which drop you off at the souks.

OPENING HOURS / TICKETS: It is free to visit the souks and you could visit at any time. However, most shops are open every day from around 9:30-10 am to 9:30 pm. On Fridays, the shops open after 4 pm and are open until around 9:30 pm.

EXTRA TIP: DUBAI MUSEUM – If you want to learn more about Dubai and its history, I recommend visiting Dubai Museum.

Dubai Al Seef

To end the day, I recommend visiting Al Seef. Al Seef is a lovely new area with many restaurants. Some are in a new modern style and others in the traditional Arabic style (though the buildings are all new).

7 days in dubai what to do

Visiting Dubai for the first time and wondering what to do? Here’s a detailed guide on how to plan the best itinerary for Dubai 7 days from a local!

The Best Itinerary for Dubai: 7 Days (with one day in Abu Dhabi)

Last Updated on January 25, 2022 by hungryoungwoman

Although I grew up in Dubai, the city still amazes me with its new developments and projects. True, a city’s worth is not just in its technology and even culture should take the limelight, but it is interesting to note how the UAE was nothing like this around 15 years ago. This time frame is spectacular for a country to grow as much. And, this is why you should visit Dubai at least once in your life. Below, I show you the best itinerary for Dubai 7 days.

If you’re traveling to Dubai for the first time, you’ll have to do some research about the clothing there, rules and regulations, and how to respect the country you are traveling to. Or, read my tips for travelling to Dubai for the first time which will save you some time.

NOTE: Dubai has opened up to tourists but under the light of recent events, I urge you to be careful and travel responsibly which will just benefit the country and yourself. To know the best places to visit in Dubai during Coronavirus, click here.

This is the most important stage of planning for a Dubai itinerary 7 days to ensure that you have everything you need and that you will not be missing out on anything.

Planning a Trip to Dubai for 7 days Dubai

If this is your first time in Dubai, I encourage you to take a look at my Dubai packing list essentials from a local. The things mentioned are top recommendations of everything you should pack and carry to Dubai.

Other than the things you should have in your suitcase, it is very important to take a look at your travel documents and flights to Dubai before planning your 7 days in Dubai.

Want to know exactly what to wear in Dubai? FAQ’s answered here!

The United Arab Emirates’ local currency is Dirhams (written AED in short) and it is valued at AED 3.65 per US$. This makes it very affordable if you are traveling from the West if you are mindful of your expenses. I have to admit, Dubai can easily become very expensive if you are just not careful enough!

The main seasons in the UAE are summer and winter. The country is mostly hot throughout the year and attracts the most visitors from November to February since that’s when it’s wintertime in Dubai. You might want to look at what exactly to do according to which season you are visiting in this article for the best season to visit Dubai

Additionally, if you do happen to come in during the Holy month of Ramadan, there are some things to keep in mind. Ramadan is a Holy month for Muslims where they sacrifice food and drink throughout the day as a reminder of the good things we have in life as opposed to the less fortunate. The country is very different during this month and it is probably the best time to visit Dubai if you are really interested in Islamic religion and culture. Here is a full guide about visiting Dubai during Ramadan.

Itinerary for Dubai: 7 Days

Day 1 – Arrival and exploring Old Dubai

Street food in Dubai is the best way to explore any city locally. As a country that is home to more than 80% of expatriates and only housing around 20% of the local population, you will find cuisines here that are a mix of Indian, Egyptian, Lebanese, Turkish, Pakistani, and Filipino food.

If you’re interested in knowing more about the foods you MUST try while you’re in Dubai, then click here for a list of street food and where to eat in Dubai.

To understand the culture better, head to the old part of Dubai (easily accessible from Creek or Deira City Centre metro stations) Back then, when my sister and I were kids, shopping for clothes and abaya would mean heading to the popular Naif Souq. While mum shopped, dad and we stopped at the cafeteria right next to the bazaar and would tuck into a juicy shawarma.

An Old Dubai tour can be easily done if you plan it well. Start your tour at the quarter of Bastakhiya. If you would like to sample a taste of Middle Eastern food, the Arabian Tea House is a well-known place providing some instagrammable places in Dubai too.

Taken from Google Maps

Bastakhiya is filled with sandy brown buildings built like the olden days when the UAE was only a desert. As you continue to walk you will find the Coffee Museum, Dubai Museum, Grand Bur Dubai Masjid (mosque), Bur Dubai Abra Station, and then Dubai Spice Souq. You are free to miss or add anything on your tour according to your requirements.

This walking tour map of Old Dubai is a simple 23-minute walk to cover all the locations mentioned above. But first, let me tell you what to expect in each of the places before actually visiting them!

Day 2 – Seeing Downtown Dubai

The Dubai Mall is the second well-known attraction in Dubai, after Burj Khalifa. If you have to visit only one mall during your trip to Dubai, I would suggest making this the one.

Housing the biggest aquarium in the world and dancing fountains that would make your dancing skills look petty, The Dubai Mall is currently the second-largest shopping mall in the world! If you aren’t there for shopping, at least do stop by the two mentioned activities which are popular both by kids and adults alike.

If you are planning a 2 day trip to Dubai, this is pretty much what I would recommend to you so you see the old and new side of the city.

The Dubai Aquarium is a large glass tank filled with sea creatures. You will also be able to spot a shark and stingray! Since the mall is huge, I am only able to see the aquarium if I am heading to that part of the mall. The tickets are a little expensive but I found a nice deal that combines a visit to the Dubai Aquarium as well as a tour of At The Top Burj Khalifa, Dubai.

Just opposite the aquarium is a large store of Candilicious. Just warning you ahead in case you are visiting Dubai with kids, they are sure to drag you there and ask you to buy their favorite candy. If your kid is like mine, instead, they would drag you to Cheesecake Factory also nearby to buy a cheesecake after visiting the Dubai famous attraction!

C B from Pixabay»> This is how one of their cheesecakes looks like. My second favorite one. After Red Velvet Cheesecake. Decided after many many tries.

Next up, are the dancing fountains which look different during the day (only at 1pm and 1.30 pm) and in the evening. If I HAD to choose, I would go for the evening show with a stunning view of the Burj Khalifa that will tire your necks due to its height! The show is on every half an hour. The dancing fountains show timings are from 6-11 pm every day.

The show is completely free which becomes a must visit in Dubai automatically. ‘Cause we like free things, right? I totally recommend this to anyone even if they are here for a layover or if you want to explore Dubai in one day.

Dubai Itinerary: 7 Days

This Dubai itinerary is based on going for 7 days but could easily be stretched out if you want some down days in between, chilling at your hotel. Or you can condense it if you don’t have quite as many days. There are a lot of options of things to do in Dubai, after all it is a city built for tourists therefore below is a comprehensive itinerary to make the most of your 7 days in Dubai and complete your Dubai bucket list. If you need help finding accommodation, here’s a list of the best places to stay in Dubai.

Dubai Itinerary: 7 Days

Day 1: Burj Khalifa And Downtown Dubai Sightseeing

Dubai is famous for its jaw-dropping architectural splendors and engineering feats. And there is no better way to start your Dubai trip than with a visit to Downtown Dubai which is Dubai’s most modern neighborhood.

With loads of things to see and experience here, you can easily spend a whole day there.

Start off with an ascent to Burj Khalifa

This is not just Downtown Dubai’s showstopping highlight but also the world’s tallest man-made structure. Most visitors make it a point to visit the observation deck at the top of the Burj Khalifa on its 124 th or 148 th level or both.

This treats you with the unparalleled views over Dubai’s stunning cityscape, ocean, and desert. It’s ok if you don’t make to its observation decks; it’s still one of the best places to take pictures in Dubai.

Editor’s note: Burj Khalifa tickets are expensive, most things in Dubai are (and I say that as someone who frequents Singapore).

If you don’t have the budget to go up, as Neha says it is still impressive to see from the ground.

The tickets change price depending on the time of day too, and if you want queue jump ones, therefore if you’re not fussed about going up at sunset, or quickly, you can find more reasonably priced tickets.

I did go up at sunset something which was somewhat underwhelming since it’s the desert and so all you really see is a smoggy looking partially covered sun going down and then disappearing well before it hits the horizon. The main benefit of going at sunset is actually because then you get to see the city from above during the day and then all the sparkling lights below as night falls.

Watch the Dubai Fountain Show

At the bottom of the Burj Khalifa is the Dubai fountain show which takes place in the afternoons and evening.

This stunning spectacle of captivatingly choreographed water, light and music show is worth watching every time you visit Dubai.

If you want to take this experience to a whole new level, take an abra ride along Burj Lake to see it up-close and in detail (an abra is the word for Dubai’s taxi baots).

Editor’s note: the show is freeeeeeeeeeeee, something of a rarity in Dubai so you might as well go!

And it is also actually quite spectacular. I saw it in the evening which I think would be more impressive than the day time showing since you can see the lights more clearly then.

If you’ve spent an evening in Singapore before and seen their light and water show, you can expect more from the Dubai one.

Continue to Dubai Mall

Right next to Burj Khalifa is the Dubai Mall which is renowned as one of the world’s biggest malls.

While its 1,200 plus outlets cater to hardcore retail enthusiasts, its attractions including Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, KidZania Dubai, Dubai Ice Rink and aVR Park ensure that you’ll never have a dull moment here

Editor’s Note: I’m not sure how I feel about aquariums and so I wouldn’t be comfortable paying to go in one however it really is something impressive to see from the outside, right there in the middle of the mall.

There is a large section you can see without having to go in (it’s also just opposite a cheesecake factory ***drools***),

Step out for Enthralling Experiences

More attractions await you in the vicinity as you step out of the Dubai Mall. Right across from the light how is Souk Al Bahar which is reminiscent of a traditional Arabian bazaar however with a refined twist.

Looking for more unique experiences?

Check out Dubai Opera or hit the super glamorous sights across Downtown Dubai aboard a vintage-style double-deck tram; the route covers the whole of the downtown.

Top Tips for Day 1:

· Downtown Dubai is one of Dubai’s most posh neighborhoods. That said; it caters to every budget.

· There is a sprawling food court within Dubai Mall, where you can dine as per your pocket and preferences.

· You can access the massive tank and certain parts of Dubai Aquarium for free.

· For those looking to dine with a view, the region has a variety of dining venues overlooking Dubai Fountain, Burj Khalifa etc.

Day 2: Discover Old Dubai & Visit Dubai Frame

Today, expect an absolute shift in scene as you set out to explore the city’s quaint, old parts. It will be a complete contrast to what you’ve experienced on the first day.

Wander Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

This 19 th century historical residential quarter is the oldest of its kind in Dubai. It’s a labyrinth of narrow streets, dotted all over with traditional, sand-colored structures topped with wooden wind towers. The majority of them are beautifully preserved and some converted into museums, art galleries, etc.

Editor’s note: This was by far my favorie area to explore as it felt the most authentic. The souq down by the water was great for souvenirs from scarves to.

Visit Dubai Museum

This museum is within the region’s oldest fort, Al Fahidi Fort, built in 1787. From life-size dioramas and ancient dhows to distinct Bedouin crafts and archeological artifacts, the charming exhibits on display here will transport you to the Dubai’s pre-oil era, allowing you to experience the Emiratis’ age-old lifestyle.

Take an Abra Ride

This is one thing that you shouldn’t miss while in the old part of Dubai. An abra simply refers to a traditional wooden boat and a ride aboard them is one of the most amazing ways to experience Dubai Creek – the historic creek which divides the city into two: Deira and Bur Dubai. All you need to spend for this is just AED 1.

Explore Traditional Souks

The traditional Arabian bazaars across Dubai and Bur Dubai are real gems which let you experience the region’s authentic retail scene. Most popular among them is probably the Gold Souk which is definite to take your breath away with every store dedicated to gold jewelry.

Take in Views at Dubai Frame

Just about 10 minutes’ drive (from Bur Dubai) or 20 minutes’ drive (from Deira), Dubai Frame is a giant picture-like frame. The highlight is its sky deck with views over both Old and New Dubai. And of course, this is a wonderful alternative if you’re not able to afford Burj Khalifa entry tickets.

Top Tips for Day 2

· All attractions included above may not be at a walkable distance. But, you can easily get from one point to the other with the help of the metro or a cab.

· Old Dubai is particularly noteworthy for its multicultural culinary scene

· Souks across Deira and Bur Dubai are the places where you can experience bargain shopping in Dubai. Purchase gold, unique souvenirs and spices etc. at unbelievable rates.

· Pre-book your Dubai Frame tickets to avoid any hassle.

DAY 3: Dubai Miracle Garden & Global Village Or Skiing & Zipline

Option 1: Dubai Miracle Garden & Global Village

This is most recommended if you’re traveling to Dubai during winter months. Both are seasonal attractions and open only from October / November to April / May.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Right in the center of Dubailand is this 72,000-square-meter botanical wonderland, filled with millions of flowers and plants arranged in a staggering array of shapes, patterns and themes. In fact, this garden absolutely lives up to its name, as it’s a true miracle in the middle of the desert.

