Dubai is often referred to as the “City of Gold” or “Jewel of the Middle East.” This is due to its rich gold trading history and its opulent architecture and design. It has world-class infrastructure, iconic landmarks and attractions, and unparalleled shopping experiences.
Dubai is regarded as one of the safest cities in the world, making it an appealing destination for families, solo travellers, and business visitors alike. Additionally, the welcoming cultural atmosphere, modern infrastructure, and an array of family-friendly activities make Dubai an attractive option for those travelling with children.
The city offers luxurious hospitality and a wide range of cultural events, including concerts and festivals, as well as world-class restaurants and spirited nightlife. So, what else an explorer needs? A Dubai itinerary to choose the attractions it wants on the trip.
Check out the best time to visit Dubai and plan the thrilling activities that you want to try. Before reading this itinerary, read the related guides for a better understanding of Dubai.
Day 1 of Dubai Itinerary: Arrival in the Pearl of the Gulf (Dubai)
Touchdown at Dubai International Airport and get amused by the world’s most impressive and beautiful airports. This grand airport is adorned with astonishing art and design installations that showcase the city’s high-spirited energy.
A World of Luxury: Dubai International Airport
- Dubai International Airport has a modern architecture. It has high ceilings and spacious terminals. It has elegant, futuristic designs with large glass structures that let in a lot of natural light, which will amaze you.😍
- But that’s not all; this airport gives you an unparalleled luxury shopping experience. You can find exquisite boutiques adorned with the latest designer collections, unique accessories and high-fashion apparel.🛍️
- After shopping, you can treat yourself to dining at world-class restaurants. Food is crafted by distinguished chefs who use only the finest ingredients will delight your palate.🤤
- Enjoy premium service while relaxing and sipping handcrafted cocktails in exclusive lounges. These lounges have comfortable seating, soft lighting, and a peaceful atmosphere.🛋️
Yes, we know this airport is terrific! But don’t get lost in its charm; head out as your hotel’s check-in timing is at 3 PM.
Marine Dhow Cruise:
As the sun sets, get ready for a memorable evening on a Marine Dhow Cruise. Imagine floating along Dubai’s calm waters and enjoying a delicious dinner. That sounds amazing, right? Indeed it is!
Enjoy a traditional wooden dhow that has been changed into a floating restaurant. Sail along Dubai Marina, where the modern skyline reflects on the water. Feast on a lavish buffet dinner with Middle Eastern, Indian, and international dishes.
Grab your mouthwatering dinner with Dubai’s bright skyline as your backdrop. The gentle movement of the boat, the shining city lights, and the cool breeze create a perfect atmosphere for the exciting days ahead.
After finishing one of the most amazing dinners of your life, come back to your hotel and get a good night’s sleep to recharge yourself for the next adventure.
Day 2 of Dubai Itinerary: Exploring Dubai’s Icons & Nighttime Magic
Feels like a dream, doesn’t it? Waking up in the City of Gold is indeed a dream for many. After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, set out on a half-day city tour, exploring Dubai’s iconic landmarks.
The 4-hour Dubai city tour will take you to the most prominent places in Dubai. You also get to see two different sides of Dubai- the historical and the modern.
This tour has been designed to highlight the most important landmarks in Dubai. It is ideal for those who want to experience the essence of the city in a short amount of time.
You will be picked up from your hotel or residence in a comfortable vehicle. So, sit back, relax, and get ready for an exciting adventure through one of the most luxurious cities in the world.
- Your first stop is the Dubai Museum, located in the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in Dubai from 1787. Inside, you will find interesting exhibits that show how Dubai grew from a small fishing village into a global city.
- The tour then goes through Al Seef, a beautiful waterfront destination. It combines old and new Dubai. Tourists usually walk along the charming promenade, explore traditional-style buildings, and experience Emirati culture. This area is also a great place to take photos of the traditional dhows sailing on Dubai Creek.
