Dubai 8-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrival & Hotel Check-in

Arrive at Dubai International Airport (DXB), transfer to your mid-range hotel, and check in.

Take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey.

Taxis are readily available from the airport. Consider pre-booking an airport transfer for convenience.

Dubai Marina Walk

Enjoy an evening stroll along the picturesque Dubai Marina, admiring the stunning skyscrapers, luxury yachts, and vibrant atmosphere.

Many cafes and restaurants are available for a quick snack or drink. Great for photo opportunities.

Dhow Cruise with Dinner

Experience a traditional dhow boat cruise along Dubai Marina or Dubai Creek, enjoying dinner with stunning city views and live entertainment.

Book in advance, especially for evening cruises. Many operators offer buffet dinner and entertainment.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Step back in time at Al Fahidi, Dubai's oldest heritage site.

Explore traditional wind-tower architecture, art galleries, and quaint cafes.

Visit the Dubai Museum (currently undergoing renovation, check status) and walk through the narrow sikkas (alleys).

Abra Ride & Souks

Cross Dubai Creek on a traditional abra boat for a true local experience, then explore the bustling Gold and Spice Souks.

Be prepared to haggle at the souks! The abra ride costs only 1 AED per person.

Lunch in Old Dubai

Enjoy a traditional Emirati or Middle Eastern lunch at a local restaurant in the Bur Dubai area.

Try authentic dishes like machboos or shawarma. Many budget-friendly options available.

Dubai Frame

Ascend the iconic Dubai Frame for panoramic views of both Old and New Dubai, symbolizing the city's transformation.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your slot, especially during peak season.

Evening Dinner

Dine at a local restaurant near your hotel or explore a new area for dinner.

Try a different cuisine tonight, perhaps Lebanese or Indian.

Explore The Dubai Mall

Spend the morning exploring one of the world's largest shopping malls, home to endless shops, attractions like the Dubai Aquarium, and various dining options.

Wear comfortable shoes. Grab some coffee or a light snack.

Lunch at The Dubai Mall

Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants or food courts within The Dubai Mall.

Plenty of international and local options available to suit all tastes and budgets.

Burj Khalifa 'At The Top'

Ascend to the observation deck of the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa, for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai.

Absolutely essential to book tickets online well in advance, especially for a New Year's Eve visit. Prime slots around sunset are most popular.

New Year's Eve Celebration & Dubai Fountain

Secure a spot around the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain area to witness the spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks display.

Enjoy dinner with fountain views.

This area will be extremely crowded. Arrive very early to find a good viewing spot. Many restaurants offer special (and expensive) NYE packages. Public transport will be affected; plan your exit strategy.

Relax & Recover

Enjoy a relaxed start to New Year's Day after the previous night's celebrations.

Have a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe.

Many places might have special brunch offers for New Year's Day.

Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner

Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure, including dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and a traditional BBQ dinner with live entertainment (belly dancing, fire show) at a Bedouin camp.

Book this activity in advance, as it's very popular. Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel are usually included.

Ski Dubai

Experience winter sports in the desert at Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort with slopes, snow park, and penguin encounters.

All equipment is provided.

Book your tickets online beforehand to ensure availability. Different packages are available depending on desired activities.

Lunch at Mall of the Emirates

Enjoy lunch at one of the many dining options within the Mall of the Emirates.

Wide range of international and casual dining choices.

Shopping at Mall of the Emirates

Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs, fashion, or electronics at the Mall of the Emirates.

A good opportunity for some retail therapy or just people-watching.

Dinner at JBR

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) Walk, offering a lively beachfront atmosphere.

Great variety of cuisines and a lovely evening vibe by the beach.

Travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Start your day with a comfortable private car transfer from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, heading straight to Yas Island to kick off your adventure.

Confirm exact pick-up location and time with your driver/service.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Experience the world's first Ferrari-branded theme park, featuring high-adrenaline rides including the record-breaking Formula Rossa roller coaster and various Ferrari-inspired attractions.

Book tickets online in advance to save time and ensure entry. Weekends can be busy.

SeaWorld Yas Island

Explore the region's first Marine Life Theme Park with over 100 animal experiences and presentations across 8 immersive realms.

Witness incredible marine ecosystems and fascinating creatures.

Tickets can often be bundled with other Yas Island attractions for better value. Check evening hours.

Dinner at Yas Mall

Enjoy a variety of dining options at Yas Mall, conveniently located near the theme parks, from casual eateries to fine dining.

Yas Mall offers a vast selection of international and local cuisine.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Visit one of the world's largest and most stunning mosques, an architectural marvel known for its intricate designs, white marble, and grand scale.

It's a must-see cultural landmark.

Strict dress code: women must cover hair, arms, and legs; men should wear long trousers and sleeves. Abayas are provided if needed. Entry is free.

Lunch near the Mosque

Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant or cafe in the vicinity of the Grand Mosque, offering a taste of Emirati or international cuisine.

Many restaurants are available at The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri, a short drive away.

Qasr Al Watan Palace

Explore Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace, a working palace and a stunning tribute to Arabian heritage and artistry.

Discover its opulent halls, libraries, and exhibitions.

Book tickets online to avoid queues. Modest dress is recommended. Check for the Palace in Motion light and sound show schedule.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Immerse yourselves in art and culture at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a universal museum showcasing masterpieces from various civilizations and cultures.

Purchase tickets online in advance, especially for weekend visits. Allow plenty of time to explore the diverse collections and unique architecture.

Dinner with City Views

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the Arabian Gulf.

Consider Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe for Emirati cuisine or other international options in the area.

Relax at Umm Al Emarat Park

Enjoy a peaceful morning stroll in Umm Al Emarat Park, one of Abu Dhabi's largest and oldest parks, featuring botanical gardens, an animal barn, and a shade house.

A refreshing green space to relax before your journey. Entry fee is minimal.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Grab some last-minute souvenirs or local delights before heading to the airport.

Consider dates, local spices, or traditional crafts.

Look for shops around your hotel or central areas.

Farewell Lunch

Enjoy a final lunch in Abu Dhabi, savoring some last tastes of the local cuisine or your favorite international dishes.

Choose a restaurant convenient for your onward travel.

Travel to Dubai International Airport

Take a private car transfer from Abu Dhabi directly to Dubai International Airport (DXB) for your return journey.

It's advisable to book this transfer in advance to ensure a smooth departure.