A Fully Planned 5-Day Dubai Itinerary – Tourist & Offbeat Spots, Food, Culture & More

A little birdie told me you’re planning a trip to Dubai but didn’t know where to start. My interest has definitely peaked because I am here to be your fairy Godmother for all things planning. I will build you the ultimate 5-day (including the weekend) itinerary in Dubai for a trip you will always remember. Whether solo travelling or coming down with the whole family, rest assured it will be an excellent time for everyone. So sit back and relax, or start planning your outfits and let me do all the planning for you.

Also read: Everything You Need to Know About Dubai’s Multiple-Entry 5-Year Tourist Visa

Before We Get Started, Here Are A Few Things I Would Like You To Keep In Mind:

• For this 5-day itinerary to Dubai to include the weekend, you must arrive in Dubai on a Friday morning and plan your departure for Wednesday morning.
• The itinerary is also built for either two adults over 21 years old or a family of 5 with three kids (ranging in ages).
• We also highly recommend visiting Dubai from November to April as they are the most ideal months in terms of weather and activities, as most seasonal activities in Dubai close during the summer months (June – August) due to extreme heat.
• If you do, however, plan on coming during summer, bear in mind that the temperature during most days surpasses 40°C/104°F and has the possibility to reach 50°C/122°F.
• For this reason, we would not recommend a summertime visit or indulging in too many consecutive outdoor activities.
• All Prices Included in this itinerary will be written in the local currency – Arab Emirates Dirhams (AED). For your convenience, you can convert it with the latest exchange rate of whichever currency you choose during the time of your travel.

What Can I Wear When I’m In Dubai?

• We realise that some people may have some misconceptions about Dubai’s dress code policy seeing as UAE is an Islamic country. Dubai holds tolerance and acceptance to the highest of levels. That means you can feel free to wear whatever pleases you. Which also includes the exact same clothes you wear back would wear back in your home country, even if it’s traditional wear.
• However respectful of the Islamic culture in Dubai as well. Do avoid wearing extreme low cut and short clothes in places where an outfit as would be inappropriate – like most indoor places such as malls.
• If you are ever unsure of what you can wear in a certain location, feel free to call the location and ask them if they have any dress code requirements. This especially applies to high-end restaurants in Dubai.
• Bikinis and other revealing swim wear are acceptable while on the beach. It is advisable to cover up when you have left the beach. Same goes for men, being without a shirt would not be acceptable in public places.
• Overall, be respectful and comfortable in what you wear. Dubai does not pose any such restrictions in clothings. You are not required to wear a Hijab in any location until told specifically so, or unless you are visiting a Mosque.

Apps To Download Before Your Trip To Dubai

• For convenient taxi options, Dubai’s most trusted taxi hailing app is called Careem. On Careem you can book the most affordable ride in the city also known as the Hala Taxi or you book a private car that can range from a Lexus to a Tesla if you get lucky. You can also book all day cars on the app so that you can travel around the city hassle free. To download the Careem app click here.
• If you are also looking to travel around Dubai like the locals do by using the metro then you will definitely need the Nol Pay app. This app allows you to easily top up your nol card before you hit the station to help you skip the long lines. Essentially a nol card is your ticket onto the metro that can be topped up with as much money as you would like but requires a minimum Balance of AED 7.50 for one trip. The metro has three section – Gold, Silver, and a women & kids only carriage (bear in mind that men in the pink women & kids only carriage will be fined AED 100 penalty fee, so please be respectful while using Dubai public transportation. Your nol card will also work on Dubai’s public Busses and the same minimum balance of AED 7.50 is required. You can check all metro and buss departure and arrival timings on your phone by search where you are and where you are trying to go on your phone. To download the Nol Pay app click here.
• Next up we have the most popular and convenient food delivery in Dubai – Noon. On noon you can order food at any time of the day or night. Yes even when those midnight munchies hit and room service is closed Noon will be there to your rescue. You can also order essential items off Noon Minutes. Say you forgot to bring sunscreen with you Noon Minutes will be able to bring it you in 15 Minutes or less. To Download the Noon app click here.
• Botim is for free voice and video calling while you are in Dubai. Dubai does not have connections to use FaceTime or WhatsApp calling so during your stay when trying to stay in touch with your loved one back home it will be easier for everyone to download Botim instead of trying to override the rules and download VPN (which is strictly not allowed) so that you can use FaceTime or Whatsapp. Botim is quick, fast and easy to use. To download Botim click here.

