Embarking on a 7-day journey from India to the mesmerizing city of Dubai and back is an adventure filled with luxury, culture, and unforgettable experiences. This guide provides a detailed itinerary, including daily activities, hotel recommendations, expenses, and essential travel tips for a seamless journey.
Day 1: Departure from India and Arrival in Dubai
Morning: Fly from India to Dubai. Major airlines like Emirates or Etihad offer comfortable flights.
Afternoon: Check into a hotel like the Burj Al Arab or the Atlantis, The Palm for luxury, or choose budget-friendly options like Rove Downtown.
Evening: Explore the Dubai Mall and witness the spectacular Dubai Fountain show.
Expenses –
Flight: Economy class tickets range from INR 30,000 to INR 60,000 round trip per person.
Accommodation: Budget hotels like Ibis Dubai Al Rigga cost around INR 3,500 to INR 5,000 per night.
Meals and Transportation: approx. INR 2,500–INR 3,500.
Do’s and Don’ts: Do exchange some currency before travel; don’t disrespect local customs.
Day 2: Discovering Old Dubai
Morning: Visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood and Dubai Museum.
Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional Abra ride in Dubai Creek and shop in the Gold and Spice Souks.
Evening: Dine at Al Dawaar, Dubai’s only revolving restaurant.
Expenses:
Activities: minimal entry fees, about INR 500–INR 700.
Meals and souvenirs: approximately INR 2,000–INR 3,000.
Do’s and Don’ts: Do haggle in the souks; don’t take photos of locals without permission.
Day 3: The Glamour of Modern Dubai
Morning: Tour the iconic Burj Khalifa and the Armani Hotel.
Afternoon: Visit the Palm Jumeirah and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.
Evening: Relax at JBR Beach and dine at one of its beachfront restaurants.
Expenses:
Burj Khalifa: Tickets for lower observation decks cost around INR 2,000–INR 2,500.
Meals: approx. INR 2,000–INR 3,000.
Do’s and Don’ts: Do book Burj Khalifa tickets in advance; don’t dress inappropriately.
Day 4: Adventure in the Desert
Morning: Relax at the hotel or explore local markets.
Afternoon to Evening: Experience a desert safari with dune bashing, camel riding, and a BBQ dinner.
Expenses:
Safari Tour: Budget safari tours cost about INR 3,500–INR 4,500, including dinner.
Other Expenses: Minimal.
Do’s and Don’ts: Do wear comfortable clothing; don’t disrespect wildlife.
Day 5: Abu Dhabi Day Trip
Morning to evening: Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi. Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Ferrari World.
Expenses:
Transportation: bus fare is approx. INR 1,500–INR 2,000.
Attractions: Entry fees range from INR 1,000 – INR 2,000.
Meals: approx. INR 2,000–INR 3,000.
Do’s and Don’ts: Dress modestly for the mosque; don’t rush through attractions.
Day 6: Leisure and Shopping
Morning: Enjoy hotel amenities or a spa day.
Afternoon: Visit the Mall of the Emirates and the Dubai Opera.
Evening: Explore the vibrant nightlife at Dubai Marina.
Expenses:
Shopping and Entertainment: Variable, set aside INR 5,000–INR 10,000.
Meals: approx. INR 2,000–INR 3,000.
Do’s and Don’ts: Do explore different cuisines; don’t disturb others.
Day 7: Departure Back to India
Morning: Last-minute shopping or visit Jumeirah Mosque.
Afternoon: Check out and head to the airport.
Expenses:
Last-minute shopping and transportation: approximately INR 2,500–INR 3,500.
Do’s and Don’ts: Do check traffic to avoid missing your flight; don’t leave without trying Arabic coffee.
Total Estimated Expenses: $1,500–$5,000 per person (excluding shopping).
Additional Tips for a Budget Trip:
Book Flights in Advance: Look for deals and book your flights well in advance to get the best rates.
Use public transport: Dubai’s metro system is affordable and covers major attractions.
Eat Local: Try local eateries and street food for more affordable meal options.
Free Attractions: Dubai has several free attractions like beaches and parks that you can enjoy without spending much.
Best Time to Visit Dubai
November to March are ideal, offering pleasant weather suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This period also aligns with Dubai’s shopping festival season.
April to October can be extremely hot, but you’ll find cheaper hotel rates and fewer tourists.
