This 7‑day Middle East itinerary combines three of the region’s most exciting cities: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. You’ll experience futuristic skylines, traditional souks, impressive museums, and a taste of desert adventure—all within one week.
It’s a busy schedule, but with short flights and good infrastructure, it’s very achievable for travelers looking for a memorable Gulf region sampler.
Day 1–2: Dubai – Skyscrapers, Malls & Old Town
Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Dubai
- Arrive in Dubai and check into your hotel (Downtown, Dubai Marina, or near the Creek are good bases).
- Head to Downtown Dubai to see the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.
- Book a time slot for the Burj Khalifa observation deck—sunset is popular but also busier and often more expensive.
- Enjoy the Dubai Fountain show in the evening from the promenade or a nearby restaurant.
Day 2: Old Dubai & Desert Experience
- In the morning, visit Old Dubai:
- Wander through the Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira.
- Ride an abra (water taxi) across Dubai Creek.
- Explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood for a glimpse of traditional architecture.
- In the afternoon, join a desert safari:
- Dune bashing in 4x4 vehicles.
- Sunset views over the dunes.
- Desert camp with dinner and cultural performances (belly dancing, tanoura, etc.).
- Return to Dubai in the evening and rest.
Day 3–4: Abu Dhabi – Culture & Coast
Day 3: Travel to Abu Dhabi & Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi (about 1.5 hours by car or bus).
- Check into your hotel (Corniche area, Saadiyat Island, or near the Grand Mosque).
- Visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque:
- Dress modestly; follow the mosque’s dress code and guidelines.
- Consider visiting in late afternoon to see the mosque in daylight and lit up after sunset.
Day 4: Louvre Abu Dhabi & Corniche
- Spend the morning at Louvre Abu Dhabi, a striking museum with world‑class art and beautiful architecture.
- In the afternoon, relax along the Corniche:
- Walk or cycle along the waterfront promenade.
- Enjoy beach time at one of the public or private beach clubs.
- Optional: Visit Qasr Al Watan (the Presidential Palace) if time allows.
Day 5–7: Doha – Museums, Souks & Skyline Views
Day 5: Fly to Doha & Corniche
- Fly from Abu Dhabi or Dubai to Doha, Qatar (frequent short flights, usually around 1 hour).
- Check into your hotel (areas around West Bay, The Pearl, or near the Corniche are convenient).
- Take an evening walk along the Doha Corniche to see the skyline and traditional dhow boats.
Day 6: Museums & Souq Waqif
- Visit the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) for incredible architecture and collections.
- Explore Souq Waqif:
- Wander through alleys filled with spices, textiles, and traditional goods.
- Try local Qatari dishes and Middle Eastern desserts at one of the many restaurants.
- In the evening, consider a short dhow boat ride from the Corniche.
Day 7: Modern Doha & Departure
- Explore modern districts like West Bay or The Pearl‑Qatar with their high‑rises, marinas, and upscale shopping.
- If time allows, visit Katara Cultural Village for galleries, cafes, and events.
- Head to Hamad International Airport for your departure flight.
Practical Tips for This Itinerary
Flights & Logistics
- Fly into Dubai and out of Doha (or the reverse) to avoid backtracking.
- Use regional carriers for short hops between Dubai–Abu Dhabi (by road) and UAE–Qatar (by air).
- Check visa requirements for both the UAE and Qatar, as they vary by nationality.
Dress Code & Local Customs
- Dress modestly in public spaces, especially when visiting mosques and traditional areas.
- Public displays of affection are generally discouraged; be respectful of local customs and laws.
- During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight hours may be restricted.
Best Time to Visit
- November–March: Cooler temperatures and more comfortable for outdoor activities.
- Summer (June–September): Very hot and humid; expect to spend more time indoors.
Tip: Because this is a short and busy itinerary, pick a few must‑do experiences in each city rather than trying to see everything. Leave room in your schedule to enjoy the atmosphere and relax.
To bring this 7‑day Middle East itinerary to life, you can use BookingBe to compare flights between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha and find the best multi‑city options for your trip.