Also read: Must-Have Apps In Dubai For Tourists & Those Who’ve Just Moved In To Make Your Life Easier

So, now that you are fully informed, without any further ado, I have here your all-planned vacation!

Day 1, Friday: Arrival And Getting Started With The City

Welcome to Dubai we hope you had a pleasant flight. And we also hope you managed to sleep on the flight because that is crucial to beating jet lag and having enough energy during the day. Expected that you arrived in the morning our first day will start in the afternoon allowing you ample time to settle down in your hotel and prepare for all the fun that is about to come.

Hotel Recommendations – Luxury To Budget

Here are some hotels we recommend for both solo travels and families with kids.

1. Atlantis, The Palm: Considered as one of the spectacles of Dubai, Atlantis is an extremely admirable family-friendly hotel that you could stay in. With premium hotel rooms and suits there is something for everyone here. The best part you ask? When booking your stay at Atlantis you also get complimentary tickets to their in house waterpark – Aquaventure (don’t worry we’ll get back to this one later on in the trip). For more information on rooms and prices head to their website.

2. The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina: Right in the heart of Marina, this hotel has access to one of the most bustling parts of the city. So if one day you decide to stray from the itinerary this is a prime location hotel to do just that. Staying at the Westin You would get a private beach experience with gorgeous views of the Palm Jumeriah. For more information on rooms and prices head to their website.

3. Kempinski Hotel, Mall Of The Emirates: As the name might suggest the Kempinski Hotel is directly attached to The Mall Of The Emirates, one of Dubai’s most popular shopping destinations. With unique and interesting views of the ski slopes inside of the malls very own Ski Dubai, this family friendly hotel is great for staying connected to the city. This is yet another great family friendly hotel option. For more information on rooms and prices head to their website.

4. Anantara The Palm, The Palm: For more resort vibes Anantara is your ideal hotel of choice. This resort delivers the only over-water villas in the city. The hotel even has lagoon-access rooms and villas with private pools. So get ready for a tropical vacation  right in the middle of the desert. For more information on rooms and prices head to their website.

5. Rove at the Park, Sheikh Zayed Road: This budget friendly hotel has some very unique concept rooms that is sure to leave everyone entertained. Such as their gamers’ caves — rooms exclusively for Xbox and PlayStation battles. Rove also offer amazing restaurant options for unimaginable food options that you are sure to love. For more information on rooms and prices head to their website.
Also read: Bench Brunch At Rove At The Park

Activities For Day 1 – For The Family

• We’ll start of this trip light an easy with a lunch at a beautiful indoor garden restaurant – Apricot. Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary culinary journey at Apricot. Their menu boasts an impressive variety of all-day brunch dishes that will leave you craving for more. This Lunch will take you Downtown Dubai where we will explore for the rest of the day. Don’t forget to use your handy Careem app when around the city. To make a reservation at Apricot call +971 4 433 9792
  Also read: Apricot – An Indoor Garden In Downtown Dubai 

  I mean Just take a look at how amazing this spread at Apricot looks, feature our amazing Ms. Naomi. You’ll relish everything they have here.

• From lunch we’re going to head over to Dubai Mall. Or also known as the World’s largest mall. This place is shopping paradise – from luxury brands to high street fashion to fast fashion there you have everything under one roof. But we’re not intreated in shopping today. We’ve come to Dubai mall for one of its many attractions. The list has plenty of options you can choose from that the whole family will enjoy.
  Also read: Your Ultimate Guide To Dubai Mall’s Dazzling Attractions Under One Single Roof
• Before you leave the mall before to step outside and watch the mesmerising dancing fountain show right in front of the Burj Khalifa. The show starts after sunset and goes on at 30 minute intervals so you will definitely have the chance to catch a show. And yes, the show is free so you can put your wallet back into your pocket or purse.
  Also read: UAE: 9 Places To Watch The Water Fountains

• On to dinner time. We know you must be tired by now so we can end the first night here, You and your family can head back and try out any one of your hotel restaurants and then rest up for the next day.

