Best Dubai Sightseeing 7-day Travel Itinerary

Dubai is well known for its stunning modern architecture, world-class shopping, rich culture and luxury experience. Let’s use this article to dive into this beautiful city and get to know the best places in Dubai whilst creating an amazing itinerary you can use as a guide for yours, shall we?

I can’t help but tell you about the iconic modern architecture which Dubai is famous for. Dubai is the home to most of the world’s most stunning skyscrapers, including the famous Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and the stunning sail-shaped Burj Al Arab Hotel. Dubai is paradise to those who like luxury and seek it, it has opulent hotels and resorts, high-end malls and designer boutiques, Dubai has all the luxury you are looking for. Dubai has over 1,200 stores and attractions waiting for you to explore.

Dubai also boasts of modern amenities, a rich cultural heritage, and great mouthwatering food! Dubai has something for everyone, regardless of your interest, from luxury to rich experiences, vibrant culture, and even business opportunities, all for you. It is one of the top tourist spots in the world.

Best Dubai sightseeing itinerary for 7 days in Dubai

From here on, I will tell you things to do in Dubai when you visit for a day or more. So whether you are on a day trip or a full vacation, this article will give you a guide to follow in creating the best sightseeing itinerary for your Dubai trip.

Day 1 Visit Dubai Highlights

Depending on when you arrived the previous night (I hope your trip was great), today you can leave by 9:30 am to start exploring iconic landmarks in Downtown Dubai such as;

the Burj Khalifa

Dubai Mall

Dubai Fountain

Ski Dubai

Mall of the Emirates

Dubai Creek

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Burj Al Arab

Aura Sky pool

Global Village

1. the Burj Khalifa : This is the tallest building in the world, standing majestically at 828 meters high, it has observation decks providing stunning views in Dubai, swanky lounges which offer splendid views of the UAE and the Persian Gulf and It is 163 floors high. There is a hotel at levels 38 and 39 and the highest lounge is located at level 154. This beauty was designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill architects. This is one of the most visited tourist attractions of Dubai.

2. Dubai Mall : This is one of the largest shopping malls in the world; it offers a wide range of high-end shops, various dining experiences, and entertainment options. You can liken this to stores like Cartier and Harry Winston. It also offers 360-degree views of the city from the world’s tallest building, The Burj Khalifa, absolutely stunning!

3. Dubai Fountain : This is located outside the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa . The fountain is a captivating musical Fountain show with lights and choreographed performances set against the backdrop of Burj Khalifa. The Dubai Fountain show consists of the Fountain shooting water as high as 500 feet, which is as high as a 50-story building.

4. Ski Dubai : This is an indoor ski resort located within the Mall of the Emirates, where you can enjoy snow activities.

5. Mall of the Emirates : This is a massive shopping center that features luxury brands alongside entertainment options.

6. Dubai Creek: This is a historic area where you can take traditional abra boat rides along the waterway to have an experience of the old-world charm, the old Dubai.

7. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: This is located in Dubai Mall; it showcases a diverse range of marine life; what a beautiful sight. This Aquarium and Underwater Zoo offers a memorable journey into ocean life. This Aquarium has the capacity to hold 10 million liters of water, Dubai Aquarium is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world and it illuminates the marvels of the ocean floor, it showcases one of the most diverse collections of aquatic life. The underwater Zoo is Located just above the aquarium, and it brings visitors up close with penguins, piranhas, crabs, water rats, sea horses, and plenty more aquatic bodies. The innovative exhibits are a fascinating event that is hosted here. One such exhibit is the 'UAE's Night Creatures', which presents the experience of nightfall in the desert as creatures of the dark, which is very innovative indeed.

8. Burj Al Arab: This is one of the most Luxurious hotels in the world, this is due to its iconic sail shaped architecture that houses opulent accommodations, and one of the best restaurants in Dubai and is accmpanied with stunning views. It is also one of the tallest hotels in the world, this luxury hotel on Jumeirah Beach is iconic to Dubai's skyline.

9. Aura Sky Pool: This pool is suspended 200 meters in the air, Aura Sky Pool is the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool, it also offers incredible views of the iconic Dubai skyline, Palm Jumeirah and the glistening horizon of the Arabian Gulf, that is not all, Aura is a unique experience triggering all the senses, and a truly unmissable highlight to capture the essence Dubai at new heights.

