PLAN A ONE-WEEK ITINERARY FOR DUBAI
Dubai is a great place to spend a few days – and actually, it is even a good place to visit for longer. While I mostly spend around 3-4 days in Dubai, I also enjoyed 7 days in Dubai (and longer) and had a blast, too. I never had any problems filling my 7-day Dubai itinerary.
And if you plan a trip to this exciting city, you might be wondering about how to spend one week in Dubai. And if you do, then I am happy to share my experiences with you. In this Dubai itinerary, I will take you to the main attractions of Dubai but you will also get to see some less busy places, too.
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 your trip.
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.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR A WEEK IN DUBAI
I think this Dubai one-week itinerary is very diverse, and you´ll get to see so many different sides of Dubai that you will not have time to get bored. On the other hand, you also get some rest and have some time to chill and enjoy the city more slowly.
How to Get to Dubai
✈️ Dubai has two airports: Al Maktoum International and Dubai International Airport. Most likely, you will fly into Dubai International Airport (DXB International). From there, it takes about 10-15 minutes (taxi) to get to the old town and about 20 minutes to get to Burj Khalifa. Don’t be surprised to be stuck in traffic even at night – Dubai is always busy.
✈️ Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) is the second biggest airport in the United Arab Emirates. It is about an hour’s drive to Dubai (about 50-60€ taxi fare).
How to Get Around
🚘 RENT A CAR: If you are in Dubai for one week, you could actually rent a car. But you should know that driving there, from my perspective, is a bit crazy. You should have nerves of steel if you decide to drive, particularly around Downtown. I have always stayed away from driving in Dubai and rather used other means of transports to get around.
🚇 PUBLIC TRANSPORT: I recommend getting a NOL card for using public transportation. There is a one-time fee for it, but you can then recharge it; public transportation fees are cheaper this way than if you buy single tickets each time.
Plus, it is valid for several years so you can use it for your next Dubai trip. A ticket costs a bit more than 1€ with the NOL card (about 1.6€ without).
However, when it comes to public transportation, I am a bit skeptical because a) the metro stations do not have enough stops, so each stop is rather far from the last, and b) the buses are not always well connected for us travelers, so it is not easy to get from one popular station to another.
I mostly take the metro for long distances (especially downtown, where there is a lot of traffic, and getting around by cab can mean that you are stuck in a taxi forever) and then jump into a taxi for the shorter rides, if there is no direct connection.
SIGHTSEEING BUSES: Hop-on and hop-off buses are a great way to get from one popular tourist attraction to another – at least for some places (the ones I tested). They will not stop at each stop, but at most attractions, and so I only used them as a means of transportation once in a while, as I had a 7-day pass.
The pass also includes a few cool attractions, so it saves money in addition to getting you from Point A to Point B.
During one of my other stays, I bought a five-day ticket from the other tour company – both have similar services and stops.
UBER is available in Dubai. Prices are similar (it is not cheaper than taxis though).
TAXI: Using a taxi in Dubai is great. There is no haggling. The taximeter shows the price, driven kilometers, and more. It is safe. There are also a few pinkish taxis – for female passengers, but the regular ones are just fine. Drivers know famous attractions and main streets, but not necessarily smaller hotels or streets – so, if you stay at a place less known, have an app to show him the address/way or take screenshots of Google Maps, etc.
There are the regular taxis (with a yellowish color and taxi written on them), but there are also the black Lexus taxis, which are more expensive.
Money and Credit Cards
- The local currency is the United Arab Emirates dirham. Though I always mentioned € in my post, you actually pay in dirhams. You can also pay in $ – but normally, it gets more expensive. I recommend exchanging some money and having dirhams with you.
- Most places also accept credit cards – I would not rely on them though. Smaller shops might refuse credit card payments. If you pay with your credit card, you might get asked, whether you want to pay in dirham or your currency. I always choose the local currency (dirham in this case), because I get better exchange rates if “my bank at home” does it.