- The next stop is Spice Souk! Here, you can awaken our senses with the incredible variety of spices, herbs, dried fruits, and traditional Middle Eastern ingredients.
- Just a short walk away is the Gold Souk, one of the most famous gold markets in the world. You will be amazed by the beautiful displays of gold, diamonds, and precious stones.
| Did you know that Dubai is often called the “City of Gold” because you can shop for gold here without paying taxes? |
- Our next stop is Jumeirah Mosque, a captivating example of Islamic architecture. This is one of the few mosques in Dubai that welcomes non-Muslim visitors, offering insight into Islamic culture and traditions. The white stone structure looks especially beautiful in the morning light.
- We now head to the iconic Atlantis Hotel, located at the tip of Palm Jumeirah, Dubai’s famous man-made island. This luxurious hotel is home to the Lost Chambers Aquarium and Aquaventure Waterpark.
- Next, we stop at the Mall of the Emirates, one of Dubai’s top shopping destinations. This mall is home to Ski Dubai, the world’s first indoor ski resort in the desert!
After completing your half-day city tour, visit Burj Khalifa.
Burj Khalifa:
Burj Khalifa is the tallest skyscraper in the world. You can catch spectacular scenic views of Dubai’s skyscrapers, desert, and coastline. Also, you can explore interactive displays on the tower’s construction and Dubai’s transformation.
Interesting Facts about Burj Khalifa:
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After exploring the tallest building, it’s time to explore Dubai Aquarium.
Dubai Aquarium is one of the world’s largest suspended aquariums, located in Dubai Mall. It has over 33,000 marine animals from around 200 species. Take a walk through the 48-meter-long tunnel, surrounded by sharks, rays, and exotic marine species.
Get ready to be mesmerised by marine life. Head to the Underwater Zoo on the upper level, where you’ll find otters, penguins, and King Croc. Consider a glass-bottom boat Ride or Shark Diving for a more immersive experience.
Then, take a walk along Burj Lake to find a good spot for the fountain show. Consider a Traditional Abra Ride on the lake for a unique view.
Dubai Fountain Show:
Watch the Dubai Fountain Show, a gorgeous water and light display set to music. Shows run every 30 minutes from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
It plays water shows that are in sync with music from different types, including classical, contemporary, Arabic, and world music. The show combines water, lights, and music to create a captivating experience.
| Do you know an Interesting Fact?
At the Dubai Fountain Show, the water jets can shoot up to 150 meters (490 feet), which is as tall as a 50-story building. The fountains move to the beat of the music, providing an attractive visual display for the audience. |
After enjoying the fountain show, head back to your hotel with a smile. Grab dinner and have a peaceful sleep.
Day 3 of Dubai Itinerary: A Travel through Time and Sand
Have your amazing breakfast at the hotel and get ready to explore Dubai’s past, present and future. This place has futuristic wonders and architectural marvels.
Museum of the Future:
The Museum of the Future is a realm where imagination and innovation intersect, focusing on the evolution of humanity, technology, and innovation.
| Did You Know the Beautiful Concept of The Museum of the Future?
Museum of the Future is a work of art. The architecture has a unique ring-like shape and features Arabic calligraphy, making it visually striking and modern. The design symbolises the museum’s commitment to the future while honouring traditional Arab culture. The circular space in the centre represents the unknown future, and the calligraphy on the outside displays an inspiring quote from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai. |
Each floor unveils a different vision of tomorrow, making you feel as if you’ve stepped into a sci-fi novel brought to life. It is truly a masterpiece.
After exploring this innovative place, it’s time to explore the next stop, which is the Dubai Frame.
Dubai Frame:
Dubai Frame is a giant, rectangular frame that allows visitors to see both the modern skyline of Dubai and its older neighbourhood. It acts like a “window” into the city’s development. The Frame stands 150 meters (492 feet) tall and 93 meters (305 feet) wide, and it looks like a giant picture frame.
