Dubai & Abu Dhabi Itinerary: 2015

Dubai & Abu Dhabi Itinerary

Yup, it's me and Mom on vacation to Dubai & Abu Dhabi.

Weather in Dubai & Abu Dhabi - When to go

Weather in Dubai & Abu Dhabi is always killing hot, so it made sense to go there preferably towards the end of the year, so November it was because going anywhere around New Year is like burning hole in your pocket. The weather around November, December, January is expected to be NOT cool, but less hot.

Currency in Dubai & Abu Dhabi, or anywhere in UAE

Dirham or to be more precise, United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED), is the currency in UAE. On one side of the notes is the amount written in Arabic, and the other side of the note has the same value in English. Dealing with coins is tricky, the value is not written in English anywhere, here is a little help.

Time Difference between India and UAE

Dubai & Abu Dhabi are both in the same timezone and fall 1 hr 30 mins behind India.

Taking Cabs/Taxi in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

This is the best part, you do not have to pre-book taxis/cabs here. Just raise your hand and flag one if you see one coming while standing on the road. Super-Cool. And the icing on the cake is they are really reasonably priced.

Language in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Everyone understands and speaks Hindi, well almost everyone. If you know English, you can easily get by without even realizing you are in a different country. The signs and everything else is in English. Cab Drivers for the most part understand both.

Total cost (excluding Shopping)

INR 1 lakh 80 thousand. The conversion rate for forex cash-in-hand was 1 AED = 18.3 INR.

Desserts in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

You can buy dates everywhere ... duty free, supermarkets, specialist shops, and in all price ranges. Unless you are a connoisseur and know what you're looking for, just buy whatever looks nice and fits your budget. They also come with nuts or covered on chocolate, etc. The best ones come from Saudi Arabia apparently.
Supermarkets like Carrefour have a huge selection of dates both local and Saudi.
For the more expensive variety, head to Al Bateel which has shops in most of the big malls and make gorgeous presentation boxes or Wafi Gourmet. Or Arabesq.
Al Nassma Camel Milk Chocolate Bars-especially the cardamon and orange flavored bars, which are made with camel milk. A 70g Whole Milk Bar costs 29 AED.
Arabic Sweets or baklava is another must-have. We picked up lots of them from Carrefour at Diera City Center Mall.
Basbousa, an Egyptian sweet, from Carrefour at Diera City Center Mall.
For chocolate lovers, Patchi, a lebanese company, for one of the finest quality chocolates.
For Ice Cream lovers, Cold Stone Creamery is awesome, and they are everywhere. Favourite flavours include The Peanut Butter Cup Perfection Signature ice cream, Chocolate Devotion, Founder's Favourite, Germanchökolätekäke or German Chocolate. Signature ice creams are prepared for you as you witness the creation.

Useful Android Applications

Dubai Metro by sphinx - Helpful for Fare calculation, routes and feeder buses information
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sphinx.dubaimetro
Dubai Metro Map by Tesseract Apps - Nice static Metro Map that you can zoom in zoom out, nothing fancy
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lethani.metro.dubai
Wojhati by Roads and Transport Authority - If you are in Dubai, you need this on your mobile.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mdv.DubaiCompanion

Traveling Companions

2 Adults, both Vegetarians.

Visa in Dubai & Abu Dhabi (for Indian Passport Holders)

The same Visa is applicable for both the places or anywhere in UAE. If you are travelling via Emirates they can arrange the Visa for you at an additional cost and also provide the OK-To-Board (OKTB) Stamp on your ticket. Same with Indigo, they have a tie-up with Travel2Dubai Visa agency and they can do the same for you for INR 5999 per head including OK-To-Board stamping on your PNR.

Once you have the tickets from Indigo for Dubai, they will send you the email for getting your visa from Travel2Dubai. Click on that link and you can apply for the visa from there. Since our PNR was same we applied for Visa together under one submission. Now uploading your documents on their site is a big pain. First they have this concept of the head of the family who has to be a passenger along with you, so I'd put my Mom there. But when it came to Bank Statements I uploaded mine. Next the online form says PDF format is allowed, but the field does not accept PDF so your have to convert everything to image and upload it. Next the bank statement that I had downloaded was password-protected and had convert-to-image disabled, so I had to take a printout of it, scan it as an image and then upload it. All in all, it requires a good amount of messing around, and a bit of tech-saviness to make it past it and submit successfully.

Once you are done, you have to wait. I applied for Visa for on 13th October 2015 and received the same over email on 26th October 2015 along with 'OK to Board' (OKTB) clearance. This visa is applicable for travel only on IndiGo Airlines and with the same PNR. A fresh OKTB clearance would be required in case you change your Indigo flight.

Flight - Indigo Airlines

Ticket Booking date: 16 April, 2015
BLR --> Dubai/DXB (Terminal 1) : Date: 7th November 2015, Cost: INR 32964.00 (Return), Class: Economy, Total Time: 4 hrs (Non-Stop). Takes off at 7:15 AM and the arrival time is 9:50 AM in Dubai.
Dubai/DXB (Terminal 1) --> BLR : Date: 16th November 2015, Class: Economy, Total Time: 3 hrs 40 mins (Non-Stop). Takes off at 10:50 AM and the arrival time is 4:00 PM in Bangalore.

Hotels

Next is hotel bookings, as I already mentioned both me and my Mom are Indian Vegetarians (we eat in Non-Vegetarian Indian Restaurants, but we ourselves do not eat Non-Vegetarian). So, as usual, we prefer to stay in hotels that have Indian Restaurants serving some vegetarian fare nearby. And on all my travels, I mostly stick to public transport, so proximity to a Metro Station was of primary importance to me. Btw, Abu Dhabi does not have Metro so you will have to stick to Cabs for the most part. Dubai has a full-fledged Metro System that we made ample use of.

Abu Dhabi Hotel:
Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi, Zayed The First, Street 7, Zone 1 (Elektra Street),
City Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Reservations: 1 Room, 2 Nights
Room Type: Amber Room
Booking Website: Agoda.com
Check in: November 7, 2015 (after 02:00 PM)
Check out: November 9, 2015 (before 12:00 PM)
Total Cost: INR 15,393.23

Dubai Hotel:
IBIS Dubai Deira City Centre, 8Th St. Port Saeed District, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Reservations: 1 Room, 7 Nights
Room Type: Standard Twin Room Advance Saver
Check in: November 9, 2015 (after 14:00PM)
Check out: November 16, 2015 (before 12:00PM)
Total Cost: INR 46,694.48

Subway/Metro/Tube Map of Dubai

http://www.mydubaimetro.com/en/media/get/20090908_fli083-dubaimetro-downloadablemap.pdf
OR
http://www.mydubaistay.com/images/MetroMap-enlargedmap.jpg
Be careful to take a note of the exact Exit you need to take to reach your destinations. Metro Stations have a number of exits and taking a wrong exit can make it really painful to reach your destination.
Here is what most stations (though not all) look like in Dubai, so it will help you identify Stations from afar:

Hotels

Weekend in UAE is Friday and Saturday and Sunday is a normal working day. Even Metros shut off during first half on Fridays, so plan accordingly.

