Dubai, where ancient traditions meet futuristic ambitions in a city of endless possibilities.
Transforming the seemingly boundless expanse of desert sands into breathtaking marvels stands as one of Dubai's most defining accomplishments. The Palm Islands, encompassing Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali, and Palm Deira, exemplify an extraordinary blend of engineering prowess and boundless ambition. Amidst the shifting sands, the creation of the world's tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, stands as a testament to Dubai's unwavering ambition and innovative spirit.
Join me on a captivating 10-day adventure through this remarkable city, a journey that consistently leaves one in awe, pondering the question, "What more can they achieve?" Dubai's relentless pursuit of excellence yields new groundbreaking achievements every quarter, many of which earn their place in the prestigious Guinness Book of World Records.
Itinerary
Day 1:
We landed in Dubai sometime around the afternoon. Upon touching down, we smoothly transitioned to the metro system to collect our luggage and find our way to the taxi stand. There, we were presented with a choice: to either arrange our own taxi or opt for the convenience of an airport taxi. Given our destination in Bur Dubai, we decided to go with the airport taxi option.
After checking in at our hotel, we eagerly set out to explore the area. We embarked on a leisurely walk from our hotel to Dubai Creek, where we enjoyed the unique experience of taking a ferry to the bustling markets, also known as Souks. This delightful ride came at a mere cost of AED 1 compared to a taxi which would have cost more than AED 60. As we delved deeper into our exploration, we wandered through the enticing Spice Souk and Perfume Souk, eventually arriving at the glittering Gold Souk. Each step of our journey left us captivated by the rich culture and vibrant atmosphere of Dubai.
Dubai Creek ride:
Tip:
Spice Souk: Best spices and teas from across the Arabic nations, do taste/smell the products before you purchase to avoid scams. We purchased immunity boosting mixed flower tea (naturally sweet) and loved it!
Perfume Souk: Go to the smaller shops to get discounts and unique fragrances. You can even find copies of the famous perfumes. Try "Oudh" - slightly musky but really amazing.
Gold Souk: Try to go to the shops that have lower making charges as it makes a lot of difference on the total price. Gold rates are similar to the rest of the world, but you may not be able to find the designs that you get here!
The VAT Refund Scheme in Dubai and UAE allows you to claim 85% of the total VAT amount paid, minus a fee of AED 4.80 per Tax-Free Dubai Tag. The total amount will automatically be calculated throughout the VAT Refund Process, and you can claim it at the Airport while leaving the UAE. You're eligible to receive a VAT Refund in Dubai and around the UAE if you are an overseas tourist (18 years and older) and purchased eligible goods from registered merchants.
Day 2:
On our very first full day in Dubai, we made an exhilarating choice: skydiving. The emotions of fear and excitement danced within us as we anticipated the adventure of a lifetime.
Prior to our arrival in Dubai, we had wisely booked our skydiving experience online through the website https://www.skydivedubai.ae/en. As first-timers, we opted for the Tandem skydiving option, a choice that would ensure our safety and enhance the thrill. To immortalize this extraordinary journey, we also made sure to select a photographer who could capture every exhilarating moment of our skydiving experience.
Our tandem skydiving adventure, complete with a dedicated photographer, came at a cost of AED 2599, ensuring we'd have a fantastic record of our incredible experience. For those seeking an even more immersive perspective, there was also an option to add a GoPro to your wrist for an additional AED 250, allowing you to capture every breathtaking moment from a personal point of view.
Checkout my experience here!:
Tip:
The ideal months for this breathtaking experience are the winter months of October, November, and December. While prices may be on the higher side during this period, the view is unobstructed by haze, ensuring a truly spectacular adventure. To beat the scorching heat, it's recommended to schedule your skydiving experience between 8 am (the first slot) and 10 am, although it's important to note that these slots tend to get booked up very quickly.
If, for any reason, skydiving isn't feasible, another fantastic option is to consider a helicopter or quadcopter ride, providing a bird's eye view of Dubai's mesmerizing landscapes.