Its elegant, gold-coloured design represents how Dubai has changed from a traditional past to a modern future. The Dubai Frame is located in Zabeel Park, which sits between Old Dubai and New Dubai.
From the Frame, visitors can see the clear difference between the two areas: the older part of the city has historical buildings, while the modern skyline features tall skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa. So, do visit this iconic attraction.
Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner:
As the sun sets, it’s time to leave the city’s skyline for the vast golden dunes of the desert. Get ready for an exciting ride over the dune. It is an adventure through the Arabian desert.
After the ride, you will arrive at a traditional Bedouin camp as the sky turns to twilight. You can walk on the soft sand, sip aromatic Arabic coffee, get a beautiful henna tattoo, or try sandboarding on the dunes.
As stars appear, enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner under the sky featuring many Middle Eastern dishes. Watch belly dancers and a fire show while feeling the cool desert breeze.
Tomorrow holds even more adventures, but for now, let the magic of the Arabian night help you relax and dream of golden sand dunes and bright city lights.
Day 4 of Dubai Itinerary: A Splash of Fun at Atlantis
Savour a delightful breakfast at the hotel. And then, get ready to explore Atlantis The Palm. It is a luxurious resort on the iconic Palm Jumeirah island, and these two attractions- Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers are key features of the resort.
Start your fun in the world of excitement at Aquaventure Waterpark.
Aquaventure Waterpark:
It is the largest water park in the Middle East and is known for its thrilling slides and attractions. The best part is you can experience up-close encounters with sharks and rays in the park’s Shark Lagoon.
At this waterpark, you can enjoy two exciting water slides: The Leap of Faith and The Aquaconda.
- The Leap of Faith features a near-vertical drop through a clear tube that goes through a lagoon filled with sharks.
- The Aquaconda is a thrilling tube ride with fast twists and turns for you and your friends to enjoy together.
You can also enjoy the river rides: the Lazy River and the Rapid River.
- The Lazy River lets you float along a winding path.
- The Rapid River is for those who want stronger water currents.
There are two towers: the Tower of Poseidon and the Tower of Neptune. These towers feature some of the park’s most thrilling water slides, including the Shark Attack and Poseidon’s Revenge.
It is going to be a fun-filled day at Atlantis Aquaventure, an exciting mix of adventure, relaxation, and marine experiences. It is perfect for families and thrill-seekers.
We don’t think you are going to take any rest after this. So, get ready to discover the Lost Chambers, which is also located in the same resort.
The Lost Chambers:
Lost Chambers Aquarium is a mystical place where ancient ruins and marine life intertwine to create an alluring underwater realm. It has unique themes and designs to resemble the mythical ruins of Atlantis, with intricate, ancient-looking tunnels, chambers, and ruins.
This underwater world is home to over 65,000 marine animals. You can find several themed tanks that recreate different parts of the world’s oceans. There are Fish Feeding Sessions and a Behind-the-Scenes Tour, which makes the experience more beautiful.
The highlights of the Lost Chambers are:
- Aquatic Displays and Tanks
- Interactive Tours and Experiences
- Themed Zones Educational Programs
- Dining with a View
After a day of fun and adventure, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Day 5 of Dubai Itinerary: Enjoy the Snowy Slopes & Sky-high Views
Start your day with breakfast before experiencing an unexpected twist at Ski Dubai! Going to this place is like entering a winter wonderland in the heart of the desert, where you can ski, snowboard, or simply play in the snow.
Ski Dubai:
Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort located in the Mall of the Emirates, one of Dubai’s largest shopping malls. It has an 85-meter-high indoor mountain with 22,500 square meters of snow-covered terrain. The temperature inside is maintained at a chilly -1 to -2 degrees Celsius (30-28°F).
The activities that you can do here are-
- Indoor Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Snow Tubing
- Sledging
- Build Snowmen
- Snowball Fights
- Ice Cave
- Chairlift
- Penguin Encounter
- Snowboarding on the Dunes
- Tobogganing
Not just this, Ski Dubai offers ski and snowboard lessons for beginners or those looking to improve their skills, with professional instructors available. There are various cafés and restaurants inside Ski Dubai where you can warm up with hot drinks or enjoy a meal with a snowy backdrop.