Day 1: 7th November, 2015

Both of us took Meru Cab to BIAL Airport (there is only one Airport in Bangalore for both International and Domestic Flights). Cost: 1192 INR.
Checked-in luggage, cleared immigration and boarded the flight at 7:15 AM.

Free Wifi at Dubai Airport

Boingo Wireless manages and operates Wi-Fi services at Dubai International (DXB). Passengers are only allowed 60 minutes of free Wi-Fi access. And the connection is really bad.

NOL Card

Buy a NOL Silver Card from Airport in Dubai.
Valid for 5 years. Price 20 AED Credit 14 AED.
Can be used on Metro, Bus, Water Bus, Tram. Cannot be used for Abra boat ride.
Fare:

Within 1 Zone - 3
2 Adjacent Zones - 5
More than 2 Zones - 7.5

Can be bought and topped up from any ticket offices, not only Metro. Ticket Offices are available in all Metro stations and all Bus stations.
When you enter a bus you need to touch your card onto the Nol card reader, located near the Bus driver. When you exit the bus, you also need to touch your card on the reader. The system will check that your card has a valid travel pass, calculate the fare for the trip you have just taken and deduct that amount from your e-purse, or deduct one trip from your card, whichever the case may be. If you do not check-out, the system will always deduct the maximum fare, so you should always remember to check-out.
The system will check that your card has a valid travel pass, calculate the fare for the trip you have just taken and deduct that amount from your e-purse, or deduct one trip from your card, whichever the case may be.
If you do not check-out, the system will always deduct the maximum fare, so you should always remember to check-out.
No, there is no daily cap. Customer will be charged as per their usage.
The minimum value you need to have on your card before you can start a journey is AED 7.50
The balance of your Nol Card will be shown when you check-in / check-out on Metro and Buses. You can also view it from any ticket vending machine, ticket office, and authorized sales agents.
You can refund any remaining e-purse value on your Card at any ticket office. There will be a refund charge of either AED 5 or 2.5% of the e-purse value, whichever is higher.

From Dubai Airport to Abu Dhabi

Take the Red-Line Metro from Airport Terminal 1 Metro Station 1, going in the direction of Direction UAE Exchange Metro Station/Jebel Ali (and NOT Rashidiya), and get down at BurJuman Metro Station 1 (12 mins). From BurJuman Metro Station 1 take a 3 min walk to BurJuman Metro Station 02. From BurJuman Metro Station 02 take the Green Line Metro going in the direction of Direction Etisalat Metro Station and get down at Al Ghubaiba Metro Station 2 (4 mins). Total Cost 5 AED. Take a walk from Al Ghubaiba Metro Station to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, located near Carrefour, Bur Dubai, it is about a 5 minutes walk.
From Al Ghubaiba Bus Station take the E100 bus to Dubai. Frequency is very good, every 10 min on Non-Friday. Takes about 1 hr 50 minutes to reach. Fare is AED 25. You can pay with your NOL card to travel to Abu Dhabi. There is free wifi available on this bus but you need a UAE Mobile Number for that, so useless for tourists. The E100 service is so frequent during the day that you could just turn up. There's always at least one waiting, it is colored red/cream. The bus service is clean and comfortable.

Timetable of E100

You can download the timetable for E100 from RTA Website, by clicking on Service Timetable Link at
http://wojhati.rta.ae/dub/XSLT_TRIP_REQUEST2?language=en

From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi

Took a cab from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi, it is almost a 10 minute ride. Costs approx 7.5 AED.

Taxis in Abu Dhabi

Street taxis are easily recognized by their silver livery and yellow roof sign. They can be flagged down at the roadside. When using a taxi, always take a receipt in case you leave something behind in the vehicle. They are always metered.
Please note that cash is required for paying taxi fares. Credit cards are not accepted by taxis in Abu Dhabi. If you do not have cash it is not unusual for your hotel to allow you to pay the fare and add this to your hotel bill.
Pink taxis have also been introduced in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain cities. The pink taxis are driven by women and meant solely for women and children younger than 10 years old. The fare for the pink taxis remains the same as the other taxis.
There is a difference in Day Time (6 AM to 10 PM) and Night Time Charges(10 PM to 6 AM).

Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi

Address: Zayed The First, Street 7, Zone 1 (Elektra Street), City Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Behind Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, and everybody knows this place so very easy to reach. One can find nice Restaurants here. And for basic stuff like Milk, Water, Bread etc you have Lulu Hypermarket inside.
Check in: after 02:00 PM; Check out: before 12:00 PM
Free Wifi inside Room (Amber Room).
Tea and coffee making facilities, large towels, bathrobe and slippers, bath tub with shower and hair dryer. Air-conditioning. En-suite Bathroom. Complimentary Bottled Water everyday.
The rooms are spacious with plenty space to put suitcases and clothes. And so is the bathroom.
The location is very convenient and easy to get Taxi. It is a very safe place to stay. Front desk team are very polite and kind.
Porter service is there to carry your luggage.
Now the bad part, don't ask the guy at the main gate to flag a taxi for you, he flagged a huge SUV for the two of us and we ended up paying 1.5 times of what our fare should have been.

Madinath Zayed Shopping Center

Madinath Zayed Shopping Center - NORMAL MALL TIMING: 9:00 A.M. TO 11:00 P.M.
MADINAT ZAYED GOLD CENTRE: 9:00 A.M. TO 10:30 P.M.
MADINAT ZAYED EXTENSION & LULU HYPERMARKET - 8:00 A.M. TO 11:00 P.M.
FOOD COURT: 9:00 A.M. TO 11:00 P.M.
For daily stuff like Milk, bread, water, groceries you can go to LULU HYPERMARKET on first floor inside Madinath Zayed Shopping Center.
This mall is kinda like souq, with local products etc. If you want to get cheap traditional clothing, it's a place to go.