10. Global Village: The sprawling Global Village complex is a great place for culture, entertainment, and shopping in Dubai. In this side of Dubai you get a closer look at over 90 cultures, all in the same place, that’s amazing! At the pavilions, you will find a variety of beautiful handicrafts and delicious cuisine representative of each country. You will also get to watch cultural performances as well as international music acts each night. Don't miss out on all the carnival rides within the park, too. Global Village is open from October through April and entry tickets are needed, plan ahead. The best time to visit is during the early evening hours when there are fewer visitors .

As you have probably noticed, most places are linked together in the same place so that you can visit more than one place at a time. Also, some areas are best visited in the evenings or early morning, you can select 5 or more places to visit in Day 1, helping you create the best dubai itinerary as you will not need to spend so much on transportation and still get to see the world.

Day 2: Visit historical and cultural sites like;

Dubai Museum: This place housed in Al Fahidi Fort, which was built in 1787, it showcases exhibits that depicts the culture of Dubai, like artifacts such as pottery, tools and weapons. This old but gold museum also features interactive displays and dioramas and depicts historical scenes.

Al Fahidi Fort: this is a historical fort, one of the oldest forts in Dubai, and offers a glimpse into the city’s past as a fishing and trading port. This old fort includes traditional Arabian elements such as wind towers.

Al Seef district: This district is located along the Dubai Creek waterfront; this area provides a blend of old-world charm with modern amenities. You can explore the traditional Emirati architecture, you can shop for local crafts and souvenirs, you can dine at waterfront restaurants, or you can take a boat ride along the creek.

Bastakiya Quarter: this is also known as the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood; this area is characterized by its narrow lanes and traditional courtyard houses, with the famous Arabian architecture, the wind tower. It is home to art galleries, museums, boutique hotels and cafes; this place provides a peek into Dubai Culture.

Dubai Heritage Village: This is an outdoor museum that showcases the Bedouin lifestyle with recreated tents, which showcases aspects of the desert life such as camel rides, you can also experience the traditional Emirati customs including dance, music, and crafts.

The Etihad Museum: This was dedicated to the history of the United Arab Emirates (UAE); it features interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that highlight some important events leading to the formation of the UAE in 1971. It also houses photographs, artefacts and other historical documents of the country’s founding fathers' journey to peace.

It is going to be 2 days in Dubai; take a step further into the Dubai culture,

after you have experienced their wealth and luxury, you can visit some of these places to learn about Dubai's heritage.

Day 3: Experience the extravagance of Dubai's man-made islands. Visit;

Palm Jumeirah: This is an iconic manmade archipelago in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is shaped like a palm tree, also a major tourist spot, known for its luxury resorts, upscale hotels, and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. including attractions like Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk provides you the opportunity to stroll along the crescent of the island and enjoy stunning vistas of the city skyline.

Emirates Palace Hotel: this is a lavish and extravagant hotel located in Abu Dhabi , UAE. It is also known for the grand architecture, luxurious accommodations, and world class amenities, it has become synonymous with luxury and thus attracts high profile guests from around the world.

Dubai Marina: Known for its vibrant waterfront, it is also known for its modern skyscrapers, bustling promenades, and trendy dining and entertainment options just for you. It also features an impressive skyline, which includes residential towers, leisure facilities like yacht clubs and fine dining restaurants, and commercial buildings. Dubai Marina is one of the best places visit in Dubai.

This is perfect if you came in for business or to network, so spend your Day 3 in the luxury you deserve. You can also go on a cruise in the Dubai Marina and have fun.

Day 4: Enjoy a desert safari adventure with amazing experiences like

Dune bashing: this is an off-road activity that gets your adrenaline pumping. It involves driving through the undulating sand dunes of the desert in a really powerful 4 by 4 vehicle. This is a popular activated in the UAE, where you can explore the beautiful and dramatic desert landscape and you can enjoy the exhilarating rides over the sandy terrain.

Camel riding: this activity offers a more leisurely way to experience the desert landscapes, giving you the opportunity to soak in the tranquillity of the beautiful desert and enjoy insight into traditional modes of transportation in this region.

