Dubai has always held a special charm for Indian travellers. With its easy-to-navigate visa process, short flight durations, and a cultural vibe that feels both familiar and aspirational, it’s no surprise that this futuristic city continues to be one of the top international destinations from India.
Dubai welcomed 3.82 million overnight visitors in January-February 2025 alone, marking a 4% increase over the same period in 2024.
This growth reflects just how popular the city continues to be, especially among Indian tourists seeking a vibrant yet convenient international getaway.
Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, this 5-day Dubai travel itinerary is designed to give you the best of the city, without making you feel like you’re racing through a checklist.
From towering landmarks to desert safaris, gold souks to serene beaches, luxury malls to historic alleys, there’s something here for every kind of traveller.
5-Day Dubai Travel Itinerary
Let’s dive into a well-balanced 5-day Dubai travel itinerary that seamlessly blends sightseeing, culture, shopping, and leisure, while also being mindful of budgets and travel ease.
Day 1: Welcome to Dubai - The Heartbeat of Modern Luxury
Your journey begins the moment you land at Dubai International Airport. Immigration is usually swift for Indian passport holders with a valid E-Visa, and you’ll find plenty of transportation options right at the terminal, taxis, Ubers, or the efficient Dubai Metro if you're travelling light.
After checking in (we recommend Premier Inn Al Jaddaf for budget comfort or Address Downtown for high-end luxury), ease into your Dubai experience with a visit to the iconic Dubai Mall.
It’s more than just a shopping destination, it’s a world in itself with an indoor aquarium, dancing fountains, and even an Olympic-sized ice rink.
As evening sets in, make your way to Burj Khalifa, the tallest structure in the world. Booking your observation deck slot around sunset is ideal.
You’ll witness the city glow in golden hues before the night skyline comes alive.
Just outside, the Dubai Fountain Show offers a breathtaking water-dance spectacle every 30 minutes starting at 6 PM.
It’s free, romantic, and the perfect way to cap off your first night in the city.
This marks a perfect start to your 5-Day Dubai Travel Itinerary, giving you a glimpse of the city's opulence and energy right from the beginning.
Day 2: Seaside Calm to Desert Drama
Wake up refreshed and head to Dubai Marina, one of the most vibrant waterfront districts in the city.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade, maybe grab a coffee at a marina-side café, and take in the view of luxury yachts bobbing in the water.
A short ride away is Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), a pristine, free-to-access beach where you can lounge under the sun or dive into a water sport or two. It’s family-friendly and has a youthful, beachy energy that’s hard to resist.
In the afternoon, prepare for one of Dubai’s most thrilling and culturally immersive experiences: the Desert Safari.
From the moment your 4x4 hits the dunes for a roller-coaster ride through the desert to the final belly dance under a starlit sky, this is an unmissable part of your itinerary.
Most safari packages include camel rides, henna tattoos, a BBQ dinner, and traditional performances like tanoura and fire shows.
It’s adventure and tradition bundled into one magical evening, perfect for any Indian traveller following this 5-Day Dubai Travel Itinerary.
Day 3: A Quick Escape to Abu Dhabi’s Grandeur
While Dubai dazzles with innovation, Abu Dhabi, the UAE's capital, brings in a different kind of richness, deep culture and architectural grace. Just two hours away by road, it makes for an excellent day trip.
Start your visit at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the most stunning places of worship in the world.
Its white marble domes, reflective pools, and intricate detailing will leave you in awe. Entry is free, but do dress conservatively, ladies, and carry a scarf for head covering.
Depending on your interests, you can either feed your adrenaline at Ferrari World, home to the world’s fastest rollercoaster, or lose yourself in the art and architecture of the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Both are world-class attractions offering unique, unforgettable experiences.
You can either rent a private car, join a guided group tour, or hire a taxi for the day to make this trip seamless.
Return to Dubai by evening and unwind, maybe with a quiet dinner near your hotel.
