The Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary in Dubai

Picture of Author: Amanda West

Author: Amanda West

Spending a week in Dubai? Top Spots Dubai has you covered with the ultimate seven-day plan. From sightseeing to the best spots to grab lunch and dinner, the ultimate beach clubs and the best cultural offerings, discover the very best of Dubai with us. 

Day 1: Downtown Dubai

On your first day in Dubai, explore the vibrant energy of Downtown Dubai. Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Mainson Ani in Dubai Mall, where you can savor delectable dishes to fuel your day. Afterward, head to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, for breathtaking views from the At The Top or The Lounge. Don’t miss the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, located within the mall, where you can witness an incredible display of marine life.

Spend your afternoon indulging in shopping at Dubai Mall, home to a wide range of renowned brands and boutiques. Take a break and enjoy a coffee with a slice of cake at L’eto, a cozy cafe within the mall. As the evening approaches, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Dubai Lake and witness the captivating Dubai Fountain show.

After some rest, prepare for a delightful dinner at Amelia, where you can enjoy a delectable meal and dance the night away in a lively party ambiance. Downtown Dubai sets the perfect tone for an exciting and memorable visit to the city.

Day 2: Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah

On your second day in Dubai, indulge in a luxurious and unforgettable experience. Start your morning with a delightful breakfast at The Grey on Al Wasl Road, where you can savor delicious dishes and enjoy a cool atmosphere. After breakfast, embark on a tour of the iconic Burj Al Arab, an architectural masterpiece and one of the world’s most luxurious hotels. Explore the stunning interiors and soak in the opulence that surrounds you.

Next, head to Madinat Jumeirah, a captivating Arabian resort complex. Enjoy a delightful lunch at Taverna, where you can indulge in Mediterranean flavors and soak in the charming ambiance of the waterfront. In the afternoon, unwind and savor the breathtaking views at Shimmers, a beachfront venue perfect for enjoying drinks during sunset. As the evening sets in, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Il Boro, where you can relish authentic Italian cuisine in an elegant setting. Day 2 promises to be a day filled with luxury, culture, and culinary delights in Dubai.

Day 3: Beach/Pool Club Day

Indulge in a day of sun, sand, and relaxation as you explore Dubai’s vibrant beach and pool club scene. Start your day by visiting some of the best beach and pool clubs in the city, such as Twiggy, San, Drift, Kyma, or Nammos. Lounge by the pool, take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters, and soak up the glorious Dubai sunshine.

As evening approaches, continue the excitement at DIFC with pre-drinks at Avli or LPM. Here  you can enjoy a wide selection of beverages in a lively atmosphere. For dinner, you have two exceptional options to choose from: Zuma, offering an exquisite dining experience with its contemporary Japanese cuisine, or Gaia, serving up delicious Greek and Mediterranean dishes in a vibrant setting.

After dinner, head to Amazonico Rooftop for a memorable party experience. Dance to the beats, sip on delicious cocktails, and revel in the energetic ambiance. And if you’re still in the mood for more, continue the festivities at Galaxy, where the party continues until the early hours. Day 3 in Dubai promises a perfect combination of beachside bliss, delectable dining, and unforgettable nightlife.

Day 4: Cultural Exploration in DIFC

Day 4 is all about exploring the modern side of Dubai and immersing yourself in its thriving art and culinary scene. Start your morning with a delightful breakfast at Parkers, savoring their delicious offerings to fuel your day ahead. Then, make your way to the iconic Museum of the Future, where you can discover groundbreaking technologies and innovations that shape the future.

After your visit to the museum, indulge in a delectable lunch at either Zuma or Josette, both located in the prestigious DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre). Enjoy a business lunch experience that combines exquisite cuisine with a sophisticated ambiance at a reasonable price (for the set menu).

In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll around DIFC and explore its art galleries, showcasing a diverse range of contemporary artworks. Pause for a coffee break and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling district.

