Dubai & Abu Dhabi in 5 Days
Dubai done badly is a shopping mall with a view. Done well, it's souks at dawn, a desert night, and Abu Dhabi's mosque at golden hour — this plan is the second version.
5
Days
£120–£200 / $150–$250 per person per day
Per day
November–March; summer is genuinely unmanageable outdoors
Best time
6
Nights
Your day-by-day plan
Old Dubai
Morning · Land, check in, Al Fahidi historic district
Afternoon · Abra across the creek, gold and spice souks
Evening · Creekside dinner
Modern Dubai
Morning · Burj Khalifa first slot, Dubai Mall aquarium
Afternoon · Museum of the Future (book weeks ahead)
Evening · Fountain show from the lake bridge
Desert
Morning · Late start, Jumeirah Mosque tour
Afternoon · Desert safari pickup, dune drive, camels
Evening · Camp dinner under the stars
Abu Dhabi
Morning · Drive or bus (90 minutes), Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Afternoon · Louvre Abu Dhabi
Evening · Corniche walk, back to Dubai
Beach and home
Morning · JBR or Kite Beach, Palm monorail
Afternoon · Airport
Evening · —
Local tips that save you money
- Mosque visits need covered arms, legs and hair for women — abayas are lent free at the Grand Mosque.
- Book the Burj Khalifa 'sunset' slot months out, or take the 9am slot for half the price and clearer air.
- Alcohol is hotel-and-licensed-venue only, and public drunkenness is an actual offence.
United Arab Emirates: common questions
How many days do you need in United Arab Emirates?+
This plan covers 5 days, which is the sweet spot for Dubai & Abu Dhabi without doubling back. You can trim the last two days or add a beach stop if you have longer.
What is the best time to visit United Arab Emirates?+
November–March; summer is genuinely unmanageable outdoors. Shoulder months give you the same sights with lower prices and shorter queues.
How much does a trip to United Arab Emirates cost?+
Budget roughly £120–£200 / $150–$250 per person per day, excluding international flights. That covers accommodation, food, local transport and entry tickets at a mid-range pace.
How do you get around in United Arab Emirates?+
Metro along Sheikh Zayed Road, cheap taxis everywhere else. Buy a Nol card at the first station.