Language
The official language is Arabic but people speak English throughout Dubai and the UAE. Most people living here are expats from all around the world and do not even speak Arabic themselves.
In restaurants and shops, you can definitely get around by speaking English only. With taxi drivers, I had some really long conversations in English while some only spoke a few words. If you speak English, you will be fine.
Two of the most important words in Arabic are probably:
- Salam OR marḥaba – hallo
- Shukran – thank you
Accommodations in Dubai
Accommodations here are not cheap, but the standard is quite high. Many 5-star hotels are mind-blowing, but 4- or 3-star hotels in Dubai are fine. If you are looking for my recommendations for all budgets and areas, click here. There you will also find my tips for the best neighborhoods to stay.
🛏️ Luxury hotel recommendations: Find rates for Intercontinental Dubai Marina. This is a great accommodation for adults who enjoy a great hotel in a central location.
🛏️ Mid-range hotel recommendation: Get the best rates for Four Points by Sheraton. This hotel offers great value. I stayed here on my very first Dubai trip and still have fond memories.
🛏️ Budget hotel recommendations: Get the best rates for your stay at Ibis Al Barsha. It is a decent hotel in a decent location for a reasonable price.
7 DAYS IN DUBAI
Here are my ideas on how to spend one week in Dubai.
- DAY 1 – LA MER
- DAY 2 – DOWNTOWN (INCL. BURJ KHALIFA)
- DAY 3 – OLD DUBAI
- DAY 4 – JUMEIRAH
- DAY 5 – ABU DHABI
- DAY 6 – DESERT SAFARI
- DAY 7 – JBR – WALK & DUBAI MARINA
DAY 1 – 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?
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.
La Mer has become one of the hotspots amongst locals and visitors and is located in the Jumeirah area. It has many retail stores, stylish restaurants and cafes, the coolest bathhouses, friendly and fun street art – and, of course, the beach! It is a great way to get adjusted.
While you enjoy the nice views of Burj Khalifa, I suggest taking it easy on the first day and holding off on getting into the crazy parts of Dubai. After all, you might still have jetlag or just be tired from your flight. This is at least what I normally do when I arrive in Dubai. Enjoying time at the beach.
La Mer is fun in the daytime, but it gets even better in the evening! So end your day at La Mer and spend time even after sunset. There are sooooo many restaurants that you will definitely find something for your tastes.
You will find free and very stylish showers and clean toilets, and you can either bring your towels or book some sunbeds and umbrellas.
La Mer is my favorite – public – beach location and I love spending a full day here, switching from relaxing to swimming to having snacks and doing some sightseeing in between.
ℹ️ 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, especially if you arrive later during the day.
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. Read more about this fun part of Dubai.
DAY 2 – DUBAI DOWNTOWN
After your first slow day in Dubai, it is time to dive into the craziest part of Dubai – Downtown. 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.
I love this area – it is so different to the beach day at La Mer and though it is the main area of Dubai, it is still clean and not as crazy as other capitals in Asia or Africa.
✔️ DUBAI MALL
✔️ BURJ KHALIFA
✔️ FOUNTAIN SHOW
Dubai Mall
Start your day in Dubai Mall, the biggest mall in the world. Located adjacent to Burj Khalifa, it covers an area of over 12 million square feet. It features over 1,200 stores along with numerous restaurants and cafes, an ice rink, a theater, and much more.
The mall also has a large aquarium, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, which is home to thousands of species of aquatic animals. Whether you’re looking for high-end retail shopping or just a day of adventure and exploration, the Mall is a must-see destination.
For the fanciest public restrooms and great photo opportunities, head to the Fashion Avenue area #IHaveaThingWithToilets. This posh place will probably overwhelm you and give you a good glimpse of the luxury in Dubai. I know, this sounds crazy, but I always appreciate nice restrooms.
