7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Friday, September 1: Arrival in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by visiting The Dubai Mall. In the morning, explore the world's largest shopping mall and discover its impressive attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Miracle Garden, a beautiful floral paradise. End your day with an evening visit to the Dubai Fountain, where you can witness the spectacular fountain show.

• The Dubai Mall: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Estimated cost - AED 55 ($15), Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Dubai Fountain: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 30 minutes

Saturday, September 2: Exploring Old Dubai

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Dubai by exploring Old Dubai. Start your morning with a visit to the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort. In the afternoon, take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek to the bustling Spice and Gold Souks. In the evening, head to the Al Seef Promenade, a charming waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences.

• Dubai Museum: Estimated cost - AED 3 ($0.80), Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Spice and Gold Souks: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Al Seef Promenade: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, September 3: Desert Safari Adventure

Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure. In the morning, visit the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve for a unique wildlife experience. In the afternoon, indulge in thrilling activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. End your day with a delicious Arabian dinner and live entertainment at a desert camp.

• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve: Estimated cost - AED 225 ($60), Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Desert Safari: Estimated cost - AED 200 ($54), Estimated time spent - 6-7 hours

Monday, September 4: Yas Island Adventures

Head to Abu Dhabi and explore Yas Island. In the morning, visit Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, an indoor theme park with thrilling rides and attractions. In the afternoon, cool off at Yas Waterworld, a fantastic water park with slides and pools. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the beautiful Yas Marina Circuit and enjoy waterfront dining options.

• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Estimated cost - AED 295 ($80), Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Yas Waterworld: Estimated cost - AED 250 ($68), Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Yas Marina Circuit: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Cultural Exploration in Abu Dhabi

Discover the cultural side of Abu Dhabi. In the morning, visit the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece. In the afternoon, explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a world-class art museum. In the evening, stroll along the Corniche, a scenic waterfront promenade, and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: Estimated cost - AED 63 ($17), Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Corniche: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, September 6: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Experience the thrills of Dubai Parks and Resorts. In the morning, visit Motiongate Dubai, a Hollywood-inspired theme park. In the afternoon, head to Legoland Dubai, a fun-filled theme park for families. In the evening, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Bollywood Parks Dubai, featuring live shows and Bollywood-themed attractions.

• Motiongate Dubai: Estimated cost - AED 245 ($66), Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Legoland Dubai: Estimated cost - AED 245 ($66), Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Bollywood Parks Dubai: Estimated cost - AED 245 ($66), Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours

Thursday, September 7: Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah

Explore the stunning Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. In the morning, take a relaxing walk along the marina promenade and enjoy the luxurious yachts. In the afternoon, visit the Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm, for thrilling water slides and encounters with marine animals. In the evening, indulge in a delightful dinner cruise, sailing through the iconic Palm Jumeirah.

• Dubai Marina: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Aquaventure Waterpark: Estimated cost - AED 320 ($87), Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Dinner Cruise: Estimated cost - AED 200 ($54), Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Dubai Butterfly Garden, a magical indoor garden with thousands of butterflies. Families will also enjoy a visit to KidZania Dubai, an interactive educational city for kids. Local favorites include exploring the vibrant street art scene in Dubai's Al Quoz neighborhood and visiting the Green Planet, an indoor rainforest experience in City Walk.

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