Restaurants Inside Madinath Zayed Shopping Center
Saravanaa Bhavan

Level 2, Madinat Zayed Shopping Center, Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi
Opening Hours: Everyday 8 AM to 11:30 PM
Vegetarian Only
AED 60 for two people (approx.)

Ruchi

Level 2, Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi
Opening Hours: 12 Noon to 12 Midnight, Everyday
Wifi Available
AED 70 for two people (approx.)

Dosa Plaza

Food Court, Level 2, Madinat Zayed Shopping Center, Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 12 Midnight Everyday
Vegetarian Only
AED 80 for two people (approx.)

Bombay Express

Food Court, Level 2, Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 12 Midnight Everyday
AED 70 for two people (approx.)

Bottled Drinking Water

Masafi 1.5L costs 1.5 AED.
Sanine 1.5L costs 2.55 AED.
Oasis 1.5L costs 1.2 AED.

All in all, it makes sense to buy Bottled Drinking Water from Oasis.

Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi to Emirates Palace

Took a cab from Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi to Emirates Palace, cost 17.5 AED.

Emirates Palace

Website: http://www.kempinski.com/en/abudhabi/emirates-palace/welcome/#_=_
Self-Proclaimed 7-Star Property, officially 5 Star
Eye-popping interiors in silver, gold, marble and glass mosaics.
Chandeliers made of Swarovski crystal
Grand Atrium which is higher than the dome of St.Peter's Basilica in Rome
Magnificent view of the Gulf with 1.3 km of private beach
The Dome's Ceiling
60m high, 42m-diameter Grand Atrium dome finished in silver and gold glass mosaic tiles, and topped by a 20kg solid golden finial. It is decorated with 13 colours of marble, ranging from sunrise yellow to sunset red – to reflect the many different hues of the desert. 22-carat gold leaf covers the inside of the dome, making it the greatest gilded expanse ever created in one building.
The Gold ATM - an ATM that dispenses gold bars
Coffee with Gold Dust is very popular here, but taste-wise it is not that great is what we heard, did not try ourselves.
We had no booking, we just went to have a look and the hotel people were decent enough to let us in. Wear proper clothes, it's a private property, they have every right to deny entry.
Gold bars in a vending machine (Gold ATM) is awesome and you must vist the loo there, absolute gold everywhere.
Artifacts abound in the corridors, lots of stuff to see.
On arrival you have to walk through metal detector. Bags, backpacks etc had to be handed in. Also no water allowed to be taken past the front desk.
Non-residents can access the public areas of the hotel without charge, including the lobby, shops, and some other areas around that. Outside at the front visitors can walk round the fountains and gardens.
Ask the taxi driver to leave you all the way to the main gate, otherwise it is a long walk uphill from the main road.
There is lighting after dark.

Emirates Palace to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Took a cab from Emirates Palace to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Cost 55 AED.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Website: http://www.szgmc.gov.ae/en/#_=_
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the third largest mosque in the world - after the ones in Mecca and Madina in Saudi Arabia.
Lightning system to reflect the phases of the moon. 22 light towers project clouds of a bluish gray colour onto the white marble external surfaces of the mosque including the façade and domes to reflect the phases of moon with each passing day.
World’s largest hand-knotted carpet, predominantly wool, hand-crafted by approximately 1,200 artisans.
Crystal chandeliers incorporating millions of Swarovski crystals
World’s largest chandelier in a mosque and is weighing approximately 12 tons.
Pulpit (Menbar) made of carved cedar wood inlaid with mother of pearl, glass mosaic and white gold.
Interior of the Main Prayer Hall in Sheikh Zayed Mosque
The 96 columns in the main prayer hall are clad with marble and inlaid with mother of pearl
Qibla wall, the 99 names (qualities or attributes) of God (Allah) are featured on this wall.
If you are a group of eight (8) or less individuals you may walk through the mosque on your own without a guided tour and take photographs.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center’s complimentary live guided tours are enlightening, professional, and interactive, making them one of the UAE’s most loved cultural activities for all ages! The standard tour duration is approximately 45 minutes and is led by one of our official SZGMC Tourist Guides in either English and Arabic languages. Your guide will lead you around the mosque interpreting various elements of the arts, culture and Islamic architecture. If you are a small group below (8) persons you do not need to pre-book and should simply arrive approximately 15 minutes before the tour time. One of our Visitor Experience Coordinators will assist you in joining a tour.

General visiting hours are from Sat - Thurs 9am and 10pm and you may walk through on your own. Last entry is 9.30pm.
The security staff is extremely helpful, but very quick to discipline you.
Women have to be covered from head to ankle, but in case they are not wearing appropriate clothes, a hijab and full-length gown is available free of charge at the cloak room in the underground car park against some form of photo ID but not the passport, I guess, as a deposit.
To get thru without a hijab, you can wear a full sleeve top or jacket and full length trousers and can carry a scarf to cover your head. You should be good, that is how I managed it.
Awesome - luxury - craftsmanship - art - love for grander written all over. mind bogging chandeliers - hand knotted carpets by master weavers - inlay marble work of art.
I would suggest timing your visit to take part in the guided tour. Check their website for time. Allow enough time to find your way to get a robe if needed to cover up (appropriate dress for both men and women is required) as well as find your way to the entrance and tour meeting place (if you choose to do the tour). The mosque and surrounding grounds and parking area are very large so allow at least a half hour to 45 minutes to get your robe and find your way to the entrance. If you are early there is much to see and appreciate while waiting.
Ladies toilets beautifully decorated also.
There is lighting after dark.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center to Madinat Zayed Shopping Center

Took a cab from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center to Madinat Zayed Shopping Center, cost 45 AED.
Bought some daily use stuff from Lulu Hypermarket in Madinat Zayed Shopping Center and had dinner at Ruchi, an Indian Restaurant on 2nd Floor of Madinat Zayed Shopping Center, and walked back to hotel to retire for the night.

Ruchi Restaurant

On 2nd Floor of Madinat Zayed Shopping Center.
Sit-Down Restaurant outside but beside Food Court.
Service is fast and courteous.
Food is very tasty.
Prices are reasonable, Kadai Vegetable at 16 AED, Paneer pasanda at 18 AED, Tandoori Roti at 2 AED each.

Day 2: 8th November, 2015

Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi to YAS Island

Took a taxi from Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi to Al Wahda, Sultan Bin Zayed, 1st St / Bus Station. It is located on the corner of Muroor Road and Hazzaa Bin Zayed Road next to Al Wahda Mall. Cost: 7.5 AED. but we ended up spending 10 AED, courtesy the security guy at Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi who flagged the huge SUV just for the two of us.