You could spend a full day even if you are not a shopper, but I normally try to not spend more than a few hours here. Dubai Downtown just has so much to offer, that I want to get out and see more.
ℹ️ You´ll find cheaper lunch options in the food court, but you also have great restaurants that offer fine dining outside of the mall.
ℹ️ Even though the Mall is big, it gets crowded, especially in the evenings. So, I suggest getting here early in the day.
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: The Mall is open from 10 am to 1 am, and restaurants and the food court are open until after midnight. 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 – the tallest man-made structure in the world. It stands at an incredible 828 meters (2,717 feet) tall and has 162 floors! Though I have seen Burj Khalifa many times, I am still in awe when I see it. Its unique shape and sheer size just leave me speechless.
The tower features an observation deck on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors and a luxurious hotel (Armani) inside the building. It is also home to various offices, studios, residences, and much more.
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 the Fountain.
Get your tickets in advance. If you buy tickets online, you still have to queue but it will save you some time. The lines get crazy there, and you need to plan for the time spent waiting in line. If you do not buy tickets in advance, you might still be lucky and buy some at the ticket center.
ℹ️ The ticket prices depend on the time of your visit and the level of access you buy.
ℹ️ For a more romantic time, you can also book a ticket to see the sunset, or just head there around 4 pm and then stay a little longer.
➡️ CHECK THE TICKET PRICES FOR LEVELS 124 & 125
If you want to get tickets for level 148 (which comes with access to levels 124 and 125, too), you can skip the lines.
➡️ GET YOUR TICKETS FOR LEVELS 124 & 125 & 148 HERE
ℹ️ Visiting Burj Khalifa might take several hours (2-4 hours).
HOW TO GET TO BURJ KHALIFA: Getting to the top is a bit more tricky. At least, that is how I felt. You have to go inside Dubai Mall, and then you will see signs that leave you to “At the top of Burj Khalifa.” The ticket center/entrance is located on 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, Dubai Fountain is also the perfect place to end your day.
The Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. The fountain consists of five circles connected by a main water channel and features various movements, lights, and music. Water jets shoot up from the ground as high as 150 meters (492 feet).
It gets crazy there. Unless you visit in the summer, this place will be one of the busiest in Dubai. And it gets so crowded that it can be hard to walk. Still, it is worth a visit.
I am just totally into water and lights – so the dancing show is something I always make sure to see. It is not my favorite water show in the world, but I still appreciate this free activity and suggest you make it a must-see as well.
ℹ️ From 6 pm, the famous dancing water show goes on. Each show takes a few minutes, and it happens every half hour.
ℹ️ The water dance is fun to watch and is free.
ℹ️ You can also book an abra ride and enjoy the water show without all the crowds.
There are some nice restaurants with a view of the fountain, like the Mediterraneo of Armani Hotel, but make sure you reserve a table beforehand.
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 – OLD DUBAI
The third day is all about “traditional” and some more amazing views. Today it is about:
✔️ Dubai Frame
✔️ Zabeel Park
✔️ Gold and Spice Souk
✔️ Al Seef
Dubai Frame
Start your day with a visit to one of the newer attractions: Dubai Frame. The Frame is a 150-meter-tall structure in Zabeel Park, one of the biggest and lushest parks in Dubai.
It has been constructed to resemble a giant picture frame – the observation deck offers 360-degree views of the city skyline, as well as its iconic landmarks.
There are some cool views of Burj Khalifa, and you can walk on see-through glass 100 meters from the ground.
I love the Golden Frame mostly because of the view of Burj Khalifa, but also because of the glass floor which is a bit scary to walk on but also fun.
ℹ️ You will probably need one hour.
ℹ️ I recommend starting here around 9:30 or 10 am when the crowds are not there yet.
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, situated in the heart of Dubai. Spanning an impressive 136 hectares, it is one of the largest parks in the city
The park is very neat, clean, and lush! Kids will love this break for the playgrounds there. 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: From 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), and 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.
