A week in Dubai lets you see a city of striking contrasts, from historic neighborhoods to record-breaking landmarks. The city proudly showcases the Burj Khalifa, which reaches an impressive height of 828 meters. The Dubai Mall stands as the seventh-largest shopping center in the world with more than 1,200 stores.
This 7-day Dubai itinerary takes you through everything this amazing emirate has to show. You’ll find out why Dubai has become a top destination. The city doesn’t just have the tallest tower and largest mall – it also features unique attractions like the world’s tallest chocolate structure. A week gives you enough time to see both the gleaming skyscrapers, where 90% of the population are guest workers, and take a trip to Abu Dhabi. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque there welcomes more than 40,000 worshippers and has the world’s largest carpet at 60,546 square feet.
Mall of the Emirates houses more than 400 stores and the spectacular Dubai Fountain shows run every 30 minutes from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.. This itinerary balances cultural experiences with modern luxury perfectly. You can relax at pristine beaches, go on desert adventures, or marvel at architectural wonders. This piece helps you make the most of your week in this extraordinary city.
Day 1: Explore Old Dubai and the Creek
Let’s start your 7-day Dubai itinerary by heading over to the city’s historical heart to find where it all began before skyscrapers dominated the skyline. The stark contrast between Old Dubai and its modern side tells the story of how this former fishing village became a global metropolis faster than anyone imagined.
Walk through Al Fahidi Historical District
The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, originally called Al Bastakiya, takes us back to the 19th century as Dubai’s oldest residential area. The narrow, winding sikkas (alleys) transport you to a different time. Sand-colored buildings with their distinctive wind towers built from sandstone, teak, gypsum, palm wood and sandalwood show glimpses of Dubai’s life before oil.
You’ll find more than 50 traditional buildings here, each with its own story about early Dubai. The Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) offers cultural tours that are a great way to get deeper insights. The area features several museums worth your time, including the Coins Museum that showcases monetary systems from the British Empire, India, and neighboring countries.
Visit the Dubai Museum and Sheikh Saeed House
Al Fahidi Fort, built in 1787, houses the Dubai Museum and stands as Dubai’s oldest building. The fort will reopen after renovations to showcase Dubai’s journey through artifacts, dioramas, and exhibits. This historic structure served many roles – from a monarch’s home to an arsenal and prison.
Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House dates back to 1896 and was Sheikh Saeed’s family home (grandfather of Dubai’s current ruler) from 1912 until 1958. This grand residence features three courtyards with 30 rooms and four wind towers. The house displays a remarkable collection of old photographs, coins, stamps, and documents from 1971. HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s birth here in 1949 adds to its significance. Adults pay AED50 while children’s tickets cost AED20.
Cross the Creek on an abra ride
The Dubai Creek offers an authentic experience that won’t break the bank. Just AED1 (USD 0.27) gets you across between Bur Dubai and Deira on a traditional wooden abra boat. These 20-passenger vessels have connected communities here for generations.
Abras operate daily from around 6am between four creek stations. Each crossing takes about five minutes. You can pay the abra driver directly or rent a private boat for AED120 per hour. Morning rides reward you with views of merchants anchoring and colorful wooden dhows lining the water.
Shop at the Gold and Spice Souks
The Gold Souk on Deira’s side ranks among Dubai’s oldest markets and leads global jewelry trade. This market of 350+ retailers handles about 20% of the world’s gold. Government regulations ensure authentic products.
A quick walk brings you to the fragrant Spice Souk where vendors display aromatic herbs, spices, nuts, oils, and teas from around the world. Colorful mounds of cinnamon, saffron, zaatar and sumac create an incredible sensory experience. Remember to bargain, especially when buying large quantities. Gold Souk shops open from 10am to 10pm while the Spice Souk operates from 8am to 9pm, with brief afternoon breaks and Friday prayer closures.
This first day sets the perfect stage for your week in Dubai by showing you its modest roots before you explore its modern wonders.
Day 2: Modern Marvels – Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai
Your second day in this stunning metropolis brings you face-to-face with Downtown Dubai’s record-breaking marvels. The ultra-modern district welcomes millions of visitors each year with its engineering feats that have redefined what’s possible in architecture.
