Exploring the UAE beyond Dubai on $1,000

When people think of the UAE, Dubai often takes center stage with its towering skyscrapers and glittering malls. Very few people are aware that the country is composed of seven emirates, each with its own distinct culture, history, and experiences. On my solo trip, I wanted to go beyond Dubai and see what else this fascinating Middle Eastern country had to offer, without breaking the bank.

With a budget of just $1,000, I managed to explore Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai comfortably, blending adventure, culture, and relaxation. Here’s how you can do the same.

Sharjah: the cultural heart of the UAE

Often overshadowed by its flashy neighbor, Sharjah surprised me with its balance of heritage, entertainment, and affordability.

Sharjah Maritime Museum (25 AED | 2 hours)

The sea has always played a defining role in the lives of Sharjah’s people, and the Sharjah Maritime Museum beautifully tells that story. Within just a couple of hours, you can journey through the emirate’s rich marine heritage, discovering tales of trade voyages, sea shanties, Arabian pearls, traditional fishing techniques, and the fascinating world of pearl diving. The showstopper is a massive wooden dhow displayed at the center, a reminder of the region’s seafaring past. For history lovers and culture enthusiasts alike, this museum is an absolute must-visit.

Central Souk/Blue Souk (2 hours)

If you enjoy a good shopping spree, a visit to the souks in the UAE is non-negotiable. In Sharjah, I headed to the iconic Central Souk, also known as the Blue Souk, to soak in the experience. Spread across nearly 80,000 square meters with over 600 shops, it’s a treasure trove for everything from gold and jewelry to perfumes, electronics, cosmetics, souvenirs, clothes, and home essentials. Beyond shopping, the building itself is a masterpiece – an elegant blend of traditional Arabic artistry and modern architecture. For shopaholics and culture lovers alike, this souk is a must-see.

Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus Tour (60 AED)

For a day, I chose to explore Sharjah like a classic tourist and bought a one-day pass for the hop-on, hop-off double-decker bus. Since taxis in Sharjah can get expensive, this was a smart and budget-friendly alternative. The route conveniently included the spots I had planned (Maritime Museum and Central Souk) while also giving me the chance to see Al Majaz Waterfront and the Amphitheater. Moreover, the ticket came with a complimentary boat ride at Al Qasba, which felt like the perfect bonus to wrap up the day.

Al Qasba (2 hours)

After a full day of sightseeing, I couldn’t have picked a better way to unwind than with a traditional ‘Abra’ boat ride at Al Qasba. As the boat drifted along, it revealed panoramic views of glittering skyscrapers, elegant walkways, bridges, lively restaurants, theaters, and family attractions. Watching Al Qasba sparkle under the night sky was magical – a perfect blend of entertainment and Sharjah’s modern charm.

Abu Dhabi

The UAE’s capital turned out to be the highlight of my trip, and where I indulged the most while still staying under budget.

Scuba Diving (1,049 AED, including 250 AED for photography and videography | Half-day)

Abu Dhabi turned out to be the best part of my trip. The main reason I added the UAE’s capital to my itinerary was to experience scuba diving at the Breakwater. I signed up with Al Mahara Diving Center for the PADI Advanced Open Water course, and as it was my fourth dive, the whole experience felt nothing short of magical. Completing the course also earned me my PADI Scuba Diver Card, which qualified me to dive up to 40 feet with a certified professional. If you are a water enthusiast, Abu Dhabi definitely deserves a spot on your travel list.

Dubai

Of course, I couldn’t skip Dubai, but I chose to explore it differently, balancing the must-sees with lesser-known gems.

Desert Safari (90 AED | Half-day)

The UAE instantly brings to mind golden sand dunes, endless desert horizons, and sunsets that paint the sky in fiery hues. One of the best ways to soak in this magical scenery is on a desert safari. I chose the Al Aweer Desert for this unforgettable adventure. I booked an evening safari, which turned out to be the perfect mix of thrill and culture. The package came with everything you would hope for: pick-up and drop-off, adrenaline-pumping dune bashing, a delicious dinner with beverages, live belly dance, Tanura and fire shows, henna art, and plenty more to keep the night alive.

Burj Khalifa & Fountain Show (2 hours)

The Burj Khalifa hardly needs an introduction! It’s the tallest building in the world and truly a man-made marvel. Standing before its 2,723-foot silhouette while watching the evening fountain show is an experience that leaves you awestruck. The tower dominates Dubai’s skyline and is visible from almost every corner of the city. For those who have never been to the top of one of the world’s tallest buildings, a visit to its observation deck is a must. I chose to skip that part since I already had a similar experience at Malaysia’s Menara KL Tower (1,382 feet), but just being near the Burj Khalifa was unforgettable.

Dubai Butterfly Garden (55 AED | 3 hours)

The Dubai Butterfly Garden was easily my favorite spot in the city, and it’s a must-visit if you are a nature lover. Home to over 15,000 butterflies from more than 50 species, the garden spreads across 10 custom-built, climate-controlled domes. It’s a magical little world, not just in Dubai but in the whole UAE. Strolling through this vibrant space, surrounded by fluttering wings in every color, felt like stepping into a fairytale. Some butterflies landed on me effortlessly, while with others I had to hold out my hand patiently until they chose to settle. A truly enchanting experience!

Naif Souk (2 hours)

If you are after authentic UAE souvenirs, gifts, oud perfumes, or just some good bargains, the Naif Souk is the place to go. Once a camel market, it has now evolved into a bustling shopping hub rich in character. I recommend visiting in the evening, when the souk comes alive with its vibrant, traditional atmosphere. From Arabic perfumes and textiles to henna designs and even hair extensions, the variety here is endless. Bargaining is welcomed, so you can often snag some great deals while soaking in the lively spirit of Old Dubai.

UAE malls

The malls in the UAE are truly massive, and I made sure to visit three of the most popular ones – Abu Dhabi Mall, Dubai Mall, and Mall of the Emirates. These shopping giants are home to luxury labels like Jimmy Choo, Balenciaga, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, and Chanel, making them a paradise for shopaholics. But they are more than just retail spaces. Each mall also offers plenty of dining options, cozy cafés, cineplexes, and even kids’ play zones, so there’s something here for everyone.

How much did the whole trip cost?

I managed to explore these three incredible emirates of the UAE within a budget of just $1,000. And the best part? I didn’t have to compromise on comfort, I earned my PADI certification, and I packed in experiences that went far beyond my imagination.

Here’s the cost breakdown: