Dubai Travel Guide: A Complete 5-Day Itinerary with Costs & Tips

Dubai, the city of dreams, blends modernity and tradition in a spectacular way. This Dubai travel guide details a 5-day itinerary from Pravasi Baba’s first international trip, starting at Dubai Airport and checking into the Wescott Hotel in Bur Dubai. Offering luxurious rooms with city and creek views, the hotel’s proximity to markets made it ideal for shopping and dining. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or luxury, this complete Dubai itinerary with costs and tips has you covered.

Day 1: Arrival and Marina Cruise – A Perfect Start to Your Dubai Trip

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After landing in Dubai, we arrived at Wescott Hotel, greeted by warm staff and a stunning creek view that instantly eased our jet lag. After a quick rest, we headed to the Dubai Marina Cruise—one of the top things to do in Dubai. Welcomed with Qahwa and dates, I savored the bittersweet taste as we boarded Al Khaleej, a houseboat-style cruise. The lower deck offered a lavish dinner—think juicy kebabs and creamy hummus—while the upper deck showcased Dubai’s skyline. Standing there, wind in my hair, I was mesmerized by the glittering towers. The Tanoura dance and light show added a magical touch, making this a must-do for your Dubai itinerary.

Book your Marina Cruise tickets on platforms like Thrillophilia or GetYourGuide for deals and easy booking.

Day 2: Desert Safari – Thrills in the Golden Sands

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Day two was all about adventure with a Dubai Desert Safari. I’ll admit, I was nervous, but the ATV ride had me laughing like a kid as sand flew everywhere. The dune bashing that followed? Pure adrenaline—my stomach flipped with every drop, but our driver’s skill kept us cheering. At the desert camp, belly dancing and a fire show captivated us. Opting for the VIP dinner, I savored tender lamb mandi under a starry sky. Lying on a cushion, gazing at the stars, I felt a peace that made this one of the best adventure activities in Dubai.

Secure your Desert Safari experience through Viator or Klook for competitive prices and reviews.

Day 3: Dubai Landmarks & Burj Khalifa – Iconic Sights and Sky-High Views

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Our third day kicked off with a Dubai city tour. In Old Dubai, the souks smelled of spices—I haggled for saffron, a perfect souvenir. At Jumeirah Beach, I dipped my toes in warm water while photographing the majestic Burj Al Arab. Stops at Atlantis and the futuristic Museum of the Future followed—its exhibits felt like a sci-fi dream. Evening brought us to Dubai Mall, where I got lost in the aquarium’s underwater tunnel, sharks gliding overhead. The Fountain Show’s water dance gave me goosebumps before we ascended to the 125th floor of the Burj Khalifa. The panoramic views left me awestruck—I whispered, “This is why I travel.”

Reserve Burj Khalifa tickets in advance on the official Burj Khalifa website or Tiqets to skip the lines.

Day 4: Abu Dhabi Day Trip – Grandeur and Serenity

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Day four was an Abu Dhabi day trip from Dubai, starting at the BAPS Hindu Temple. Its carved stone arches felt like home—I sat quietly, listening to soft chants, finding profound peace amidst the journey. Next, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque dazzled with white marble and chandeliers. Driving the Corniche, I felt the breeze and admired waterfront views. At Ferrari World, I skipped the world’s fastest roller coaster but enjoyed watching others scream. This Abu Dhabi itinerary perfectly balances culture and excitement, complementing your Dubai travel plans.

Book an Abu Dhabi day tour via Civitatis or Musement for guided options with transfers.

Day 5: Dubai Miracle Garden & Global Village – A Colorful Finale

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Day five was a sensory delight, beginning at Dubai Miracle Garden. With over 150 million flowers, I wandered heart-shaped pathways, snapping photos of floral castles and an Emirates plane—Instagram gold! Later, Global Village Dubai buzzed with culture. I grabbed a camel figurine from Morocco and a spicy shawarma from Lebanon, clapping along to a Bollywood dance act. Joining the crowd’s sway, I soaked in the vibrant energy. These family-friendly spots are must-visits for your Dubai itinerary.

Get Dubai Miracle Garden tickets at MiracleGardenTickets.com or Headout, and Global Village entry through GlobalVillage.ae or Klook.

Personal Highlights: Why This Dubai Trip Was Unforgettable

This 5-day Dubai itinerary was more than sightseeing—it was a journey of modernity, culture, and grandeur. The Burj Khalifa’s 125th-floor views felt like a dream, while the BAPS Hindu Temple’s serenity grounded me. From the Marina Cruise’s warm welcome to the Desert Safari’s thrills, Dubai Miracle Garden’s blooms to Global Village’s chaos, every moment shone. The Abu Dhabi day trip added depth, blending luxury and heritage. Planning a trip? Add these to your Dubai travel guide. Stay tuned for Pravasi Baba’s next adventure!

Common Traveler Questions About Dubai

Here are answers to popular questions travelers ask when planning a Dubai trip, based on our experience:

What is the best time to visit Dubai?

The best time to visit Dubai is between November and March when temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), perfect for outdoor activities like the Desert Safari and Miracle Garden. Summers (June to August) are scorching, often exceeding 40°C (104°F), but indoor attractions like Dubai Mall remain enjoyable year-round.

How many days are enough for Dubai?

Five days, as in this itinerary, are ideal to cover Dubai’s top attractions—Burj Khalifa, Desert Safari, Marina Cruise—and a day trip to Abu Dhabi. For a shorter trip, 3 days can work, focusing on Dubai’s highlights, but 7 days allow a more relaxed pace with extra spots like Dubai Frame or Ski Dubai.

How much does a 5-day Dubai trip cost?

A 5-day Dubai trip costs approximately ₹88,865 (INR) per person, including flights, hotel, food, transport, and attractions like Burj Khalifa and Desert Safari (see full breakdown below). Costs vary based on season, luxury preferences, and booking timing—early reservations save money.

Is Dubai safe for tourists?

Yes, Dubai is very safe for tourists, with low crime rates and strict laws. I felt secure wandering markets and attractions day and night. Dress modestly at cultural sites like the BAPS Temple and Grand Mosque, and follow local customs for a hassle-free experience.

Do I need a visa for Dubai?

It depends on your nationality. Indian citizens, like us, need a tourist visa—ours cost ₹6,000-₹8,000 via agents or UAE’s official portal. Many countries (e.g., USA, UK) get visa-on-arrival. Check the UAE Embassy website for your requirements.

What should I pack for Dubai?

Pack light, breathable clothes for warm weather, plus a jacket for chilly evenings or air-conditioned malls. Include modest outfits (e.g., long skirts, covered shoulders) for religious sites, comfy shoes for walking, sunscreen, and a hat. I regretted not bringing extra camera batteries—photo ops are endless!