Important Travel Laws in Dubai
Dress Code: Dress modestly in public areas. Beachwear is acceptable at beaches and pools only.
Alcohol consumption is legal at licensed venues, but public drunkenness is a serious offense.
Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Use polite language and behavior.
Photography: Avoid photographing people, especially women, without permission.
Affordable Shopping in Dubai
Dubai’s Traditional Souks: Gold Souk and Spice Souk offer a range of affordable items.
Dragon Mart is known for budget-friendly Chinese products.
Dubai Outlet Mall: Great for discounted branded items.
Global Village offers a variety of products from around the world at reasonable prices.
Discounted Flights and Hotels
Flights: Use travel aggregator sites like Skyscanner or Kayak for comparing fares. Booking well in advance, especially during off-peak seasons, often yields better deals. Low-cost airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India Express can be more budget-friendly.
Hotels: Consider booking through platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, or Airbnb for competitive prices. Opting for hotels outside the city center or in areas like Al Barsha or Deira can be more economical. Check for hotel deals on websites like Groupon or Cobone.
The Importance of Medical and Travel Insurance
Peace of Mind: Insurance covers unforeseen medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other travel-related mishaps.
Legal Requirement: Some countries may require proof of travel insurance upon entry, especially in the current context of health concerns.
Cost-effective: The cost of insurance is minimal compared to the expenses and hassles you might face without it.
Choosing the Right Insurance Plan
Coverage: Look for plans that cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and flight delays.
COVID-19 Coverage: Ensure the policy covers COVID-19-related health issues, given the ongoing global situation.
Read the Fine Print: Understand the terms, limitations, and exclusions of your policy.
Estimated Cost of Insurance
Travel Insurance: Depending on the coverage, you can expect to pay about INR 1,000 to INR 3,000 for a week’s trip.
Traveling to Dubai with a pet from India is possible, but it requires careful planning and adherence to specific regulations. Here are the key points to consider:
Pet import requirements for Dubai:
Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785-compliant 15-digit pet microchip.
Vaccinations: Pets must be vaccinated against rabies and other diseases. The rabies vaccine must be administered between 21 days and 12 months prior to entering Dubai.
Health Certificate: In order to travel with your pet and ensure that they are free of contagious diseases, you will need a health certificate from an Indian veterinarian with a license.
Additional Documentation:
Import Permit: Obtain an import permit from the UAE Ministry of Environment and Water.
Proof of Ownership: Documentation proving your ownership of the pet.
Airlines’ Pet Policies:
Check with your airline for their specific pet travel policies. Some airlines allow small pets in the cabin, while others may require pets to travel as checked baggage or cargo.
Quarantine:
Upon arrival in Dubai, pets may be subject to quarantine, depending on their health status and documentation.
Accommodations in Dubai:
Ensure your accommodation in Dubai is pet-friendly. Not all hotels and rental properties allow pets.
Cost:
The cost of taking a pet can be significant, including fees for vaccines, health certificates, import permits, and airline charges.
Vegetarian restaurants in Dubai
Comptoir 102
Location: Jumeirah 1
Specialty: A health-focused cafe that offers a fusion of organic, vegan, and vegetarian dishes. Known for its chic, bohemian vibe,.
Wild and The Moon
Location: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz
Specialty: Offers plant-based foods that are organic, gluten-free, and locally sourced. The menu includes cold-pressed juices, smoothie bowls, and vegan desserts.
Life’n One
Location: Jumeirah 1
Specialty: A wellness center and cafe that serves vegan and vegetarian meals in a serene garden setting. Their menu is rich with detox juices, vegan burgers, and wholesome salads.
XVA Café
Location: Al Fahidi Neighborhood, Bur Dubai
Specialty: Set in an art gallery, this cafe offers Middle Eastern vegetarian dishes with an artistic twist, in a traditional Arabian setting.
Govinda’s
Location: Jumeirah & Karama
Specialty: A popular chain offering a fusion of Indian vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Known for its flavorful thalis and a wide range of Jain dishes,.
Baker & Spice
Location: Downtown Dubai and other locations
Specialty: An artisan food shop and restaurant that focuses on organic, locally sourced ingredients with a variety of vegetarian options.
Saravana Bhavan
Location: Multiple locations, including Al Karama
Specialty: A well-known global chain offering South Indian vegetarian cuisine. Famous for its dosas and idlis.