Traditional Bedouin-style entertainment: this is a type of entertainment that encompasses various cultural experiences designed to showcase the Emirati heritage. This may include performances such as music, storytelling, folk dance, etc. You might get the chance to try out traditional cuisines and experience hospitality rituals, for example the henna painting and Arabic coffee ceremony.

On Day 4 you might want to slow down with the activities and just slowly relish bthe thrill in every activities as your trip is slowly coming to an end.

Day 5: Relax and unwind at

Jumeirah Beach: This is a popular stretch of coastline location in the Jumeirah district of Dubai, it is also known for its pristine white sands and clear blue waters, this makes it a popular destination for tourist and locals. This beach offers various facilities such and water sports, beach clubs and a variety of other activities.

Kite Beach: This section of Jumeirah Beach is particularly popular among kite surfers due to its ideal wind conditions. You can also enjoy the dining options and beach volleyball courts, and if you come with your children, you could have fun with them in the children’s play areas.

Waterfront area of Dubai Marina: this is a vibrant waterfall community; it offers features like skyline of high-rise buildings alongside the manmade marina. It also offers a variety of shopping options, entertainment, dining and promenade as well.

It has been five days in Dubai, Day 5’s activities is tailored to provide you the opportunity to indulge in leisure activities while relaxing. The perfect vacation activities.

Day 6: Discover Dubai's cultural diversity with a visit to neighbourhoods like

Bastakiya: this is a historic neighborhood in Dubai, it is also known for its Arabian architecture. It features narrow lanes, wind towers and a beautifully renovated buildings, these buildings offer you a glimpse into the city’s past, in addition the area also hoses art galleries, cultural centers and museums.

Alserkal Avenue: this is a unique and beautiful district in Dubai that has been transformed into a hub for contemporary art and culture. It also features ware-houses that been converted into galleries, studios, cafes, creative businesses, and design spaces.

Day 7: Indulge in a luxury shopping experience at destinations

This is the last day of your visit, you might like to go shopping for souvenirs, gifts or just personal items you looked forward to buying in Dubai. You can go to the Mall of the Emirates or the Dubai Mall, these malls as you already know offer you the best products from the best designers, so whether you are seeking luxury goods or wanting to explore retail options, these malls will give you a memorable experience and perhaps you can enjoy a leisurely evening at the Dubai Opera or a traditional Arabian dinner cruise, after a long day of shopping and sightseeing, these malls have nice dining options.

Recommended Means of Transportation

These are a few suggestions om how to get around Dubai, after planning a Dubai Itinerary with the best places in Dubai awaiting your presence, it is time to sort out your means of transportation.

Dubai Metro: this is one of the most popular means of transportation, it consists majorly of two lines, the Red line and the Green Line, it covers key areas and key attractions. The metro is really clean, air-conditioned, and offers both regular and gold-class cabins for a very comfortable journey.

Taxis: These are available throughout Dubai and are a convenient mode of transport, especially if you like direct routes. These taxis are metered, and the fares are regulated by the RTA.

Buses: the bus network in Dubai is operated by the Roads and Transport Authority, RTA. These buses cover most of the area of the city, clean and comfortable.

Water Taxis, also known Abra and Ferries: The creeks and extensive coastlines in Dubai allow for this water-based transportation. The RTA operates the water taxis and ferries that connect key areas that are along the creek and coast, this mode of transportation is quite peaceful and therapeutic.

Ride Hailing services: these are like the services you know like the Uber, they operate extensively in Dubai, these services can book via mobile apps, and they offer various car options.

Tram: This operates in the Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence areas, providing a convenient way to travel within the popular districts. The tram is connected to the metro system; therefore, you can switch modes of transportation.

Monorail: this can help you connect to Dubai’s popular landmarks; the Palm Jumeriah Monali connects the mainland to numerous attractions on Palm Jumeriah.

Rental cars: If you prefer driving then this is for you, they are available at the Airport and through out the city. This isn’t difficult as the roads in Dubai are in good condition and driving is quite convenient. It is very important to understand the local driving regulations and traffic patterns to avoid issues with the local authorities.