Global Village

Global Village is unlike any other attraction in Dubai! It’s probably the only place where you’ll get to experience the cultures, cuisines and other specialties of about 80 countries under one roof, thanks to its over 30 pavilions representing different parts of the world. It’s at its best during the one-month long DSF (Dubai Shopping Festival) in December – January.

Editor’s Note: Global village feels a bit like going to a fairground, or winter wonderland for those from England, but with shops for each country of the world too!

Option 2: Ski Dubai and XLine Dubai

These are some cool experiences which are especially ideal for your summer trip in Dubai.

Ski Dubai

XLine Dubai

This is especially for thrill-seekers who want to try something exciting during their Dubai holidays. The plus is that this zipline adventure (starting from JBR’s Amwaj Tower and ending at Dubai Marina Mall) allows you to experience the world’s longest and swiftest urban zipline.

DAY 4: Three Theme Parks & Waterpark All In One

If you’ve come to Dubai for its theme parks, then you shouldn’t miss the region’s first integrated resort with two accommodation options (Lapita Hotel and Rove At the Park) plus three parks, a water park and an exclusive dining and retail destination, Riverland Dubai. Main attractions to explore here are:

MOTIONGATE™ Dubai

This Hollywood inspired park is the biggest of its kind in the region and brings you attractions based on the world’s three most iconic movie studios: Columbia Pictures, Dreamworks Animation and Lionsgate. There are five zones which collectively host over 40 thrilling movie-based rides, games and shows.

Bollywood Parks™ Dubai

True to its name, this is an absolute treat for Hindi movie buffs. It has five vibrant zones – each of them depicting rides and attractions themed around some of Bollywood’s all-time favorite movies such as Sholay, Lagaan, Don, Krrish, Rock On, and Dabangg.

LEGOLAND® Dubai

Exclusively designed for families of kids from 2 to 12 years, it has over 60 fun-filled rides and exciting games arranged in its six amazing zones.

LEGOLAND® Water Park

Right next to LEGOLAND® Dubai is this one-of-its-kind water park in the UAE. The main highlight is its 20 plus rides and slides; Joker Soaker, Splash Out, LEGO® Slide Racers, and Build-A-Boat are just a few of them.

Top Tips for Day 4

· Pre-purchase your Dubai Parks and Resorts (DPR) through a reliable service provider.

· Opt for a full-day, all park access pass if you wish to explore all parks in a day.

· That said, you can also book individual or two / three parks in one pass.

· If you wish to substitute DPR with other options, consider IMG Worlds of Adventure which is fully set indoors or visit Laguna Water Park or Wild Wadi Water Park.

Day 5: Abu Dhabi City Tour

Some of the United Arab Emirates’ most beautiful cultural attractions and architectural gems can be seen in the capital city of Abu Dhabi. Fortunately, this charming city is within a day trip from Dubai, just 1.5 to 2 hours away. Yes, you don’t have to pack or shift accommodation, as you can easily cover its main attractions in a day.

Top Tips for Day 5

· If you’re traveling to Abu Dhabi for the first time, it’s highly recommended to sign up for a full day Abu Dhabi city tour organized by a reputable service provider.

· It comes with an experienced guide service and also includes roundtrip hotel transfers.

· But before you book, make sure that it covers all your favorite Abu Dhabi sights and attractions.

· As an alternative, you can visit UAE’s other popular emirates like Ras Al Khaimah.

DAY 6: Visit the Palm, See BurJ Al Arab & Go on a Dinner Cruise

Whether you’ve got a whole week or just a day in Dubai, be sure to include attractions in and around Palm Jumeirah in your travel program. After all, this man-made island, modeled after a giant palm tree with a crescent on its top, is one of the world’s greatest engineering feats.

Skydiving or a Helicopter Ride

You can go on a heart-racing skydiving adventure or a helicopter ride to take in the island in its entire grandeur. If this is not within your budget, take a monorail ride (from Gateway Station) or enjoy a drive across its stunning sights; it’s equally amazing.

Editor’s note: I really enjoyed the monorail ride as it allowed up to see how the palm really worked and get a view of more of the city.

Aquaventure Park

Speaking of its attractions, one of the must-experiences is Atlantis Aquaventure within the imperial style resort of Atlantis, The Palm. It is packed with a whole host of fun and exhilarating segments including Aquaventure Water Park, Dolphin Bay, Sea Lion Point, and Lost Chambers Aquarium which is themed around the mythical lost city of Atlantis. Also, don’t miss the scenic waterfront promenade of Boardwalk.

Editor’s note: as I mentioned above I’m not personally happy giving my money to an aquarium. The water park looked amazing though.

Burj Al Arab

From Atlantis, you can take a short drive to Burj Al Arab, which is one of Dubai’s iconic landmarks, also distinguished as the world’s only seven-star hotel. While you can take some captivating selfies against its backdrop, you can make an entry to this opulent hotel by reserving a table at one of its dining venues.

Editor’s Note: If you’re staying at Jumeriah Beach or near there you’ll be able to see the BurJ al Arab from your accommodation.

Dhow Dinner Cruise

Finally, make your way to Dubai Marina to culminate your day with an unforgettable dinner cruise on board a traditional dhow. Dubai Marina is one of Dubai’s hotspots graced all over with uber contemporary style structures. And this dhow cruise promises you an unmatched vantage point to take in all. The bonus is great food and live entertainment on board.

Editors note: The dinner cruise we took when I was here was one of my favorite parts of the whole trip as they had a whirling dervish dancer come in and he was incredible!

Top Tips for Day 6

· As these attractions are not within walking distance it’s best to take the metro or hire a cab.

· There plenty of dining options in the area, including the food trucks along the Boardwalk.

Editor’s note: Cabs are one of the few things that are cheap in Dubai as the petrol is cheap!!

DAY 7: Water Sports & Desert Safari

Make your last day in Dubai the most memorable with a blend of exhilarating water activities and fun-filled cultural experiences.

Water Sports

Dubai’s gleaming waters are a haven for water sport lovers. Depending on your skill levels, you can choose to indulge in a variety of activities such as jet skiing, fly fish, banana boat ride, parasailing, flyboarding, and scuba diving.