For our lunch break, we returned to Bur Dubai and indulged in a delectable Mezze Platter. Our chosen spot, the Golden Fish near Dubai Creek, surprisingly offered an ample selection of vegetarian options. And for a unique sweet treat, we couldn't resist trying Camel Milk Ice Cream, a delightful culinary experience available near the Souks.
Our second day in Dubai was a splendid city tour that we arranged via a private car, costing AED 450 per person (we were a group of three). The adventure began with a convenient pickup that whisked us away to the Dubai Frame.
Our next stop was the Jumeirah Mosque, which provided us with a glimpse into the spiritual side of this vibrant city, revealing how faith intertwines with everyday life. After this enlightening visit, we headed to the picturesque Jumeirah Beach, immersing ourselves in the refreshing sea breeze.
The tour then led us to one of Dubai's most iconic landmarks, the Burj Al Arab, a true masterpiece of modern architecture. From there, we had the pleasure of witnessing Dubai's architectural marvels, including the astounding man-made Palm Island and the world-famous Atlantis Hotel.
The grand finale of our tour was the awe-inspiring Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. It was an experience that left us utterly mesmerized. Our day concluded with a comfortable hotel drop-off, leaving us with a deep appreciation for the wonders we had witnessed in the heart of Dubai.
Tip:
You can buy water at Kiosks for only AED 1 near the Jumeira beach.
Day 3:
We decided to indulge in some shopping, and our first stop was the Mall of the Emirates. As the day rolled on, by late afternoon, we made our way to the colossal Dubai Mall, eager to continue our shopping adventures and explore even more of this shopper's paradise.
We explored the mesmerizing aquarium, experienced the thrill of the ski rink, and shopped to our heart's content amidst a vast array of stores. Later in the evening, we were treated to captivating dance performances in the main area, which was totally unexpected and brought a smile to our tired faces.
Tip:
A must-see highlight of the evening is the captivating fountain show, which kicks off everyday at 6:30 PM and ran for 5 minutes every half hour. The show provided a stunning spectacle, with the fountains dancing in harmony, set against the backdrop of the beautifully illuminated Burj Khalifa, with boats cruising along the artificial lake.
Day 4:
After retiring early the day prior, we embarked on an exciting adventure the next morning by going for a hot air balloon ride at the break of dawn, around 4 AM. The early morning start allowed us to witness the breathtaking sunrise and offered the most spectacular view of the UAE from high above.
Our journey started at Al Ain, a picturesque location just an hour's drive from Dubai, where we were offered tea and refreshments. We saw the hot air balloons getting ready for our ride and we even ventured close to the Oman border, which added an extra layer of excitement to our adventure. The experience was truly unforgettable, and it cost us AED 950 per person, including convenient pick-up and drop-off service from our hotel.
If you ever find yourself in Dubai, I highly recommend trying it – it's an adventure you won't want to miss!
Tip:
One delightful touch to the hot air balloon ride was the certificate of achievement, a lovely keepsake that complemented the stunning photos we took while soaring through the sky.
If you are lucky like we were, you can have the extraordinary opportunity to spot herds of animals from the elevated vantage point, adding an unexpected and thrilling wildlife encounter to the already breathtaking adventure.
Also, wear full clothes and cover your neck as the heat from the Hot air Balloon is scalding at times.
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We returned to our hotel by 10 AM and opted to relax for a bit before heading over to the Museum of the Future.
The Museum of the Future in Dubai is a captivating glimpse into the boundless potential of human innovation. It's not just a museum; it's a living testament to the transformative power of technology and imagination. As you step inside, you'll be immersed in a world of interactive exhibits, groundbreaking concepts, and a vision of what our future might look like.
For dinner, we chose to explore Meena Bazar in Bur Dubai, renowned for its abundance of gold shops, saree boutiques, and enticing street food. This bustling area also surprised us with a wide array of delectable vegetarian South Indian options.