Note: The Mall of the Emirates also offers plenty of shopping options nearby, so you can take a break and explore the shops.
Your next stop after Ski Dubai is going to be The View at the Palm.
The View at the Palm:
The View at The Palm is an observation deck on the 52nd floor of the Palm Tower, a new development on Palm Jumeirah. It offers stunning 360-degree views of the Palm, the Arabian Gulf, and the Dubai skyline.
This remarkable vantage point captures the beauty of the surrounding landscape, offering an unforgettable experience that highlights the unique blend of nature and modern architecture.
The observation deck has both indoor and outdoor viewing areas from where you can see the scenic views of Palm Jumeirah. You will be captivated by interactive displays that show the amazing construction journey and history of this iconic marvel. These displays will help you understand its importance better.
Day 6 of Dubai Itinerary: From Dubai’s Magnificence to Abu Dhabi’s Majesty
Enjoy your final hearty breakfast in Dubai. It’s time to check out and head toward Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital city. En route, you will enjoy a scenic drive and explore the UAE capital with a city tour, visiting its most famous landmarks.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque:
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a magnificent mosque that stands as a symbol of cultural harmony and religious tolerance. Its beautiful white marble exterior features 82 domes and four tall minarets, which makes it an incredible sight.
Inside, you can see one of the world’s largest hand-knotted carpets and elaborate Islamic calligraphy. The mosque welcomes visitors of all faiths and provides a peaceful place for reflection.
This mosque can accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers at once, making it one of the largest mosques in the world. It has a grand prayer hall that can accommodate up to 7,000 worshippers at once.
| Do you Know?
The mosque is named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and first president of the United Arab Emirates. |
Note: The mosque is open to tourists outside of the five daily prayer times, so it’s important to plan your visit accordingly. Women are asked to wear an abaya (a traditional black dress), which can be provided at the mosque if needed.
The next visit of the day is the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi.
BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi:
It is the first traditional Hindu temple to be built in the UAE. It is a symbol of the country’s dedication to cultural respect and religious diversity.
Made of sandstone and marble, its design reflects the ancient Hindu temple architecture of India. The temple features detailed stone carvings, stunning sculptures, and ornate domes.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan and has shrines for other Hindu gods like Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Lord Shiva. It features main prayer halls, a large courtyard, beautiful gardens, and pillared walkways.
There are also several rooms for religious activities, including a community hall for cultural programs, classes, and gatherings. The temple hosts a variety of events, including festivals, religious celebrations, and traditional performances.
The BAPS organisation often organises yoga classes, music recitals, and language courses, contributing to the cultural richness of the UAE.
Upon arrival at your Abu Dhabi hotel, check-in and enjoy park access. And for the next three days, get ready to experience the ultimate adrenaline pump as you are going to explore Yas Island- the leisure island.🎉
Day 7 of Dubai Itinerary: Roller Coaster Rampage at Yas Island
After breakfast, it’s time to pick your adventure for the day at one of Abu Dhabi’s world-famous theme parks- Yas Island.
Yas Island is a leisure island and one of the largest tourism projects in Abu Dhabi. It is known for its wide range of attractions and facilities catering to tourists and residents. Some key highlights of Yas Island include:
- Yas Marina Circuit: This world-renowned race track hosts the annual Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: This theme park has some thrilling rides, including the Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest rollercoaster.
- Yas Waterworld: A massive water park with over 40 rides, slides, and attractions, offering fun for families and water sports enthusiasts.
- Yas Mall: A large shopping centre with a wide range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment, including a cinema.
- Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi: An indoor theme park filled with attractions based on popular Warner Bros. characters and movies like Batman, Superman, and the Looney Tunes gang.