This cultural day trip enriches your 5-Day Dubai Travel Itinerary with a glimpse into the UAE’s traditional and artistic heart, beyond the skyscrapers and shopping malls.
Day 4: Time Travel to Old Dubai
After experiencing Dubai’s modern side, it’s time to step back in time. Begin your day in Al Fahidi Historical District, where narrow alleys and wind-tower houses take you into the city’s Bedouin past.
Pop into local museums and art galleries, sip Arabic coffee at a traditional café, and feel the quiet charm of old Dubai.
A short walk away is Dubai Creek, where you can hop on a traditional abra ride for just 1 AED. It’s a slow, scenic boat journey that leads you straight to the bustling Gold and Spice Souks.
Here, bargaining is part of the experience, and you'll find some of the best things to buy from Dubai—from saffron and perfumes to intricate jewellery and Arabic sweets.
Later, make your way to the architectural marvel that is the Dubai Frame. This golden photo frame-like structure offers panoramic views of both the old and new sides of the city, symbolic of Dubai’s past, present, and future in one perfect snapshot.
Adding Old Dubai to your 5-Day Dubai Travel Itinerary ensures you don’t miss out on the heritage and hidden gems that give the city its unique depth.
Day 5: Shop, Pack, and Say Goodbye
Your final day is reserved for one of Dubai’s specialities—shopping! If you’re craving luxury, head to the Mall of the Emirates, not just for its high-end brands but also to marvel at Ski Dubai, the indoor snow park.
Alternatively, those looking for value deals should check out Dubai Outlet Village, which offers premium brands at discounted prices.
Don’t forget those last-minute souvenirs—camel milk chocolates, gold-plated trinkets, dates, and local fragrances make for great gifts.
After your final spree, head back to your hotel for check-out and make your way to the airport with bags (and memories) full.
Your 5-Day Dubai Travel Itinerary wraps up with a perfect balance of leisure and last-minute splurging, leaving you with memories, mementoes, and probably a few extra kilos in your luggage.
Dubai Travel Tips for Indian Tourists
Getting a Dubai tourist visa for Indians is now a smooth online process. Platforms like Visa2Fly let you upload documents and receive your eVisa within 2-4 working days.
All you need is a valid passport, passport-size photo, travel insurance, and confirmed flight and hotel bookings.
The 30-day tourist visa is ideal for a 5-day trip and costs around ₹6,000-₹7,500.
In terms of budget, here’s what to expect:
- Flights from India: ₹18,000 - ₹60,000 (round trip, economy to business)
- Hotel (4 nights): ₹20,000 (budget) to ₹1,00,000+ (luxury hotels)
- Daily expenses (food, transport, activities): ₹3,000 - ₹6,000/day
- Total trip cost (per person): From ₹57,000 (budget) to ₹1.8L+ (luxury)
For transport, get yourself an NOL card, which gives you access to the city’s metro, bus, and tram networks. It’s affordable, efficient, and tourist-friendly.
Do dress modestly in public, especially in malls, mosques, and souks. Swimwear is acceptable at beaches and hotel pools.
And while Dubai is cosmopolitan, it still holds traditional values, so avoid public displays of affection and loud behaviour in quiet zones.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Dubai Plan for Indian Travellers
This 5-Day Dubai Travel Itinerary offers a thoughtful balance of iconic attractions, deep culture, beach time, and modern luxury, all tailored to suit the Indian traveller's rhythm and curiosity.
Whether you're planning a family holiday, a romantic couple's trip, or a fun escape with friends, Dubai’s diversity ensures every moment is memorable.
The key is to plan smart. Book early, travel light, and soak in every bit of what this shimmering desert city has to offer.
And when it comes to that all-important visa, don’t let paperwork hold you back.
Apply for your Dubai visa online through Visa2Fly for a hassle-free experience, and get one step closer to your dream Dubai holiday.