Tip:
Bur Dubai boasts of numerous Indian and Pakistani restaurants known for serving mouthwatering vegetarian dishes and delectable naan. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the Roghni naan paired with either Chicken or Paneer Tikka Masala.
Day 5:
Today's adventure revolved around a visit to the Miracle Gardens in the morning. The entry fee was AED 95 per person, and filled our day with vibrant colors!
The Dubai Miracle Garden is truly remarkable, holding the distinction of achieving three Guinness World Records. In 2013, it was recognized as the world's largest vertical garden. Currently, it boasts the Airbus A380 flower structure, acknowledged by Guinness World Records as the largest flower structure globally.
For an even more enchanting experience, consider visiting the Butterfly Park. Here, you can enjoy unique moments as the butterflies leisurely land and sit with you, captivating you with their exquisite colors.
In the evening, we made our way to the Burj Khalifa's 148th floor to witness the breathtaking sunset.
This is the view from the top of the Burj Khalifa, absolutely mesmerizing. The experience cost us approximately AED 400 per person, and it included a convenient drop-off at the Dubai Mall.
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Tip:
There is a conveniently located metro station within walking distance of the Burj Khalifa & the Dubai Mall. This not only saves you from spending excessively on taxis but also offers a unique and efficient mode of transportation, that feels like a cool roller coaster. Just keep in mind that the last metro departs at 11 PM, so it's an experience I highly recommend for those exploring Dubai.
Make sure to arrive at the entrance at least half an hour before your scheduled time. The lines can be quite lengthy, and arriving early helps ensure you won't miss the magical sunset moment.
Don't rush away after your visit to the Burj Khalifa. Take a moment to witness the mesmerizing fountain show from above. It's an entirely different and equally captivating perspective.
Day 6:
Our morning was dedicated to exploring the Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm. Tickets are typically around AED 100. The Lost Chambers at Atlantis, The Palm is a fascinating underwater world that beckons visitors into a realm of mystery and wonder.
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Tip:
To make the most of your visit to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, consider downloading their app. This handy tool allows you to scan and learn about the fascinating marine life that piques your interest, providing a wealth of information at your fingertips.
For an even more immersive experience, you have the option to go scuba diving alongside a professional instructor. This experience is beginner-friendly and offers deep insights into the incredible underwater world. You'll have the opportunity to swim alongside some truly amazing underwater creatures within the aquarium, making it a truly different and an unforgettable adventure.
If you happen to have a free day on your Dubai adventure, I highly recommend a visit to the Aquaventure Water Park. A day pass costs AED 299, and it's essential to carry appropriate swimwear for your visit. This water park holds a prestigious Guinness World Record for featuring the most water rides in a single park, promising an exhilarating and fun-filled day of aquatic adventures that you won't want to miss.
In the afternoon, you can unwind on one of Dubai's picturesque beaches, and the great news is that many of them are free to access. If you're seeking some thrilling water activities, we particularly enjoyed parasailing, jet skiing, and the sea breacher. You'll find most of these options available at Jumeirah Beach, along with some great food options.
To round off your day with a memorable experience, visit The View at the Palm. Ticket prices vary depending on the time of your visit. For non-prime hours (10:00 AM to 03:30 PM and 07:30 PM to closing), tickets are priced at AED 100. During prime hours (04:00 PM to 07:00 PM), they cost AED 158. In our experience, the most spectacular time to visit is around sunset and post-sunset.
Day 7:
Our morning was leisurely, allowing us to wake up late and unwind. However, at 3 PM, our day took an exciting turn as we were picked up for our Desert Safari adventure. The package, including pick-up and drop-off, cost AED 150 per person.
Our journey led us about an hour away from the city, where we arrived at a Desert Safari camp. Here, we had the opportunity to savor local cuisine, opt for a camel ride, try our hand at an ATV ride, and then dive into the heart-pounding activity of dune bashing in a 4x4 Land Cruiser. The thrill of dune bashing was truly mind-blowing, and it added an exhilarating and adventurous element to our Dubai experience that we'll never forget.