Start at Dubai Mall and Dubai Aquarium
Dubai Mall stands as a must-visit spot on any Dubai itinerary. The world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination houses over 1,200 shops and countless attractions. You’ll immediately notice the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo with one of the world’s largest suspended aquariums.
The colossal underwater tunnel lets you watch thousands of aquatic creatures swim gracefully above you. This amazing aquarium houses over 30,000 aquatic animals. You can even book unique experiences like diving adventures or meet King Jock and Queen Missy, the royal crocodile pair. The best time to visit is early morning before the crowds arrive. Plan about two hours here.
Go up the Burj Khalifa observation deck
The iconic Burj Khalifa reaches 828 meters into the sky. Its observation decks offer unique panoramic views of Dubai’s spectacular skyline, desert, and ocean through floor-to-ceiling glass walls. Level 148 provides the most luxurious experience with breathtaking views. The city lights create a magical atmosphere during sunset or nighttime visits.
Watch the Dubai Fountain show
The Dubai Fountain, the world’s tallest performing fountain, puts on an incredible show. Located in the 30-acre Burj Lake at Dubai Mall’s foot, this marvel shoots 22,000 gallons of water up to 140m high. Shows run every half hour from 6pm to 11pm daily. Afternoon shows happen at:
- 1pm and 1:30pm Saturday through Thursday
- 2pm and 2:30pm on Fridays
The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk (AED25) or Lake Ride (AED73.25) lets you get close to the lit-up jets as they dance to various melodies.
Dine at Souk Al Bahar
A perfect day ends at Souk Al Bahar across the Burj Lake bridge. This “sailor’s market” creates an enchanting Arabesque atmosphere that blends old and new. Winding alleyways filled with traditional treasures echo ancient trade mixed with modern culture.
Waterfront restaurants give you front-row seats to the fountain shows while you enjoy amazing food. Time Out Market Dubai inside the souk features 17 popular local eateries. You might want to book a table at one of the fountain-facing restaurants to see the Burj Khalifa light up the night sky.
This day shows you how to balance your week in Dubai perfectly. You’ll experience iconic sights, cultural moments, and world-class dining all in one unforgettable day.
Day 3: Desert Safari and Bedouin Experience
Your Dubai 7-day experience wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the golden dunes of the Arabian desert. The third day takes you away from the city bustle to experience authentic Bedouin traditions that will become the most memorable part of your Dubai adventure.
Dune bashing and camel rides
The desert adventure kicks off with heart-pumping dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle. Skilled drivers take you through rolling sand mountains at exciting speeds, creating a thrilling rollercoaster feel across the Lahbab Desert. The drivers deflate their tires before tackling the dunes to ensure maximum grip on the soft sand.
After the excitement, you’ll slow down to enjoy a traditional camel ride. These “ships of the desert” were once the only way Bedouins crossed vast deserts, giving you a real taste of historical Arabian travel. Most safaris include a 10-minute camel trek in their package. Complete safari experiences start at 130 AED (about $36 USD).
Sunset photo stop in the desert
The safari pauses for a photo opportunity as afternoon turns to evening, letting you capture the magical desert sunset. The golden hour bathes the dunes in amber, orange, and red hues. The soft light creates beautiful skin tones and dramatic shadows across the sand, making it a photographer’s dream.
Clean horizons stretch endlessly, perfect for minimalist shots. Silhouette photos against the setting sun create stunning images.
Enjoy a traditional BBQ dinner
The Bedouin-style camp welcomes you with Arabic coffee and dates – a time-honored symbol of hospitality. Arabian carpets, soft cushions, and glowing lanterns create a magical setting throughout the camp.
The BBQ dinner spreads out a rich buffet with:
- Grilled meats (chicken and beef)
- Vegetarian options
- Traditional Arabic dishes like hummus and tabbouleh
- Fresh salads and bread
- Delicious local desserts
Watch cultural performances and stargaze
The evening comes alive with mesmerizing cultural shows. You’ll see stunning belly dancing, the hypnotic Tanoura dance (an Egyptian folk tradition), and spectacular fire shows. Many camps let you try henna painting or sample shisha (flavored tobacco water pipe).