The Dubai Gold and Spice Souk is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Located in the historic district of Bur Dubai, it has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike since the early 19th century.
Stretching over several blocks, you can purchase spices, gold jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs. A vibrant atmosphere filled with the sights and smells of exotic spices.
The Gold and Spice Souks are fun places to visit. If you are looking for places with a more authentic touch, you will especially love it here (though the shop owners are mostly from other Asian countries).
Souvenirs and Arabian clothes (and gold and spices) are much cheaper than in any other part of Dubai, so if you are hunting for souvenirs, make sure you do not buy them in one of the expensive malls.
As a solo female traveler, I do not appreciate the catcalls and stares – however, overall, I still like the souks and the shopping opportunities it offers. This is just a different atmosphere compared to the modern malls. If you have been to souks in the Middle East before, you will be fine though and this might be even less intense for you.
ℹ️ From there, you can take a ride on a dhow, which is a traditional wooden boat. For less than 20€, you can go on a 1-hour cruise.
ℹ️ You can also hop on abras – water taxis. They cost only about 0,25€ for a short cruise.
ℹ️ The Gold and Spice Souks are quite intense places – especially for female solo travelers. I suggest dressing moderately. However, even after all, I always felt safe and did not worry. It is just loud and hectic at times but not a place I would love strolling after sunset on my own.
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 – I recommend visiting the Dubai Museum. It is an interesting but often crowded museum in Deira that engagingly illustrates Dubai’s history.
The museum has always been rather busy when I visited. Also, I would love more info, as it is a bit shallow. However, given the low entrance fee, I always enjoy visiting the museum.
ℹ️ Entrance fees are just about 1€, and it is probably the best museum in Dubai.
ℹ️ From the souks, it is just an abra ride away.
Dubai Al Seef
To end the day, I recommend visiting Al Seef.
Al Seef is a cultural destination located along Dubai Creek in the heart of the city. It offers an insight into traditional Emirati culture, with its many souks, art galleries, and restaurants.
Take a stroll through the gardens or visit attractions such as The Tower at Al Seef, a 108-meter tall observation tower featuring panoramic views of the city.
You will have plenty of options for dining – from Arabic cuisine to Mediterranean or Asian food. Also, there are some quite fancy restaurants as well as more budget-friendly places to eat. Many of these restaurants come with a nice view of the creek.
I love this area of Dubai in particular because it is not as busy as other parts of Dubai. Also, I really appreciate the abundance of restaurants and cafes here. So, I try to visit for a few hours whenever I am here.
ℹ️ Also, there is a Museum of Illusions, some street art, you can do some boat cruises and more.
HOW TO GET TO AL SEEF: From the Gold/Spice Souk, take the abra (water taxi) to get to the other side of Dubai Creek. Then you can walk for 10-15 minutes, and you are in Al Seef.
OPENING HOURS / TICKETS: There is no entrance fee for Al Seef itself. It is open from Sunday to Wednesday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, and Thursday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 12:00 midnight.
DAY 4 – JUMEIRAH
Day 3 was all about traditional Dubai, so day 4 will focus on the modern side.
Spend Your Day and Evening in the Jumeirah Area.
✔️ Wild Wadi Waterpark
✔️Jumeirah Beach / Kite Beach
✔️ Madinat Jumeirah
Wild Wadi Water Park
If you are into waterparks, you can/should head to Wild Wadi Waterpark.
The Wild Wadi Waterpark is one of Dubai’s most popular family attractions. It features over 30 water rides and attractions, including the world’s largest man-made wave pool and an 850-meter-long river ride.
With its many slides, perfect for both adults and children alike, and its beautiful landscaped gardens, the Wild Wadi Waterpark is a great place to escape the heat.
The water park belongs to the Jumeirah Group. As a guest of any Jumeirah hotel in Dubai, you will have free access (which actually was a reason for me to book a night at a Jumeirah hotel once).