Desert Safari

As you set out on an evening desert safari, it’s certain to deepen your Dubai experience. Take in the thrill of a lifetime on a dune bash ride and further participate in an array of traditional activities at the desert camp. Ride camel, smoke shisha, get your souvenir pictures snapped in Emirati attire, and have your hands adorned with distinct Arabic designs. Continue with a lavish BBQ dinner and watch stunning performances like Tanura show and belly dance, before your unforgettable desert safari ends.

Editor’s note: Don’t miss going to the desert. It was incredible.

Top Tips

· Book water activities and desert safari in advance to ensure a hassle-free experience.

· For maximum savings, choose combo tour packaged with your desired desert safari and water activities.

Dubai Itinerary: Editor’s Bonus Tips

Safety in Dubai

This is the Middle East and while there is a Westen layer over the top of Dubai rules are still strict there and punishments for breaking them even stricter.

On the one hand that’s great as it means you can feel relatively safe as you explore on your 7 day itinerary and don’t have to worry about things like petty theft as much.

On the other hand though that means you need to be more conscious of your behavior than normal. While lots of foreginers visit Dubai and stay in the same hotel rooms when not married, this is technically illegal. As is drinking alcohol, unless you have a permit for it.

Aside from India, it’s one of the countries I’ve covered up the most while traveling. In India I did so primarily for my own safety, in Dubai it was primarily to stop people taking offensive, although I’m sure safety would be a factor too if showing lots of flesh in areas people aren’t used to that.

To cover up I just made sure my knees and shoulders were covered at all times while out and about.

Hotels in Dubai

If you’re going to spend your week running around to all the items in this Dubai itinerary it doesn’t matter as much where you stay. But if you want to balance out some of the siteseeing with chilled out beach lounging then your hotel choice will be very important.

The beaches attached to hotels are the areas where propriety in clothing is then suddenly dropped. It’s fine to sit on the beach attached to your hotel in a bikini or to wear a dress that shows shoulders to dinner in your hotel.

The most famous places to stay in Dubai are Atlantis the Palm (which would position you right next to their Aquaventure Waterpark), Burj Al Arab (It’s a 7 star hotel though so I really don’t know how many people’s budgets will stretch to that one) and the Jumeirah Hotels (these consist of Jumeriah Al Naseem Hotel, Jumeriah Beach and Jumeirah Al Qasr and are calmer than Atlantis which has a lot of children).

Meaning, evening if you’re backpacking you could make Dubai work. And it’s the perfect place to stop of if traveling between Europe and Asia as so many flights go through there and some airlines, like Emirates, incentivise staying to explore on the way as well.

There are so many options of things to do in Dubai we’re sure you’ll have a wonderful time on your 7 Day Dubai itinerary. And once you’re back don’t forget to let us know what you enjoyed the most in the comments.

About the Author

Neha loves traveling and is an avid trekker and explorer. She has done her post-graduation in Mass Communication, loves meeting new people and strongly believes in the Gandhian principle “Simple living, high thinking”.

Read more on her blog Dubai Wikia or visit her on Facebook here.

Dubai 7 Days Itinerary – A Week In The City Of Gold!

Dubai is one of the most popular emirates in the UAE and fun cities all over the world, visited by people of all ages. In Dubai, you never really run out of options. It has plenty of attractions and an amazing set of things to do which you must try when you are in Dubai. Right from the sky-high attractions like Burj Khalifa, adrenaline-pumping activities like skydiving, taking a stroll in all the peaceful sightseeing places, taking road trips to the other emirates and some leisure time in some of the top hotels in Dubai, your trip is going to be just exciting. A week-long vacation in Dubai is said to be the ideal duration for a trip and below is how you should plan your itinerary for 7 days.

Photo by Lucy M on Unsplash

7 days itinerary to Dubai

This itinerary is a perfect combination of sightseeing and adventure. So, if you want to experience the best of Dubai with everything planned in the right amount, then have a look at this itinerary for an idea to create a Dubai itinerary yourself.

7 days itinerary to Dubai

Dubai Package Starting @ ₹13,373

5* Hotels. Activities. Attractions. Transfers.

Day 1 – Arrival into Dubai and sightseeing

Once you land at Dubai International Airport, clear the immigration and make your way to the arrivals hall. If you are choosing an all-inclusive Dubai vacation package, airport transfers come included. Look for your driver in the arrivals hall and board your transfers to the hotel. Take some rest and get set for sightseeing. To start your Day 1 of Dubai 7 days itinerary, there is no better choice than Burj Khalifa. Along with that, enjoy visiting Dubai Mall, one of the best malls and Dubai Fountain.

Photo by Robert Bock on Unsplash

Day 2 – A visit to the Old Dubai and Dubai Frame

On Day 2, have your breakfast at the hotel and take transfers to Old Dubai and Dubai Frame. After visiting all exciting and fancy places on Day 1, these two places will be peaceful. There are many things within Old Dubai which you must check out and plan your evenings for sunset at Dubai Frame.

Photo by Shreyas Gupta on Unsplash

Day 3 – A day to the wonders of Dubai with some adventurous activities

Your 7 days itinerary to Dubai is only complete when you have Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village in it. But kindly note that it operates only during specific seasons from October or November to April or May. In case if you are visiting during the non-operational time, you can enjoy some adventurous activities like zipline.

Photo by Ali Rizvi on Unsplash

Day 4 – Time to bring out the Aquaman in you in Dubai’s best water parks

The fun is here. On Day 4 of your 7 days Dubai itinerary, you can visit Dubai’s waterparks. Dubai, being a hot city, enjoying a whole day at water will be much needed.

Day 5 – Visiting the second-popular emirate, Abu Dhabi

Any trip to Dubai is never complete if you haven’t planned a day trip to Abu Dhabi. You could understand the Emirati culture more in Abu Dhabi and can have a little private time as Abu Dhabi is not as crowded with tourists as Dubai. There are many private and group tours as well.

Photo by David Rodrigo on Unsplash

Day 6 – Plan your water sports and Desert Safari

Dubai itinerary without Desert Safari? – Sounds incomplete, right? Desert Safari is one of the most loved things to do in Dubai. The best time is to visit is in the evening as you might also enjoy the dinner there. In the morning, you can visit Atlantis The Palm, Burj Al Arab or just try some adventurous activities. Don’t plan your skydiving today as you have a flight tomorrow.

Photo by Atlas Green on Unsplash

Day 7 – Departure from Dubai

That’s the end of 7 beautiful days in Dubai. Crazy and a vibrant city, isn’t it? Have your breakfast and clear all the check-out procedures and catch your flight back home.

