7 Days in UAE: The Ultimate Itinerary (2026 Guide)

The United Arab Emirates in 2026 stands as the Middle East's most dazzling destination, where futuristic skyscrapers meet golden deserts and traditional souks. From Dubai's record-breaking attractions to Abu Dhabi's cultural treasures, pristine beaches, and world-class shopping, the UAE offers luxury, adventure, and Arabian hospitality in one unforgettable package.

Essential Travel Documentation & Planning

1. USA: Visa-free entry for 90 days. Passport valid 6 months beyond entry. No visa cost. Travel insurance recommended ($60-120 for 7 days).

2. Canada: Visa-free entry for 90 days. Passport valid 6 months minimum. No visa cost. Travel insurance strongly advised ($70-130).

3. UK: Visa-free entry for 30 days visa on arrival (extendable). Passport valid 6 months from arrival. No visa cost. Comprehensive travel insurance recommended ($50-100).

4. EU: Visa-free entry for 90 days for most EU/Schengen passport holders. Passport valid 6 months. No visa cost. Travel insurance essential ($55-110).

5. India: Visa on arrival for 14-60 days (depending on purpose), costs AED 250-350 (~$68-95 USD). Passport valid 6 months. Travel insurance recommended ($45-90).

6. Australia: Visa-free entry for 90 days. Passport valid 6 months. No visa cost. Travel insurance recommended (AUD 90-170).

7. China: 30-day visa-free entry, costs AED 370 (~$100 USD). Passport valid 6 months. Travel insurance advised ($60-110).

8. Singapore: Visa-free entry for 90 days. Passport valid 6 months throughout stay. No visa cost. Travel insurance recommended (SGD 80-150).

Your 7-Day Adventure

Day 1: Dubai - Downtown & Burj Khalifa Arrive in Dubai, check into your hotel. Afternoon visit to Dubai Mall for shopping and the Dubai Aquarium. Evening ascend Burj Khalifa at sunset (book advance tickets). Watch the Dubai Fountain show outside, then dine at a Downtown restaurant.

Day 2: Dubai - Old & New Morning explore Old Dubai: Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and cross Dubai Creek by traditional abra boat ($1). Dubai Museum with Al Shindagha Museum or Etihad Museum (Dubai Museum closed for renovation). La Mer with JBR Beach, Kite Beach, or Bluewaters Island (La Mer redeveloped).

Day 3: Dubai - Desert Safari Morning at leisure or visit Mall of the Emirates with Ski Dubai. Afternoon pickup for desert safari: dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding. Evening Bedouin camp experience with BBQ dinner, belly dancing, and stargazing. Return late night.

Day 4: Dubai to Abu Dhabi - Sheikh Zayed Mosque Drive to Abu Dhabi (90 minutes). Visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (free entry, modest dress required). Afternoon at Qasr Al Watan Presidential Palace and Corniche waterfront. Evening explore Yas Island or Marina Mall. Overnight in Abu Dhabi.

Day 5: Abu Dhabi - Culture & Entertainment Morning at Louvre Abu Dhabi, showcasing global art and artifacts ($17 entry). Afternoon visit Heritage Village and traditional date market. Option: Ferrari World or Warner Bros. World on Yas Island (full day passes $85-95). Return to Dubai evening.

Day 6: Dubai - Palm Jumeirah & Marina Morning monorail ride to Atlantis The Palm. Visit Aquaventure Waterpark or Lost Chambers Aquarium ($75-85). Afternoon at The View at The Palm observation deck. Evening yacht cruise from Dubai Marina ($35-150) or dinner at beachfront JBR Walk.

Day 7: Dubai - Modern Marvels & Departure Morning visit Dubai Frame for city views ($14). Shop at traditional souks or modern malls. Afternoon at Global Village (October-April, seasonal cultural fair) or relax at hotel pool. Evening transfer to airport or extend stay for shopping festival deals.

Food: A Culinary Paradise

1. Shawarma: Marinated meat (chicken, lamb, or beef) roasted on a spit, wrapped in flatbread with garlic sauce, pickles, and vegetables. The UAE's most popular street food.

2. Al Harees: Traditional Emirati slow-cooked wheat and meat dish with a porridge-like consistency, flavoured with ghee and cinnamon. Especially popular during Ramadan.

3. Machboos: Fragrant spiced rice dish with meat (chicken, lamb, or fish), similar to biryani but with Gulf spices like dried lime and cardamom. The UAE's national dish.

4. Luqaimat: Sweet dumplings deep-fried until crispy, drizzled with date syrup or honey, and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Perfect dessert with Arabic coffee.

5. Fresh Seafood: Hammour (grouper), prawns, and lobster grilled or fried, served with rice and traditional spices. Best enjoyed at Dubai Fish Market or waterfront restaurants.

Essential Items to Pack

• Modest, lightweight clothing (covering shoulders and knees for mosques and malls)

• Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat for intense sun

• High SPF sunscreen (50+) and lip balm

• Light jacket or shawl for over-air-conditioned indoor spaces

• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals

• Swimwear (modest styles recommended for public beaches)

• Power adapter (Type G - UK-style three-pin plugs; 220V)

• Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated in desert climate)

• Formal outfit for upscale restaurants and clubs

• Photocopies of passport and visa documents

• Prescription medications with doctor's letter (strict drug laws)

Final Tips

Best Time to Visit: November to March offers pleasant weather (20-30°C). April-May and September-October are warm (30-38°C) with lower prices. June-August is extremely hot (40-48°C) but hotels offer deep discounts and indoor attractions thrive.

Currency: UAE Dirham (AED). Fixed rate: $1 = AED 3.67. Cards widely accepted everywhere. ATMs plentiful. Exchange at banks or official exchanges. Budget: $100-150/day (budget), $250-400/day (mid-range), $600+/day (luxury).

Safety: Extremely safe with very low crime. Respect local laws—avoid excessive public displays of affection, drinking only in licensed venues, no drugs (severe penalties). Emergency: 999 (police), 998 (ambulance). Women can travel solo safely.

Local Etiquette: Dress modestly in public areas. Remove shoes when entering mosques or homes. Don't photograph people without permission, especially women. Avoid eating/drinking in public during Ramadan daylight hours. Use right hand for eating and greetings.

Budget Tips: Use metro/public buses ($1-2/ride). Eat at local cafeterias and food courts ($5-10/meal). Book attractions online for discounts. Visit during Dubai Shopping Festival (January) or Summer Surprises (July-August) for massive sales. Free attractions: beaches, souks, Dubai Fountain shows.

Transportation Tips

Public Transport: Dubai Metro (Red and Green lines) connects major attractions ($1-3/ride). Tram serves Marina and JBR. Dubai buses extensive but slower. Abu Dhabi buses connect main areas. Get Nol Card (rechargeable) for seamless travel ($6 including credit).

Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis are metered, clean, and affordable (starting $3, then $0.60/km). Uber and Careem widely available and often cheaper. Pink taxis (ladies/families only) available. Airport to Downtown Dubai: $25-35 (30-45 minutes depending on traffic).

Airport Transfers: Dubai Metro Red Line connects Airport Terminal 3 to city ($3, 20-30 minutes). Abu Dhabi Airport bus A1 to city centre ($4). Pre-booked private transfers $40-60. Taxis readily available outside all terminals.

Vehicle Rental: International Driving Permit required plus home license (or UAE temporary license from RTA). Car rentals from $25-50/day (economy) at Hertz, Budget, Thrifty at airports. Excellent highways but strict speed cameras. Parking mostly free or $1-3/hour. Note: Friday midday traffic near mosques, Dubai traffic can be heavy rush hours.