UAE 7-Day Itinerary – Discover the United Arab Emirates in One Week: Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Beyond

The United Arab Emirates has become one of the world’s most exciting travel destinations, and it’s easy to see why. The country keeps investing in tourism, opening new attractions every year that make travelers want to return again and again.

Many people think only of Dubai when they hear “UAE,” but the country is so much more than that. It’s not just about luxury: it’s safe, clean, and very tourist-friendly, with great hotels, restaurants, and experiences everywhere you go.

In this article, you’ll find my detailed 7-day UAE itinerary covering the best sights in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and a few beautiful countryside spots where you can experience the lesser-known side of the United Arab Emirates.

I’ve gathered my experiences from over a month of exploring the Emirates and packed all the highlights into one exciting week. This itinerary is filled with must-see landmarks, travel tips, and local recommendations to help you discover the most authentic side of the UAE.

It’s a busy plan, but I think it’s the best way to experience the country’s highlights in just one week.

First, I’ll show you a short overview of the 7-day itinerary. Then we’ll go day by day to explore what to do and where to go. At the end, you’ll also find some general travel tips to help you prepare for your trip.

So, let’s dive in and start with the quick overview!

After this short overview, let’s move on to the detailed 7-day UAE itinerary, day by day:

7-day UAE itinerary in detail: How to spend one week in the United Arab Emirates

After the overview, let’s check out the details of the one-week UAE itinerary.

Of course, the days can be swapped and personalized.

I planned this itinerary to include as many sights as possible within 7 days. It wasn’t easy, so if the pace feels too fast, you can easily stretch it into a 10- or 14-day trip. Throughout the guide, I’ll also mention optional stops in case you want to adjust your route or if the weather changes your plans.

So here’s how I would spend one week in the UAE if I wanted to see as much as possible:

Day 1: Dubai: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain

Let’s start the first day in Dubai, the largest city in the UAE, exploring its most famous and breathtaking landmarks.

Here’s the Day 1 itinerary:

Morning: Dubai Mall

Start your first day by exploring one of the largest shopping malls in the world: the Dubai Mall.

Located right next to the Burj Khalifa, the most famous highlight of Dubai, it’s a perfect starting point for your 7-day UAE itinerary. The mall has huge parking areas, hundreds of shops, cafés, and restaurants, so you can easily spend hours here.

The Dubai Mall is enormous, so you’ll only get a small taste of it in one morning, but it’s definitely worth visiting!

Don’t miss its main attractions like the waterfall, the Dinosaur skeleton, the Chinatown area, the Dubai Aquarium, and even the ice rink. When you get hungry, stop for lunch. There’s an incredible variety of restaurants for every taste and budget.

Afternoon: Burj Khalifa

In the afternoon, it’s time to visit Dubai’s most famous landmark: the Burj Khalifa.

The Burj Khalifa is an absolute must-see, a place worth visiting not just once, but every time you come to Dubai.

It’s the tallest building in the world at 828 meters and 163 floors.

You can see it from almost anywhere in Dubai, and it’s just as impressive up close as it is from afar.

The entrance is inside the Dubai Mall, under the name “At The Top”, but it’s not always easy to find, so follow the signs carefully.

After the ticket and security checks, a high-speed elevator will take you to the 124th and 125th floors, or if you choose a premium ticket, to the 148th or 152nd floors. The view is breathtaking from every level. With the higher-priced tickets, you’ll also get access to a lounge with drinks and small snacks.

Plan about 2–3 hours for your Burj Khalifa visit.

Evening: Dubai Fountain show

In the evening, get ready for the magical Dubai Fountain shows, held every 15 or 30 minutes. The fountains and laser lights create one of the most spectacular shows in the world.

The best views are from the Souk Al Bahar restaurants or the bridge in front of the fountains, but these spots get very crowded in the evening.

If you still have energy, take a walk to Burj Park or enjoy a short abra boat ride on Burj Lake.

This is a perfect way to end your first day in Dubai.

Day 2: Dubai: Museum of the Future, Dubai Frame, Old Dubai, Dubai Creek Harbour

For the second day, I planned more of Dubai’s exciting landmarks that you definitely shouldn’t miss. I recommend visiting them in this order, though I have to admit, the pace on this day is a little tight!

Morning: Museum of the Future

Start with the Museum of the Future, one of Dubai’s newest and most impressive attractions, opened just a few years ago. In my opinion, it’s one of the most stunning buildings in the world. Its futuristic shape and silver design make it truly unforgettable.

Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth visiting just to see it from the outside!

If you have enough time and interest, you can also explore it inside. The museum presents Dubai’s vision of the future, how the city imagines life in the next few decades. The exhibitions show ideas about technology, space, transportation, healthcare, and the environment.

Personally, I wouldn’t say it’s a must-see inside, but it’s definitely a must from the outside.

Afternoon: Dubai Frame, Old Dubai

In the afternoon, I planned two great programs that are close to each other:

Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is another unique and iconic landmark of the city. It’s literally a huge picture frame, and you can take an elevator to the top for an amazing view. The building looks impressive from the outside, but I highly recommend going inside too.

Inside, you can learn a bit about Dubai’s history, and once you reach the top (about 150 meters high), you’ll see modern Dubai with its skyscrapers on one side, and old Dubai on the other.

There’s also a glass floor that turns transparent when you step on it, it’s a thrilling experience!

It’s definitely worth visiting, even though it can get crowded at times. The entrance ticket is affordable, and the experience is unique.

Plan to spend about 1–2 hours here, depending on the crowds.

Old Dubai

If you still have time and energy in the afternoon, continue to explore Old Dubai, it’s a completely different side of the city.

Start around Al Seef Street and take a walk through the Heritage Area, where you can admire traditional Arabic architecture, buy local souvenirs, or grab a coffee at the famous Starbucks in Al Seef, which has a beautiful, authentic design that often appears on social media.

Then walk over to the nearby Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, filled with more old buildings, small museums, and narrow alleys.

The Dubai Museum is also in this area, though it’s currently closed with no clear reopening date.

Across the Dubai Creek, you can also find the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk, which are interesting to visit too, but I’d consider them optional. A fun thing to do here is take an abra boat ride across the Creek: it’s very cheap and is a great way to experience the authentic old atmosphere of Dubai.

Evening: Creek Harbour

For the evening, I recommend one of my favorite places in Dubai: Creek Harbour.

It’s one of the city’s fastest-growing areas, offering a beautiful waterfront promenade, great hotels, stylish restaurants, and a stunning skyline view of downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa.

I always come back here whenever I’m in Dubai. I just love walking by the water and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. My favorite places here are the Vida Creek Harbour Hotel and Soulgreen Restaurant, which has excellent gluten-free options too.

If you’re lucky, you might even catch fireworks during holidays or special events. But even on a regular evening, watching the sunset with the Burj Khalifa from Creek Harbour is a magical experience.

Spend a few relaxing hours here, have dinner at one of the restaurants, and simply enjoy the view of Dubai by night. It’s the perfect way to end your second day in the UAE.

Day 3: Day trip to Jebel Jais or Hatta

For the third day, I planned some countryside adventures, so you can discover the rural side of the UAE.

You can choose between two options, as both together would be too much for one day.

You can either go to the mountains of Jebel Jais and visit the growing city of Ras Al Khaimah, or travel to the very popular Hatta, where you can see a beautiful reservoir, lakes, and parks, and even try some water sports if you like.

Whichever you choose, both are perfect day trips from Dubai.

Option 1: Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah

Jebel Jais is a mountain in the Hajar Mountains, near Ras Al Khaimah and the border of Oman.

It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Dubai, and you have to go by car.

On the way, you can see desert landscapes with camels and trees along the highway, which is very interesting.