Dubai itinerary: 1 to 7 days in the UAE

Remember that, in Dubai, many websites and internet calling services, like WhatsApp or Skype, are blocked and, if you want to access them, you will need a VPN. For that, I recommend ExpressVPN, the best and fastest VPN in the market
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ExpressVPN

Dubai might be known as the glitzy-glamorous Rich-Boy-and-Rich-Girl’s shopping capital, but there’s so much more to this character-filled city.

From hidden alleys to traditional souks, the magnificent desert and plenty of activities that involve experiencing the traditional Emirati culture, you will see that even 7 days in Dubai might not be enough to explore this unique Middle Eastern destination.

The following comprehensive guide gives you plenty of tips for traveling to Dubai, as well as a complete 7-day Dubai itinerary, including 2-day trips to Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

Please note that this guide not only tells you the touristic places but it also shows you how to explore Dubai off the beaten track.

In this Dubai travel guide you will find:

Remember to get travel insurance for Dubai
Keep in mind that Dubai’s health care is private and extremely expensive, so insurance is a must.
IATI Insurance offers different plans, for all budgets.
Get your 5% exclusive discount if purchasing via this link

A few quick tips before kicking off your week in Dubai

Best time to visit Dubai

Seriously, you must avoid summer, from June to September. In July and August, temperatures average 45ВєC and it is extremely humid. In September, temperatures drop slightly but humidity still persists, so you can’t really hang out in outdoors, even at night. Try to come from mid-October to mid-May.

By the way, remember that the United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country which follows very strict Muslim Sharia laws. As a result, Western tourists need to be a bit careful and not behave as they would do in their home countries.

You don’t really need to be afraid but just apply common sense.

Know when to dress modestly

Dubai is a society with two sets of morals. On the one hand, in the places where the expats hang out, the beaches are filled with girls wearing fine bikinis and, in the glamorous clubs, you are likely to see girls dancing in dresses which are quite close to a bikini.

These areas are very tolerant regarding the way you dress but, in more conservative areas of the city, basically, in those places where the locals hang out, you should always cover both your shoulders and your knees but the good news is that you never need to cover your head.

For more info, read what to wear in Dubai.

Public displays of affection are not tolerated in the UAE

Not just kissing, but even hugging in public would be considered unlawful, including in Western areas. Once, I was kicked out from a bar because, since there was no place to sit, my girlfriend was sitting on my legs.

To be fair, the security guy told her to stand up three times but we completely ignored him, basically, because we found their norm to be absolutely ridiculous.

During the holy month of Ramadan

I don’t recommend coming to UAE during Ramadan but, if you happen to be there, – just make sure not to eat, drink, chew gum or smoke in daylight and in public, otherwise, you will get a fine.

Moreover, during Ramadan, many bars close, there is barely any event going on and, basically, life stops pretty much. Seriously, if you can avoid it, don’t come here during Ramadan.

During Ramadan, restaurants and shops need to cover their windows – 2 days in Dubai

Remember that, when driving, alcohol tolerance is 0

Driving with even a tiny percentage of alcohol in your blood warrants jail time. In three years of living and driving there, I never saw any alcohol control test but, if you had an accident and they found alcohol in your veins, you would, literally, be completely f&”?%ed.

And the same goes for drugs

The UAE also has 0 drug tolerance. Even if they found you had 0.1g of weed at the airport customs, you would be done and likely put away for a long time.

This seems exaggerated but it can actually happen and the truth is that there are quite a few real horror stories from people who happened to have micro-remains from their last joint in their pocket and the dogs were able to smell it.

Alcohol availability

For your information, in Dubai, you can drink alcohol. Typically, only 4 to 5-star hotels can serve alcohol but the point is that people open regular bars and pubs and then they just attach it to a hotel.

As you can imagine, there are fancy hotels absolutely everywhere and each one of them has several bars attached to it, so finding a place where to drink is not a problem at all.

Furthermore, you can also find plenty of liquor stores around town but, unfortunately, you need a special license which only expats can get.

Alternatively, if you can drive, there is a liquor store named Barracuda in Umm Al Quwain, around 90km outside of Dubai, towards Ras Al Khaimah.

Remember that, in Dubai, many websites and internet calling services, like WhatsApp or Skype, are blocked and, if you want to access them, you will need a VPN. Read: How to find the right VPN for Dubai and the UAE

Tours and activities in Dubai

In your Dubai itinerary, there will be plenty of activities such as going on a trip to Musandam – an enclave within UAE that belongs to Oman – a desert safari or even going on a half-day trip to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, you may want to go on a tour, as it is much cheaper than going by taxi and even than renting a car.

These are just some of their most popular activities:

How to access blocked websites in Dubai

As you may know, in Dubai, the internet is censored, which means that many websites which you may need to use regularly are blocked.

Besides gambling, pornography, and Israeli-related sites, some of these blocked websites are:

In order to access them, you will need something called VPN (Virtual Private Network), and I recommend ExpressVPN the most reliable VPN ever.

7 Days in Dubai – Transportation: How to move around

Remember to get travel insurance for Dubai
Keep in mind that Dubai’s health care is private and extremely expensive, so insurance is a must.
IATI Insurance offers different plans, for all budgets.
Get your 5% exclusive discount if purchasing via this link

How to move around Dubai

By metro – There are 2 metro lines which take you to most touristic sites. The metro has plenty of air-conditioning and it is pretty modern. A single ride costs less than a US dollar but just bear in mind that distances in Dubai are huge, so going from one place to another may take some time. Also, the metro goes to the most common touristic places but, beyond that, you will be very limited.

By taxi – The way to go. If you count the price per kilometer, it is inexpensive but, since distances are long, moving around can be costly. The shortest ride costs around 15AED (4USD). Going from the Marina to Old Dubai may cost around 60-70AED (16-19USD).

Dubai Metro – Dubai itinerary 3 days

How to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Bus – There’s a bus every twenty minutes from 6am to 11pm, from the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai that takes you to Abu Dhabi. The buses are great, complete with air-conditioning and the cost from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a mere 25AED (7USD).

Taxi – A trip from the Dubai airport to Abu Dhabi will cost you 300AED (81USD), one-way.

Etihad Coach Service – There’s also the free Etihad coach service from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, for those who travel with Etihad in Economy. Tip: Make your free coach reservation 24 hours before your trip via Etihad’s website.

