The UAE is like a buffet of experiences, and you're about to feast for a week. Start in the glitzy world of Dubai, then hop over to the capital, Abu Dhabi, before finally unwinding in the serene northern emirates. Grab your sunglasses; it’s time to explore.
Days 1 to 3: Discovering Dubai
Day one kicks off with your arrival in Dubai. Settle into your hotel, then unleash your inner shopaholic. Head to the Dubai Mall, where you can shop till you drop or watch the dancing fountains. Note that the fountains are not shy; they put on a show like they’re auditioning for a Broadway role.
- Morning: Arrive at Dubai International Airport. Take a taxi to your hotel (20-30 minutes).
- Afternoon: Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory in the Dubai Mall. Enjoy some calorie-loaded goodness.
- Evening: Catch the Dubai Fountain show. Don’t forget to grab a spot with a view.
Day two is all about adventure. Start your day at the Burj Khalifa. Make sure to book your tickets in advance, or you might find yourself staring at the building from afar. After that, get your adrenaline pumping with a desert safari. A thrilling drive over dunes is just the ticket.
- Morning: Visit Burj Khalifa (book for 9 AM). Take in the views from the 148th floor.
- Afternoon: Head back to the mall for lunch. Then book a desert safari for the evening.
- Evening: Enjoy dune bashing and a BBQ dinner under the stars. Try not to fall asleep while you wait for the belly dancers.
Day three can be a cultural immersion. Visit the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, then stroll through the historic Al Seef area. In the afternoon, take a traditional abra ride on Dubai Creek. This is your chance to feel like you've stepped back in time.
- Morning: Visit Dubai Museum (open at 8:30 AM). Don’t forget to check out the old exhibits.
- Afternoon: Lunch at a local eatery in Al Seef, then take an abra ride across the creek.
- Evening: Explore the Gold and Spice Souks. Practice your haggling skills.
Days 4 and 5: Abu Dhabi's cultural gems
On day four, it’s time to hit the road to Abu Dhabi. It's about a 1.5-hour drive, so grab some coffee and get ready for more adventures. Start at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. The architecture is out of this world.
- Morning: Drive to Abu Dhabi (1.5 hours). Arrive at the mosque by 10 AM.
- Afternoon: Lunch at the nearby Al Fanar Restaurant. Then head to the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
- Evening: Explore Saadiyat Island. Catch a sunset on the beach.
Day five should be all about art and culture. Visit the Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace, and be prepared to feel both awed and slightly unqualified. Spend the afternoon at Yas Island, perhaps hitting up Ferrari World if you’re feeling particularly brave.
- Morning: Visit Qasr Al Watan (opens at 10 AM). Marvel at the intricate details.
- Afternoon: Lunch at Yas Mall. Then, head to Ferrari World.
- Evening: Enjoy some leisure time at Yas Beach. Relax; you’ve earned it.
Days 6 and 7: Relax in the northern emirates
On day six, it’s time to escape the city and head to Fujairah. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Abu Dhabi. This emirate is known for its stunning beaches and the Hajar Mountains. Check into your hotel, and then hit the beach. Relax, swim, or just do nothing. Isn’t that what vacations are for?
- Morning: Drive to Fujairah (2 hours). Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Lunch at a beachside café. Enjoy some local seafood.
- Evening: Relax on the beach, and watch the sun dip below the horizon.
On your final day, get ready for some exploration. Venture into the Hajar Mountains for a hike. The views are breathtaking, and you might even spot some camels. Afterward, visit the Fujairah Fort for a touch of history, then unwind at the beach one last time.
- Morning: Breakfast, then head to the Hajar Mountains. Plan for a few hours of hiking.
- Afternoon: Visit Fujairah Fort. Grab lunch nearby.
- Evening: Return to the beach for one last sunset. Have a cocktail and toast to your week.
Your week in the UAE wraps up with memories and possibly a few extra pounds from all the delicious food. From the highs of skyscrapers to the tranquility of the beach, you’ve seen it all. So, what’s next on your travel list? Adventure awaits!
