United Arab Emirates
Dubai and Abu Dhabi, from the Burj Khalifa to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Skyline first, tradition second.
A futuristic skyline meeting deep tradition. Split your time between Downtown Dubai, the Palm, Abu Dhabi's serene mosque and corniche, and the souks of Old Dubai - with enough activities to fill a month if you want.
Everyone expects the Burj Khalifa to be the highlight. Ours was the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque at sunset - nothing really prepares you for it, and it's easy to skip if you don't plan around it.
- Friday starts the weekend - some attractions keep different hours
- Uber and taxis are affordable; you likely don't need a rental car
- The metro doesn't reach Palm Island - budget for rideshares there
Buy this route as a print-ready kit, or have me reshape it to your family. Either way, you book it.
IN THE US · VENMO WORKS TOO · $39
Highlights by area
Downtown Dubai
- Dubai Mall, the fountain show, and a 155-million-year-old dinosaur skeleton
- Aquarium & Underwater Zoo; the VR Park
- Burj Khalifa observation deck - the tallest building in the world
Palm Island
- Atlantis Aquaventure waterpark and the Lost Chambers aquarium
- Boat tour past the island's palaces; Aqua Fun inflatable park at Jumeirah Beach
- Walk the perimeter for skyline and beach views
Abu Dhabi
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (breathtaking)
- The Corniche - seaside paths, beaches and restaurants
- Observation deck at the Conrad Etihad Towers
Al Seef / Old Dubai
- Wander and shop the Al Seef heritage district; Museum of Illusions
- Water taxi to the Spice and Gold Souks
- Rooftop-bar views toward the Dubai Frame
Greater Dubai
- Garden Glow and the Miracle Garden; desert safari tours
- Legoland, Bollywood Parks and the Museum of the Future
- Hop-on hop-off bus; ski indoors at Ski Dubai
Beyond the skyline - the conversations and people that made this trip stick with us, in our own words.
READ THE FULL STORY →Love this route? Buy the kit, or have me tailor it.
IN THE US · VENMO WORKS TOO · $39