How to travel from Dubai to Sharjah

Public transportation – You can take the metro from Dubai to Rashidya Station in Sharjah in no time. You can also catch a bus to Sharjah from Deira bus station, which is only 15 minutes from the Dubai airport by taxi. If you’re in Bur Dubai, grab a bus from Bur Dubai Al Ghubaiba station to Sharjah.

Taxi – A taxi from Dubai to Sharjah will cost you 150AED ($40).

Note that, whereas it’s pretty easy to travel from city to city by public transportation, in both Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, it’s not very convenient to move around if you don’t have your own car. Therefore, you should consider renting one if you don’t want to depend on taxis.

Car Rental

If you are planning to go outside of Dubai, I highly recommend you rent a car because the public transportation system is not convenient at all.

The good news is that gas is very cheap and the car rental price is quite fair and, if you are from any country within the European Union, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, among some others, you can rent a car with your current driving license. For the rest of the nationalities, you will need a valid international driving license.

Some roads in the United Arab Emirates are more than epic – 3 days in Dubai

Where to stay in Dubai for a week

Dubai is a huge city with huge distances, composed of so many neighborhoods, so different from each other.

Choosing the area you want to stay in will depend on what you actually want to visit in Dubai, as well as on your budget, as prices vary enormously by area.

Moreover, if you are visiting the cities of Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, you need to decide whether to visit them on a day trip or spend the night there as well.

I recommend you stay one week in Dubai because it is the only place where there is something going on at night and evenings. After 7pm, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are pretty boring.

I highly recommend you doing some proper research before choosing which area to stay at. For example, if you decide to stay in the Old City because you are on a budget, you should know that the beach of the Marina is more than 30km away.

A taxi would cost you around 75AED (20USD) and by metro, it would take almost 2 hours, so you should really think twice.

That’s why I decided to write a very comprehensive post which will help you with that:
Which area to stay in Dubai: A guide to find the right accommodation

Qanat Al Qasba Sharjah – 5 days in Dubai

Dubai itinerary: 7 days in the UAE

Don’t forget: Best desert safaris in Dubai

My suggested Dubai itinerary involves visiting the most touristic sites on day 1 and 2, Old Dubai on the 3rd day and, if you are here for more than 3 days, visiting off the beaten track places on the 4th.

Dubai itinerary – Places to visit Dubai in 7 days

Click on the below image to see the interactive map

What to do in Dubai

Day 1 – The glamorous, touristic Dubai

If you are visiting Dubai for just one day, I recommend you visit the two most famous landmarks:

Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa

Dubai is about extravagant and nonsensical buildings and, therefore, the two main attractions in the city are the largest mall in the world and the tallest building on Earth, which is attached to the mall.

I personally don’t like the Dubai Mall, basically, because I am not into shopping but I like the Burj Khalifa. By the way, you should know that, despite being the biggest mall, they extended it in 2018 by adding an additional luxury section.

As per the Burj Khalifa, being the tallest building you will ever see, nobody can deny that this 160-storey building is actually impressive.

It won’t be the tallest one for very long though, as its two biggest competitors, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, are currently building two brand-new towers which will be taller than the Burj Khalifa itself.

You can actually go to the top, but only to the 125th floor and, for some extra money, to the 148th. If you want to save money, you must book your tickets in advance.

In the evening, don’t miss the Dubai Fountain, which is the world’s largest musical fountain. It takes place every half an hour, from 6pm to 11pm.

Pro tip – I recommend you have dinner at Mezza House, my favorite Arab Restaurant in Dubai, serving the most delicious Lebanese food. It is right next to Burj Khalifa and it’s not particularly expensive.

Remember that you can visit Dubai on a half-day city tour. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Where to stay near Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa (Downtown)

Downtown is one of the fanciest and most expensive areas to stay at. Most people living here are expats, especially Arab Expats but a lot of Europeans. You should stay here if you want to be close to the best shopping areas and fanciest restaurants.

The most budget choice (Hostel) – The solo traveler – If you are on a tight budget, this brand-new hostel is right next to the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, it has a Carrefour just downstairs, has mind-blowing views and offers budget dorms. If you are a solo traveler, think no further!

Top-rated hotel – Rove Downtown – The best value for money in Downtown. Not expensive but its rooms and facilities are right at the luxury boundaries. For this price, you can’t find anything better in Dubai.

At the top of Burj Khalifa – Dubai itinerary 7 days

Souq Madinat and Burj Al-Arab

Some people claim that Souq Madinat is a fake bazaar that tries to imitate a traditional Arab souq.

I like to focus on the positive part of travel so, for me, this is just the adaptation of an Arab bazaar to the real concept of Dubai, which is a 21st century, luxurious and modern city.

Souq Madinat is actually pretty, has some cool canals with giant turtles swimming around and, since the place is attached to a couple of hotels, there are plenty of bars and high-quality restaurants serving alcohol.

Pro-tip – Have dinner at Tortuga, the most authentic Mexican restaurant in Dubai. When I say authentic I mean Mexicans come here to eat because they serve traditional dishes and not fake Tex-Mex food like nachos, quesadillas, and burritos. My girlfriend is Mexican and we used to go there all the time.

Moreover, from Souq Madinat, you get amazing views of Burj Al-Arab, the most luxurious hotel in the world. You can’t visit it though, unless you book a tour in advance, which often involves eating at one of the restaurants.

Where to stay in Souk Madinat

In Souq Madinat there are only 5-star hotels, so if you are on a budget, stay away from here.

Top-rated hotel – Jumeirah Mina A’Salam – Well, this Arabic-luxury-thematic hotel is absolutely gorgeous and quiet, located right next to the canal and with fantastic views of both the sea and Burj Al-Arab. It is one of the best luxury options in town.

The Burj Al-Arab – Dubai itinerary 5 days

Day 2 – Dubai Marina and JBR

Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence

The Western expat land, home to a pleasant beach walk that, somehow, tries to replicate Santa Monica’s in LA, is a set of skyscrapers, which is more like a resort than an actual neighborhood but the truth is that there are a few hundred people living in them.

With as little as 10 or 15 years of history and a pretty decent beach where you can ride a camel while staring at 60-floor buildings, Marina is the place where people hang out, from tourists to Western expats, locals and 18-year old kids who spend the day driving around the area just to show off their fancy cars.

You can also book a speed boat tour around the Marina.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

I lived in the Marina for 3 years and, despite sounding like a cheesy and pretentious area, this is the nicest part to live in Dubai, basically because it is the most Western-friendly.

You can easily get there by metro by going to a station which used to be called Marina but now they keep on changing the name constantly. Damac Properties is how they call it now I think.

