How to Plan a 6 Days Dubai Itinerary for First Timers

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As a city of contrast, Dubai holds an allure like no other city in the world. It is an exceptional destination where gleaming steel and glass skyscrapers meet earth-toned wind-tower houses, winding alleys, stark deserts, and old souks. It exudes bespoke opulence and a charming, simple life. Amid this intriguing mix, as a first-timer, you will be spoilt with options regarding what to see and do here. The city tells many tales, but weaving an image through stories does no justice compared to what you witness when you explore it up close. Got 6 days free in hand? Plan a visit to the fabulous Middle Eastern city and see for yourself. As a guide to planning your Dubai vacation, we provide you an example itinerary for first-time tourists. Read on. 

Things to Know for a Blissful Dubai Holiday

Before we share the plan for your first-ever Dubai holiday, there are a few things to keep in mind. Sort out these aspects and a hassle-free Dubai trip is guaranteed.

Know about Dubai Visa: Before you plan your trip, get to know about Dubai visa, how you should apply for one and what documents are needed for the same. For the following Dubai itinerary 6 days trip, a 30-day Dubai tourist visa is sufficient. For tourists who are citizens of GCC countries or destinations like the USA, UK, and Canada, then you do not need to go through the paperwork and hassle of a pre-approved visa. Find out whether you require a visa or not according to your nationality.

Understand what type of itinerary you want: Though it is your first trip to Dubai, identify the kind of experience you would prefer.  For instance, if you don’t like thrills and adventures, a trip to Aquaventure Water Park or taking a desert safari might not suit you. A relaxing journey on the Dubai Marina or Dubai Creek cruise and visiting heritage sites might be more fascinating. 

Respect the culture: Once you reach Dubai, you must respect the culture and laws of the land. The emirate is an integral part of an Islamic nation, even if it is lenient, and has a different, modern vibe compared to other emirates. You must dress modestly, especially in public places and religious sites. Refrain from PDA. Also, do not say anything against the royal family. 

Have a buffer in the budget: Add 5 % more to the estimated budget for your Dubai trip. The city is attractive and provides lots of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. Therefore, if you decide to indulge in such an event, some additional financial planning may not significantly affect your vacation budget. 

Know what you can bring to Dubai: Dubai has strict rules and various policies, especially regarding what you can carry to the emirate with you. The customs laws are strict and have zero tolerance for drugs, even certain medications and ingredients that usually are freely used in other countries. Go through the list of items that are not allowed to be brought to Dubai to avoid any kind of hassle with the law.

Find out which time is best for you to travel: When traveling to Dubai, know that October to April is the best time to visit the destination. However, this is also the peak season for UAE travel and hence not favourable for budget-conscious travellers. However, this is also the period when most festivals, seasonal attractions and events are held throughout the city. For budget-friendly travel, opt for shoulder seasons like September or March for reasonable prices. 

Be informed about attractions: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village are seasonal attractions open only during the colder Dubai months. These are quite in demand. So, if you wish to explore a floral oasis on your trip without disappointments, you should book Dubai Miracle Garden tickets in advance. You should also check out Dubai Miracle Garden facts for first-time visitors for a deeper insight into this marvellous attraction. Additionally, some attractions have dress codes in place and theme parks also have height or age restrictions and cautionary instructions in case of any medical conditions so that visitors are well informed when deciding whether to go for a ride or not. For an enjoyable time in Dubai, a visitor should be aware of these particulars.

Now that you have a general idea of what to consider before arriving in Dubai, it’s time to look at what you can do for a 6 day Dubai trip. Before going further, we want to point out that the following Dubai itinerary for 6 days is designed with the understanding that you, as a visitor, have six full days to spend in Dubai. You would arrive a day prior and take that day for leisure and relaxation after your flight. You can explore as you wish if you do not feel tired. After the 6th day in our itinerary, you depart the next day and utilize any free time for last-minute shopping, visiting attractions on your own, or simply spending the time packing and relaxing before your journey to your onward destination.

6-Day Dubai Holiday Itinerary for First-time Visitors

Day 1: Modern Dubai

You start your tour by viewing attractions that Dubai proudly presents to the world as a feat that supports the statement ‘Everything is possible’. Today, you will visit:

Burj Khalifa

It’s the most spectacular and tallest tower in the world and an iconic landmark of Dubai, located in Dubai downtown. We recommend you book a ticket for the ‘At the Top – Burj Khalifa’ tour to get a comprehensive experience at this iconic architectural marvel. 