Once you are off the taxi, you will have to cross the road via the elevated platform because the buses come on the other side of the road.

Actually these buses often stop opposite Madinat Zayed Shopping Center, but not sure if it an actual stop or not, may be a check at the hotel might help to confirm, so that you can save going all the way to Al Wahda mall.

Bus services 170, 180, 190 and 195 connect Abu Dhabi with Yas Island Ferrari World / Yas Mall every 15 minutes. Yas Island Ferrari World is inside Yas Mall. Costs 4 AED per head.
If you want to do Yas Waterworld before doing Ferrari World you will have to take Bus No 195, and get down at Yas Island Yas Drive / Yas Waterworld. If you want to do Ferrari World before you can take any of the others and get down at Yas Island Yas Mall and make your way towards Ferrari World inside Yas Mall.

To go from Ferrari World to Yas Waterworld or vice versa, you will have to get on to the complimentary Shuttle Service, Yas Express, that goes around the island on fixed circular route. And this circular route is the reason why you should get down from bus at Yas Mall, do Ferrari World there, take the Yas Express to Yas Waterworld (Blue Route) which is just one stop away from Ferrari World (don't try walking, UAE weather is not meant for comfortable walking and you hardly see anyone on road to ask about correct directions on Yas Island).

If you do manage to get into Bus 195 and do Yas Waterworld first, then the Yas Express will take you through the entire Yas Island Circular circuit to bring you to Ferrari World, which is not really so bad because you get to see the entire island. Yas Express runs on fixed schedule and the frequency is not that good.

http://www.yasisland.ae/en/maps--tools/yas-express-/

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi

Hours: Sun - Sat 10:00 - 18:00
Some of the amenities include: -Locker and towel rental-Stored value, which allows you to store money on your wristband-Cabana rental - Shower and Changing rooms
You can buy a wrist strap and load money on it for the day, so you dont have to walk around with money. They will also load your locker rental and towel rental on it. It also acts as a key to your locker. There are snack shacks all over and a few fast food restaurants available.
Take your own towel and swimsuit to save money
Smallest Locker Rental Costs: 40AED
We had bought combo tickets for Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi which is cheaper than buying them separately. Two Park Pass : Double the fun with Two Park Pass which includes single day access to Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi . A 1 day pass: Allows you enjoy to both Parks on the same day. Costs AED 290 Per head. We bought "Ferrari World & Yas Waterworld Combo Admission Tickets: 1-Day Pass Bronze Admission" Bought from expedia.co.in where they were offering the best rate. Cost Rs.10,431.28 for 2 people.
While maps are supplied I thought that more signage could have still been provided within the park
They do not allow any outside food/beverage inside the waterpark. Upon entry to the park, your bags will be searched for F&B items. This is because Yas Waterworld strictly prohibits any food or drinks to be taken into the park. You are allowed to carry a bottle of water per head though
Two Park Pass : Double the fun with Two Park Pass which includes single day access to Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi . A 1 day pass: Allows you enjoy to both Parks on the same day. Bronze
Dining Options for Indian food are limited. Chubby's Kitchen - Located near the Bandit Bomber, Chubby’s Kitchen has Indian Options.
As expected food is expensive. We took a CM Veg Pizza at Dana's Diner and it costs us 55 AED, but the quantity was good.
Do not forget to carry your sun-glasses, its blinding hot and the sun blazes like crazy and is really tough on your eyes.

Yas Waterworld to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi or Vice Versa

Take the Blue Route Yas Express Bus to go from Yas Waterworld to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi or vice versa.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

The building itself is quite amazing seen from the outside. There were a good few enjoyable activities: flight simulator (very nice with and and water spray effects); Bell'Italia scenic "drive" around sites from Europe (smallish and no control of the car, ok for kids I suppose); Formula Rossa, world's fastest roller coaster; Speed Of Magic-Family-4-D ride, featuring a 3-D movie, including temperature, light and motion; Viaggio in Italia, another 3-d Movie sort of ride.
Almost completely air-conditioned, this amusement park is state-of-the-art and an absolute treat to Ferrari lovers (Not me, still loved it).
No outside food or drink is allowed inside Ferrari World, but you can rent a locker on the outside the entrance and go inside. Once you are done, you can come and take it back. A bottle of Water per head is allowed.
Lockers: Lockers are available on the Plaza level entrance area for AED 35 per locker for the smallest. Luggage storage is also available from AED 45.
It's link to Yas mall is a big plus so you can cover all basis in one visit, fun and shopping.
They provide a map of the place, but the signage is virtually non-existent so it is difficult to figure out where you are.
Ferrari collection of about 6 lovely cars and some historical info. However as an attraction there really isn't that much to do there.
Standard Opening Times:

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to Madinat Zayed Shopping Center

From Ferrari World Abu Dhabi walk to Yas Mall Bus Stand, from there take Bus No. 170, 180, 190, or 195 and get down at Al Wahda Sheikh Sultan Bin Zayed St / Bus Station, costs 4 AED per head. From there take a taxi to Madinat Zayed Shopping Center, costs 7.5 AED.

Walk to the Hotel and retire for the night.

Day 3: 9th November, 2015

From Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Checked out of Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi before checkout time, 12 noon.
Took a cab from Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station is behind Al Wahda Mall. Costs 7.5 AED.
Took the same bus number E100 from Abu Dhabi, Central Bus Station to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai. Costs 25 AED per head. You will have to pay in cash this time, NOL Card does not work in Abu Dhabi.
Took a taxi from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai to our hotel in Dubai (ibis Deira City Centre). Cost 38 AED.
Check-in in hotel, ibis Deira City Centre. While checkin they will ask you for an additional 10 AED as tourism fee per night. But the receipt for this will be given when you checkout, but better confirm the same while checkin.