The best part, however, is the area around Jebel Jais and the panoramic mountain road leading to it. For mountain lovers, this will be a real highlight.

The road is in great condition and has many places where you can stop to take photos and enjoy the view.

If you want some extra excitement, you can try the Jebel Jais Zipline, one of the longest in the world.

Ras Al Khaimah itself is a smaller city, but it’s still worth a short visit, even though there aren’t many attractions.

If you have time, check out the Dhayah Fort, which offers nice views of the area.

Option 2: Hatta

The second option for Day 3 is the famous Hatta, one of the locals’ favorite destinations.

It’s about a 2-hour drive from Dubai, but there’s also a cheap bus if you don’t want to drive.

Hatta is mainly known for its reservoir, where you can go boating or kayaking.

You’ll need to park your car in one of the lower parking areas, then take a free shuttle bus up to the dam.

The area around the reservoir has been very well developed recently and is a nice place to spend a few hours.

The water from the reservoir flows through a waterfall, and at the bottom, you can see the faces of the UAE’s founding fathers, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, built into the structure. Below the waterfall, there’s also a small park.

In Hatta, you can also see the Hatta Sign, Leem Lake (which hosts the Hatta Festival in winter), Al Wadi Park, and the Hatta Fort Roundabout.

Day 4: Dubai: Expo City, Miracle Garden, Global Village

For the fourth day, I planned some optional activities that you can easily change or skip depending on your interests. These programs are quite personal — some people love them, others might prefer something else.

But in my opinion, this is the best plan for Day 4 in Dubai:

Morning: Expo City

Expo City was the location of Expo 2020, one of the best events I’ve ever attended. The area is still open today and used in many ways.

You can still enter a few of the pavilions that remain open, and there are also hotels, restaurants, and the central Al Wasl Plaza, which continues to host events and light shows.

It’s a pleasant morning program if you’re interested in modern architecture, culture, and innovation.

Afternoon: Miracle Garden

In the afternoon, visit the famous Dubai Miracle Garden, one of the city’s most popular attractions.

I’ve visited it several times in different years, and it always manages to surprise me with something new.

Dubai Miracle Garden is the largest flower garden in the world, filled with millions of flowers arranged in creative shapes and patterns.

One of the main highlights is the life-size Emirates Airbus A380, completely covered in flowers.

Another favorite spot is the heart-shaped flower tunnel, a perfect photo location and Instagram favorite.

Every year, the garden introduces a new theme, often inspired by fairytales.

The only downside is that the area often gets traffic jams, and parking and entrance tickets together can be quite pricey.

It’s also important to note that the garden is open only from autumn to spring, during the cooler season.

I definitely think it’s worth a visit!

Evening: Global Village

For the evening, I recommend visiting Global Village, a seasonal attraction also open only during the winter months.

It’s one of the best evening activities in Dubai, a fun mix of amusement park and international market.

Vendors from all around the world, from America to Asia, sell unique products, food, and crafts.

There are also shows, games, and cultural performances for both kids and adults, making it a great place for families and couples alike.

Parking is paid, and the closest lots are quite expensive, so it’s better to park a little farther away and walk.

The entrance ticket itself is not expensive, but many activities inside require extra payment.

Even though it looks like a family program, I also recommend it for young travelers who want to spend an exciting and colorful evening in Dubai.

Day 5: Abu Dhabi: Emirates Heritage Village, Qasr Al Watan, Grand Mosque

For the fifth day, I planned some really exciting programs: this is your first day in Abu Dhabi!

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE and the second largest city, constantly growing and offering more and more new attractions every year.

Many people say that one day is enough for Abu Dhabi, but I don’t agree. There’s so much to see, so I planned two days here. On the second day, I’ll also suggest an optional countryside trip if you want to explore beyond the city.

Abu Dhabi is about 1.5 hours by car from Dubai, and there are also regular bus connections between the two cities.

