Start your trip by arriving in Dubai and check-in at your chosen hotel. Spend the morning exploring Dubai Marina, a vibrant waterfront district. Take a leisurely walk along the marina promenade, admire the luxury yachts, and enjoy the stunning skyline views. In the afternoon, visit The Beach at JBR, a family-friendly beachfront area with various entertainment options. As the evening sets in, head to Pier 7 and choose from its seven different restaurants for a delightful dinner experience.
For breakfast, try Eggspectation, a popular restaurant offering a variety of delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For lunch, visit The Cheesecake Factory, known for its extensive menu and delicious cheesecakes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 80 per person.
For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at Pierchic, located at the end of a pier with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Average cost for a meal is about AED 350 per person.
Saturday, January 6: Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa
Start your day by visiting the iconic Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping and entertainment destinations. Explore the diverse range of shops, indulge in some retail therapy, and visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. In the afternoon, make your way to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take the elevator to the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking views of the city. In the evening, enjoy the captivating Dubai Fountain show outside the mall.
Dubai Mall: Cost estimate - Free (Shopping and attractions have separate costs), Time spent - 4-6 hours
Burj Khalifa: Cost estimate - AED 149-378 (depending on ticket type), Time spent - 2-3 hours
For breakfast, head to Shakespeare and Co., a charming cafe located in the Dubai Mall. Enjoy a delicious selection of pastries, sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, dine at The Cheesecake Factory, a popular American restaurant also located in the Dubai Mall. Indulge in their extensive menu featuring dishes like burgers, salads, and of course, their signature cheesecakes. Average cost for a meal is about 100 AED per person.
For dinner, visit Pierchic, an elegant seafood restaurant situated at the end of a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Delight in their fresh seafood delicacies and breathtaking ocean views. Average cost for a meal is about 400 AED per person.
Sunday, January 7: Dubai Parks and Resorts
Get ready for a day of fun and adventure at Dubai Parks and Resorts. This sprawling entertainment complex is home to several theme parks, including Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai. Spend the day exploring the unique attractions, enjoying thrilling rides, and experiencing live shows. With options for all ages, there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy. End the day with dinner at Riverland Dubai, the central dining and entertainment hub of the resort.
Dubai Parks and Resorts: Cost estimate - AED 245-395 (depending on park and ticket type), Time spent - Full day
Riverland Dubai: Cost estimate - Free (dining costs vary), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Head to The Brass at Dubai Parks and Resorts for breakfast, where you can enjoy a delicious spread of international and Middle Eastern dishes. The average cost for a meal is about AED 75 per person.
For lunch, make your way to The Market at Dubai Parks and Resorts, a food court offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. From Italian pizzas to Asian noodles, there's something to satisfy everyone's taste buds. The average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
If you're looking for a special dinner experience, dine at The Boardwalk at Dubai Parks and Resorts. This waterfront restaurant offers stunning views of the river and serves a range of international dishes. The average cost for a meal is about AED 150 per person.
Monday, January 8: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village
Start your day with a visit to Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden. Marvel at the stunning displays of vibrant flowers arranged in intricate designs. Spend the morning exploring the various themed gardens and take memorable photos. In the afternoon, head to Global Village, a cultural and entertainment extravaganza featuring pavilions from different countries. Enjoy live performances, indulge in international cuisines, shop for unique souvenirs, and experience the diverse cultures represented. Wrap up the day with the spectacular fireworks show at Global Village.
Global Village: Cost estimate - AED 15 (entry ticket), Time spent - 4-6 hours
Restaurants
Baker & Spice: Located near Dubai Miracle Garden, this cozy bakery offers a variety of freshly baked goods and delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
Falafel Farm: Just a short distance from Global Village, this casual eatery specializes in Middle Eastern cuisine, including mouthwatering falafels. Average cost for a meal is about 30 AED per person.
