7-Day Family-Friendly Abu Dhabi and Dubai Itinerary

Friday, December 22: Arrival in Abu Dhabi

Begin your family adventure in Abu Dhabi by visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in the morning. Marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate details of one of the world's largest mosques. In the afternoon, head to Yas Island, where you can enjoy thrilling rides at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi or cool off at Yas Waterworld. End the day with a leisurely walk along Corniche Beach, watching the sunset over the Arabian Gulf.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Cost - AED 295 ($80) per adult, AED 230 ($63) per child, Time - 4-6 hours
• Yas Waterworld: Cost - AED 250 ($68) per adult, AED 210 ($57) per child, Time - 4-6 hours
• Corniche Beach: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours

Saturday, December 23: Abu Dhabi City Tour

Embark on a city tour of Abu Dhabi in the morning, exploring iconic landmarks such as Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi Heritage Village, and Qasr Al Watan. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant and then head to the Louvre Abu Dhabi in the afternoon to discover its impressive art collection. In the evening, visit the Mangrove National Park and take a kayak tour through the serene mangrove forests.

• Emirates Palace: Cost - Free (Guided tours available), Time - 1-2 hours
• Abu Dhabi Heritage Village: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
• Qasr Al Watan: Cost - AED 60 ($16) per adult, AED 30 ($8) per child, Time - 2-3 hours
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: Cost - AED 60 ($16) per adult, AED 30 ($8) per child, Time - 2-4 hours
• Mangrove National Park: Cost - AED 150 ($41) per person for kayak tour, Time - 2-3 hours

Sunday, December 24: Dubai Desert Safari

Experience the thrill of a desert safari in Dubai. Start your day with a morning dune bashing adventure followed by camel riding and sandboarding. Enjoy a traditional Arabic lunch at a desert camp and engage in activities like henna painting and falconry. In the evening, savor a delicious barbecue dinner while watching mesmerizing belly dance performances under the starry desert sky.

• Morning Dune Bashing: Cost - AED 250 ($68) per person, Time - 2-3 hours
• Camel Riding and Sandboarding: Cost - Included in desert safari package, Time - 1-2 hours
• Desert Camp Activities: Cost - Included in desert safari package, Time - 2-3 hours
• Barbecue Dinner and Entertainment: Cost - Included in desert safari package, Time - 2-3 hours

Monday, December 25: Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

Spend your day exploring Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls. Visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo to witness a diverse range of marine life. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the many restaurants within the mall. In the afternoon, take the elevator to the observation deck of Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and marvel at the panoramic views of Dubai. End the evening with the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show.

• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Cost - AED 175 ($48) per adult, AED 135 ($37) per child, Time - 2-3 hours
• Burj Khalifa: Cost - AED 149 ($41) per person for At The Top, Time - 1-2 hours
• Dubai Fountain Show: Cost - Free, Time - 30 minutes

Tuesday, December 26: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Head to Dubai Parks and Resorts for a day of ultimate fun and entertainment. Start your day at Motiongate Dubai, where you can experience the magic of Hollywood-themed rides and attractions. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the park's restaurants. In the afternoon, visit Bollywood Parks Dubai, a lively park dedicated to Bollywood movies. End the day with thrilling rides and water slides at Legoland Water Park.

• Motiongate Dubai: Cost - AED 295 ($80) per person, Time - 4-6 hours
• Bollywood Parks Dubai: Cost - AED 175 ($48) per person, Time - 3-4 hours
• Legoland Water Park: Cost - AED 235 ($64) per person, Time - 4-6 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah

Spend the morning exploring Dubai Marina, a waterfront area known for its luxurious yachts and stunning skyscrapers. Take a relaxing walk along the marina promenade and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the waterfront cafes. In the afternoon, head to Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree. Visit Atlantis, The Palm and indulge in thrilling water activities at Aquaventure Waterpark. End the day with a delightful dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

• Dubai Marina Walk: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
• Aquaventure Waterpark: Cost - AED 335 ($91) per adult, AED 295 ($80) per child, Time - 4-6 hours
• Atlantis, The Palm: Cost - Free (Aquaventure Waterpark admission separate), Time - 2-4 hours

Thursday, December 28: Departure

On your last day, spend the morning exploring the traditional souks of Dubai, such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, where you can shop for unique souvenirs. Enjoy a final meal at a local restaurant before heading to the airport for your departure. Bid farewell to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, taking back unforgettable memories of your family-friendly adventure.

• Gold Souk: Cost - Varies based on purchases, Time - 1-2 hours
• Spice Souk: Cost - Varies based on purchases, Time - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family experience, visit Dubai Miracle Garden. This enchanting garden features a stunning display of over 150 million flowers, including intricate sculptures and structures. Another hidden gem is Al Jahili Park in Al Ain, where you can enjoy picnicking and outdoor activities amidst beautiful greenery. Locals also love visiting Hatta Village, a restored heritage village showcasing the traditional way of life in the region.