It’s up to you whether you want to stay overnight in Abu Dhabi or take day trips from Dubai.

Personally, I recommend spending one or two nights in Abu Dhabi, because it’s much more comfortable.

Morning: Emirates Heritage Village

Start your day with a bit of history at the Emirates Heritage Village.

Entrance is free, and it’s a nice place to walk around and get a feel for the old Emirati lifestyle.

You can visit the small museum, walk down to the beachfront for beautiful views of Abu Dhabi’s skyline, and see traditional houses, workshops, and even camels.

There are also local products for sale in the courtyard — great for souvenirs.

It’s a peaceful and interesting place to spend 1–2 hours in the morning.

Afternoon: Qasr Al Watan

Around lunchtime or early afternoon, visit Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace of the United Arab Emirates — and in my opinion, one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.

Built in 2017 and opened to the public in 2019, Qasr Al Watan is considered by many to be one of the most impressive architectural sites in the UAE and even in the Middle East.

You’ll need to buy a ticket at the first entrance, and then a shuttle bus will take you to the palace.

From the outside, the building already looks spectacular, but inside, it’s even more stunning with its white, gold, and blue decorations and incredible details.

Inside, you can also explore a large collection of books, artworks, and artifacts that are hundreds of years old.

Make sure to see the three beautiful oval-shaped structures — one gold and two silver — found inside and outside the palace. They display inspiring quotes by Sheikh Zayed in Arabic calligraphy and are among the most photographed spots in Qasr Al Watan.

Overall, Qasr Al Watan is less crowded than other major attractions, but I think it’s absolutely worth visiting.

Plan to spend about 2–3 hours here.

Evening: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

In the late afternoon or evening, visit Abu Dhabi’s most famous landmark: the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

It’s one of the most beautiful mosques in the world, and a true symbol of the UAE’s culture and elegance.

The mosque is free to visit, but getting in is not easy.

After parking, you’ll enter through an underground shopping area, pass a security check, and then walk into the mosque grounds.

Men and women must wear appropriate clothing, and they are very strict about it. Even slightly transparent or ankle-length clothes are not accepted.

Still, I believe this is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the UAE, and it’s definitely a must-see.

Optional: Emirates Palace and The Founder’s Memorial

If you still have energy after visiting the mosque, there are two optional attractions nearby.

• Visit the Emirates Palace, one of the most luxurious hotels in the UAE. You can stop by for a coffee or drink and enjoy the view of the fountains and skyline.
• Close to it, you’ll find The Founder’s Memorial, a beautiful outdoor monument that lights up at night, showing the face of Sheikh Zayed in a fascinating artistic way.

Both are great additions to your evening in Abu Dhabi.

Day 6: Abu Dhabi: Corniche Beach, Louvre, Ferrari World, Yas Mall

The sixth day is also dedicated to Abu Dhabi, visiting more of its famous sights.

Most of these are optional programs, so you can easily change the order or skip some of them depending on your interests.

Here’s how I would spend Day 6 of this itinerary:

Morning: Corniche Beach

Start your day with a relaxing walk at Corniche Beach, one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular beaches and promenades.

It’s a great place for a morning stroll with beautiful sea views and a peaceful atmosphere.

If you feel like swimming, you can, though there are other beaches nearby that might be even better for that.

Late morning / early afternoon: Louvre Abu Dhabi

Next, visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi, located on Saadiyat Island.

While it doesn’t have the same world-famous artworks as the Paris Louvre, it’s still a fascinating museum, and the architecture itself is worth the visit.

Louvre Abu Dhabi is surrounded by water, combining ancient and modern art inside a stunning building with a unique dome design.

You’ll also find a kayaking area and a café nearby where you can take a short break.

Lately, the museum has become popular not only for its exhibitions but also for its beautiful architecture, making it one of the most Instagrammable places in Abu Dhabi.