Taxis in Dubai

You can flag one down from the street or from any hotels and malls. Taxis are comfortable and clean, you only pay what is on the meter.
Most of the drivers speaks English.
The Public Taxi does not have any distinguished branding however it’s recognizable by its simplistic red roof top only and the occasional Advertisement ads on the doors and back bumper.
Minimum fare is 10 AED.
There is difference between Day (06:00-22:00) and Night Fare(22:00-06:00)

Ibis Deira City Centre

Address: 8th Str Port Saeed District F Dubai, 0 United Arab Emirates. 8th Street, Port Saeed District | opp Deira Mall City Centre, Dubai 185310, United Arab Emirates
Very convenient location. Closest Metro Station: Deira City Centre Metro Station 2, walk via 8th St - 5 min - 350 m. 5 minute walk to the Metro station and a short taxi ride from the airport.
Website: http://www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-6481-ibis-deira-city-centre/index.shtml
Email: h6481@accor.com
From the Metro: At the Deira City Center Metro Station, leave the station via Exit 4. Take the escalator to the street level. Go right (making a u-turn) and follow the sidewalk towards the left. Do not cross the street. You will see the Deira City Center Mall on your right (across the road) and will pass the City Seasons Hotel on your left. The Ibis is just past this hotel. It’s an easy five minute walk.
Carrefour Hypermarket is nearby, inside Deira City Center Mall for your daily necessities like milk, bread, bottled water etc.
At the bakery section of Carrefour Hypermarket, you can get good assorted boxes of Baklawa at reasonable prices.
While checkin they will ask you for an additional 10 AED as tourism fee per night. But the receipt for this will be given when you checkout, but better confirm the same while checkin.
Complimentary wireless Internet access is available in room, but connection is pathetic.
Check-in time starts at 2 PM, Check-out time is noon
Typical ibis Hotel, nothing lavish but excellent value for money. I had been a regular at ibis properties in multiple countries and never had any issues. Very safe, with decent staff.
Complimentary bottled drinking water.
Rooms and bathrooms are on the smaller side.
Required at check in

They provide a big towels for bathing but no hand Towels were provided which was really inconvenient.
In terms of toiletaries, there was just jelly soap in tubes attached to the walls, so do carry your own shampoo, conditioner, body lotions etc.
No porter service to carry your luggage.
"Day to Day" shop nearby diagonally opposite to the hotel for daily necessities but I'd say Carrefour Hypermarket is more easily accessible.
There is shuttle bus service to the beach and back, check at the reception for exact timings.
In the room - available small fridge, kettle with coffee/tea facilities, tv, hair-dryer.

From Ibis Deira to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo inside Dubai Mall

Take the Red-Line Metro from Deira City Centre Metro Station 1 going in the direction of UAE Exchange Metro Station/Jebel Ali and get down at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station 1. Costs 5 AED. From there walk from the metro station to The Dubai Mall using the Metro Link Bridge, its long walk with multiple travelators but nice fun with good views and displays on the wall and air-conditioned (much better than taking the feeder bus, F13). Metro Link Bridge is aligned with mall opening hours, which is Sunday to Wednesday: 10:00am - 11:00pm And Thursday to Saturday: 10:00am - 12:00am.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

located on the Ground Level of The Dubai Mall, is the largest suspended aquariums in the world. Walk through the 48-metre Aquarium Tunnel on Ground Level, and explore the Rainforest, Rocky Shore Living Ocean environments and UAE Night Creature at the Underwater Zoo on Level 2.
Must See is the main Aquarium tank, which measures 51 metres in length, 20 metres in width and 11 metres in height.
Researcher Package - AED 100

Opening Hours: 10:00am - 11:00pm [7 days/week]

King Crocodile is a delight to watch and yes it is huge.
The tunnel is well made and though it is rather small approx 2 minutes walk only. But you can stay as long as you want, watching fishes.
Inside Dubai Mall, you can see the Aquarium even from outside and need not pay to go inside - blue glass cube with lots of fish inside. But the Tunnel and Underwater Zoo on Level 2 is what you need to pay for.

I would recommend that you buy tickets and go inside the tunnel and then go to 2nd floor to visit underwater zoo. Underwater zoo is fantastic. You can watch Penguins, King crocodiles and several other fishes and sea creatures.
From Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station walk to The Dubai Mall using the Metro Link Bridge, its long walk with multiple travelators but nice fun with good views and displays on the wall and air-conditioned (much better than taking the feeder bus, F13). Metro Link Bridge is aligned with mall opening hours, which is Sunday to Wednesday: 10:00am - 11:00pm And Thursday to Saturday: 10:00am - 12:00am.

Burj Khalifa (Entrance from Dubai Mall)

From Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station walk to The Dubai Mall using the Metro Link Bridge, its long walk with multiple travelators but nice fun with good views and displays on the wall and air-conditioned (much better than taking the feeder bus, F13). Metro Link Bridge is aligned with mall opening hours, which is Sunday to Wednesday: 10:00am - 11:00pm And Thursday to Saturday: 10:00am - 12:00am.
Entrance to Burj Khalifa is via Dubai Mall, follow the signs "At the Top: Burj Khalifa".
AT THE TOP, BURJ KHALIFA TICKET TYPE (only up till level 124): Evening hours : 08h30 – 16h00 and 18h30 until closing : Adult - 125 AED
Costs AED 260.00 for two adults, bought from their own website. We took the TIME - 6:30 PM slot, but ended up reaching at the top at around 7:30-8 PM.
Crazy queues, and we just kept waiting in the queue for around 2 hours to go up and then again around same time to come down.
The views from the top are very nice, but I am not sure if it is worth waiting for almost 4 hrs for probably half an hour of views. Will not be doing it again, pretty exhausting experience, even though we went on Monday.
Book well in advance the sunset tickets sell out days before and it costs a lot more if you just turn up. you can enter around 20 mins before your reserved slot. it takes a long while to get up the lifts so if your going for sunset I would say book for an hour prior or more because there is no limit to time you can spend up there.
You can see Dubai Fountains from the top. But it gets very crowded, so you will not be able to see much.
Only Personal handbags and purses are allowed. However shopping bags, sports bags, back packs, etc. must be stored in the secure baggage Check Room.
No food or drinks are allowed in At The Top. For the comfort and security of all guests, visitors are required to store their shopping bags and strollers in the Check Room located near the At the Top entrance. Your belongings can be picked up when exiting the attraction.
Free Wifi is available but only if you have a local mobile number.
Groupon, at times has a good discounted offer for AT THE TOP, BURJ KHALIFA, so you might want to keep an eye for it.
Dubai Mall is huge, I mean really huge, and it takes a good amount of time to reach from one corner to another, do bear that is mind.

Dubai Fountains

Dubai Fountain Performances occur daily on the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake.
Wonderful display albeit over very quickly. Easy to view despite crowds. On every half an hour. Next to Dubai Mall.
Set on the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake, the fountain shoots water jets as high as 500 ft (150 metres), equivalent to that of a 50-storey building. The fountain is 900 ft (275 metres) long and has five circles of varying sizes and two central arcs. It has been designed by California-based WET, the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas.
Dubai Fountain schedule (lasts 5 mins):

Dubai Mall

Four Floors - Level LG, Level G, Level L1, Level L2
Printed Stores Directory and Mall Maps. make sure you get a map on the ground floor
Our friendly staff from Guest Service Team present at 9 Guest Service Desks within The Dubai Mall
Free Wireless Internet WIFI only for local Dubai Numbers
The dinosaur skeleton and the indoor waterfall sculptures provided as much of a feast for the eyes as did the various items on display for sale. The fountain show outside in the evening is definitely a highlight worth catching, as well.
The mall is home to the Dubai aquarium, Underwater Zoo, Ice Skating Rink and Entrance to Burj Khalifa.
Dubai aquarium looks to be spectacular. You can view the tank from the LG and G floors.