Activities For Day 1 – For The Solo Travellers

• This one might sound a little ridiculous but hear me out because its amazing. This cafe serves UAE’s biggest Croissant and Cappuccino. Let me put it so scale for you a regular croissant is around 20cm/9 inches long while The Bohox’s extra large croissant is over 4 times bigger than that at a whopping 90cm/35 inches in length. Don’t even get me started on their coffee. In a standard cup of coffee you’ll find around 177ml (equivalent to 6 ounces) but The Bohox decided to take 28 cups of coffee, put it in gigantic mug and woe and behold we now have a 5 Litre cup of coffee. But don’t worry if you’re not into their XL delights you will still love the cafe and their regular sized food regardless. It’s advisable to make reservations for this cafe 48 hours in advance if you want to indulge in their XL delights. To make a reservation call +971 52 103 2646
  Also read: This Place Serves UAE’s Biggest Croissant & Cappuccino and Here’s What We Think
• Well now that we’re all fuelled and ready for the day how about we get ready for a delightful beach day? Some water sports to accompany? its you first day in town so we’ll go easy on you nothing too crazy. Dubai has some ample water sport activities to choose from, might we suggest seakarting. what is a sekcart you might ask, well is a unique hybrid combining the speed, thrill and excitement of a jet ski with the safety and comfort of an inflatable boat. You need no special skill set, other than a thirst for fun and adventure to ride the seakart. Explore the serene waters of Atlantis, The palm as you zoom around with your travel buddy. The price for three people is AED 630, to make a reservation to know more information call +971 54 755 2080 or visit their website.
  Also read: Dubai’s Newest Adventure Sport : Self Drive A Seakart Across The Arabian Sea

• Let’s wind down the night with a nice and calm dinner and some drinks. Might I suggest Mare by Bussola. And If you’ve decided to stay at The Westin then this gorgeous private beach front restaurant is right downstairs to your room. You can sit by the water front or in their covered outdoor restaurant and enjoy the cool night time breeze. The Ladies Of Mare get a special offer of unlimited red, white, rosé and pink bubbles from 9am to 5pm. To make a reservation call +971 4 511 7373 or visit their website.

Day 2, Saturday: Time To Make A Splash

We hope you had a great first day in Dubai and it was already everything that you were hoping it would be. But don’t worry because this is just the beginning, we still have tons of fun ahead of us. Today I’m hoping we can all make a big splash at a very special place in Dubai.

Activities For Day 2 – For The Family 

• I wasn’t kidding when I said I wanted to make a splash, and I was kidding earlier when I said I would come back to Aquaventure. That’s right your second day of Dubai fun will be spent at The Atlnatis’ very waterpark – Aquaventure. This water wonderland boasts more than 105 Slides, attractions & experiences. If this doesn’t keep your kids busy the whole day then I’m not sure what will. And with fantastic food options within the waterpark your lunch plans are sorted as well. This works out even better if you have chosen to stay at the Atlantis because that means your entry tickets are complimentary with your hotel room. And so is access to Atlantis’ The Lost Chambers Aquarium which you can definitely explore with your kids afterwards. For tickets click here.

• After your long day of sun soaked water fun I’m sure you want a nice calm dinner and i’ll give you exactly that. After you and your kids have rested and freshened up for the night its time to head over to Nola Eatery & Social House for a A Lively New Orleans Vibe With A Soulful Soundtrack. This restaurant has brilliant live music and an even more exquisite menu offering Southern American food with a healthier more modern take. To make a reservation call +971 4 399 8155 or visit their website.
  Also read: Discover The Beat With These 15 Live Music Restaurants Around Dubai

Activities For Day 2 –  For The Solo Travellers

• Don’t think we forgot about you, because you’re continuing your water from yesterday and going to Aquaventure too. This is the biggest water park in all of Dubai and its equipped with over 105 epic slides, rides and attractions that you will simply love. We also sugest having lunch at the water park as well to optimise your day there. For tickets click here.
• If you though your day of water was done, you’re wrong. Because at night after you’ve calmed down from the water park its time to bring those energy levels right back up again with Barasti Beach. Conveniently located at near The Westin, this is one of, if not, the most iconic beach bar in Dubai that will have you parting all night long. Dip in the pool and sip your drink or get on the dance floor and vibe with their fantastic DJ. Look out for deals and events at Barasti Beach during the time of your trip. If your lucky enough you might score some free drinks at a special event they are hosting. This is the perfect way to spend a Saturday the right way in Dubai. To make a reservation call +971 4 318 1313
  Also read: Dance, Chill, Repeat: Experience The Thrill of Barasti’s Disco Tropicana This Summer