Optional: If you have more time in the area, visit the nearby Zayed National Museum, one of Abu Dhabi’s newest museums.

The building itself is impressive from the outside, but if you’re interested in Arabian history, it’s worth exploring inside too.

Afternoon, evening: Ferrari World, Yas Island

In the afternoon, head to Yas Island, where you’ll find many fun attractions and entertainment options.

The most famous one is Ferrari World, a racing-themed amusement park featuring family games, driving simulators, and car shows.

You can access the park directly from Yas Mall, where you can also go shopping or have dinner later in the day.

Besides Yas Mall and Ferrari World, Yas Island also offers:

• SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
• Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi
• Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island
• Beautiful beaches and luxury hotels

My personal favorite is the Yas Waterfront Promenade, perfect for an evening walk and a breathtaking sunset view.

Optional attractions in Abu Dhabi

Jubail Mangrove Park

This is a nature reserve that I recommend mainly during the winter season.

For a small entrance fee, you can walk for several kilometers along wooden boardwalks built above the shallow water and explore the mangroves and wildlife.

It’s a peaceful and relaxing place if you’re looking for something closer to nature.

Al Wathba Fossil Dunes

Located about 50 km south of Abu Dhabi, the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Reserve includes over 1,700 fossil dunes across 7 square kilometers, making it one of the largest fossil dune areas in the UAE.

The entrance is free of charge, and it’s a great stop if you enjoy unique landscapes and photography.

Optional: Day trip to Al Ain

If you have extra time, visit Al Ain, about 1.5–2 hours from Abu Dhabi.

Al Ain is known for its green parks, palm oases, and mountains.

Drive up Jebel Hafeet for amazing views, explore the Al Ain Oasis (a UNESCO site), and visit the Al Ain Palace Museum, the former home of Sheikh Zayed.

Day 7: Dubai: Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Bluewaters Island

The seventh and last day of this UAE itinerary takes you back to Dubai.

This time, I planned to explore the southwestern part of the city, where you’ll find several famous landmarks that were still missing from the trip.

Here’s how to spend your seventh day in Dubai:

Morning: Palm Jumeirah

Start your day on the iconic Palm Jumeirah Island.

The main highlights here are The View at The Palm and the two Atlantis hotels, including the famous Aquaventure Waterpark.

It’s worth buying a ticket to The View, as the panoramic view of the palm-shaped island from above is truly breathtaking.

Even if you only walk around the Atlantis hotels and enjoy a stroll along the beachfront, it’s a great way to spend your morning.

Afternoon: Dubai Marina

In the afternoon, head to Dubai Marina, one of the city’s most vibrant areas.

There aren’t many major landmarks here, but it’s the perfect place to walk, admire the skyscrapers, or relax at the Marina JBR Beach.

This beach isn’t just for swimming, it’s full of restaurants, cafés, and beach clubs with great views of the Ain Dubai Ferris wheel and the Address Beach Resort hotel.

You can also try camel rides, water sports, or join a boat trip from the nearby Bluewaters Marine Transport Station.

Evening: Bluewaters Island

In the evening, make your way to Bluewaters Island, either on foot from the Marina or by car.

In my opinion, this is one of Dubai’s most beautifully designed areas.

Enjoy the amazing skyline views, ride the Ain Dubai, the world’s largest Ferris wheel, and explore the island’s restaurants and boutiques.

One of my personal favorites here is Pastamamma, an Italian restaurant that also offers gluten-free options.

I also found some nice souvenirs here at good prices (though the cheapest ones are usually in supermarkets).

💡 Pro tips:

• If you want a special dining experience, try The Pods, one of the island’s most stunning (but pricey) restaurants. Reservations are recommended.
• You can also visit Madame Tussauds Dubai, which is located on Bluewaters Island.
• For one of the best views of the Ferris wheel, walk west from the wheel. It’s a great photo spot!
• Ride the Ain Dubai just before sunset, the view from the top is magical! Make sure to plan enough time though, as lines can be long, and the wheel moves very slowly.