Dubai Mall is huge, I mean really huge, and it takes a good amount of time to reach from one corner to another, do bear that is mind. Make a list of shops and their floors you want to visit and keep looking at the mall map for maximum coverage, there is no way to do justice to it otherwise.
For Indian food there is Shamiana inside Food Court on 2nd Floor. And for fine dining there is India Palace Express on Lower ground floor.
For ice cream, there is Cold Stone Creamery.
There is Level Shoe District on ground floor which has many designer shoe shops. And there is Arabian Treasures too at Ground Floor which is an area that feels like an Arabian Souq.

Chole Batura for 20 AED and Vegetarian Combo for 24 AED at Shamiana

From Dubai Mall to Ibis Deira

Take the Metro Link Bridge again from Dubai Mall to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station. From there take the Red Line Metro going in the direction of Rashidiya and get down at Deira City Centre Metro Station. Take a walk to Ibis Diera City Center.

Day 4: 10th November, 2015

From Ibis Diera Hotel to Wild Wadi Water Park

Take a walk from the hotel to Deira City Centre Metro Station. From there take the Metro to Mall Of Emirates Metro Station. From there take a taxi to Wild Wadi Waterpark. Taxi costs 18 AED.

Wild Wadi Water Park

Opening Hours: November to February 10:00 to 18:00
Please be aware that bringing in food and drinks from outside is not allowed for health and safety reasons. You may bring inside the waterpark 1/2 liter water bottle. No alcohol is served in the park.
Entry Fee: AED 275 per adult
We purchased our ticket from isango.com at a reduced price of Rs 8720.00 for two adults, but for this specific park they do not send the voucher immediately, it was supposed to be send within 72 hours, instead it took them a couple of days to send it after multiple reminders. So make sure you have ample time before purchasing tickets for Wild Wadi from them.
Towel rental is AED 35 per person.
Locker rental rates:

No Indian food available

From Wild Wadi Water Park to Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Take a walk from Wild Wadi Water Park to Souk Madinat Jumeirah. 11 mins, 850 meters. Make sure you carry your sunglasses, sun is very harsh in Dubai.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Website: http://www.jumeirah.com/en/hotels-resorts/dubai/madinat-jumeirah/facilities/souk-madinat-jumeirah/#_=_
With retail open from 10:00 to 23:00 seven days a week and some restaurants and coffee shops starting from 08:00, it's the perfect spot for an early coffee or late night revelry.

Located near Jumeirah Beach area, the Souk Madinat Jumeriah is an entertainment complex that includes a traditional Arabian souk (market) with plenty of shops, restaurants and bars.
Lots of restaurant and sellers as Souk mean market. Souk Madinat Jumeirah is clean, enhanced with good atmosphere, beautiful Arabian architecture and one of a perfect place to take Burj Al Arab picture.
This is a souk of sorts, an upmarket one, where you get to see and experience the pleasures of shopping at a souk or market place, in air-conditioned comfort.
Starbucks is there.
Costa coffee is there, along with good views, just walk out on the other side of Costa coffee for some amazing views.
I was struck by the architecture of the Medinat Jumeirah with its picturesque waterways. You can take a boat ride too for AED 75 for a 1/2 hour cruise in the waters adjoining the beautiful Burj Al Arab.

From Souk Madinat Jumeirah to Ibis Diera Hotel

Take the same route back, taxi till Mall of Emirates Metro Station, costs 12 AED, and then take the Metro back to Diera City Center Metro Station.
Had dinner at Bombay Chowpatty at Ibis Diera City Center Mall. And walked back to Ibis Deira Hotel.

Day 5: 11th November, 2015

From Ibis Hotel to Mall of the Emirates

From Deira City Centre Metro Station, take MRed towards Jebel Ali Metro Station. Exit at Mall of the Emirates Metro Station. Walk to Mall of the Emirates.
From Mall of the Emirates Metro Station 1 to Actual mall, it takes 3 mins, 230 m. Walk north on Mall of the Emirates Metro Footbridge.

Mall of the Emirates

From Mall of the Emirates Metro Station 1 to Actual mall, it takes 3 mins, 230 m. Walk north on Mall of the Emirates Metro Footbridge.
Website: http://www.malloftheemirates.com/#_=_
Opening Hours:

Mall of the Emirates Metro link is located on the first floor above Carrefour.
Mall Directory: Mall directories are located in each major entrance as well as throughout the Mall.
Store Guide (Store Map) - Mall guides listing all stores and services in the Mall are offered to our customers. These are available at Customer Service Desks, as well as distributed throughout the Mall at the mall directories.
The Mall can be reached by Metro; the Metro station is above Carrefour.
One of the Big attractions is Ski Dubai, the simply massive indoor ski hill and winter playground. It alone is worth the visit and you can get a glimpse of the faculty through a very large picture window on the mall's lower level.
For Indian food you have options like:

Ski Dubai

Housed inside Mall of the Emirates, Ground Floor.
Website: http://www.theplaymania.com/skidubai/welcome#_=_
Ski Dubai Timing

Super Pass : Adult - AED 225

We bought our ticket from expedia.co.in "Super Pass at Ski Dubai: Super Pass" at a reduced privce of Rs.7,956.06 for two adults.
Locker Hire : AED 25
Maintained at -2 degrees, carry your own jacket. You will need also to pay 20 AED/- each for the locker key, but it's a deposit only, you will get it back once you return key through a smart machine. The ticket are also including one set of clothes, boots and a pair of socks and gloves, it's suggested to bring a hat and scarf with you. If you go, please bring your additional sweater and/or jacket, the clothes that they give are not sufficient. And something to cover your ears too. It is freaking cold inside. The clothes that they give are to be worn over your own clothes, so there are no changing rooms as such.

Bombay Chowpatty

Great Service, excellent food and very reasonably priced.

Veg Biryani at Bombay Chowpatty for 20 AED

From Mall of the Emirates to Ibis Hotel

Take a walk back to Mall of the Emirates Metro Station, the way you came, about 620 m. Then take the MRed towards Rashidiya Metro Station, Exit at Deira City Centre Metro station. Takes about 45 mins. Costs 7.5 AED. And walk to the Hotel.