I have been to both main waterparks in Dubai (this and the one at Atlantis) and I love a good day at the waterpark. As a solo female traveler though, water parks are not the most fun because I think, a visit to a waterpark is more fun with more people. However, I really enjoyed both of my trips and think, it is a great place to visit in 7 days if you are not on a budget. If you are on a budget, then I have a different suggestion for you below.
ℹ️ Ticket prices start from around 55€ for adults.
ℹ️ You can easily spend a full day here without getting bored, but I suggest just making a half-day trip.
ℹ️ You will have great views of the Burj al-Arab from the waterpark, one of the most iconic buildings.
ℹ️ The food there is overpriced and not that great – so bring your own snacks.
➡️ You can read my full review here.
HOW TO GET TO WILD WADI WATERPARK: It is just right next to Burj al-Arab’s entrance (which is not open to the public, though). There is no metro station close by. The closest metro station is the “Mall of Emirates” – from there, take a taxi or bus to get there. Some buses stop close by (e.g., bus line 81).
OPENING HOURS: Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 6 pm, closed on Mondays.
Kite Beach
If you are looking for a cheaper option to spend time in the water, go to Kite Beach.
Kite Beach is a popular beach located along Jumeirah Road in Dubai, renowned for its long stretches of pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. It also comes with views of the impressive Burj al-Arab, making it the perfect destination for sunbathing and swimming.
Kite Beach also offers outdoor activities, such as kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, beach volleyball, and kayaking.
The Kite Beach is a great alternative to the waterpark. Sure, it cannot be really compared but the beaches in Dubai are, in general, not very crowded (not to our European standard) and clean and safe. Also, it is free to visit and a few hours here is enough before I continue my journey.
ℹ️ Always keep an eye on your valuables, but in general, I did not feel I had to watch my belongings like a paranoid (that I am sometimes).
ℹ️ You can do all kinds of watersports – and rent equipment at the beach.
ℹ️ Bring your own food and towels with you.
OPENING HOURS: The beach is open from Sunday to Wednesday, from 10 am to 12 midnight, and on Thursday to Saturday: from 10 am to 1 am. Shops and entertainment are normally open from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (restaurants might be open longer).
TICKETS: There is no entrance fee for the beach.
Dubai Madinat Jumeirah
In the afternoon/evening, I recommend visiting Madinat Jumeirah.
Madinat Jumeirah is located on the banks of Dubai’s coastline. The resort features three of the top luxury hotels, two spas, and a variety of restaurants and cafes, all inspired by traditional Middle Eastern architecture.
Madinat Jumeirah also has its own souk with over 75 retail outlets selling luxurious jewelry, fashion items, and souvenirs. With its stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, Madinat Jumeirah is a must-see in my eyes. I always make sure to stop by at leat – but most of the time, I also spend a few hours here.
You could also do an abra ride here (though they are way more expensive than in Dubai Deira, the Gold, and Spice Souk area) and just get lost for a few hours.
ℹ️ It is not far from the public part of Jumeirah Beach (and just a stone’s throw from Wild Wadi), and though the area is not huge, it is the perfect place to end your day.
ℹ️ Visiting the souks of Madinat Jumeirah is free
HOW TO GET TO MADINAT JUMEIRAH: From Kite Beach to Madinat Jumeirah, you can take a bus. From Wild Wadi, it is shorter, and you could walk (about 2km) or take a bus. Sightseeing buses also stop here.
OPENING HOURS/TICKETS: Shops are open from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm, and restaurants are open from 08:00 am to 02:00 am. There is no entrance fee to visit Madinat Jumeirah.
DAY 5 – ABU DHABI
Now, it is time to leave Dubai for a day and plan a day trip to Abu Dhabi.
- Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
The capital of the United Arab Emirates is definitely a beautiful place and worth more than a one-day trip. Still, since Dubai also has a lot to offer, one day should be enough to see the most important places in Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi offers many attractions, from stunning mosques and palaces to modern shopping malls and adventure parks.
