So, you have one week to explore the UAE. Your mind probably jumps straight to the Burj Khalifa, a gigantic shopping mall, and maybe a waterpark. While those are definitely part of the Dubai experience, an unforgettable 7-day UAE itinerary dives so much deeper into the heart of this fascinating country.
Planning a trip that covers the highlights without feeling rushed can be a challenge. How do you split your time between Dubai and Abu Dhabi? What’s the best way to get from one to the other?
This is the itinerary for the first-time visitor who wants it all: the iconic “wow” moments, a genuine taste of Emirati culture, a dash of desert adventure, and a glimpse into the country’s stunning natural beauty. This is your day-by-day plan for a week that goes far beyond just one famous skyscraper.
Itinerary Overview & Route Map
This plan is designed to be efficient and minimize travel time. We will base ourselves in Dubai for the first 4 nights to soak in its electric energy and use it as a hub for a day trip. Then, we’ll move to the more relaxed capital, Abu Dhabi, for the final 2 nights.
(Note: Embed a custom Google Map here showing the route and key locations for each day.)
Pre-Trip Planning Essentials
- Best Time for This Itinerary: This plan involves a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, so it’s best enjoyed during the cooler months from late October to April.
- Getting Between Cities: On Day 5, you’ll travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi (approx. 90 minutes). The RTA public bus (E101) is clean, comfortable, and very budget-friendly. For more convenience, a taxi or Careem/Uber will cost around $70-$90 USD.
- Where to Stay:
- In Dubai (4 Nights): For a vacation feel with easy access to the beach and restaurants, stay in Dubai Marina or JBR. For a more central location close to the main sights, choose Downtown Dubai or Business Bay.
- In Abu Dhabi (2 Nights): For a relaxed, cultural vibe, find a hotel near the Corniche or on beautiful Saadiyat Island.
The Day-by-Day 7-Day UAE Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Modern Dubai Marvels
- Afternoon: Arrive at Dubai International Airport (DXB). Take a taxi or the Dubai Metro to your hotel, check in, and take a moment to settle.
- Evening: Your first stop is the epicenter of modern Dubai. Head to The Dubai Mall. Get acquainted with its sheer scale, see the giant Dubai Aquarium from the outside, and then step out to watch the spectacular Dubai Fountain show (it runs every 30 minutes from 6 PM).
- Late Evening: It’s time for the main event. Ascend the Burj Khalifa for breathtaking night views of the glittering city. Insider Tip: Pre-booking your ticket online for a specific time slot is absolutely essential. For dinner, grab a bite at the mall’s food court or the fantastic Time Out Market.
Day 2: Old Dubai, Souks & Culture
- Morning: Today we trade skyscrapers for history. Take the Metro to Al Fahidi station and wander through the narrow, shaded alleyways of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. This is what Dubai was like before the oil boom, with its traditional wind-tower houses and quiet courtyards.
- Afternoon: Dive deeper into the culture. A highlight of any trip is taking a traditional wooden Abra boat across the Dubai Creek. It costs just 1 AED (about $0.30 USD) and is the most authentic experience in the city.
- Evening: Once you cross the creek, you’re in Deira. Prepare your senses for the dazzling Gold Souk and the aromatic Spice Souk. Get lost in the bustling laneways, haggle for souvenirs, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious, affordable dinner at a creekside restaurant.
Day 3: Desert Adventure & Bedouin Nights
- Morning: After two busy days, take this morning to relax. Enjoy your hotel pool, or head to a public spot like Kite Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand with incredible views of the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel.
- Afternoon (3-4 PM): The adventure begins! You’ll be picked up from your hotel for a Desert Safari. This is a quintessential UAE experience. Hold on tight for some thrilling dune bashing in a 4×4 as you drive deep into the golden sands of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.
- Evening: As the sun sets, you’ll arrive at a Bedouin-style camp. Here you can try a short camel ride, sandboarding, and then settle in for a BBQ dinner under the stars, complete with traditional entertainment like belly dancing and a fire show.
Here is an extensive blog on The Ultimate Desert Safari Guide: Which Dubai Tour is Best?
Day 4: Your Choice – Glamorous Coast or Mountain Peaks
- Option 1 (Relax & Glam): Experience Dubai’s luxurious side. Spend the day at a glamorous beach club on the Palm Jumeirah (book in advance), or explore the lively promenade of The Walk at JBR, followed by a sunset drink at a rooftop bar.
- Option 2 (Adventure & Nature): See a different side of the UAE. Rent a car for the day and drive to Ras Al Khaimah (approx. 90 minutes). Head up Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain. The views are spectacular. For a thrill, book the Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline. This is the UAE’s natural, adventurous heart.
Day 5: Abu Dhabi’s Grandeur – The Palace & The Mosque
- Morning: Check out of your Dubai hotel and travel to Abu Dhabi. After checking into your new hotel, grab lunch.
- Afternoon: Your first stop is Qasr Al Watan, the stunningly beautiful Presidential Palace. Unlike many official palaces, this one is open to the public and offers an incredible insight into Emirati governance and heritage. Its intricate design and Great Hall are simply jaw-dropping.
- Late Afternoon: Head to the crown jewel of the UAE: the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Plan to arrive about an hour before sunset. The way the light changes on the pristine white marble is pure magic. Join one of the free guided tours to truly appreciate the details and symbolism of this architectural masterpiece.
Read more about 15 Things to Know Before Visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Day 6: World-Class Art & A Serene Sunset
- Morning: Time for another cultural icon. Head to Saadiyat Island to visit the magnificent Louvre Abu Dhabi. Even if you’re not an art fanatic, the building itself, with its spectacular “rain of light” dome, is a must-see.
- Afternoon: Discover Abu Dhabi’s surprising natural side. Join a guided tour and kayak through the Eastern Mangrove National Park. Paddling peacefully through this lush, green ecosystem is a beautiful contrast to the city’s modern architecture.
- Evening: For your final night, enjoy a relaxing sunset stroll or bike ride along the city’s beautiful waterfront promenade, the Corniche. Find a nice restaurant with a view for your farewell dinner.
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Enjoy a final, leisurely Emirati breakfast. Depending on your flight time, you could do some last-minute souvenir shopping at the World Trade Center Souk or simply relax at your hotel.
- Afternoon: Head to Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) for your flight home, filled with memories that go far beyond a single skyscraper.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is one week enough to see the UAE?
One week is the perfect amount of time for a fantastic introduction. This itinerary covers the absolute must-sees of both Dubai and Abu Dhabi at a comfortable pace.
Is it easy to travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Yes, it’s very easy. The public buses are modern, air-conditioned, and cheap. Taxis are also readily available and offer a more direct, private option.
Which day of this itinerary are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments!