Day 6: 12th November, 2015

From ibis Hotel to Aquaventure Waterpark

Starting Deira City Centre Metro Station, take MRed towards Jebel Ali Metro Station. Exit at Nakheel Metro (and NOT Nakheel Harbour and Tower) Station. From there take a taxi to Aquaventure Waterpark, taxi costs 25.5 AED. on your way you will see the popular Atlantis Hotel Front Facade.

Aquaventure Waterpark

Address: Crescent Road | Atlantis The Palm Hotel, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Atlantis, The Palm is located in Dubai, on the crescent of the largest man-made island in the world, The Palm Island.
Take the Red-Line Metro and exit at Nakheel Metro (and NOT Nakheel Harbour and Tower) Station. From there take a taxi to Aquaventure Waterpark, taxi costs 25.5 AED. on your way you will see the popular Atlantis Hotel Front Facade.
There is some convulated way of going via Tram & Monorail which I did not explore. Something like, get down at Damac properties/Dubai Marina Metro station. walk through linked foot bridge for 2-3 mins and get to Dubai Marina tram station. Take a tram (Aed 3/free if punched within 30 mins from punch out from metro) to Palm Gateway station. Walk for 3-4 mins following the sign boards and get to connected monorail station. Get on Monorail (aed 15 one way/head or Aed 25 updown/head) and get down at last station which is atlantis and u will be at the water park. OR, alight at Dubai Internet City metro station which has the tram link. Board the tram and alight at Palm Jumeira metro station which connects to the Monorail. Monorail will take you to Aquaventure. the name of the station is Atlantis Aqua venture station. OR,
The Metro is connected to Dubai Tram system at DAMAC Metro station (formerly Dubai Marina Metro Station) and Jumeriah Lakes Towers Metro Station, both of Red Line. From any of these two Metro stations you can take the Tram to Palm Jumeirah Tram Station. From Palm Jumeirah Tram Station (which is the interconnection for Monorail and this station is called Gateway Station for Monorail) you can take the Monorail to Atlantis Aquaventure Station.
Opening Timings : Open daily 10.00 AM to Sunset* (Opening hours subject to change depending on time of year)
Try to reach at 10 AM and leave the Atlantis well before 4 PM
Locker (Small) Rental - AED 40
Entry Fee is 300 AED per adult
For pre-bookings including online ticket purchased, please head straight to the “Pre-Purchased Tickets” counter on the right-hand side of the plaza.
Life jackets are complimentary and available at towel rental locations.
For my mom, I bought a "Aquaventure Waterpark & The Lost Chambers Aquarium Combo Saver: Combo Ticket" from expedia.co.in at the reduced price of Rs.5,286.36.
For myself, Aquaventure Waterpark was running a Happy Birthday offer wherein you have to register for this from their website and within your Birthday week starting from the day of your birthday you can access Aquaventure Park once free of cost. You have to bring your proof of Birthday, I used my passport for this and a copy of the Birthday Voucher sent by Aquaventure Waterpark post registration.
Outside food is not allowed, you bags will be searched on entry, but you can carry 1 litre water bottle per person, SunScreen, Swimsuit, towel, flip-flops.
Indian Food Option: Barracudas has The Dosa Factory inside.
If you are not staying there, honestly, there is no good reason to go to Atlantis Palm, more so if you are not doing Aquaventure Waterpark or Lost Chambers, and even then you will not be able to see anything on Palm Island. The fronds are all private gated communities and, whilst you can walk the trunk it is pretty boring at ground level. It is also much, much bigger than you think and you really do not get any impression of the Palm shape unless you see it from above. I wouldn't waste any of your short time going there.
The entrance of Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis practically face each other, both are inside the same building, you do not even have to come out in the open.
There is a golf cart sort of buggy that takes you around free of charge.
There is a Dolphin Bay where you can watch people play with Dolphins, there is extra charge for interacting but watching is free.

Veg Fried Rice at Barracudas for 25 AED per plate

From Aquaventure Waterpark to The Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis, The Palm

The entrance of both of these places practically face each other, both are inside the same building, you do not even have to come out in the open.

The Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis, The Palm

Address: Crescent Road, The Palm | Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Explore the underwater mazes and tunnels of this lost civilization while encountering sharks, eels, seahorses, and piranhas. There are over 20 impressive marine life exhibits including a touch tank and our interactive Aquatheatre show.
The Lost Chambers is located in the Avenues in Atlantis, The Palm
Hours Of Operation: Open daily 10.00 AM to 10.00 PM* (Opening hours subject to change depending on time of year)
The lost chambers is well worth a visit, set within the Atlantis Hotel there are 10 chambers to walk through. Each chamber differs in its inhabitance and its size but all have a set of cushions that allow you to sit and watch the fish within that chamber. Each chamber also has a small screen on the wall which you can activate and it allows you to see what each species you can see is called.
There are certain white alligators(albino alligators from Florida) or jelly fish sparkling in dark making it a good view.
very doable in around one hour, but you spend as much time as you want.
Entry Fee is AED 100 per adult.
We got "The Lost Chambers of Atlantis, The Palm Aquarium Admission Tickets: Admission" at a reduced price from expedia.co.in at Rs.1,768.01 per head.
If you are planning to do both Aquaventure Waterpark & Lost Chambers, buy a "Aquaventure Waterpark & The Lost Chambers Aquarium Combo Saver: Combo Ticket" from expedia.co.in at the reduced price of Rs.5,286.36.

The Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis, The Palm to Ibis Deira City Center

Took a cab to DAMAC Metro Station, cost 23.5 AED. And then from there took the Metro to Deira City Centre Metro Station.

Day 7: 13th November, 2015

This being Friday, Metro will only start running from 1 PM onwards, so decided to explore Diera City Centre Mall in the first half.

Diera City Centre Mall

nearest Metro Station: City Centre Deira Metro Station, use Exit 1, East side when leaving the station
Opening Hours:

Carrefour Hypermarket is nearby, inside Deira City Center Mall for your daily necessities like milk, bread, bottled water etc.
At the bakery section of Carrefour Hypermarket, you can get good assorted boxes of Baklawa at reasonable prices.
Restaurants Inside City Centre Deira

Shamiana

Food Court, Level 1, Deira City Centre, Deira City Centre Area, Dubai
Daily 9 AM to 10 PM
AED 80 for two people (approx.)