Dubai Fountain

Just adjacent to it, the gracious dancing Dubai Fountain – one of the largest water fountains in the world will entertain you with its swaying and shooting water jets synched to melodious or foot-tapping music and vibrant lights.

Dubai Frame

Take a panoramic view from the top of the world’s biggest frame. The view of the entire Dubai, old and new, from the sky deck is absolutely a sight to behold!

Museum of the Future

Step forward in time inside this unique, oval-shaped metallic museum the first of its kind in the world showcasing the future rather than the past.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Discover the biggest floral oasis in a desert and the largest natural garden in the world – Dubai Miracle Garden. Since it is a seasonal attraction, it opens only during the cooler months in Dubai. Replace it with Al Qudra Lakes if you are visiting from April to September.

Palm Jumeirah

End your day at the sprawling Palm Jumeirah, the world’s first man-made, fully functional, inhabited island.

You can take the Full Dubai City Tour to cover these spots. A hop-on hop-off experience is a good way to explore the sights at your own time and pace. If you want to upgrade your trip to a luxury level, opt for a limousine city tour experience. 

Day 2 – Old Dubai

On day 2, focus on what Dubai was before it became a futuristic city. Today’s highlights include: 

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Known as the oldest quarter of Dubai, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood feels frozen in time even as the rest of Dubai embraces the modern age. Through its preserved courtyard houses, wind tower structures, and monotone alleys, you can glimpse Dubai’s simplicity captured in this Bedouin ambiance.

Dubai Creek

Right next to Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Dubai Creek is yet another sight that shows how life thrived in the olden times of Dubai. Before Dubai became a metropolitan, the humble life here paints a contrasting picture, making you instantly realize how far Dubai has come within a few decades.

Dubai Souks

On the other side of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, across the creek, witness the bustling bazaars known as souks, which have been present since Dubai’s trading days. Take an abra for that authentic wooden boat ride across the creek and visit an aroma-filled Spice Souk and Perfume Souk. Later, get bedazzled by all the glitter of gold and gemstones at the Gold Souk.

Al Seef

Conclude the 2nd day of your trip at Al Seef – a perfect hub to sum up your rendezvous with the Arabian past of Dubai. Spend as much time as you want here exploring the waterfront, viewing the amalgam of old Dubai and twinkling modern Dubai in the background, and relishing a supper of an assortment of cuisine from local Arabian dishes to exotic international flavors.

Day 3: Dubai’s Unique Adventures

Today, spend your day at Dubai’s amazing theme parks. You can choose your favorite thrill based on the elements – air or water!

Skydive Dubai

This is for extreme adventurers and daredevils. If you are seeking the ultimate thrill that tests your courage, skydiving in Dubai is something you shouldn’t miss. Along with the exhilarating feeling of soaring and gliding towards the earth, you are rewarded with an astounding bird’s eye view of the gorgeous Palm Jumeirah when you take the plunge from the Palm Drop Zone. After your skydiving experience, relax for a couple of hours to calm your adrenaline before you enjoy some water sports experiences like jet skiing, stand-up paddling, wakeboarding, and parasailing at JBR. However, if you plan a Dubai itinerary for 6 days for family, skip this and choose Aquaventure Water Park instead.

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Aquaventure Water Park

A fun way to spend time with family and friends, Aquaventure Water Park’s 105 outstanding rides and water thrills will never leave a dull moment this day. With Aquaventure water park tickets in hand, you enter a world filled with countless gallons of water implemented in rides in various ways: a meandering lazy river, a thrilling wave simulator for surfing, high-speed, gravity-defying rides, and splash play areas for kids. One of the Atlantis Aquaventure insider tips we would like to share is that rather than buying the ticket, consider planning a stay at Atlantis The Palm. If you have the budget, then go for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Dubai’s finesse in luxury stays, refined fine dining, and extraordinary thrill experiences. With a stay, you will get complimentary access to the water park, Lost Chambers Aquarium, private beaches, breakfasts, gaming credit at Wave House for kids, and more.

Day 4 – Wildlife and Nature Sceneries

Today, experience the incredible fusion of natural and wildlife sceneries thriving within the city. After breakfast, explore some of the best things to do in Dubai to experience nature and wildlife.

The Green Planet Dubai

Your first stop is The Green Planet Dubai – an indoor tropical rainforest teeming with over 3000 plants, exotic animals, and rare birds. Wander through the indoor misty arena, created by a beautiful waterfall, and surrender yourself to lush, tranquil greenery all around you. This spot is one of the best summer activities for kids in Dubai where they can escape the scorching heat and enjoy time in a cool, misty space while exploring  an array of nature-related activities and animal encounters. So, ensure you book Green Planet Dubai tickets in advance, especially during school holidays, summers and public holidays.

