A Week of Family Fun in Dubai

Friday December 22: Arrival and Dubai Mall

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by exploring the world's largest shopping mall, the Dubai Mall. In the morning, visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, where kids can marvel at the diverse marine life. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Ice Rink for some ice skating fun. As the evening approaches, witness the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show, accompanied by music and lights.

• Dubai Mall: Cost varies, Time spent: 4-6 hours
• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Cost: AED 120 ($33) per adult, AED 100 ($27) per child, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Dubai Ice Rink: Cost: AED 75 ($20) per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Dubai Fountain: Free, Time spent: 30 minutes

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Jones the Grocer located in the Dubai Mall. They offer a variety of gourmet breakfast options and a relaxed atmosphere. The average cost for a meal is about 75 AED per person.
• For lunch, try Al Hallab Restaurant & Sweets located near the Dubai Mall. They serve delicious Lebanese cuisine, including shawarma and mezze. The average cost for a meal is about 100 AED per person.
• For dinner, visit The Meat Co. located in Souk Al Bahar. They specialize in premium steaks and have a stunning view of the Dubai Fountain. The average cost for a meal is about 300 AED per person.

Saturday December 23: Desert Safari Adventure

Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure in the morning. Experience the thrill of dune bashing, ride a camel, and try sandboarding. Enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch at a desert camp and watch a traditional belly dance performance. In the evening, stargaze in the desert and learn about Bedouin culture.

• Desert Safari: Cost: AED 250-350 ($68-$95) per person, Time spent: 6-8 hours

Sunday December 24: Aquaventure Waterpark

Cool off at the Aquaventure Waterpark, located at Atlantis, The Palm. Spend the morning enjoying thrilling water slides and rides, including the record-breaking Leap of Faith. Indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the park's many eateries. In the afternoon, relax on the pristine beach or explore The Lost Chambers Aquarium.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: Cost: AED 320 ($87) per adult, AED 260 ($71) per child, Time spent: 6-8 hours
• The Lost Chambers Aquarium: Cost: AED 120 ($33) per adult, AED 90 ($25) per child, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Monday December 25: Dubai Miracle Garden

Experience the magic of the Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden. Marvel at the stunning displays of colorful flowers and themed gardens. Spend the morning exploring the various attractions and taking memorable family photos. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful floral landscape.

• Dubai Miracle Garden: Cost: AED 65 ($18) per adult, AED 55 ($15) per child, Time spent: 3-4 hours

Tuesday December 26: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Enjoy a day filled with fun and excitement at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Start the morning at Motiongate Dubai, where you can experience thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies. In the afternoon, head to Bollywood Parks Dubai for a dose of Bollywood-themed entertainment. End the day at Legoland Dubai, where kids can build, play, and explore.

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: Cost: AED 295-345 ($80-$94) per person for a one-day park ticket, Time spent: 6-8 hours

Wednesday December 27: Global Village

Experience a multicultural extravaganza at Global Village. In the morning, explore the vibrant pavilions representing different countries, offering unique shopping and dining experiences. Enjoy live performances and entertainment from around the world. In the evening, watch the spectacular fireworks display and indulge in delicious street food.

• Global Village: Cost: AED 15 ($4) per person, Time spent: 4-6 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family experience, consider visiting the Green Planet, a tropical rainforest housed in a bio-dome. It provides an educational and interactive journey through different ecosystems. Another hidden gem is the Dubai Dolphinarium, where you can watch dolphin and seal shows. Kids will love the opportunity to interact with these intelligent creatures. Lastly, visit the Dubai Creek Park for a relaxing family picnic and enjoy the stunning views of the Dubai skyline.

For hotel and flight prices, check out KAYAK.