Bombay Chowpatty

Food Court, Level 2, Deira City Centre, Deira City Centre Area, Dubai
Daily 10 AM to 11:30 PM
AED 60 for two people (approx.)

Gazebo

Next to Mango, City Court, Level 2, Deira City Centre, Deira City Centre Area, Dubai
Daily 10 AM to 12 Midnight
AED 120 for two people (approx.)

Veg Combo at Bombay Chowpatty for 30 AED

From Deira City Centre to Global Village

Take the red metro line from Deira City Centre Metro Station going in the direction of Jebel Ali, and get down at Union Metro Station. Take Bus Number 103 from Union Metro Bus Stop C to Global Village. The service runs from 3:15pm until 11:15pm, with 30 minutes of travel time. You can pay using your NOL Card.

Global Village

Website: http://globalvillage.ae/
The RTA has set up 2 bus routes to allow the public affordable and easy-to-use methods of getting to Global Village to join in on the fun. The first route (103) starts from Union Station, while the second route (104) starts from Al Ghubaiba Station. The service runs from 3:15pm until 11:15pm, with 30 minutes of travel time. You can pay using your NOL Card.
Global Village general admission tickets are available for sale at all Global Village gates starting 3:30pm every day until half an hour prior to park closure.

It is a seasonal activity and opens only for a few months in an year.
Global Village Timings - 6th November 2014 until 11 April 2015:

Restaurants (serving Indian Food):Krispy Kreme, Chicken Tikka, Haji Ali JUice Center REstaurant, Grand Barbeque REstaurant, Hyderabadi Dum Biryani Restaurant
A good place to buy souvenirs, but do not pay what they ask for, always bargain and ask to get a discount and the buyer will definitely accept
lots of different nationality food places to sit down and eat or takeaways to sit on the grass. Boat rides fun fair. lots to see and do for all ages.
over 40 country outlets, great lighting but gets very crowded.
Around 9.30 they had a small firework display.

From Global Village to ibis Deira Hotel

Take the returning Bus Route-103 to Union Metro Bus Stop C, walk to the Union Metro Station and take the MRed going in the direction of Rashidiya, and get down at Diera City Center.

Day 8: 14th November, 2015

From Ibis Deira to Dubai Mall

Dubai Fountains

Saw it from the Ground Level, right outside Dubai Mall, there is an area to watch it.
Already Reviewed

From Dubai Mall to Ibis Deira

Day 9: 15th November, 2015

From Ibis Deira to Gold Souq

From Deira City Center Metro Station take the Metro and get down at AL RAS station (on the green line). At Al Ras station, take Exit 2 to Al Khor Street. As you come out of the exit, look behind you for a small Standard Chartered Bank on the corner. Turn right at the SCB and you'll head directly to the free Heritage Museum. Turn left as you hit the museum and continue down the road. By then you should see some tourists straggling around in the heat so you'll know you're getting close to the Gold Souk. There are a few different entrances to the Gold Souk itself but it doesn't really matter which one you enter. Look for the huge wooden archways and you'll know you've found it. There are people around, feel free to ask if you think you are lost.

Gold Souq

You can gape at extra large jewelry on display at shop windows & even take photos at most of the places.
Did not intend to buy anything, and that fact made the visual experience all the more pleasant, without thinking too hard.
Went early in the morning, so no touts to bug us. Everything was cool.
Though there is enough shade, it's not air-conditioned so the afternoons could be really hot.

From Gold Souq to Ibn Battuta Mall

Walk back from Gold Souq to Al Ras Metro station. Take the Metro and go to Ibn Battuta Metro Station. From there take a walk (9 mins) to the Mall. Costs 7.50 AED.

Ibn Battuta Mall

Each region Ibn Battuta explored – Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China – is reflected in the architecture and theme of the mall’s six courts. These courts strongly project the historical and cultural richness of this Arabian icon’s life, serving as inspiration to all those who visit.
IBN BATTUTA MALL TRADING HOURS:

Anchor tenants – Debenhams, Magrudys, Paris Gallery, Sharaf DG, Geant, H&M.
Very accessible via the Dubai metro, but not connected to the Metro Station, to get to the mall entrance about 200 metres away you have to negotiate sand and broken paving slabs
The ceiling of the Starbucks in the Persia area was worth the visit alone and so is the India Marble Stuff. The China section has a large boat.
Everything is on the same floor.
Not as big as the other malls in dubai but the magnificent work on the walls and the sky dome are a pleasure to see. The décor was unique, with large painted scenes on the walls and ceilings.
Indian Food Options at Shamiana inside Food Court.
There is an accessories shop called Charming Charlie, I loved it, its a huge place with exceptionally good variety.
Candelite Shop makes fresh Cotton Candy, we bought Vanilla flavoured which was very nice at 12 AED.

Ibn Battuta Mall as seen from Metro Station

Veg Combo+Paneer+Veg Biryani at Shamiana for 32 AED

From Ibn Battuta Mall to Ibis Deira City Center

From Ibn Battuta Mall walk back to Ibn Battuta Metro Station.. From there take the Metro to Deira City Center Metro Station and walk back to hotel.

Day 10: 16th November, 2015

Ibis Deira City Center to Dubai Airport

Took a cab from Ibis Deira City Center to Dubai Airport Terminal 1, cost 12.5 AED.
Return NOL Card at the Airport Metro Station and get a refund.

Dubai Airport

Dubai Airport has lots of Duty Free Shops (DDF), we bought some Arabian Perfumes, some Patchi Chocolates etc.
Visit Zen Gardens in Terminal 1: Need a little peace and quiet or want to reconnect with nature? Visit Zen Gardens, an indoor oasis where time stands still. You will find the Zen Gardens near gates B7 and B27.

Eateries at Terminal – 1 – departure C Gates

Cinnabon & Seattle Best Coffee (Cafe)
Costa Coffee (Cafe)
Starbucks (Cafe)
Bombay Chowpatty (Quick Bites)
Subway (Quick Bites)
Taste of India (Restaurant)

Dubai Airport to Bangalore Airport

Return flight from Indigo Airlines. Flight Departure is at 10:50 AM, Departure Terminal is Terminal 1.
Total Time is 3 hrs 40 mins. Landing time in Bangalore is 4:00 PM.

Took a cab from Bangalore Airport and went home.

Other stuff that can be visited

Dubai Miracle Garden - A must-do, but opens late in November and for a very limited time period.
Dune Bashing
Half-Day trip to Sharjah

Dubai & Abu Dhabi Itinerary

Thursday, 17 December 2015

Dubai & Abu Dhabi Itinerary

Dubai & Abu Dhabi Itinerary

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