Pro tip – The beach is nice but it is mostly filled with tourists. Expats go to Kite Beach, located in Jumeirah.

Where to stay close to Marina

The most budget choice (Hostel) – Top of Marina – If you wanna stay in one of the highest floors with great views of the Marina skyline, this hostel is truly amazing. It is actually located in the building I used to live and it has a few swimming pools, a gym and just everything you need. If you are on a budget and want to stay in the greatest place, this is your hostel!

The top-rated option – The Address Dubai Marina –This is my favorite building in the whole Dubai Marina, as it is just simple but impressive at the same time and located right next to the canal. It is one of the top-rated 5-star hotels in the city and has the best bars in the whole Marina.

Camels and JBR – Dubai itinerary 6 days

Day 3 – The Palm, Jumeirah, Kite Beach and Jumeirah Mosque

The Palm Jumeirah

After the Marina, if you continue along the coast you find the beginning of The Palm, that famous palm-shaped island which is attached to Dubai mainland and has an Atlantis Hotel replica at its furthest edge.

You can get to the very edge by a monorail that runs 20 meters above the street and, for me, this is the best part of this tiny trip, as you can get a feeling of the island’s shape. Otherwise, when you are walking over it, it is like being in a normal street plus the island itself is boring.

You can also book a speed boat tour around The Palm.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Where to stay in The Palm

Unless you want to stay in Atlantis, which is the famous hotel, I don’t see a reason why you should stay in The Palm. There is nothing to do and it is far away from everything. In three years, I came here just three times and only because I had some company events and meetings.

The best – Atlantis – What can I say which you don’t know yet? The Atlantis is one of the most famous landmarks in the city and a replica of the hotel you find in the Bahamas. It also has a waterpark and loads of bars and restaurants.

The monorail and the Atlantis – Dubai in a week

Jumeirah, Kite Beach and Jumeirah Mosque

Following the road along the coast, 18km after The Palm (I already told you that distances in Dubai are huge), you find Jumeirah, a set of streets filled with expensive villas where the local Emiratis live.

I like this area because it is one of the very few actual walkable parts of Dubai and also because you find the Jumeirah Mosque, a small but beautiful mosque which non-Muslim people can visit and the only cultural site to visit in the new part of the city.

There is no metro line to come here but the bus leaves from the main street in Marina.

Pro tip – Go to Bu Qtair Fish restaurant, a pretty budget seafood restaurant that serves fresh fish cooked in the traditional Gulf way.

Day 4 – Old Dubai

Old Dubai is my favorite part of the UAE as it is the only place with a real soul. You can easily there by metro. The place is huge though and it has several metro stations.

Bastiqaya and Bur Dubai

Inhabited by Indians since many hundreds years ago, when the local Arabs were still Bedouins living in the desert, this used to be one of the greatest centers of the pearl trade and industry, one of the region’s main economic pillars.

Today, Bastiqaya and Bur Dubai are still mostly inhabited by Indians who are able to provide a deeper cultural feeling than soulless Dubai. Here you will find authentic (and cheap) Indian eateries filled with tens of Indians, real bazaars and traditional architecture.

Bastiqaya is the place to get lost among its narrow alleys while savoring some real authentic cuisine in the many restaurants where, according to Indians, they serve the best Indian food in the world, because it tastes like back home but it is much more hygienic.

This is, by far, my most favorite place and the reason why I finally liked Dubai.

If you are interested in Old Dubai, you can book a Street Food tour around the maze streets of Bastiqaya.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Don’t forget to check out the Dubai Museum, which is built inside a fortress from the 18th century, the Creek, the Textile Souk and a real Hindu Temple that holds real Hindu ceremonies.

Pro tip – If you need to buy any electronic, Bur Dubai has the cheapest stores in town, much cheaper than anywhere in Europe.

Where to stay in Bur Dubai

In Bur Dubai you find some of the cheapest accommodation in town:

The most budget – Gold Plaza Guest House – This is not a nice hotel but it is really cheap. If you look for the cheapest option, this is your place.

The top-rated – Raffles Dubai – A top luxury hotel but much cheaper than other similar options from Marina or Downtown. If you look for affordable luxury, this is your place.

Cross the Dubai Creek in an Abra, from Bur Dubai to Deira

Pay 1 AED and enjoy a fabulous ride in the abra, the traditional water taxi to cross the atmospheric Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai to Deira on the opposite side. The quaint old wooden boat has a fishtail carved out of wood.

Traditional abra in Dubai Creek – one week in Dubai

Deira and the spice market souq

From saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, sumac and turmeric, Deira has the most traditional and photogenic souq, selling all sorts of spices, to the extent that any Indian can actually cook any curry they can come up with.

Deira and the gold souq

If you are into jewelry and gold, this souq sells some of the cheapest gold in the world and its biggest attraction is one ring which is claimed to be the biggest ring on Earth, which doesn’t make any sense because it is so big that your entire body would fit into it, so it is a completely useless ring.

Where to stay in Deira

Deira also offers plenty of budget accommodation and the biggest advantage is that it is very close to the airport.

Budget – Mark Inn Hotel Deira – Simple but clean, cheap and excellent Middle Eastern service. For people on a budget, this is a really good option.

Top-rated – Rove City Center – This hotel has the largest number of really positive reviews, located in the new and fancy part of Deira. Excellent service and super modern facilities.

The Deira Fish Market, which they closed recently, unfortunately

Day 5 – Get off the beaten track

You can’t do everything in one day but you can choose 1 or 2 or replace some of the previous fancy stuff with any of these places:

Camel Racing

Be part of the heart-pumping action that is so integral to the Emiratis’ life at the Al Marmoom Racetrack deep in the desert sands.

It’s an experience like no other; about 60 camels rush out from the gates, long legs flying in every which direction, running as fast as they can down the track while the jockeys steer and hold on for dear life.

They are followed by their owners in 4X4s, yelling at their camels and jockeys to do better. The excitement is contagious and soon you’ll be screaming at your favorite camel (yes, you actually read that), just as you would at a horse race.

The camel race is one of the most traditional activities in the Arab Gulf and will be one of the highlights of your Dubai itinerary.

The races take place on Friday and Saturday, from October to April.

For more information, check this website.

The winner camel gets his head covered by saffron – Dubai travel itinerary

Horse racing in Meydan

The national sport in the UAE is horse racing and, in fact, they have some of the best and most expensive horses in the world.

If you want to experience something very traditional but modern at the same time, you can’t miss the weekly horse racing at Meydan racing stadium, which takes place every Thursday at 7pm, from November to March.

