A Week of Family Fun in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Monday, December 25:

Start your family adventure by exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai. In the morning, take the elevator to the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking views of the city. Afterward, head to Dubai Mall for lunch and enjoy the entertainment and shopping options. In the evening, visit the Dubai Fountain, where you can catch a mesmerizing water and light show.

• Burj Khalifa: Estimated cost AED 149 ($41), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Dubai Mall: Estimated cost depends on activities, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Dubai Fountain: Free, Time spent: 30 minutes

Tuesday, December 26:

Spend the day at Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai for a fun-filled family experience. Start your morning with a visit to Aquaventure Waterpark, where you can enjoy thrilling water slides and a lazy river. In the afternoon, head to The Lost Chambers Aquarium to explore the underwater world. In the evening, relax on the pristine beach and take in the beautiful sunset.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: Estimated cost AED 320 ($87) per adult, AED 260 ($71) per child, Time spent: Full day
• The Lost Chambers Aquarium: Estimated cost AED 105 ($29) per adult, AED 75 ($20) per child, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Beach at Atlantis, The Palm: Free, Time spent: Flexible

Wednesday, December 27:

Embark on a desert safari adventure in Dubai. In the morning, take a thrilling dune bashing ride in a 4x4 vehicle over the golden sand dunes. Enjoy a camel ride and try sandboarding. In the evening, experience a traditional Arabian dinner in a desert camp while watching live cultural performances.

• Desert Safari: Estimated cost AED 300 ($82) per person, Time spent: Half day (morning and evening)

Thursday, December 28:

Take a day trip to Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. Start your morning by visiting Ferrari World, an indoor theme park featuring thrilling rides and attractions for all ages. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the restaurants on the island. In the afternoon, head to Yas Waterworld to cool off with water slides and wave pools. End the day with a visit to Yas Marina Circuit, where you can experience go-karting.

• Ferrari World: Estimated cost AED 295 ($80) per person, Time spent: Full day
• Yas Waterworld: Estimated cost AED 265 ($72) per person, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Yas Marina Circuit: Estimated cost AED 120 ($33) for go-karting, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Friday, December 29:

Explore the cultural heritage of Abu Dhabi by visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. In the morning, marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate details of this iconic mosque. Afterward, head to the Corniche to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beautiful waterfront. In the evening, visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an art and civilization museum.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Corniche: Free, Time spent: Flexible
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: Estimated cost AED 63 ($17) per adult, Free for children under 13, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Saturday, December 30:

Discover the wonders of Dubai's Miracle Garden. In the morning, explore the vibrant displays of flowers and unique sculptures. Afterward, visit the nearby Dubai Butterfly Garden to witness beautiful butterflies in a tropical setting. In the afternoon, head to Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort, for snow activities and skiing. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants at City Walk.

• Miracle Garden: Estimated cost AED 55 ($15) per adult, AED 40 ($11) per child, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Dubai Butterfly Garden: Estimated cost AED 55 ($15) per adult, AED 40 ($11) per child, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Ski Dubai: Estimated cost AED 250 ($68) per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• City Walk: Estimated cost depends on activities, Time spent: Flexible

Sunday, December 31:

End your family vacation with a day of shopping at The Dubai Mall. In the morning, explore the vast range of shops, from luxury brands to local boutiques. Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in the mall. In the afternoon, visit KidZania, an interactive edutainment center where kids can role-play different professions. In the evening, head to the Dubai Opera to catch a live performance or enjoy the New Year's Eve festivities.

• The Dubai Mall: Estimated cost depends on activities, Time spent: Full day
• KidZania: Estimated cost AED 99 ($27) per child, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Dubai Opera: Estimated cost depends on event, Time spent: Varies

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites:

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral paradise, or exploring the traditional markets (souks) in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. These include the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Perfume Souk in Dubai, as well as the Central Market (Souk) in Abu Dhabi. These places offer a glimpse into the local culture and are great for finding unique souvenirs.

For a family-friendly adventure, head to Dubai Parks and Resorts, a theme park complex featuring Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai. It's a perfect place for thrilling rides, live entertainment, and immersive experiences.

Another hidden gem is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo located inside the Dubai Mall. Explore the underwater world and get up close with marine creatures through the tunnel walkway or opt for a behind-the-scenes tour.

Don't forget to check hotel and flight prices on Kayak for the best deals on accommodations and flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.