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7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Dubai

Friday, December 22: Arrival and Dubai Marina

Start your trip by arriving in Dubai and checking into your hotel. In the morning, head to Dubai Marina, a bustling waterfront district known for its stunning skyscrapers and luxury yachts. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Marina promenade, taking in the beautiful views. In the afternoon, visit The Beach at JBR, a vibrant outdoor shopping and dining destination. In the evening, take a relaxing dhow cruise along Dubai Marina, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner while admiring the city's skyline.

  • Dubai Marina: Free, 2-3 hours
  • The Beach at JBR: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Dhow Cruise: AED 150-200 per person, 2 hours
Saturday, December 23: Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

Start your day with a visit to Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls. Explore the countless shops, indulge in some retail therapy, and don't miss the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo located within the mall. In the afternoon, head to the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take the elevator to the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai. In the evening, enjoy the magical Dubai Fountain show, which takes place just outside the mall.

  • Dubai Mall: Free entry, cost for shopping varies, 3-4 hours
  • Burj Khalifa: AED 149-399 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Fountain: Free, 30 minutes
Sunday, December 24: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village

Spend your morning exploring the Dubai Miracle Garden, a vast outdoor floral park with stunning displays of flowers and plants arranged in intricate patterns. Marvel at the colorful blooms and take plenty of memorable photos. In the afternoon, visit Global Village, a cultural extravaganza featuring pavilions from different countries, offering unique shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences. Immerse yourself in the diverse cultures and traditions represented. In the evening, catch one of the lively cultural shows at Global Village.

  • Dubai Miracle Garden: AED 55 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Global Village: AED 15 entry fee, additional costs for attractions, 3-4 hours
  • Cultural Shows: Free, timings vary
Monday, December 25: Dubai Parks and Resorts

On Christmas Day, 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 attractions inspired by Hollywood movies. Afterward, head to Bollywood Parks Dubai to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Indian cinema. In the evening, enjoy thrilling rides and attractions at Legoland Dubai. Don't forget to catch the festive Christmas celebrations happening throughout the parks.

  • Motiongate Dubai: AED 275-350 per person, full day
  • Bollywood Parks Dubai: AED 175-245 per person, full day
  • Legoland Dubai: AED 175-245 per person, full day
Tuesday, December 26: Dubai Desert Safari

Embark on an exciting desert adventure with a Dubai Desert Safari. Start your afternoon with thrilling dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, followed by sandboarding and camel riding. Immerse yourself in Bedouin culture as you visit a desert camp, where you can enjoy traditional activities such as henna painting, trying on traditional attire, and savoring a delicious BBQ dinner under the stars. Be entertained by belly dancing and a captivating tanoura dance performance.

  • Desert Safari: AED 150-300 per person, 6 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium

Cool off and have a splashing good time at Aquaventure Waterpark located on the Palm Jumeirah. Enjoy thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a private beach. For a unique experience, visit The Lost Chambers Aquarium, where you can explore the underwater world and encounter marine life up close. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel or exploring nearby shopping and dining options.

  • Aquaventure Waterpark: AED 320-380 per person, full day
  • The Lost Chambers Aquarium: AED 120 per person, 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 28: Old Dubai and Dubai Creek

Explore the historic side of Dubai by visiting the Al Fahidi Historic District in Old Dubai. Stroll through the narrow lanes of the neighborhood and explore the traditional wind-tower houses, art galleries, and charming cafes. Visit the Dubai Museum to learn about the city's history. In the afternoon, take an abra (traditional wooden boat) ride across Dubai Creek and explore the bustling souks (markets) of Deira, where you can shop for spices, gold, and traditional textiles. Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants overlooking the creek.

  • Al Fahidi Historic District: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Museum: AED 3 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Abra Ride: AED 1 per person, 30 minutes
  • Deira Souks: Free entry, cost for shopping varies, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, visit Dubai Parks and Resorts during the Christmas season, as the parks are beautifully decorated and host special festive events. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Dubai Butterfly Garden, where you can wander through a tropical paradise filled with colorful butterflies. Families also love spending time at the Dubai Miracle Garden, which offers a whimsical and enchanting experience with its dazzling floral displays. Don't forget to explore the traditional neighborhoods of Bastakiya and Al Seef, where you can immerse yourself in Dubai's heritage and enjoy authentic Emirati cuisine.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.

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