1. Take an Abra Cruise

A traditional way of crossing from Bur Dubai to Deira are the beautiful abra taxis. The crossing lasts approximately 5 minutes and costs 1AED. Otherwise you can hire a private charter, we paid 60AED for a 1 hour cruise along the creek during sunset. Make sure to walk through the Gold Souk when you're on the Deira side of the creek!

Sippin' on a coconut!

2. Marvel at the Burj Khalifa

Located in Downtown Dubai and standing at 2,722ft is the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Tickets to At The Top, Burj Khalifa range from 125AED to 200AED depending on the time you decide to visit. Tickets to the world's highest obeservation deck begin at 300AED. For the budget conscious traveller you can enjoy the tower from below at various points. Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the tower is the world's largest dancing fountain. In the evenings the spectacular show takes place every 30 minutes. The show can be viewed for free from the Dubai Mall side or across the lake which has a much smaller crowd. Alternatively you can have dinner in one of the many restaurants located along the lake.

3. Desert Safari

If you're looking for a good price on a Desert Safari head over to Groupon. Expect to spend 15-30 minutes dune bashing and then being dropped off at the camp. Our camp offered camel rides, atv riding, belly dancing, Egyptian dancers, falcon holding and dinner/drinks.

I'm not getting any closer then 20ftf to that thing!

4. Al Ain Zoo

Al Ain Zoo is located in the city of Al Ain, approximately a 90 minute drive from either Dubai or Abu Dhabi. The zoo is spread out of 400 acres and has over 4,000 animals. Tickets are 20AED. We went in the evening and thoroughly enjoyed it. 

5. Global Village

Global Village is a great location if you want to buy souvenirs or spend an evening window shopping in "different countries". There are 31 pavilions, each representing a different country, offering unique products and performances from their home countries. We highly enjoy the African Pavilion and the MENA region Pavilion's. The village is open from Fall to Spring and closed during the summer months. The entry ticket is 15AED.

6. Jebel Hafeet

Located in the outskirts of Al Ain, Jebel Hafeet is the perfect day trip from Dubai or Abu Dhabi. The mountain raises to 4,098ft and offers outstanding views of the city and valley below. On top of the mountain you will find a palace, the Mercure Hotel, and a tea seller. We arrived during sunset and it was absolutely gorgeous!

So beautiful!

7. Walk the Corniche in Abu Dhabi

Put on your walking shoes (or helmet if you rent a bike!) and be pleased with a nice stroll along the 8km Abu Dhabi Corniche. There are various beaches, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy along the way.