Ski Dubai

Next, head to the Mall of the Emirates to jump, slide, and toss in real snow! Ski Dubai in the Mall of the Emirates is the perfect spot to chill and enjoy some snow adventures with family and friends. While you are here, watch out for cute penguins that waddle out for some time. These penguin encounters are included in your Ski Dubai tickets.

Dubai Dolphinarium

Once you have had your exciting time in Ski Dubai, get set to meet another smart and gentle creature of the ocean. Conclude your day by watching a fantastic show of friendly dolphins showing off their talents and swimming gracefully in sync with their instructors. One of the interesting facts about Dubai Dolphinarium is that it is the only attraction in Dubai that features dolphin, seal, and exotic bird shows. Kids can also get in the pool for meet and greet sessions with dolphins, watch bird shows and more at an additional cost than the Dubai Dolphinarium tickets.

You can also add a trip to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary to view the flamboyance of flamingoes, head to Dubai Butterfly Park or watch falconry shows if you have time left after the Dubai Dolphinarium experience.

Day 5: Day Trips from Dubai

As an extension to Day 4, we take our venture for nature further, beyond the cities to deserts and mountains. After 4 days immersing yourself in Dubai’s pulsating energy, today, after a hearty breakfast, leave the modern glistening city behind and head east. Choose to take a day trip to Hatta Wadi or zoom off to the Dubai deserts to spend some time amid nature’s tranquil beauty.  

Hatta Wadi

A mountainous haven in Hajar mountains, teeming with jade lakes and dramatic, rugged cliffs ideal for outdoor thrills. You can go kayaking, hiking or simply stroll around enjoying the serene scenery and visiting Hatta Heritage Village.

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Dubai Desert Safari

Dubai’s deserts have a way of enchanting their way and etching themselves in your memories for a long time. Spend your time in the golden dunes enjoying desert sports like dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding and more. You will return to the city and enjoy the rest of the day free at leisure.

Day 6 – Dubai’s Luxury Quotient

While we have covered all major aspects of Dubai City, how can we overlook the element that’s most related to the city – its luxury quotient? So, before you bid farewell to the city, let it pamper you with its opulence. The luxury experiences listed below in Dubai are perfect for first-time visitors who want a taste of Dubai’s lavishness without overspending.

Inside Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Tour

Take a tour of the only 7-star hotel in the world, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. On this 90-minute tour, you can explore the gold-gilded, royal interiors and understand why it holds the undefeated status of the most luxurious hotel in the world. If you can loosen your wallet , enjoy High Tea in one of its exquisite restaurants.

Dubai Mall

Next, visit Dubai Mall. Here, splurge on retail therapy or simply explore this colossal mall that exudes creativity and opulence. Window shopping in the mall is totally worth it and doesn’t cost a dime. If you can splurge, go forth for a shopping spree, getting some of the most high-end brands and luxury items available at over 1200 stores inside this mall. You can even buy 1 gram of gold from a ‘Gold to Go’ vending machine inside the mall! 

Rooftop Dining

Dubai’s rooftop scene is iconic and a perfect way to conclude your trip with a grand farewell dinner. Dining above the city with twinkling lights is an amazing experience, and you can enjoy it at an eclectic assortment of rooftop venues like Samakjé, The Cullinan Steakhouse, Mood Rooftop Lounge, and Level 43, to name a few. Choose your venue to dine in style, overlooking the scintillating sights of the Dubai city skyline, and raise a toast for the city with a promise to return for more. 

Conclusion

This Dubai 6-day itinerary covers most of its splendors and is apt for first-time visitors. You could also cut down one day and check out our Dubai itinerary for 5 days holiday. There are many options to choose from that can be fitted into your time frame for visiting Dubai. Just decide to visit Dubai this year; that’s the first step to take!

FAQs

1.What else to enjoy in Dubai on a week-long holiday? 

There is no dearth of experiences in Dubai. You can check out this 7 day trip to Dubai itinerary if you plan to spend a week in Dubai.  

2. How many days should one ideally visit to explore Dubai?

It is best to visit Dubai for 5 to 7 days to get a comprehensive city experience.

3. Can I visit Dubai during Ramadan?

Yes, you can visit Dubai during Ramadan as it is one of the best times to explore the city on a budget. However, you will need to adhere to the customs followed by locals. You can find many attractions with different opening times, and restaurants closed during the fasting hours.

4, How much will a 6-day Dubai holiday cost?

A 6-day trip would roughly cost around 3500 AED to 4500 AED per person depending on your choices.