The desert’s dark skies reveal stars you rarely see from the city. Premium safaris often feature guided astronomy sessions with telescopes. You’ll explore the galaxies while learning how Bedouins used stars to find their way.
Evening desert safaris usually run for 6-7 hours. Pickup starts between 3:00-4:00 PM, and you’ll return to your hotel between 9:00-10:00 PM – perfect timing for your Dubai adventure.
Day 4: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi
The perfect Dubai 7 day itinerary should include Abu Dhabi, located just 90 minutes from Dubai. This capital city balances cultural landmarks with modern attractions and offers a different perspective from Dubai’s glamour.
Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands as one of UAE’s most iconic structures. More than 40,000 worshippers can gather in this architectural masterpiece. The mosque’s decorations include the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. You can join free cultural tours that last 30-45 minutes and learn about Islamic art, culture, and the mosque’s building history. Visitors must follow dress codes – women need to cover their hair and wear loose clothes reaching wrists and ankles.
Explore Qasr Al Watan or Emirates Palace
Qasr Al Watan, UAE’s Presidential Palace, welcomes visitors since 2019. Arabian design shines through this magnificent building’s domes, mosaics, and carved details. The palace houses the House of Knowledge, Presidential Gifts Exhibition, and the stunning Great Hall. You can visit daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM for 75 AED.
Stroll along the Corniche
Abu Dhabi’s Corniche waterfront stretches across 8 pristine kilometers. This well-maintained area features kids’ play zones, dedicated cycling and walking paths, and the beautiful Corniche Beach. The Blue Flag beach’s crystal-clear waters let you swim up to 40 kilometers offshore with lifeguards watching over. Fun Ride Sports rents bicycles at 30 AED per hour for promenade tours.
Optional: Ferrari World or Louvre Abu Dhabi
Your final stop could be Ferrari World or Louvre Abu Dhabi. Ferrari World features Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest rollercoaster, among its 44 rides and attractions. The Louvre Abu Dhabi stands as Jean Nouvel’s architectural masterpiece. This museum showcases about 700 artworks in its permanent collection, spanning human history.
This day trip adds cultural depth to your Dubai visit and shows why combining Dubai and Abu Dhabi gives you the most complete UAE experience.
Day 5: Beach Day and Palm Jumeirah
Day five in Dubai takes you to beautiful beaches and the amazing Palm Jumeirah – Dubai’s palm-shaped island masterpiece.
Relax at JBR or Kite Beach
Start your day at one of Dubai’s best beaches. Kite Beach got its name from the kitesurfers who love its perfect conditions. The beach offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and plenty of activities. The gentle slope and blue waters make it great for swimming, especially with kids. The white sand creates a perfect spot to relax. JBR Beach gives you a different vibe with its golden sand and lots of beachfront facilities. You’ll find water sports and shops right on the beach.
Ride the Palm Monorail
After beach time, catch the Palm Monorail – the Middle East’s first monorail system. The train runs daily from 9am to 10pm and gives you amazing views along its 1,000-meter route across the Arabian Gulf. A single trip costs AED10. The monorail stops at Gateway, Al Ittihad Park, Palm Jumeirah Mall, and Atlantis Aquaventure. This scenic ride takes you straight to your next stop.
Visit Atlantis and Aquaventure Waterpark
Aquaventure at Atlantis is Dubai’s biggest waterpark. It spans 141 acres with thrilling slides and 14 swimming pools. The famous Leap of Faith slide sends you through a clear tunnel surrounded by sharks. The resort features 5 miles of white sand beaches and several swimming spots. Your day pass lets you enjoy all attractions including slides, marine exhibits, and beaches.
Dinner at The Pointe or Palm West Beach
End your day at The Pointe, located at Palm Jumeirah’s tip across from Atlantis. The Palm Fountain steals the show here – it’s the world’s largest fountain with nightly performances from 7pm until midnight. More than 80 restaurants give you plenty of choices. Try Mediterranean food at ALACA, Lebanese dishes at Al Safadi, or fresh seafood at Hook & Cook. Palm West Beach offers another great option at Koko Bay, where you can eat with sand between your toes while looking at Marina’s skyline.
