Dubai and Abu Dhabi 7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary
Monday, November 13: Arrival in Dubai
Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Mall, a shopper's paradise with numerous entertainment options including an indoor aquarium and ice-skating rink. End the day with a leisurely stroll along the Dubai Marina, admiring the stunning skyline.
Burj Khalifa: Entrance fee starts at approximately $40 USD per person, allow 2-3 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Eggspectation. This popular breakfast spot offers a variety of egg dishes, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, head to the Arabian Tea House in the Al Fahidi Historical District. This charming restaurant serves traditional Emirati and Middle Eastern dishes in a relaxing setting. The average cost for a meal is about 80 AED per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Pierchic, a romantic seafood restaurant located on a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes while taking in breathtaking views of the city skyline. The average cost for a meal is about 300 AED per person.
Tuesday, November 14: Dubai City Tour
Discover the cultural heritage of Dubai by visiting the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, showcasing the city's history. Enjoy a traditional Abra boat ride across Dubai Creek to reach the vibrant Deira neighborhood, known for its bustling souks. Spend the afternoon exploring the Dubai Miracle Garden, a whimsical floral paradise. In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the traditional Arabic restaurants in Al Bastakiya.
Dubai Museum: Entrance fee is approximately $3 USD per person, allow 1-2 hours
Abra Boat Ride: Approximately $1 USD per person, allow 30 minutes
Dubai Miracle Garden: Entrance fee is approximately $13 USD per person, allow 2-3 hours
Al Bastakiya: Cost of dinner varies, allow 2-3 hours
Wednesday, November 15: Desert Safari Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating desert safari experience. Enjoy dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding in the morning. Afterward, visit a traditional Bedouin camp for cultural activities, including henna painting and falconry. Indulge in a scrumptious BBQ dinner while watching live entertainment such as belly dancing and a Tanoura show.
Desert Safari: Prices start at approximately $50 USD per person, allow 6-7 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Jones the Grocer, located in Abu Dhabi. They offer a variety of dishes, including eggs benedict and avocado toast. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For lunch, head to Armani/Mediterraneo in Dubai. This restaurant offers a buffet-style Mediterranean cuisine with dishes such as seafood paella and grilled meats. The average cost for a meal is about $35 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Al Fanar Restaurant in Dubai. This restaurant specializes in Emirati cuisine, offering traditional dishes such as Machbous and Harees. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Thursday, November 16: Abu Dhabi Exploration
Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi and marvel at the grandeur of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques. Explore the cultural district of Saadiyat Island, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a magnificent art museum. Visit the Yas Island for family-friendly attractions like Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld. End the day with a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, enjoying the picturesque waterfront.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free entry, allow 1-2 hours
Louvre Abu Dhabi: Entrance fee is approximately $16 USD per person, allow 2-3 hours
Ferrari World or Yas Waterworld: Prices start at approximately $70 USD per person, allow 4-5 hours
For breakfast, head to Baker & Spice, located in the Souk Central Market in Abu Dhabi. They offer a variety of delicious baked goods, including fresh breads and pastries. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about AED 50 per person.
For lunch, visit LIV Restaurant, situated in the heart of Abu Dhabi's Al Bateen Marina. Enjoy a range of international cuisine, including Mediterranean and Asian dishes, while overlooking the stunning waterfront. The average cost for a lunch meal is about AED 100 per person.
For dinner, dine at BOA Steakhouse, a trendy restaurant in Abu Dhabi's Eastern Mangroves Promenade. Indulge in premium steaks and seafood dishes, complemented by a sophisticated atmosphere. The average cost for a dinner meal is about AED 350 per person.
Friday, November 17: Theme Park Fun
Spend the day enjoying the thrilling rides and attractions at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Explore Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai, all located in one massive entertainment complex. Experience movie-inspired adventures, cultural shows, and interactive Lego experiences suitable for the whole family to enjoy.
Dubai Parks and Resorts: Prices start at approximately $80 USD per person, allow 6-8 hours
Restaurants
The breakfast restaurant nearby is Circle Cafe, known for their healthy and hearty breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
For lunch, you can visit Pierchic, a seafood restaurant located at the end of a pier with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Average cost for a meal is about AED 300 per person.
For dinner, try At.mosphere located on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa, offering breathtaking views of Dubai. Average cost for a meal is about AED 600 per person.
Saturday, November 18: Beach Day in Dubai
Relax and unwind at one of Dubai's stunning beaches, such as Jumeirah Beach or Kite Beach. Enjoy water sports activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo to see a fascinating array of marine life. End the day with a delicious dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Jumeirah Beach or Kite Beach: Free entry, cost for water sports varies, allow 4-6 hours
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Prices start at approximately $30 USD per person, allow 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Eggspectation, a popular restaurant known for its extensive breakfast menu. Average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, head to The Surf Cafe, a cozy beachfront restaurant that offers a variety of healthy and fresh options. Average cost for a meal is about 70 AED per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Aprons & Hammers, a seafood restaurant where you can crack open fresh crabs and lobsters with your family. Average cost for a meal is about 150 AED per person.
Sunday, November 19: Farewell to Dubai
Spend your last day exploring the vibrant Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a traditional Arabian marketplace with shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the Burj Al Arab. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Frame, an architectural marvel offering panoramic views of old and new Dubai. End your trip with a memorable dinner cruise along Dubai Creek, admiring the illuminated skyline.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Free entry, cost for shopping and dining varies, allow 2-3 hours
Dubai Frame: Entrance fee is approximately $17 USD per person, allow 1-2 hours
Dinner Cruise: Prices start at approximately $60 USD per person, allow 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Baker & Spice located in Souk Madinat Jumeirah. This charming bakery offers a variety of freshly baked goods and healthy breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For lunch, try Shabestan located in Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek. This Iranian restaurant offers authentic Persian cuisine with a riverside view. Average cost for a meal is about AED 100 per person.
For dinner, dine at Pierchic located in Madinat Jumeirah. This upscale seafood restaurant is built on a pier extending into the Arabian Gulf, offering panoramic views of the Burj Al Arab. Average cost for a meal is about AED 500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, visit the Dubai Miracle Garden during the winter months when it is in full bloom. Explore the charming neighborhood of Al Fahidi, home to art galleries, cozy cafes, and traditional wind towers. Families with children can enjoy a day at Dubai's indoor theme park, IMG Worlds of Adventure, featuring rides and attractions based on popular cartoon characters.