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Post our dune bashing adventure, we were treated to a mesmerizing fire show and an amazing belly dancing performance.
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Additionally, we had the opportunity to get henna painting done that was included in the price. To wrap up the day, we indulged in a delightful buffet dinner, savoring a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including both vegetarian and non vegetarian options.
Day 8:
In the morning, we visited Sky Views Observatory. The entry fee was AED 85 for the observatory, which also included an exhilarating free ride on the transparent glass slide. This slide took us from the 53rd floor to the 52nd floor, providing a heart-pounding experience at a staggering height of 220 meters above the ground!
Feeling the thrill after our Skydive, we decided to take it a step further with the Edge Walk at Sky Views Observatory. This experience offered a truly unparalleled perspective of Dubai. The cost typically hovers around AED 504, which is well worth it, considering the added bonus of expert guides who ensure your safety throughout the walk. It was an unforgettable way to push the boundaries and see Dubai like never before.
Venturing out of our comfort zone and onto a suspended platform hanging on the edge of one of Dubai's towering skyscrapers at 219.5 meters was a heart-pounding experience. As we made our way out, we were rewarded with the most awe-inspiring and vertigo-inducing views of the city's iconic skyline.
Tip:
For those looking to go all out and elevate their dining experience to new heights, consider dining at "Dinner in the Sky" located at Skydive Dubai. Prior reservations would be required.
Day 9:
In the morning, we made a visit to the Heritage Village, which is conveniently located just a short walk from Bur Dubai. This unique attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into the heritage of the UAE; reconstructed traditional buildings including ancient homes and a bustling souk, all nestled within the skyscrapers and opulent buildings and at the river bank.
During your visit to the Heritage Village, you have the opportunity to wander through the area and explore the bustling souk, where local artisans demonstrate traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and metalwork. You can also savor some delicious local delicacies. While there is an option to enter the museum for a fee, we chose to enjoy the serene ambiance near the riverbanks, where we were treated to a stunning sunset view. This tranquil spot allowed us to watch boats and yachts gracefully cruise by, creating a picturesque and memorable moment.
In the late evening, we made our way to Dubai Marina for a Dhow cruise. Dhow cruises in Dubai Marina are known for being a bit more upscale compared to the Dubai Creek Dhow cruises. Prices typically range from AED 150 to 250 per person, and these cruises often include a gourmet dinner, entertainment, and breathtaking views of the modern Dubai Marina skyscrapers and the iconic Ain Dubai
Following the cruise, don't miss the chance to visit Bluewaters Island and get an up-close view of Ain Dubai. While it was closed during our visit, it has since opened and offers an incredible perspective of this colossal observation wheel.
At Bluewaters Island, there's more than just the dazzling lights. You can dine at exquisite restaurants, indulge in some shopping, or keep the kids entertained with activities like riding toy cars and enjoying a mini games arena.
Day 10:
Before you conclude your Dubai adventure, make sure to explore the vibrant souks once more, picking up some last-minute treasures and souvenirs and head back home with some beautiful memories!
Must have Mobile applications for Dubai:
1. Careem: For ordering food and calling for taxi services
2. Dubai Mall App: You will need this app to explore the mall since its the size of 200 Football fields!
3. Botim: For making calls, since you cant make WhatsApp calls in the UAE.
Alternate options you can choose to go for:
Abu Dhabi city tour and Yas Island
Green Planet
Dubai Safari Park and Dolphinarium
For a 7 day itinerary:
From adrenaline-pumping adventures to serene sunsets and cultural exploration, our 10 days in Dubai were a whirlwind of beauty, excitement, and enchantment. As we bid farewell to this incredible city, we carried with us not only beautiful memories but also a deep appreciation for Dubai's ambition and innovation.
We hope you find this itinerary inspiring and enjoyable, and I'd love to hear if you liked it. Dubai offers an abundance of wonders waiting to be explored, and this journey was a testament to the city's endless allure.
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