A Week in Dubai: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Friday, October 20: Arrive in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by checking into a family-friendly hotel and settling in. Spend the morning exploring the Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls. In the afternoon, head to KidZania, an interactive edutainment center where kids can role-play different professions. In the evening, enjoy a mesmerizing dancing fountain show at the Dubai Fountain.

• Dubai Mall: Free, 2-3 hours
• KidZania: AED 99 ($27) per child, 3-4 hours
• Dubai Fountain: Free, 30 minutes

Saturday, October 21: Aquatic Adventures

Get ready for a day of aquatic adventures! Start your morning with a visit to Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm. Enjoy thrilling water slides and a relaxing lazy river. After a fun-filled morning, head to the Dubai Marina Walk for a leisurely lunch by the waterfront. In the afternoon, take a traditional abra boat ride across Dubai Creek and explore the vibrant souks in the old part of the city. End your day with a visit to Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral oasis.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: AED 320 ($87) per adult, AED 260 ($71) per child, 4-5 hours
• Dubai Marina Walk: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
• Dubai Creek Abra Ride: AED 1 ($0.27) per person, 1 hour
• Dubai Miracle Garden: AED 55 ($15) per adult, AED 40 ($11) per child, 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 22: Desert Safari and Cultural Delights

Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure today! Start your morning with a thrilling dune bashing experience in a 4x4 vehicle. Afterward, visit a camel farm and try camel riding. Enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch at a desert camp and experience traditional activities like henna painting and falconry. In the evening, watch a mesmerizing sunset over the desert and be entertained by belly dancers and Tanoura performers.

• Desert Safari: AED 200-300 ($54-$81) per person, 6-7 hours

Monday, October 23: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend a fun-filled day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, an entertainment complex featuring several theme parks. Start your day at Motiongate Dubai, where you can experience thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies. In the afternoon, head to Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park, offering interactive experiences for kids of all ages. End the day with a visit to Bollywood Parks Dubai, showcasing the vibrant world of Bollywood movies.

• Motiongate Dubai: AED 275 ($75) per adult, AED 245 ($67) per child, 5-6 hours
• Legoland Dubai: AED 275 ($75) per adult, AED 245 ($67) per child, 4-5 hours
• Legoland Water Park: AED 275 ($75) per adult, AED 245 ($67) per child, 3-4 hours
• Bollywood Parks Dubai: AED 175 ($48) per adult, AED 160 ($44) per child, 3-4 hours

Tuesday, October 24: Dubai Aquarium and Desert Conservation Reserve

Start your day by visiting the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, located inside the Dubai Mall. Explore the incredible marine life and walk through the underwater tunnel. In the afternoon, escape the city and head to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Experience a thrilling desert safari, encounter wildlife, and learn about the desert ecosystem. Enjoy a traditional Emirati dinner under the stars.

• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: AED 155 ($42) per adult, AED 125 ($34) per child, 2-3 hours
• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve: AED 500-600 ($136-$163) per person, 6-7 hours

Wednesday, October 25: Palm Jumeirah and Beach Relaxation

Explore the iconic Palm Jumeirah today. Start your morning with a visit to the Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm. Discover the mythical Atlantis and its marine inhabitants. Afterward, relax and enjoy the white sandy beaches of Palm Jumeirah. In the afternoon, treat yourself to a delicious lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants. End your day with a visit to the nearby Dubai Marina, offering beautiful waterfront views.

• Lost Chambers Aquarium: AED 175 ($48) per adult, AED 125 ($34) per child, 2-3 hours
• Beach Relaxation: Free, 3-4 hours
• Dubai Marina: Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Dubai, make sure to visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, a hidden gem filled with breathtaking floral displays. Al Qudra Lake is another local favorite, perfect for a family picnic amidst picturesque surroundings. Additionally, the Dubai Butterfly Garden offers a unique experience of walking through a tropical rainforest filled with colorful butterflies. These attractions provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city and are loved by locals and tourists alike.

For hotel and flight bookings, check out Kayak.com.