However, if you ask me, then the major sight is reason enough to visit – the beautiful Grand Zayed Mosque. This absolutely gorgeous building is also open to non-Muslims and thus gets quite busy. It is so gorgeous I do not mind the crowds and have been there more than once just because it is absolutely worth it.
While Dubai is fun and all that, Abu Dhabi is special. I enjoy Dubai more, but my sister, whom I recently took on a Dubai trip with me, liked Abu Dhabi better.
There are also plenty of museums and galleries showcasing the city’s rich culture and history.
If you are in the UAE for 14 days, I would stay in Abu Dhabi for two or three days, because there is quite a bit to see and do in my opinion.
ℹ️ You can read more about a day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi here and which sights you should visit.
ℹ️ It takes about 1-2 hours to get to Abu Dhabi by car/taxi/bus
ℹ️ You can do guided tours, rent a car and drive yourself, get there by taxi, or – quite complicated – by public transportation.
If you want to do a guided tour, book one of the best-rated day trip tours. Find out about prices for a day trip.
DAY 6 – DESERT SAFARI
If you stay one week in Dubai, you have to do a desert tour.
- Dubai Desert
Dubai Desert Safari
A desert safari in Dubai is a must! Spending half a day in the desert, going on an adventurous 4×4 wheel drive, dining under the stars, and stargazing is like a dream come true in the desert.
The Dubai Desert is one of the most iconic features of the United Arab Emirates. Spanning over 488 square kilometers, it is home to some beautiful sand dunes. Explore the desert on 4×4 vehicles or even take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of the area.
The desert also offers numerous activities such as sandboarding, camel riding, and quad biking. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure or a relaxing day in the sun, the desert is sure to have something for everyone.
Every time I did a desert adventure (and I did a few), it became a highlight of my Dubai trip. These memories will last a lifetime. This is why I will also book another desert safari next time I visit Dubai.
ℹ️ There are several tours available – all fun and a bit different.
ℹ️ I recommend doing one with a BBQ (btw: as a vegetarian, I was pleased to find out that there were enough vegetarian options).
ℹ️ Normally, the tours – whether you do them in the morning or afternoon – take about 6-10 hours.
ℹ️ Most of the tours will include a pick-up service from your hotel.
➡️ Find the best prices for a desert safari tour
➡️Fancying an overnight safari tour? Then click here to find out more.
DAY 7 – JBR WALK – THE BEACH & DUBAI MARINA
If you have one week in Dubai, this will be a great option to spend your day.
✔️ JBR Walk (The Beach)
✔️ Marina
JBR Walk – The Beach
If you would like to have a beach day, head to JBR Walk and “The Beach.”
JBR – The Beach in Dubai is a vibrant beachfront promenade located at the foot of the iconic Marina Towers.
You will find many restaurants, shops, cafes, and entertainment venues. JBR also has its own beach where you can relax in the sun or take a swim in the waters of the Persian Gulf.
It is also great to have good food – there are so many restaurants and cafes that you will be happy to have a wonderful lunch in a lovely place.
Even if you do not plan to have your lunch here, it is still worth a visit. JBR is one of my favorite places in Dubai and I make sure not to miss it whenever I am in Dubai.
ℹ️ There is no entrance fee for JBR – The Walk.
ℹ️ You have free beach access here.
ℹ️ Ride the “Flying Cup,” where you have a great bird’s-eye view of the beach and JBR Walk. With your Citysightseeing bus tour ticket, you also have a ticket included for Flying Cups – to enjoy great views of the beach and skyline. If you buy tickets separately, they cost about 15 € (adults).
ℹ️ You can rent equipment for all kinds of water sports.
HOW TO GET TO JBR: Take the metro – JLT Metro Station or Dubai Marina Metro Station are the closest metro stations. From there, either walk or take the tram to get to JBR.