As evening sets in, head to Ninive, a chic restaurant known for its Middle Eastern cuisine and enchanting shisha experience. Delight in a flavorful dinner while enjoying the traditional shisha rituals, creating a truly immersive Arabian dining experience.

Day 5: AlSerkal and Mall of the Emirates

Day 5 of your Dubai itinerary begins with a delightful breakfast at Cassette, located in “The Courtyard” in Al Quoz. Fuel up with their delicious offerings before embarking on an immersive exploration of Al Serkal Avenue, just across the road. This vibrant cultural district is home to numerous art galleries, creative spaces, and artisanal boutiques. Take your time to discover the rich artistic and cultural scene, allowing yourself 3-4 hours to fully appreciate the area.

For a refreshing and invigorating experience in AlSerkal, consider joining a yoga class at Shimmies or a spinning class at Crank, both offering a range of fitness activities to suit your preferences.

Afterward, make your way to the renowned Mall of the Emirates, where you can indulge in a world of shopping and entertainment. You may even want to try the world renowned Ski Dubai indoor ski resort, where you can hit the slopes and enjoy a unique winter experience in the heart of the desert.

As evening approaches, head to the Palm Tower and treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at either Coucou or Sushi Samba. Both restaurants offer delectable cuisine and stunning views, allowing you to unwind and savor the flavors of the evening.

Day 6: Atlantis The Royal and Palm West Beach

atlantis the royal hotel

On Day 6 of your Dubai itinerary, start your day with a delightful breakfast at the new Atlantis the Royal Resort. Indulge in a delicious spread of breakfast delights while enjoying the luxurious ambiance of this renowned resort.

After breakfast, it’s time for a relaxing pool day at Nobe By The Beach at Atlantis the Royal. Spend your day lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun, and taking refreshing dips in the crystal-clear waters. For a satisfying lunch, enjoy the food at Nobu by the Beach. Indulge in their exquisite Japanese cuisine while enjoying the scenic views of the beach.

In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at either Ling Ling or Milos, both located in Atlantis the Royal. Ling Ling offers a fusion of Asian flavors and exotic cocktails in a trendy setting, while Milos serves exceptional Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and Greek specialties.

After dinner, continue the night with an exciting party experience at the Surf Club, located at Palm West Beach. Dance the night away to vibrant beats and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this popular beachfront venue. The Surf Club hosts lively parties every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, providing the perfect opportunity to let loose and have a great time.

Day 7: Exploring Old Dubai and Dubai Marina/JBR

dubai creek boats
Deira Old Souq Station

On the final day of your Dubai itinerary, embark on an exploration of Old Dubai in the morning and early afternoon. There are plenty of exciting things to see and do in this historic part of the city. Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Arabian Tea House, a charming café that offers traditional Arabian cuisine. If you’re looking for a cool and Instagrammable spot, head to Starbucks Al Seef, known for its unique and aesthetically pleasing exterior.

Venture to one of the local shawarma stands and indulge in a mouthwatering shawarma wrap, a popular Middle Eastern street food. Here you can experience the authentic flavors of the region and enjoy the bustling ambiance of the local food scene. Next, take a memorable ride across Dubai Creek on an abra, a traditional wooden boat. For just 1 Dirham, you can cross the creek and admire the stunning views of the cityscape and the bustling waterfront activities. Make sure you visit some of the famous souks in the area.

One you are done with your sightseeing of historic Dubai, For late lunch, make a stop at Salt at Kite Beach, a popular food truck destination known for its gourmet burgers and beachside setting. Grab a quick bite and soak up the sun while enjoying the vibrant beach atmosphere.

In the early evening, head to Dubai Marina, JBR, and Bluewaters Island. Explore the vibrant waterfront promenade, indulge in some shopping, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque marina.

For dinner, treat yourself to a memorable night at Alici on Bluewaters Island. This elegant waterfront restaurant offers exquisite Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on seafood. Delight in the flavors of the Mediterranean while enjoying breathtaking views of the JBR and Marina skyline.

After dinner, continue the night nearby with a lively party at Puerto 99, a popular night time destination.