Family-Friendly Itinerary: 7 Days in Dubai

Sunday, October 1: Exploring the Modern City

In the morning, start your trip by visiting the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Enjoy breathtaking views of Dubai from the observation deck. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Mall, a shopper's paradise, and visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. In the evening, experience the Dubai Fountain show, a mesmerizing display of water, lights, and music.

• Burj Khalifa: Approx. cost AED 149 ($40) for tickets, 2-3 hours
• Dubai Mall: Free to explore, 2-3 hours
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Approx. cost AED 175 ($48) for tickets, 2 hours
• Dubai Fountain: Free to watch, 30 minutes

Monday, October 2: Desert Adventure

Embark on an exciting desert safari in the morning and enjoy activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. Experience the thrill of the desert landscape and learn about Bedouin culture. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral paradise with over 50 million flowers. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a desert camp while being entertained by traditional performances.

• Desert Safari: Approx. cost AED 250-350 ($68-95) per person, 6 hours
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Approx. cost AED 55 ($15) for tickets, 2-3 hours
• Desert Camp Dinner: Approx. cost AED 150-200 ($41-54) per person, 3-4 hours

Tuesday, October 3: Fun at Aquaventure Waterpark

Spend the day at Aquaventure Waterpark, located at Atlantis, The Palm. Enjoy thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a private beach. The park also offers activities like swimming with dolphins and shark safaris. In the evening, explore The Walk at JBR, a bustling waterfront promenade with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: Approx. cost AED 320 ($87) for tickets, 6-8 hours
• The Walk at JBR: Free to explore, 2-3 hours

Wednesday, October 4: Discovering Old Dubai

Start your day by visiting the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi. Explore the narrow lanes of Al Bastakiya, visit the Dubai Museum, and take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant souks (markets) of Deira, such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Arabian dinner aboard a dhow cruise.

• Al Fahidi Neighborhood: Free to explore, 2-3 hours
• Dubai Museum: Approx. cost AED 3 ($0.80) for tickets, 1-2 hours
• Abra Ride: Approx. cost AED 1 ($0.30) per ride, 30 minutes
• Deira Souks: Free to explore, 2-3 hours
• Dhow Cruise Dinner: Approx. cost AED 150-200 ($41-54) per person, 2-3 hours

Thursday, October 5: Family Fun at Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend the day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, an entertainment complex featuring four theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, Legoland Dubai, and Legoland Water Park. Enjoy thrilling rides, shows, and attractions suitable for all ages. In the evening, unwind at The Beach at JBR, a waterfront destination with dining options and beach activities.

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: Approx. cost AED 245-345 ($67-94) for tickets, 8-10 hours
• The Beach at JBR: Free to explore, 2-3 hours

Friday, October 6: Relaxation and Shopping

Spend the morning enjoying the pristine Jumeirah Beach and take a dip in the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf. In the afternoon, visit the Mall of the Emirates, a massive shopping mall with a ski resort inside called Ski Dubai. Experience snowboarding or skiing in the desert city. In the evening, explore Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a traditional Arabian souk with shops, restaurants, and a beautiful view of the Burj Al Arab.

• Jumeirah Beach: Free to visit, 2-3 hours
• Mall of the Emirates: Free to explore, 3-4 hours
• Ski Dubai: Approx. cost AED 250 ($68) for tickets, 2-3 hours
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Free to explore, 2-3 hours

Saturday, October 7: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi

Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the UAE. Visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning architectural marvel. Explore the cultural district of Saadiyat Island, which houses the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Manarat Al Saadiyat art center. In the evening, enjoy the thrilling rides and entertainment at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, an indoor theme park dedicated to the famous car brand.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free to visit, 2-3 hours
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: Approx. cost AED 60-90 ($16-24) for tickets, 2-3 hours
• Manarat Al Saadiyat: Approx. cost AED 20 ($5.50) for tickets, 1-2 hours
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Approx. cost AED 295-350 ($80-95) for tickets, 4-6 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, consider visiting The Green Planet, an indoor rainforest showcasing exotic flora and fauna. Another hidden gem is Dubai Garden Glow, a unique park with vibrant light installations and themed gardens. Families with kids might enjoy a visit to the KidZania Dubai, an interactive educational play city where children can role-play different professions.

For more hotel and flight options in Dubai, you can check prices on Kayak.