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Perfect Weekend in Dubai

Superlatives and luxury: tallest buildings, biggest malls, and desert adventures

📍Dubai, UAE⏱️2 Days

Dubai is a city of jaw-dropping superlatives where futuristic skyscrapers rise from the desert. This weekend itinerary balances ultra-modern attractions with traditional souks, luxury shopping with cultural experiences, and urban glamour with desert adventures. From the world's tallest building to golden sand dunes, prepare for an unforgettable 48 hours.

📅Saturday

🌅Morning

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8:00 AM - Burj Khalifa 🏙️ Beat crowds at the world's tallest building, observation deck on 124th floor (book online in advance).
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10:00 AM - Dubai Mall 🛍️ World's largest mall with 1,200+ stores, indoor aquarium, and ice rink.
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11:30 AM - Dubai Fountain ⛲ Watch the choreographed water show at the base of Burj Khalifa (shows every 30 min).

☀️Afternoon

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1:00 PM - Lunch in Downtown 🍽️ Try high-end international cuisine or grab shawarma at a local spot.
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2:30 PM - Gold & Spice Souks ✨ Traditional markets in Deira - bargain for gold jewelry, saffron, and spices.
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4:00 PM - Abra Ride 🚤 Take traditional wooden boat across Dubai Creek (only AED 1!) for authentic views.

🌆Evening

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5:30 PM - Jumeirah Beach 🏖️ Relax on white sand with Burj Al Arab (sail-shaped hotel) views.
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7:00 PM - La Mer or The Beach 🌆 Waterfront dining and shopping with street food and live entertainment.
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9:00 PM - Desert Safari 🐪 Book evening desert experience: dune bashing, camel riding, BBQ dinner, and belly dancing.

📅Sunday

🌅Morning

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9:00 AM - Palm Jumeirah 🌴 Visit the iconic man-made island, see Atlantis The Palm resort.
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10:30 AM - The View at The Palm 🎡 Observation deck for 360° views of the Palm and Dubai skyline.
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12:00 PM - Brunch at Atlantis 🍾 Legendary Dubai Friday/weekend brunch (book ahead, expensive but worth it!).

☀️Afternoon

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2:30 PM - Dubai Marina Walk ⛵ Stroll along the waterfront promenade with yachts and skyscrapers.
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3:30 PM - JBR Beach (Jumeirah Beach Residence) 🏊 Popular beach area with restaurants and water sports.
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5:00 PM - Ain Dubai 🎡 Ride the world's largest observation wheel for sunset views (check if operational).

🌆Evening

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7:00 PM - Old Dubai - Al Fahidi District 🏛️ Historic neighborhood with wind towers, art galleries, and Arabian Tea House.
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8:00 PM - Dinner in Madinat Jumeirah 🕌 Arabian-style complex with waterways, souks, and restaurants overlooking Burj Al Arab.
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10:00 PM - Rooftop Bar 🍸 End at a glamorous rooftop like CÉ LA VI or Mercury Lounge for skyline views.

💡Essential Tips

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Currency - UAE Dirham (AED). 1 USD = 3.67 AED (fixed rate). Cards accepted everywhere
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Metro System - Clean, efficient, affordable (AED 3-8 per journey). Gold/Silver class available
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Dress Code - Modest dress in public (cover shoulders/knees). Swimwear only at beaches/pools
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Friday Weekend - Weekend is Friday-Saturday. Many places busy Friday afternoon after prayers
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Summer Heat - Oct-April is best. Summer (Jun-Sep) extremely hot 40°C+, stick to indoor activities
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Book Everything - Desert safaris, Burj Khalifa, restaurants need advance booking
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Alcohol - Only served in licensed hotels/restaurants. Expensive (AED 50-80 per drink)
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Tipping - 10-15% in restaurants (often included), AED 5-10 for valet/porters

💰Budget Guide

Budget Breakdown: Expect AED 2,500-4,500 (approx $680-1,225 USD) per person for the weekend (excluding accommodation). Accommodation: AED 400-1,200/night ($110-330). Food: AED 300-600/day ($80-165) - local food cheaper, hotel dining expensive. Transport: AED 100/day ($27) metro/taxi. Burj Khalifa: AED 160-370 ($45-100). Desert safari: AED 200-400 ($55-110). Dubai is expensive but you can save with local restaurants and public transport.

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