The evening of Day 7 marks the end of this 7-day UAE itinerary. But keep scrolling, because there’s more helpful travel info waiting below!

Optional places to visit in Dubai

If you still have time or want to add something extra to your UAE itinerary, here are a few optional places worth visiting in Dubai:

• Souk Madinat Jumeirah: A modern version of an old-style Arabic market with beautiful canals, traditional shops, and amazing views of the Burj Al Arab.
• Burj Al Arab: The famous sail-shaped luxury hotel, one of Dubai’s most iconic buildings. Even if you don’t stay there, it’s worth seeing from the outside or dining nearby.
• Sky Views Observatory: A glass bridge and slide high above Downtown Dubai, offering thrilling views of the Burj Khalifa and the skyline. I also recommend having lunch at Ce La Vi, a restaurant nearby, it has one of the best views of the Burj Khalifa!
• Spice and Gold Souks: The most traditional markets in Old Dubai. Walk through the narrow streets, smell the spices, and see the shops full of gold jewelry.
• Dubai Garden Glow: A colorful evening attraction with glowing sculptures and light displays. Great for families and couples alike.
• Aya Universe: A futuristic indoor experience with lights, sounds, and digital art, a real hidden gem.
• Love Lake: A heart-shaped lake in the desert near Al Qudra. A romantic spot, especially beautiful at sunset.

So this was the 7-day UAE itinerary: full of the best places, tips, and ideas to help you plan your perfect one-week trip smoothly.

If you want even more information, keep reading! The next section covers general travel tips for visiting the United Arab Emirates.

General information before you travel to the UAE

If you plan to visit the UAE, it’s good to know a few things before you go.

Here are some general travel tips that will help you prepare for your trip:

Is the United Arab Emirates worth visiting?

If you’re a true globetrotter, visiting the United Arab Emirates is an experience you shouldn’t miss.

But honestly, the UAE is perfect for almost everyone: whether you dream of sunny winter getaways, love exploring modern cities, want to discover Arab culture, or simply crave a mix of luxury, adventure, and great food. With its beautiful beaches, world-class attractions, and warm hospitality, the Emirates have something for every kind of traveler.

Why is it not enough to see only Dubai?

I love Dubai. It’s without a doubt the most fascinating city in the Middle East. But the United Arab Emirates has so much more to offer beyond the famous Dubai skyline.

The countryside of the UAE is full of surprises: beautiful cities like Abu Dhabi, exciting mountain ranges, peaceful desert landscapes, and even hidden lakes waiting to be discovered.

Exploring beyond Dubai lets you see a completely different, more authentic side of the country.

How many days do you need to explore the whole UAE?

If you only want to see the most famous places in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, you’ll need at least 4–5 days.

One week gives you more time to enjoy the country, you can go on day trips to the desert or the countryside and explore beyond the big cities.

But if you want to see all the important sights, relax on the beaches, enjoy restaurants with amazing views, and do some shopping, I recommend staying for at least 10 days, or even 14 days if you can.

Time flies quickly in the UAE, so if you want to really experience the country, it’s worth staying a bit longer.

Where to stay in the UAE

I recommend staying in the two main cities, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as they make the perfect base for exploring the rest of the country and taking day trips to the countryside.

Best time to visit the UAE

The best time to visit the UAE is during the winter months, when the weather is pleasant. From November to March, you can enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities without the extreme heat.

In summer (June to September), temperatures often rise above 40°C (104°F), making it almost impossible to stay outside for long, so I don’t recommend visiting then.

If you want to enjoy the beaches, the best months are October, November, March, and April: warm enough for the sea, but still comfortable for exploring the cities.

Is the UAE an expensive destination?

Yes, the UAE is quite an expensive travel destination. Although hotels and restaurants may not seem too costly at first for Western tourists, flight tickets are usually expensive almost all year round.