OPENING HOURS / PRICES: Open 24/7, but shops and restaurants normally open around 10 am and are open until 10 pm. Restaurants usually close later.
Dubai Marina
I actually recommend heading to Dubai Marina for the afternoon/evening.
Marina is an artificial canal city in Dubai. Located on the Persian Gulf, it has become one of the most sought-after residential areas.
The marina is home to numerous skyscrapers, hotels, cafes, restaurants, clubs, and much more making it one of the best places to visit in Dubai.
When I visited Dubai Marina the first time, I really hoped to become rich so I could buy an apartment here :). My preferences have changed – though Dubai Marina is still one of my favorite places to spend a few hours, I am happy to book my accommodation here and do not plan to buy property here.
ℹ️ There is no entrance fee for Marina.
ℹ️ You can eat in one of the numerous restaurants there. Pier 7 has a handful of good restaurants that offer some of the best views of Marina.
ℹ️ For cheaper options, look for restaurants on the side streets or buy something from one of the supermarkets and sit on the bench, enjoying the illuminated buildings.
For a special dinner location, you can book a dhow dinner. You can do a few boat tours that you can check out:
➡️ Find out about prices for a speedboat tour in Marina
HOW TO GET TO DUBAI MARINA: Take the metro – Dubai Marina Metro Station is the closest metro station.
OPENING HOURS / PRICES: It is open 24/7, but shops and restaurants normally open around 10 am and are open until 10 pm. Restaurants normally close later.
PLACES TO VISIT IN ONE WEEK IN DUBAI +
If you have more than one week in Dubai (or rather skip one of the above-mentioned activities), here are a few more suggestions for the next few days.
Dubai Miracle Garden
Miracle Garden is quite Instafamous. The Dubai Miracle Garden is a floral wonderland located in Dubailand.
An impressive 72,000 square meters of land is covered with over 45 million flowers, making it the world’s largest natural flower garden.
Every year, the garden features unique displays and sculptures made entirely out of flowers. You will see flowers – a lot of flowers, designed and decorated in a lot of interesting shapes and designs. It is Dubai, so of course, it is the biggest flower park in the world.
One thing to keep in mind is the crowds. I made the mistake of visiting during the day – along with many, many other people. So, I suggest coming here early in the day (as soon as they open) so that you can actually can enjoy the flower displays without all the other people around.
There is one catch though – it is closed in the hot summer months.
ℹ️ The tickets are about 20€ (about $ 22) for adults, slightly cheaper for younger kids, and free for kids under the age of 3.
ℹ️ Visiting Miracle Garden should take about 2-3 hours.
ℹ️ Miracle Garden is only open in the winter months.
ℹ️ Check out their website for more info.
Global Village
Afterward, you could head to Global Village, which is a seasonal attraction. It has been operating since 1997 and is the world’s largest tourism, leisure, and entertainment project.
The village comprises pavilions from over 75 countries offering products and services that reflect the cultures of each nation. You can also enjoy numerous rides, enjoy live entertainment, and sample a variety of international cuisines.
ℹ️ The tickets are about 5€.
ℹ️ Riding the roller coasters costs extra, but depending on how many rides you take, it is still a cheaper option than a theme park.
ℹ️ Global Village is a fun place to visit for a day – especially in combination with Miracle Garden, as they are close to each other.
Dubai City Walk
Though I have not specifically mentioned it on your 7-day Dubai itinerary, I also strongly suggest visiting City Walk.
City Walk is a shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. Spanning over 8 million square feet, it features an array of international retail outlets, restaurants, cafes, and more. You´ll also find interesting murals here.
I enjoyed City Walk actually a lot – compared to other places it seemed a bit underrated but I enjoyed the shopping opportunities it offered and the many cafes and restaurants. In the evening, everything lights up, making this place even prettier.
Another thing I realized is that it is a great place for families – I saw so many families with younger children that I wished I had my nieces and nephews with me.
