A Week of Family Fun in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Saturday September 23: Arrival in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! After arriving at the airport, transfer to your hotel and settle in. In the morning, explore the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and enjoy breathtaking views from the observation deck. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Mall, where you can indulge in shopping, dining, and even ice skating. In the evening, take a stroll along the Dubai Marina promenade and marvel at the stunning skyline.

• Burj Khalifa: Cost estimate - AED 149 ($40), Time spent - 2 hours
• Dubai Mall: No entry fee, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Dubai Marina: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday September 24: Dubai Theme Parks

Get ready for an exciting day at Dubai's theme parks. Start your morning at IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world's largest indoor theme park, featuring thrilling rides and attractions. In the afternoon, cool off at Aquaventure Waterpark, located within Atlantis, The Palm. End the day with a visit to the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral paradise.

• IMG Worlds of Adventure: Cost estimate - AED 285 ($77), Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Aquaventure Waterpark: Cost estimate - AED 320 ($87), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Cost estimate - AED 55 ($15), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday September 25: Exploring Old Dubai

Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Dubai in the older parts of the city. Start your day with a visit to the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, where you can learn about the city's past. Explore the traditional souks in Deira, such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, and indulge in some shopping. In the evening, take an abra (traditional wooden boat) ride across Dubai Creek to enjoy the views.

• Dubai Museum: Cost estimate - AED 3 ($0.82), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Deira Souks: No entry fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Dubai Creek Abra: Cost estimate - AED 1 ($0.27), Time spent - 30 minutes

Tuesday September 26: Abu Dhabi City Tour

Head to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, for a day of exploration. Visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning architectural masterpiece. Explore the cultural district of Saadiyat Island, home to world-class museums like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi (opening soon). End the day with a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, a picturesque waterfront promenade.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Saadiyat Island: No entry fee (museum entry fees may apply), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Corniche: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday September 27: Desert Safari Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable desert safari experience. Start your morning with a thrilling dune bashing session in a 4x4 vehicle. Enjoy sandboarding and camel riding in the vast desert landscape. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Arabian dinner while watching live cultural performances under the starry sky.

• Desert Safari: Cost estimate - AED 250 ($68), Time spent - Half-day

Thursday September 28: Family Fun at Yas Island

Visit Yas Island, a popular entertainment destination in Abu Dhabi. Begin your day with a visit to Ferrari World, an indoor amusement park with thrilling rides and attractions. In the afternoon, cool off at Yas Waterworld, a water park offering a variety of slides and pools. End the day with a visit to Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, a theme park featuring beloved characters and immersive experiences.

• Ferrari World: Cost estimate - AED 295 ($80), Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Yas Waterworld: Cost estimate - AED 250 ($68), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi: Cost estimate - AED 295 ($80), Time spent - 3-4 hours

Friday September 29: Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah

Spend your last day exploring the modern marvels of Dubai. Start your morning with a visit to Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island known for its luxury resorts and iconic Atlantis, The Palm. In the afternoon, take a relaxing cruise along Dubai Marina and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline. End your trip with a visit to The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence, a vibrant waterfront promenade with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

• Palm Jumeirah: No entry fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Dubai Marina Cruise: Cost estimate - AED 150 ($41), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• The Walk: No entry fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For some off the beaten path adventures and local favorites, consider exploring Al Qudra Lakes in Dubai, a serene oasis in the desert where you can enjoy picnicking and wildlife spotting. In Abu Dhabi, a visit to the Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a great way to experience traditional Emirati culture and enjoy beautiful gardens.

For more hotel and flight options, check out Kayak.