A Week in Dubai: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Friday, September 1: Arrival in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by exploring the Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls. In the morning, visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo to marvel at the marine life. In the afternoon, head to KidZania, an interactive children's city where kids can role-play various professions. In the evening, enjoy the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show.

• Dubai Mall: Entrance to the mall is free, attractions inside have separate costs. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Approximately AED 120 per adult, AED 90 per child. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• KidZania: Approximately AED 165 per child, AED 95 for adults accompanying children. Time spent: 3-4 hours.
• Dubai Fountain: Free. Shows every 30 minutes from 6 pm to 11 pm.

Saturday, September 2: Desert Adventures

Embark on a thrilling morning desert safari where you can go dune bashing, try sandboarding, and experience a camel ride. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral wonderland. In the evening, explore the Global Village, a cultural and entertainment destination showcasing different countries.

• Morning Desert Safari: Approximately AED 300 per person. Time spent: 4-5 hours.
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Approximately AED 55 per adult, AED 40 per child. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Global Village: Entrance fee varies. Time spent: 3-4 hours.

Sunday, September 3: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend the day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, a mega entertainment complex with multiple theme parks. Start with Motiongate Dubai, where you can experience the magic of Hollywood. In the afternoon, head to Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park for family-friendly fun. End the day with a visit to Bollywood Parks Dubai, celebrating the vibrant Indian film industry.

• Motiongate Dubai: Approximately AED 245 per adult, AED 225 per child. Time spent: Full day.
• Legoland Dubai: Approximately AED 245 per adult, AED 225 per child. Time spent: Full day.
• Legoland Water Park: Approximately AED 195 per adult, AED 175 per child. Time spent: Full day.
• Bollywood Parks Dubai: Approximately AED 245 per adult, AED 225 per child. Time spent: Evening visit.

Monday, September 4: Aquaventure Waterpark and Atlantis, The Palm

Experience the thrilling rides and slides at Aquaventure Waterpark, located in Atlantis, The Palm. In the afternoon, explore The Lost Chambers Aquarium to see marine life up close. Enjoy the evening at the Palm Jumeirah boardwalk, offering stunning views of the Dubai Marina skyline.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: Approximately AED 275 per adult, AED 215 per child. Time spent: Full day.
• The Lost Chambers Aquarium: Approximately AED 135 per adult, AED 105 per child. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.

Tuesday, September 5: Dubai Museum and Old Dubai

Explore the rich history of Dubai by visiting the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort. In the afternoon, take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek to the vibrant district of Deira. Discover the traditional souks, including the famous Gold Souk and Spice Souk. End the day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

• Dubai Museum: Approximately AED 3 per person. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Abra Ride: Approximately AED 1 per person. Time spent: 30 minutes.
• Deira Souks: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.

Wednesday, September 6: Dubai Frame and Zabeel Park

Start the day by visiting the Dubai Frame, an architectural landmark offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, relax at Zabeel Park, a lush green oasis with various recreational facilities. Enjoy a picnic, rent bicycles, or take a leisurely walk. In the evening, indulge in a desert safari dinner experience.

• Dubai Frame: Approximately AED 50 per adult, AED 20 per child. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Zabeel Park: Entrance fee varies. Time spent: 3-4 hours.
• Desert Safari Dinner: Approximately AED 250 per person. Time spent: Evening.

Thursday, September 7: Ski Dubai and Mall of the Emirates

Experience skiing and snowboarding in the desert at Ski Dubai, an indoor winter wonderland. In the afternoon, explore the Mall of the Emirates, home to a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Dubai Marina Walk, offering stunning views of the waterfront.

• Ski Dubai: Snow Park Pass - Approximately AED 190 per person. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Mall of the Emirates: Free. Time spent: 3-4 hours.
• Dubai Marina Walk: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique and family-friendly experience, consider visiting the Dubai Butterfly Garden, a tropical sanctuary with thousands of colorful butterflies. Another hidden gem is the Dubai Miracle Garden's sibling, the Dubai Butterfly Garden is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and kids. Additionally, families can enjoy a day at the Dubai Parks and Resorts' Riverland Dubai, a themed dining and retail destination with entertainment options for all ages.

Looking for hotel and flight prices in Dubai? Check out the latest deals on Kayak.com.