Even though the cities offer many free or low-cost activities, the total cost adds up quickly: entrance fees, parking, tolls, and shopping can make a big difference during a 7-day trip.

It’s hard to say exactly how much your trip will cost, because prices vary a lot depending on your travel style.

But in general, you should plan around €2500–€3000 for two people for one week. If you want to really enjoy everything the country offers, €4000–€5000 is a more comfortable budget, and that’s still without much luxury.

How to get to the UAE

Unless you’re coming from a neighboring country, the best way to travel to the United Arab Emirates is by plane.

This itinerary starts in Dubai, as most international flights land here. The main airlines flying to Dubai are Emirates and FlyDubai, but you’ll also find plenty of charter flights from Europe and other regions.

Some flights also arrive in Abu Dhabi, which is another good option. The city is well connected, and it’s easy to reach Dubai in about 1–1.5 hours with a bit of planning. The main airline here is Etihad Airways, and you’ll also find several charter flights.

In recent years, Air Arabia (based in Sharjah) has become more popular thanks to its lower ticket prices. However, flying into Sharjah can be less convenient, I don’t recommend it for first-time visitors.

How to get around the UAE: by car or public transport?

I recommend exploring the UAE by car, as car rental is quite affordable and fuel prices are low compared to Europe.

Driving in the Emirates can take a little getting used to. The driving style is fast, similar to southern European countries. Traffic moves quickly, so it’s best if you or your travel partner are confident drivers.

Parking is usually very easy across the country. In smaller towns and rural areas, it’s mostly free, but in Dubai and sometimes Abu Dhabi, you’ll find paid parking zones near popular attractions, and the fees can be quite high.

Keep in mind that you’ll also have to pay tolls when driving on highways. Each time you pass through a toll gate, a few dirhams are charged automatically. It doesn’t seem much, but it can add up quickly during a week-long road trip.

Always respect the speed limits, as the UAE has many traffic cameras, and fines can be expensive.

If you don’t feel comfortable driving, there are other great ways to travel:

• Buses connect Dubai and Abu Dhabi several times a day and also reach some smaller destinations.
• Within Dubai, the metro is a cheap, modern, and efficient option.
• Taxis are safe, reliable, and reasonably priced across the country.
• You can also join organized tours, where local guides take you to the main attractions, so you don’t have to worry about driving or public transport. These are easy to book through platforms like GetYourGuide.

Other useful things to know before planning your trip to the UAE

The UAE is an amazing travel destination, but there are a few things worth knowing before you go.

• One downside is the natural environment. Since most of the country is desert, there’s often a lot of dust in the air. This can be difficult for people with respiratory problems (even steroid nasal sprays didn’t help much in my case).
• The weather can also bring surprises. Sandstorms are not uncommon, and in recent years there have even been heavy rains and floods. The good news is that the drainage system is being improved to prevent this in the future.
• Another thing to keep in mind is that tap water comes from purified seawater. It’s officially safe to drink, but in practice, bottled water is recommended. Personally, I never had any issues, but it’s still more comfortable to use mineral water instead.

Now, for the positive side:

• Cities are very hygienic and clean everywhere.
• There are many options for special diets, including gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegan choices.
• The UAE is also an excellent family destination, it’s very child-friendly and full of activities and attractions for kids.

So, this was the detailed 7-day UAE itinerary, shared day by day, filled with travel tips and general information to help you plan your perfect trip.

You’ve now seen the main highlights of the United Arab Emirates, the best things to do, and my personal hotel, restaurant, and beach recommendations — all based on the many weeks I’ve spent traveling across the country.

With all this information, it’ll be much easier for you to plan your one-week trip to the UAE.

If you’re feeling inspired to visit the United Arab Emirates, whether for a week or a longer adventure, go ahead and book your flight, hotel, and rental car, and get ready to explore the most breathtaking country of the Middle East!