Dubai began as a fishing and pearling village along the Creek and, in a single lifetime, became a global hub of architecture, hospitality, and innovation. Today its skyline glitters with record-breakers, while abra boats still cross the same historic waterway. This itinerary threads the city’s past and future—saffron-scented souks, Bedouin desert nights, and glass-and-steel icons.

Expect world-class dining, spotless beaches, and family-friendly attractions from aquariums to theme parks. Dress modestly when visiting mosques and historic neighborhoods, and be mindful of local customs—especially during Ramadan, when some daytime dining is restricted. Taxis and the Metro make getting around simple, and most venues run late into the night.

Food is a highlight: Emirati dishes like machboos and luqaimat sit beside outstanding Indian, Persian, Levantine, and Japanese spots. Heat can be intense from May–September, so plan outdoor time early or after sunset and use mid-days for museums and malls.

Dubai

Dubai dazzles with contrast—tea poured in wind-tower lanes of Al Fahidi, minutes from the world’s tallest tower. Downtown is your stage for fountains and observation decks; the Marina and JBR bring palm-lined promenades and yacht-studded views; the Palm serves up beach clubs and Aquaventure fun. Old Dubai around the Creek reveals trading roots, spice sacks, and dhow builders.

• Top sights: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, Old Dubai souks, Museum of the Future, Dubai Frame, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina Walk, JBR Beach, Alserkal Avenue, Jumeirah Mosque.
• Great bites: Al Ustad Special Kebab (Persian grills), Arabian Tea House (Emirati classics), Ravi Restaurant (Pakistani institution), Bu Qtair (no-frills seafood), 3Fils (harbor-front modern Asian), Orfali Bros (creative bistro), Al Khayma Heritage (traditional Emirati).
• Neighborhood vibes: Downtown for first-timers; Marina/JBR for beach and nightlife; Palm for resort stays; Al Fahidi/Al Seef for heritage and creekside evenings.

Where to stay: Browse apartments and villas on VRBO Dubai or hotels on Hotels.com Dubai.

• Rove Downtown Dubai (great value, walkable to Dubai Mall): Check availability
• Atlantis, The Palm (Aquaventure access, family-friendly): Check availability
• Burj Al Arab Jumeirah (iconic sail-shaped suite hotel): Check availability

How to get there: Fly into DXB (or DWC). Search competitive fares on Trip.com Flights and Kiwi.com. From London, nonstop is ~7 hours (often $350–700 round-trip off-peak). From New York, nonstop is ~12–13 hours (commonly $700–1,100). If comparing Europe routes, also try Omio Flights.

Getting around: The Metro links DXB–Downtown–Marina; taxis are plentiful and affordable. A Nol Card loads easily for Metro/tram/bus. Expect 20–35 minutes by car between Downtown and Marina (longer at rush hour).

Day 1: Arrival, Dubai Mall, and the Fountains

Morning: Fly into DXB. If you haven’t booked yet, compare options on Trip.com Flights or Kiwi.com. Aim for an arrival around midday so you can settle in and stretch your legs.

Afternoon: Check into your hotel and head to Dubai Mall. Stroll the Souk-like arcades, peek at the Dubai Aquarium’s massive viewing panel, and grab a light bite at the Time Out Market stalls in Souk Al Bahar—look for Reif Kushiyaki for Japanese skewers or BB Social for bao and bites.

Evening: Time your Burj views for golden hour and sunset. Book Burj Khalifa At The Top tickets for the prime slot; the 124/125th floors deliver sweeping dusk panoramas. Afterward, watch the Dubai Fountain shows from the promenade and dine at Social House (comfort menu with terrace fountain views) or Din Tai Fung (famous xiao long bao).

Day 2: Old Dubai, Souks, and Creekside Evenings

Morning: Breakfast in a shaded courtyard at Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi—order balaleet (sweet vermicelli with egg) and regag bread. Wander the wind-tower lanes, the Coffee Museum, and Al Shindagha Museum to trace the city’s trading history.

Afternoon: Join the acclaimed Old Dubai “Aladdin” Tour covering the Spice and Gold Souks, creek crossings by abra, tastings, and stories that bring Dubai’s boom years to life. It’s a fantastic primer for first-timers and food lovers alike.

Evening: Dine by the water at Bayt Al Wakeel (classic fish and mezze on a wooden terrace) or Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant (slow-cooked lamb ouzi, Emirati breads). For a relaxed nightcap, try QD’s with skyline views over the Creek.

Day 3: Beach Morning and Premium Desert Safari

Morning: Head to Kite Beach for a stroll along the soft sand and views of Burj Al Arab. Grab specialty coffee and eggs at Tom & Serg or Nightjar in Al Quoz, then sample a low-key seafood lunch at Bu Qtair—order the catch of the day fried with masala and a stack of parathas.

Afternoon: Keep the midday indoors at Mall of the Emirates (check out Ski Dubai from the glass if you’re not skiing), or relax at the hotel pool. Hydrate and rest ahead of your desert adventure.

Evening: Get picked up for the Premium Red Dunes Safari with Camel Ride and 5* BBQ. Expect 4x4 dune bashing, sunset photo stops, optional sandboarding, a traditional camp with entertainment, and a generous Emirati dinner under the stars.