Day 3, Sunday: Taking It To The Desert

I’m excited for today. If there is one thing everyone wants to experience when they come to Dubai its definitely the desert. This is also one of the main reasons why we also recommend not coming to Dubai during the summer months because the heat would make this ever-so fun experience completely unbearable. But let’s jump right into todays festivities

Activities For Day 3 – For The Family & Solo Travellers

• We suggest you start off your day with a nice filling breakfast at your hotel and prepare for your day ahead. We highly recommend packing these essential items with you for the desert:
  1. 1. 1. Sunscreen – SPF 50 or higher would be best
        2. Hat or cap
        3. Sunglasses
        4. SPF protected lip balm
        5. Water
        6. Comfortable but also covered shoes (avoid open toe since the sand can be hot)
        7. portable phone charger
        8. and if possible a portable fan
• Now its off to the desert we go. Depending on the company you have booked for you desert safari they will either pick you up from you hotel or from a prearranged pick up point. These are my top activities I would recommend experience while on your desert excursion:

1. 1. 1. 1. Dune Bashing – fly over the sandy hills of the desert with your car and enjoy the rollercoaster like thrill.
         2. Camel Ride: After dune bashing, take a relaxed camel ride through the desert. This will give your family a chance to enjoy the serene desert landscape and learn about the significance of camels in the region.
         3. Sand boarding: Try your hand at sand boarding down the dunes. It’s a fun activity that’s suitable for both kids and adults.
         4. Quad Biking: Quad biking involves riding all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) through the desert sands. It’s a popular activity for those seeking a bit more adventure and a chance to explore the desert at higher speeds.
         5. Sunset Watching: Desert safaris often include a stop to witness the breathtaking desert sunset. The vast expanse of sand and the changing colours of the sky create a magical and serene moment that’s perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
         6. Falconry Demonstrations: Falconry is an ancient tradition in the Middle East. Many desert safaris include falconry demonstrations, where you can learn about these magnificent birds of prey and even have the opportunity to interact with them.

• Now while you are at your desert campsite for the day do not forget to indulge in all things traditional and that means henna painting, traditional Middle Eastern food in traditional Middle Easter sitting and definitely don’t miss a single second the cultural performances. This will play out to be a day you’ll never forget.
  Also read: Traditional Emirati Foods And The Best Restaurants In Dubai For Them
• Depending on your package lunch and dinner is usually included. However, if your package did not include dinner here are some restaurants we would recommend:
  – Dubai’s Most Photogenic Eateries: 12 Cafes & Restaurants To Amp Up Your Social Feed
  – 12 Restaurants In Dubai Where Can Dine Around The Clock, A Full 24/7 Experience
  – Dubai: 10 Restaurants That Sheikh Mohammed & Sheikh Hamdan Have Visited

Day 4, Monday: Taking You To The Top

It’s exactly what you’re thinking, today I’m taking you to the Burj Khalifa and we’re going all the way up.

Activities For Day 4 – For The Family & Solo Travellers

• We would suggest skipping breakfast today or indulging on some light foods like fruits or a nice smoothie because you’ll want space in your tummy for todays lunch. I’m taking you to Michelin Guide restaurant – At.Mosphere, also known as the highest restaurant in the world. They have a wide-ranging à la carte menu offers modern, colourful dishes with a French heart. You’ll simply fall in love with the food and even more so with the views. To make a reservation call +971 4 888 3828 or visit their website.
  Also read: Burj Khalifa’s New Multi-Course Lunch – At.Mosphere

• Now its time to explore the rest of the city and our first stop is AYA Universe. Prepare to have your senses mesmerised and tingled Vibrant colours, visuals and sounds. For tickets Visit their website.
  Also read: Dubai’s Insane AYA Universe – The Ultimate Real Life ‘Avatar’ Experience