Sharjah
Sharjah is the smallest emirate and is located right next to Dubai. And while Sharjah is so close to Dubai, it is different.
Home to some museums, including the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation, it offers an opportunity to learn more about its rich heritage and culture. The city is also home to many souks (markets) to explore traditional artisans from around the region.
Additionally, Sharjah boasts stunning coastlines and pristine parks.
I stayed in Sharjah for a few days, and I loved it. Sharjah is the calmer and greener sister of Dubai and is also more budget-friendly. I cannot wait to visit Sharjah again and hope, you can visit this hidden gem, too.
ℹ️ Sharjah is way more conservative than Dubai in terms of dress codes.
ℹ️ You are not allowed to drink alcohol.
ℹ️ I still loved it and recommend it as a day trip from Dubai.
➡️ Check out my more detailed guide about Sharjah
➡️ Here is a guided tour from Dubai to Sharjah
Oman
The Musandam Governorate is an Omani peninsula projecting into the Strait of Hormuz, separated from the rest of the country by the United Arab Emirates. Its jagged coastline features fjordlike inlets and its waters are home to dolphins and other marine life.
So far, I have only made it to Oman for one day – visiting the Musandam Peninsula as a day trip. And to be very honest, I have mixed feelings about it.
Somehow I totally enjoyed it – getting my very first glimpse of Oman was great. However, the water was not really clean. It was full of oil. Maybe there was an accident, or maybe the water is just dirty all the time. You do a boat cruise, have a lovely Arabic lunch on board, and can do some water sports.
So, if you are in Dubai for one week or a bit longer, you should book a day trip to Musandam. However, keep in mind that everything can get delayed, and you might arrive at the hotel quite late. So plan some relaxing activities for the day after, and do NOT book this activity on the day of your departure.
It can take quite some time to arrive in Oman (it will take about 2 or 3 hours – one way)
Here is a detailed post for more information.
➡️ Check out the guided tour that I took for a day trip
Theme Parks
Dubai is home to some fun theme parks, however, I haven’t visited any theme parks here. Since I know how popular they are, I have added them as suggestions:
➡️ Find out more about the Motiongate
➡️ Read more about LEGOLAND Dubai
Dubai Helicopter Ride
If you are into something more adventurous, why not take a helicopter ride? It is a perfect activity for those who would like to see Dubai – once again – from above, so add this to your itinerary.
This is definitely an amazing way to get great views of Dubai. Seeing the Burj Khalifa, the Palm, Burj al Arab, etc., is something you will probably always cherish.
I admit I did the shortest ride because prices aren’t low and I just did not want to spend more money on a longer ride, but it was worth it.
If you would like to read my review of my helicopter tour, click here.
➡️ FIND OUT PRICES FOR A HELI RIDE IN DUBAI
Dubai Dinner in the Sky
For a unique dinner, you can book a “Dinner in the Sky” experience – a unique and fun way to enjoy dinner 50 meters up in the air.
It is not for the faint-hearted but after a few minutes in the sky, your feet hanging around, you will get used to it and can have a quiet relaxing lunch/afternoon tea/dinner.
ℹ️ Dinner in the Sky – Dubai is located at the end of Dubai Marina (or the beginning?), so it would be best to schedule it when you are at the Marina if you plan to do it.
ℹ️ Read my full review here or check out prices for the Dinner in the Sky experience.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON A 7-DAY ITINERARY DUBAI
Dubai – renowned for its stunning modern architecture, luxury shopping, and thriving business scene. Home to iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial archipelago, There are many things to do and see – and 7 days can be easily filled with sightseeing and tours.
I have visited Dubai numerous times. I have spent many weeks here – I have not gotten bored yet. One week in Dubai will pass quickly. I wish you a wonderful time in the city, and I hope that your 7 days in Dubai will be amazing!
So, what do you think? Does this sound like a boring week in Dubai?
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