The Meat Co.: Situated near Global Village, this steakhouse offers a wide selection of high-quality meats cooked to perfection. With its elegant ambiance, it is the perfect place for a memorable dinner. Average cost for a meal is about 300 AED per person.
Tuesday, January 9: Dubai Desert Safari
Embark on an exciting adventure with a Dubai Desert Safari. Experience the thrill of dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, enjoy camel rides, try sandboarding, and witness a mesmerizing desert sunset. Immerse yourself in Emirati culture with activities like henna painting, falconry, and traditional entertainment. Feast on a delicious BBQ dinner under the stars while being entertained by belly dancers. This unforgettable experience provides a glimpse into the Arabian desert and its rich heritage.
Dubai Desert Safari: Cost estimate - AED 150-300 (depending on package), Time spent - Afternoon to evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Jones the Grocer, a trendy cafe known for its delicious breakfast options and artisanal coffee. Average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
For lunch, try Logma, a popular Emirati restaurant offering traditional dishes with a modern twist. Enjoy their signature chicken majboos or try the cheesy Arabic bread with a refreshing lemon mint drink. Average cost for a meal is about AED 80 per person.
For dinner, make reservations at Pierchic, an upscale seafood restaurant located on a pier in the Arabian Gulf. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes while enjoying stunning views of the Dubai skyline. Average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.
Wednesday, January 10: Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Explore the wonders of marine life at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, located within the Dubai Mall. Start your day by visiting the aquarium, home to a vast array of aquatic species. Walk through the underwater tunnel for an up-close encounter with sharks, rays, and other fascinating creatures. In the afternoon, venture into the Underwater Zoo, where you can observe unique marine and terrestrial animals. Don't miss the captivating King Croc exhibit, showcasing one of the world's largest reptiles. Enjoy shopping and dining at the mall in the evening.
Dubai Aquarium: Cost estimate - AED 75-120 (depending on ticket type), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Underwater Zoo: Cost estimate - AED 75-120 (depending on ticket type), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Baker & Spice in the Dubai Mall, where you can indulge in freshly baked pastries and hearty dishes. The average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For lunch, try the gourmet burgers and sandwiches at Shake Shack, conveniently located within the Dubai Mall. The average cost for a meal is about AED 70 per person.
For dinner, dine at TGI Fridays, a casual American restaurant just a short walk away from the Dubai Mall. Enjoy their classic burgers, ribs, and other American favorites. The average cost for a meal is about AED 100 per person.
Thursday, January 11: Dubai Creek and Old Dubai
Experience the historical charm of Dubai by exploring the Dubai Creek and Old Dubai. Start your day with a traditional Abra boat ride across the creek, offering scenic views of the city's skyline. Visit the Dubai Museum in the Al Fahidi Fort to learn about the city's heritage. Explore the vibrant souks (markets) of Deira, such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, where you can shop for jewelry, spices, and traditional goods. End your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant in the area.
Deira Souks: Cost estimate - Free (shopping costs vary), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to the Arabian Tea House Café in Al Fahidi district. Enjoy a traditional Emirati breakfast with dishes like balaleet, regag, and khameer. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For lunch, try Bayt Al Wakeel, a historic restaurant located on the banks of Dubai Creek. Relish authentic Arabic cuisine while enjoying stunning views of the waterfront. Average cost for a meal is about AED 100 per person.
For dinner, indulge in an exquisite dining experience at Pierchic, a romantic seafood restaurant located on a pier in the Arabian Gulf. Delight in fresh seafood dishes while enjoying sweeping views of the Burj Al Arab and the Dubai skyline. Average cost for a meal is about AED 350 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, consider visiting the Dubai Butterfly Garden. This enchanting indoor garden showcases thousands of colorful butterflies in a tropical setting. Another hidden gem is the Dubai Water Canal, a man-made waterway surrounded by beautiful walkways and stunning architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the canal, enjoy the views, and spot the iconic Dubai Water Fountain. Locals also love spending time at Kite Beach, a popular spot for kiteboarding, beach activities, and stunning sunsets.