• Next up ladies and gentlemen we’re going golfing. But this is no ordinary game of golf, here we conquer heights with Top Golf. All summer long they have an incredible 2-for-1 offer. You play and sip away at your drinks while you watch the sunset. Not to mention they have great array of options for food so your dinner plans are sorted too. To book your bay click here.
• For my solo travellers if your looking for an extra night cap to continue the party head to any one of these amazing bars in Dubai:
  – Dubai’s Best-Kept Secrets: Revealing 18 Of Dubai’s Most Hidden Speakeasies And Secret Bars
  – Navigating Dubai Marina: Here Are The Top 19 Bars You Can Sip The Night Away In Dubai Marina
  – Bar-Hopping Bliss: Discovering JLT’s Ultimate Bar Hangouts
  – UK’s Epic Entertainment Battleground: Boom Battle Bar Arrives This July In Dubai
  – 16 Nightlife Gems: Discover Dubai’s Non-Stop Nightlife Scene, Trendy Bars And Night Clubs

Day 5, Tuesday: Making The Most Of The City

Alas the last day in Dubai has come and your flight is tomorrow morning. But that doesn’t mean we can’t make the most out of today. So, let’s get this last day started.

Activities For Day 5 – For The Family

• Enjoy a nice relaxing breakfast at anyone of our top recommend cafes in Dubai and then we can get ready to head out for the day. Do be sure to make a reservation before to the cafes or restaurant of your choice.
  Also read: Dubai’s Most Photogenic Eateries: 12 Cafes & Restaurants
• You can then spend the day with your kids doing any number of activities around Dubai that is sure to be fun for you are kids.
  – 26 Activities Kids Will Love To Do Indoors In Dubai This Summer
  – 11 Zoos To Take Your Kids To For A Family Day Out In The UAE
  – Legoland Dubai: Kids Enter For Free & A Fantastic Brunch Deal
• We have something huge planned out lunch. And I’m talking UAE’S largest pizza size huge. That’s right we’re heading over to Russos for the XXL Pizza thats big enough to feed a village or surely a family of 5. You can choose between any 4 flavours on the same pizza. To make a reservation call +971 800787767
  Also read: The Largest Pizza In The Country Comes To Dubai

• Now you can either go back to your hotel to rest up for dinner or pack or even hit the pool for a lazy post-lunch afternoon or you can go back up the list on top and jump right into another fun-filled activity around Dubai.
  – #GulfBuzzRecommends: 5 Unique Indoor Activities You Need To Try
  – Discover Al Quoz: Top 10 Activities That Should Be On Your Itinerary
• And Finally the last dinner in Dubai. We’ll definitely make this one special. You’re going on a dinner Dhow cruise. Relax and enjoy the night time breeze and you said through the Dubai canal and watch the the city’s skyscrapers twinkle in the sky. You’ll enjoy a pleasant evening with your family with great food, great music and vibes you end your splendid trip to Dubai.

Activities For Day 5 – For The Solo Travellers

• Enjoy a nice relaxing breakfast at anyone of our top recommend cafes in Dubai and then we can get ready to head out for the day. Do be sure to make a reservation before to the cafes or restaurant of your choice.
  Also read: Dubai’s Most Photogenic Eateries: 12 Cafes & Restaurants
• In the afternoon we recommend going to Dubai’s Museum of the Future. This one-of-a-kind experience will surely blow you away. With unbelievable visuals you’re mind and eyes will be captivated once again. For tickets click here, do check availability well in advance to your travels as the museum tends to sold out for weeks at a time.
  Also read: Museum Of The Future In Dubai Completes 1 Year & Here’s Everything You Need To Know About It

• And to enjoy the last sunset of Dubai how about we go on a little picnic on a boat in the middle of the scenic Jaddaf Waterfront. Now this boat offers light bites so we’ll head over to dinner afterwards. But while you’re here enjoy the fresh open air breeze and some quality time with your travel buddy and enjoy the gorgeous setting sun.
  Also read: We Found A Mini Scenic Floating Cafe In Dubai!

• And to round off this incredible trip lets go somewhere especially fancy. What are you feeling like? Indian? Japanese? Thai? Try out anyone of JW Marriot Marquis’s amazing and signature restaurants. They are sure to tantalise your taste buds in all the right ways. Cheers to your amazing trip in Dubai. It’s important to note that you are required to make a reservation before going to the restaurant of your choice.
  – Rang Mahal Dubai: An Indian Restaurant Dining Experience Review
  – Indulge In A Thai Culinary Journey At Tong Thai & Unleash Your Taste Buds With Irresistible Flavours!
  – Japanese Restaurant Izakaya Dubai

Departure Day, Wednesday

And with that being said I hope you Enjoyed this 5-day itinerary in Dubai and that you had more than enough fun and are already planning to come back again for round 2!

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