- Hotels and Resorts: Yas Island is home to various luxury hotels and resorts, including the Yas Viceroy Hotel, which is famous for its marvellous architecture and position above part of the Yas Marina Circuit.
- Yas Links Abu Dhabi: An award-winning golf course offering beautiful views and a challenging layout for golf enthusiasts.
For your following 3-day itinerary, you can choose from various thrilling experiences. So, on your 7th day, let’s explore the Yas Waterworld.
Yas Waterworld:
Yas Waterworld is undoubtedly the most impressive and fun waterworld. It is an attraction that takes more than a day to explore. The place has many dining options, from quick snacks to full meals with international dishes. Visitors can also find retail shops to buy souvenirs, swimwear, and other items.
The water rides in Yas Waterworld are divided into 3 types- Thrill Rides, Family Rides and Kids rides.
Water Rides:
Thrill Rides are high-speed water slides exclusively meant for adventure lovers.
- Sebag Yas Waterworld
- Rush Rider
- Falcons Falaj
- Bandit Bomber
- Liwa Loop
- Jebel Drop
- Dawwama
- Slither’s Slides
- Bubbles Barrel
- Hamlool’s Humps
Family Rides are meant for those who want something more relaxed. There are family-friendly slides for an easygoing float.
- Cinesplash
- Water Wars
- Amwaj Wave Pool
- Yadi Yas
- Al Raha River
- Marah Fortress
Kids’ rides are designed for children to experience a thrilling rush while ensuring they are appropriate for their age and comfort level.
- Tot’s Playground
- Yehal
- Cannon Point
Apart from the water rides, this Waterworld allows guests to enjoy many interactive experiences.
Interactive Experiences:
- Pearl Diving
- Water Play Zones
Yas Waterworld is widely regarded as one of the best water parks in the region and has received numerous awards for its attractions and overall experience. The park regularly hosts special events, including live shows, water-based performances, and seasonal festivals, which make it a lively place to visit year-round.
After enjoying the thrill of riding high-speed slides on a day at Yas Waterworld in Abu Dhabi, you’ll likely feel a mix of exhilaration and satisfaction. So, take proper rest to enjoy the high on the next day at Warner Bros. World.
Day 8 of Dubai Itinerary: Express Your Inner Hero at Warner Bros. World
Start your day with the utmost energy, as you need it for the whole day. Have a great breakfast, and get ready to enter the world of Warner Bros.
| Did you Know?
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi opened in 2018 and has received praise for its great theming, high-quality attractions, and overall guest experience. It is regularly ranked as one of the best theme parks in the UAE. |
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is the largest indoor theme park in the world, located on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. The best part of this park is that it brings to life beloved Warner Bros. characters and stories across a variety of themed zones.
It is a must-visit attraction in Abu Dhabi because it has almost everything from thrilling rides to interactive experiences based on the stories and characters of Warner Bros. from both the DC Universe and classic cartoons.
The attractions are divided into 3 types-
Thrill Attractions:
- Fast and Furry-ous
- Tom and Jerry: Swiss Cheese Spin
- Batman: Knight Flight
- Scarecrow Scare Raid
- The Riddler Revolution
- Justice League: Warworld Attacks
Family Attractions:
- The Flintstones Bedrock River Adventure
- The Jetsons Cosmic Orbiter
- Scooby-Doo: The Museum of Mysteries
- Ani-Mayhem
- The Joker Funhouse
- Rogues Gallery Games
- Green Lantern: Galactic Odyssey
- Superman 360: Battle for Metropolis
Kids Attractions:
- Marvin the Martian Crater Crashers
- Cartoon Junction Carousel
- Daffy Jet-Propelled Pogo Stick
- Tweety Wild Wockets
- Ricochet Racin’ with Taz
- Acme Factory
- Teen Titans Training Academy
- Teen Titans Training Academy
After exploring Warner Bros. World, you feel a lingering joy and nostalgia, living in the world you once saw on TV during your childhood. It feels like re-living and experiencing the life you always dreamed of.