Day 4: Museum of the Future, Dubai Frame, and City Strolls

Morning: Visit the Museum of the Future, a striking calligraphy-clad torus that hosts immersive exhibits imagining life 50 years ahead. Book early for morning slots. Coffee afterward at % Arabica or Common Grounds near DIFC.

Afternoon: Head to Zabeel Park for the Dubai Frame; the glass-floored skybridge dramatically contrasts Old and New Dubai. Late lunch at Al Safadi (excellent grilled meats, hummus, and fresh juices) or Logma (Khaleeji comfort food—try the chicken shawarma sliders and saffron milk cake).

Evening: Explore City Walk’s outdoor avenues or Alserkal Avenue’s galleries in Al Quoz. Dinner ideas: Orfali Bros (inventive small plates), 3Fils (creative modern Asian by the fishing harbor), or Hosaku (for a high-energy robata experience).

Day 5: Palm Jumeirah Day and Dubai Marina Yacht Cruise

Morning: Make for the Palm. Start at The View at The Palm for an aerial layout of the fronds. If traveling with kids, Aquaventure Waterpark is a blast—consider a half-day of slides and the lazy river.

Afternoon: Lunch at Depachika Food Hall (Nakheel Mall) with boutique kiosks and patisserie stops, then cab to Dubai Marina Walk for a waterside promenade. Grab gelato and watch boats drift by beneath the towers.

Evening: Sail past the skyline on the Dubai Marina Luxury Yacht Tour with optional BBQ or breakfast depending on your slot. It’s a picture-perfect way to see the Palm crescent, Bluewaters, and the Marina from the water.

Day 6: Jumeirah Mosque, Beach Time, and Rooftop Views

Morning: Join the Jumeirah Mosque guided visit (modest attire; shawls provided). It’s a warm, informative session on local culture and faith. Brunch nearby at Seva Table’s leafy garden for wholesome bowls and date-laced desserts.

Afternoon: Beach time at JBR’s The Beach—loungers, parasols, and plenty of cafes. Alternatively, explore Alserkal Avenue’s contemporary galleries and pop-ups if you prefer air-conditioned culture.

Evening: Sunset at Sunset Beach for a postcard frame of Burj Al Arab. For dinner, book 3Fils by the fishing harbor (wagyu sando, spicy tuna rolls) or Neptune-inspired plates at Pierchic for a special occasion. Cap the night with a skyline cocktail at Level 43 Sky Lounge or Mercury Lounge.

Day 7: Souk Madinat, Last Bites, and Departure

Morning: A leisurely breakfast at The Lime Tree Café (legendary carrot cake) or Saddle (excellent coffee, Arabian-influenced pastries). Stroll Souk Madinat’s waterways for artisanal souvenirs and last photos of the Burj Al Arab.

Afternoon: Check out, store bags with your hotel, and savor a final Emirati lunch—try Al Fanar’s machboos and harees. Transfer to DXB for your afternoon departure; if time permits, squeeze in one more fountain show in Downtown on the way.

Evening: —

Optional Add-Ons (swap into any afternoon/evening)

• Dubai Mall Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: An easy crowd-pleaser inside Dubai Mall.
• Global Village (seasonal, Oct–Apr): Open-air pavilions, street food, and shows—go at sunset.
• Dubai Miracle Garden (seasonal, Nov–Apr): Whimsical floral displays—best early or late.

Another Great Guided Option (Old Dubai + Creek Night)

If you’d prefer a dinner on the water, consider a dhow cruise along the Canal or Creek for city lights and buffet dining. For an elevated yet easygoing evening alternative earlier in the week, the Old Dubai tour pairs nicely with a traditional abra ride and Creekside dinner.

Food and Coffee Shortlist by Area

• Old Dubai/Creek: Arabian Tea House; Al Ustad Special Kebab; Al Khayma Heritage; Bayt Al Wakeel.
• Downtown: Din Tai Fung; Social House; Time Out Market stalls (Reif Kushiyaki, BB Social, Pickl).
• Jumeirah/Al Quoz: Bu Qtair; Seva Table; Tom & Serg; Nightjar; Al Safadi.
• Marina/JBR: 3Fils (nearby harbor); Mitsu-Ya; Bussola Pizzeria; The Cheesecake Factory for families.

Practical Tips

• Dress & customs: Modest clothing for mosques; alcohol served in licensed venues. During Ramadan, some daytime dining is screened; evenings are festive.
• Transport: Nol Card for Metro/tram/bus; taxis use meters; ride-hailing is widespread. Downtown–Marina is ~25–35 minutes by car off-peak.
• Weather: Midday heat is real in summer—plan outdoors for early/late, keep sun protection and water handy.

Viator Activities Featured in This Itinerary

• Burj Khalifa At The Top ticket with Optional Premium Access

  

• Dubai Aladdin Tour: Souks, Creek, Old Dubai and Tastings

  

• Dubai Premium Red Dunes Safari, Camels & 5* BBQ at Al Khayma Camp

  

• Dubai Marina Luxury Yacht Tour with Optional Breakfast or BBQ

  

Seven days in Dubai lets you weave Old Dubai’s spice-laden lanes with high-modern icons and a starlit desert. With this itinerary you’ll eat memorably, see the big hitters without rushing, and find calm along the water. You’ll leave with sand in your shoes, skyline photos on your phone, and a list of reasons to return.