Cycling: Dubai has dedicated bike lanes, and bike sharing services, like BYKY stations available in key areas. This is great if the distance you are traveling isn’t much. It is quite convenient.

Picking a mode of transportation is greatly dependent on how long you are staying, if you have been to Dubai before, where you are visiting and how much of Dubai you are ready to see, is it convenient for you and your family, who you are travelling with, etc. It is important to think about these things before deciding on the means of transportation that will suite you.

Conclusion

Finally, it is important to keep an open mind and be flexible, as changes might occur and your itinerary for dubai might be affected, however, do not let these changes affect vacation or holiday, you can just seamlessly enjoy your holiday regardless of what happens if you welcome these changes. Creating the best Dubai sightseeing itinerary is taking all your interest, all the things you want to experience and putting all of that together.

Dubai is an alluring destination that seamlessly offers a beautiful blend of tradition and modern life, beautiful skyscrapers, amazing leisure and relaxation activities that leave you wanting more, mouthwatering cuisines and, of course, shopping. This an array of experiences that cater for your interests, ensuring that you something to enjoy, one of the highlights of Dubai you shouldn’t forget is the tallest building in the world Burj Khalifa , it of course has the best views of the Dubai skyline from it various observation platforms. Just close by is the Dubai Mall, which provides a great shopping experience like no other mall. Remember it has over 1,200 stores for you to visit and enjoy your shopping experience with products from top brands. It still has an indoor aquarium and ice rink, all for you to have a memorable experience.

If you are one of those people seeking a taste of traditional Dubai, you might want to pay a visit to the Al Fahidi Historic District . This area showcases Dubai’s heritage with its intriguing Arabian architecture, like the narrow lanes and wind towers, and it also offers you a good museum experience, highlighting the history of the city. Another cultural gem you should not forget is the Dubai Museum, it offers you insight into the city’s transformation from a small fishing village to a global metropolis, which visitors and tourist world wide troop in to visit. Dubai is definitely a place you don't want to miss out on visiting.

Suppose you are part of the lot which enjoys adventure. In that case, you should consider the following adrenaline-pumping activities and places: the Dubai Desert Safari, one of the best places to visit in Dubai , offering you dune bashing, camel rides, etc. If you like water activities, then you can head to the Aqua venture waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm is also a good option, it boasts of interesting water slides, a private beach, and marine animal encounter, amazing, yes? You can experience the best of Dubai with just a week in Dubai.

And for relaxation, everyone who comes on a vacation wants to relax amidst the long list of activities, therefore you can visit the Palm Jumeriah, it is a stunning manmade island, it offers luxurious resort, pristine beaches, and gourmet dinning options. The Dubai Marina also offers a picturesque waterfront setting with a variety of dinning and great entertainment options.

These are a few of the best places to visit in Dubai, these Dubai Attractions are awaiting your presence and waiting to help you create the most beautiful memories whether you are alone, with a lover or with your family, Dubai has your numerous interests covered, it is time to go to Dubai. Don’t forget to take pictures and buy souvenirs. Have an amazing time in Dubai!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many days are enough to explore Dubai?

This depends greatly on what you interest are and want you want to gain from visiting Dubai City, typically a 3-7 days visit will do.

2. Which are the best tour packages for Dubai?

You will need to make proper research to get the best tour packages, these research will be geared by your preference and budget. Dubai Tour operators include Arabian Adventures, City Sightseeing Dubai, Emirates Tours and Safari.

3. How do I plan a sightseeing in Dubai?

You can start this by creating an itinerary and I have made a Dubai travel guide just for you about, this way you have a guided tour and tailored experiences. you can visit landmarks like Dubai Mall, Desert Safari, Burj Khalia, and Palm Jumeriah.

4. Which is the most visited place in Dubai?

The most visited place in Dubai is most likely Burj Khalifa. on your Dubai Trip you will realize that is top on the list of every tourist.

5. What are 5 new attractions in Dubai?

Al Seef district, Museum of Future, Ain Dubai, Quranic Park, and Bluewaters Island. These are Five new attractions that Dubai has to offer.

6. What are the 7 cities in Dubai?

Dubai doesn't have the "cities" like we like to call it, they have districts, such as Bur Dubai, Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence, and others.