So, head to your hotel with a sense of fulfilment, a day well spent, packed with fun and unforgettable memories. Next day, next fun at Ferrari World.
Day 9 of Dubai Itinerary: Fuel Your Passion at Ferrari World
After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, you set out on a full-day adventure at a thrilling theme park located on Yas Island, i.e., Ferrari World.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a home for motorsport lovers. Formula Rossa– The Fastest Rollercoaster.
| Do you Know?
One of the most famous attractions in Ferrari World is Formula Rossa, which holds the title of being the fastest rollercoaster in the world. It reaches speeds of up to 240 km/h (149 mph) in just 4.9 seconds, simulating the intense speed of a Ferrari car. It’s a must-ride for thrill-seekers! |
Attractions in Ferrari World are divided into two categories-
Fast Fun
- Formula Rossa
- Esports Arena
- Mission Ferrari
- Turbo Track
- Flying Aces
- Fiorano GT Challenge
- Karting Academy
Family Attractions
- Turbo Tower
- Formula Rossa Junior
- Flying Wings
- Speedway Race
- Bell’ Italia
- Junior Grand Prix
- Benno’s Great Race
- Speed of Magic
- Nello’s Adventureland
- Viaggio in Italia
- Tyre Twist
- Driving with the Champion
Visitors can also find the Ferrari-themed exhibits:
- The Ferrari Gallery: This area showcases the rich history and legacy of Ferrari, with a collection of iconic Ferrari cars on display. It’s perfect for car enthusiasts and those interested in the brand’s journey from its origins to its present-day success.
- Galleria Ferrari: A museum within Ferrari World featuring a selection of Ferrari’s most famous cars, including race cars, classic models, and prototypes. Visitors can learn about the technology, design, and history behind the iconic brand.
Most of the Ferrari fans go crazy after stepping into the Ferrari World as it stands as their dreamland. They enjoy the thrill of riding. So, if you want the ultimate Ferrari experience, you must visit this place.
Day 10 of Dubai Itinerary: Farewell, UAE
With all these days of thrill and excitement, your Dubai trip comes to an end. Savour your final breakfast before checking out. Whether you depart with a heart full of adventure, luxury, or cultural experiences, one thing is certain- Dubai and Abu Dhabi have left an unforgettable mark on your soul.
Until next time, UAE!
Conclusion
Dubai offers an unforgettable experience with a whole heart. With its stunning skyline, luxurious shopping, cultural heritage, and thrilling adventures, you get to explore the best places in Dubai. The iconic symbols, such as Burj Khalifa, Museum of the Future, Atlantis the Palm, Yas Island, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and many more, Dubai always leaves a footprint on its visitors’ hearts.
Dubai nightlife and Abu Dhabi’s best places amaze you each time you visit. Each visit gives you a unique experience. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach escape, a desert safari adventure, or world-class entertainment at spots, our expertly curated itinerary ensures you make the most of your trip.
With in-depth local knowledge and insider tips, Dimaak Tours guarantees an unforgettable journey, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Let us handle the planning while you focus on making memories. Ready to experience Dubai like never before? Book your dream itinerary with us today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Dubai Itineraries
How many days are ideal for a Dubai trip?
5 to 7 days is ideal to explore the main attractions, relax, and take day trips.
What should a first-timer include in their Dubai itinerary?
A first-timer’s itinerary must include Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Desert Safari, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Global Village, Dubai Creek, and Old Dubai.
Can I visit Abu Dhabi on a Dubai trip?
Yes! It’s a 1.5-hour drive. Many tours offer same-day Abu Dhabi trips.
Should I pre-book tours and tickets?
Yes, especially for popular spots like Burj Khalifa, Desert Safari, and Sky Views. It saves time and avoids long queues.
What should I keep in mind when planning the itinerary?
When planning the itinerary, consider travel time, weather, and prayer times, and try to balance busy days with leisure days.
