A Week in Family-Friendly Dubai

Friday, January 19: Arrival and Dubai Marina

Start your trip by arriving in Dubai and checking into your hotel at Dubai Marina. In the morning, explore the vibrant Dubai Marina Walk, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Take a leisurely boat ride along the marina for beautiful views. Afternoon can be spent at the nearby Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), where you can relax on the beach or enjoy water sports activities. In the evening, visit The Walk at JBR, a bustling promenade renowned for its entertainment and dining options.

  • Dubai Marina Walk: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR): Free, 3-4 hours
  • The Walk at JBR: Free, 2-3 hours
Saturday, January 20: Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

Start your day by visiting Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world. Explore the numerous shops and indulge in some retail therapy. In the morning, take your family to Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, located within the mall, and marvel at the underwater world. Afternoon can be spent at KidZania, an interactive children's edutainment center offering various role-playing activities. In the evening, head to Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and enjoy the breathtaking views from the observation deck.

  • Dubai Mall: Free entry, cost varies for activities, 4-5 hours
  • Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: AED 120 per adult, AED 100 per child, 2-3 hours
  • KidZania: AED 185 per child, AED 95 per adult, 3-4 hours
  • Burj Khalifa: AED 149-378 per person, 2-3 hours
Sunday, January 21: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend the day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, a sprawling theme park complex. Start your morning at Motiongate Dubai, where you can experience thrilling rides and attractions based on popular Hollywood movies. Afternoon can be spent at Legoland Dubai, offering interactive LEGO-themed activities for the whole family. In the evening, enjoy the water slides and wave pools at Legoland Water Park. End the day with a visit to Bollywood Parks Dubai, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Indian cinema.

  • Motiongate Dubai: AED 275-375 per person, 6-7 hours
  • Legoland Dubai: AED 275-375 per person, 4-5 hours
  • Legoland Water Park: AED 245-345 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Bollywood Parks Dubai: AED 285-385 per person, 3-4 hours
Monday, January 22: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village

Start your day by visiting Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral wonderland featuring intricate flower displays. Enjoy a leisurely stroll among the vibrant blooms and take memorable photos. In the afternoon, head to Global Village, a cultural and entertainment destination showcasing various countries through their pavilions, shows, and food stalls. Experience different cultures and indulge in delicious international cuisines. In the evening, catch the mesmerizing fireworks display at Global Village.

  • Dubai Miracle Garden: AED 55 per adult, AED 40 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Global Village: AED 15 per person, 4-5 hours
Tuesday, January 23: Dubai Desert Safari

Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure. In the morning, visit the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and discover the unique desert ecosystem. Take a guided nature walk and spot local wildlife. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle. Enjoy camel rides, sandboarding, and traditional Arabic activities at a desert camp. Feast on a delicious barbecue dinner while being entertained by belly dancers and traditional performances.

  • Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve: AED 45 per adult, AED 25 per child, 3-4 hours
  • Desert Safari: AED 200-300 per person, 6-7 hours
Wednesday, January 24: Dubai Creek and Old Dubai

Explore the historical side of Dubai today. Start your morning with a visit to Dubai Creek, the heart of Old Dubai. Take an abra (traditional boat) ride across the creek and soak in the charming atmosphere of the old souks (markets). In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Museum housed in Al Fahidi Fort and learn about the city's history and heritage. Explore the vibrant streets of Bastakia Quarter and indulge in traditional Emirati cuisine. End the day with a visit to the Gold and Spice Souks.

  • Dubai Creek: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Museum: AED 3 per adult, AED 1 per child, 1-2 hours
  • Bastakia Quarter: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Gold and Spice Souks: Cost varies based on purchases, 2-3 hours
Thursday, January 25: Aquaventure Waterpark and Palm Jumeirah

Spend your last day in Dubai at Aquaventure Waterpark, located on Palm Jumeirah. Start your morning with thrilling water slides and lazy river rides. Enjoy the relaxing beach and the mesmerizing views of Dubai's skyline. In the afternoon, visit Atlantis, The Palm, and explore the Lost Chambers Aquarium, home to a diverse range of marine life. End your trip with a delicious dinner at one of the restaurants in the resort.

  • Aquaventure Waterpark: AED 320-380 per person, 5-6 hours
  • Lost Chambers Aquarium: AED 100 per adult, AED 70 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Atlantis, The Palm: Cost varies based on activities, 3-4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting Dubai Parks and Resorts during the weekdays to avoid crowds. Explore the lesser-known Al Mamzar Beach Park, a serene beachfront with picnic spots, playgrounds, and swimming areas. Another hidden gem is the Dubai Butterfly Garden, a tropical paradise housing thousands of colorful butterflies. Locals love the Dubai Fountain Lake Ride, where you can hop on a traditional abra and enjoy a close-up view of the iconic dancing fountains.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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