The races are impressive, so is the atmosphere, as all types of people attend: from wealthy locals to expats and laborers. The general entry ticket is free but, of course, you can also get a premium seat, which gives you access to the bar and restaurant.

For further information, visit the official website.

General entrance Meydan Horse racing

Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding

The Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding is one governmental entity which tries to promote and create awareness of the Emirati culture, a culture which most foreigners have very little exposure to.

You can visit the center and book different tours but I recommend the lunch tour, which involves spending 1.5 hours with local Emiratis over a traditional Emirati lunch, who will explain you the customs in the UAE to you.

Since you will be having lunch with these men, the interaction will be higher and much closer than just visiting the center on a guided tour.

Heritage exclusive & eco-friendly Desert Safari

If you want a real desert, exclusive and off the beaten track adventure, go to the Heritage Safari, where you will drive, very slowly and quietly, over a track from where you can actually see oryx and real desert wildlife.

The cars are real, refurbished Land Rovers from the 50s and, unlike the regular desert safari, which is very close to the city and there is much noise from people and other cars, here you will find complete silence and the real feeling of what a desert is like.

You will have to book it in advance

If you want to go on a regular safari, check:
10 top desert safaris in Dubai

Dubai Desert – things to see in Dubai in 4 days

Day 6 – Day trip to Al Ain

After getting tired of Dubai, it is time to get outside of the city and, if you still want to experience some traditional culture, I strongly recommend you go to the Camel Market of Al Ain, which is a bustling, chaotic animal market, where you can bargain over the price of a camel and where you will find, literally, hundreds and hundreds of camels and a really authentic atmosphere.

Today, the sellers are not Emirati but Pakistani and Indian, even though most likely, the actual owners are locals.

However, the bazaar is still really genuine and, if you wander and wait for long enough, you will see wealthy Emiratis coming with their pickups to bargain for camels and other animals.

Every time I had friends visiting, I never hesitated to take them there, which means that I have been here so many times!

The market is, obviously, free and you will be one of the very few tourists. Al Ain is 1 hour and 30 minutes from Dubai and you can only come here by car.

Moreover, besides the market, Al Ain has also plenty of historical sites like Jahili Fort, a desert fort from the 19th century built in a beautiful oasis.

If you are self-driving, also go to Jebel Hafeet, a mountain whose road was voted among the greatest roads to drive in the world.

For more information, read: Things to do in Al Ain

You can book a full-day tour to Al Ain, which includes a visit to the camel market.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Where to stay in Al Ain

As you can see, there are quite a few things to do in Al Ain, so if you want to stay here overnight, I recommend these hotels. Good news is that all the hotels are much cheaper than in Dubai.

Budget – Ayla – This is the most decent, budget option in town, with plenty of good reviews actually.

Top-rated – Ayla Grand Hotel – One of the busiest and most popular options in town, this 5-star hotel is very close to the city center and it is a luxury option with unbeatable prices.

Al Ain camel market

Day 6 – Day trip to Abu Dhabi

Go to Sheikh Zayed Mosque (a must)

This is one of the largest mosques, with the largest carpet and the largest chandelier in the world.

The mosque can accommodate an astonishing 40,000 worshippers. It has 82 domes plus 1,000 marble columns and 24-carat gold gilded chandeliers everywhere.

One of the world’s biggest-ever chandeliers dominates the main prayer hall; it is 10 meters in diameter and 15 meters in height and weighs twelve tons.

If that weren’t enough, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque has the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, made by Iranian carpet weavers.

The mosque is surrounded by reflective pools that amplify its beauty. What glitters gold and white in the sun is transformed at night by a unique lightning system which reflects the phases of the moon. The best time to see the mosque is during sunset, at 5:30 P.M. The mosque has a ‘Sunset Hour’ sightseeing set up at that time, to enable visitors to see the best of the mosque.

For more information, read this Abu Dhabi City guide

Pro Tip – Modest clothing is expected when you enter the mosque, including an abaya for women (provided at the entrance) and covered head, shoulders, and knees for the men. The mosque is open from 9 A.M. to 10 P.M. every day and is open daily to visitors except on Friday morning.

How to get there – Well, there is no direct public transportation. You would first need to to take a bus from the outskirts of Dubai to the center of Abu Dhabi and then look for a taxi, which I don’t recommend.

Going directly by taxi from would cost, roughly, around 300AED (one way), so the best way is to rent a car or, even cheaper, to go on a tour.

If you aren’t self-driving, I recommend you book the tour with GetYourGuide, as they have pretty good deals for visiting the mosque which you can combine with visiting other places within Abu Dhabi.

Etihad Towers Abu Dhabi – UAE itinerary

Bonus! Extending your UAE itinerary

Liwa Oasis (2 additional days, minimum)

Liwa Oasis is my most favorite place in the whole United Arab Emirates and, actually, one of my top places to visit in the Middle East.

Unfortunately, due to its remoteness and distance, you need a couple of days to enjoy Liwa.

Liwa Oasis – Stay in Dubai for a week

Liwa Oasis is located in the southern-eastern part of the country, 250km from Abu Dhabi and 350km from Dubai, very close to the Saudi Arabian border.

The oasis is situated on the north-eastern edge of the Empty Quarter (Rub-al-Jali), a vast desert spread across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Yemen, which is the largest continuous sea of dunes in the world. It extends over an area of 650,000kmВІ and measures 1,000km in length by 500km in width.

For more information, read my guide to the Liwa Oasis

Where to stay in Liwa

Budget – Liwa Hotel – The hotel is all right, nothing fancy but the location is quite unbeatable, right in the middle of the sea dunes, from where you get stunning views of the Empty Quarter.

Top-rated – Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort – This resort is the most awesome desert hotel in the country. With some of the most stunning views ever, this 5-star hotel is real Emirati luxury combined with tradition. Even if you are not staying here, it is worth checking out.

More useful information for planning your Dubai itinerary

Remember to get travel insurance for Dubai
Keep in mind that Dubai’s health care is private and extremely expensive, so insurance is a must.
IATI Insurance offers different plans, for all budgets.
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Access blocked sites – Remember that, if you want to use Skype, Whatsapp Call or Tinder you will need a VPN. For that, I recommend ExpressVPN, the best and fastest VPN in the market.

Are you on a budget? Read how to travel in Dubai on a budget

Traveling to Saudi Arabia? Here you can find all my articles and guides to Saudi Arabia

Traveling to Oman? Here you can find all my articles and guides to Oman