Summing all up
Dubai is a remarkable place where old traditions combine smoothly with modern breakthroughs. This 7-day itinerary gives travelers the perfect mix of historic neighborhoods and record-breaking modern attractions. First-time visitors will love their trip through Al Fahidi Historical District and the engineering marvel of the Burj Khalifa the next day.
The desert safari adds a special touch to any Dubai trip that connects visitors with the emirate’s Bedouin heritage. A day trip to Abu Dhabi brings rich cultural context and architectural wonders that perfectly match Dubai’s glitzy skyline. Beach lovers will definitely enjoy their time at the pristine shores and man-made wonders of Palm Jumeirah.
Dubai’s story from a modest fishing village to a global metropolis comes alive throughout this trip. Visitors see this transformation through contrasting experiences. They can haggle at traditional souks one day and shop at the world’s largest mall the next. They can ride wooden abras across the Creek and then board the ultra-modern Palm Monorail.
Food lovers can find endless culinary adventures in this itinerary, from authentic Arabic coffee and dates at Bedouin camps to international cuisine at The Pointe. On top of that, the wide variety of dining options makes this city a food paradise. You can enjoy seafood with Dubai Marina’s views or try street food in Old Dubai.
This Dubai itinerary lets visitors experience both old Arabia’s soul and modern Emirates’ ambition. While there’s more to it, this week-long trip gives you a taste of what Dubai offers. Many travelers start planning their return before leaving, drawn back by the city’s constant reinvention and its knack for making the impossible possible.
Here are some FAQs about what to do in Dubai for a week:
Is there anything fun to do in Dubai?
Yes, there are endless fun things to do in Dubai, from visiting the Burj Khalifa to exploring desert safaris and luxurious shopping malls. If you’re planning what to do in Dubai for a week, you can include beach days, cultural tours, and adventure activities. Creating a Dubai itinerary allows you to experience both modern attractions and traditional markets.
Is $100 a day enough in Dubai?
Spending $100 a day in Dubai can be enough if you plan carefully, but it depends on your lifestyle choices. Meals, public transport, and some attractions can fit within this budget, but luxury experiences will cost more. When thinking about what to do in Dubai for a week, you may need extra funds for a more complete Dubai itinerary.
Can girls wear shorts in Dubai?
Yes, girls can wear shorts in Dubai, especially in tourist areas, beaches, and hotels. However, it’s important to dress modestly in religious or traditional areas. When creating a Dubai itinerary, plan outfits depending on how many days in Dubai you will spend at cultural sites versus modern attractions.
Is 3 days enough for Dubai?
Three days is enough to see highlights like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and a desert safari, but it can feel rushed. If you’re deciding how many days in Dubai are ideal, most travelers recommend at least 5–7 days. That way, you can cover what to do in Dubai for a week and enjoy a full Dubai itinerary without stress.
What is the strictest rule in Dubai?
One of the strictest rules in Dubai involves public displays of affection, which are generally discouraged or limited. Another rule is strict laws around alcohol consumption, which is only allowed in licensed venues. If you’re planning what to do in Dubai for a week, it’s wise to learn these rules before finalizing your Dubai itinerary.
Can I kiss my bf in Dubai?
Public displays of affection such as kissing are not allowed in Dubai and could get you into trouble. Holding hands is acceptable for married couples, but anything more is considered disrespectful in public spaces. While deciding what to do in Dubai for a week, it’s important to keep cultural norms in mind throughout your Dubai itinerary.
Is Dubai cheap to eat out?
Eating out in Dubai can be affordable if you choose local eateries and street food options, but upscale dining can get expensive. There’s a wide range of prices depending on the experience you want. Budgeting for meals in your Dubai itinerary helps determine how many days in Dubai you can spend comfortably without overspending.
Do I need a visa for Dubai?
Whether you need a visa for Dubai depends on your nationality. Many countries offer visa-on-arrival, while others require pre-approval before traveling. If you are planning what to do in Dubai for a week, check visa requirements early so your Dubai itinerary isn’t interrupted.
How much is a gallon of milk in Dubai?
A gallon of milk in Dubai generally costs between $6 and $8, depending on the brand and store. Prices can be higher in premium supermarkets compared to local ones. If you’re budgeting for what to do in Dubai for a week, including grocery costs in your Dubai itinerary may help you save money on meals.
