7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Dubai

Friday, December 22: Arrival and Dubai Marina

Start your trip by arriving in Dubai and checking into a family-friendly hotel near Dubai Marina. In the morning, explore the Marina Walk, a waterfront promenade lined with cafes and boutiques. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Marina Mall for some shopping and entertainment. In the evening, take a relaxing dhow cruise along Dubai Marina, enjoying the stunning views of the city skyline.

• Dubai Marina Walk: Free, 2 hours
• Dubai Marina Mall: Cost varies, 3 hours
• Dhow Cruise: Cost varies, 2 hours

Restaurants

• Breakfast: The Scene Restaurant & Lounge offers a delicious breakfast menu with options like eggs benedict, pancakes, and fresh fruit. Average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
• Lunch: Bu Qtair is a popular seafood restaurant located near Dubai Marina. They serve fresh seafood dishes like fried fish, prawns, and calamari. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
• Dinner: Pierchic is a waterfront restaurant known for its romantic atmosphere and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. They offer an extensive seafood menu with dishes like lobster, oysters, and grilled fish. Average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.

Saturday, December 23: Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium

Start your day by heading to Atlantis, The Palm. In the morning, spend a thrilling time at Aquaventure Waterpark, enjoying water slides, lazy rivers, and the iconic Leap of Faith. In the afternoon, visit The Lost Chambers Aquarium, where you can explore the stunning marine life through underwater tunnels and interactive exhibits. In the evening, relax at the beach or indulge in a family dinner at one of the resort's restaurants.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: AED 320 (approx.), 6 hours
• The Lost Chambers Aquarium: AED 130 (approx.), 3 hours
• Beach Time and Dinner: Cost varies, 3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, visit Saffron - Atlantis, The Palm's buffet restaurant offering a wide selection of international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 200 per person.
• For lunch, head to Kaleidoscope - a family-friendly restaurant at Atlantis, The Palm serving a variety of cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about AED 150 per person.
• For dinner, indulge in seafood at Ossiano - an elegant underwater restaurant at Atlantis, The Palm. Average cost for a meal is about AED 600 per person.

Sunday, December 24: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village

Start your day by visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden, a floral paradise with colorful displays and unique sculptures. In the afternoon, head to Global Village, a cultural extravaganza offering various pavilions, entertainment shows, and international cuisines. In the evening, enjoy the festive atmosphere and watch the stunning fireworks display.

• Dubai Miracle Garden: AED 55 (approx.), 3 hours
• Global Village: AED 15 (approx.), 4 hours
• Fireworks Display: Free, 1 hour

Monday, December 25: Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

Start your day at the Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls. In the morning, explore the various shops and enjoy the indoor attractions like Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and VR Park. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and marvel at the panoramic views from the observation deck. In the evening, watch the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show.

• Dubai Mall: Cost varies, 4 hours
• Burj Khalifa: AED 169 (approx.), 3 hours
• Dubai Fountain Show: Free, 1 hour

Tuesday, December 26: Dubai Desert Safari

Embark on a thrilling desert adventure. In the morning, enjoy dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle and experience the adrenaline rush. In the afternoon, try sandboarding, camel riding, and get henna tattoos. In the evening, indulge in a delicious barbecue dinner while watching traditional performances like belly dancing and Tanoura dance.

• Desert Safari: AED 200 (approx.), 6 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend a fun-filled day at Dubai Parks and Resorts. In the morning, visit Motiongate Dubai, a Hollywood-inspired theme park with exciting rides and attractions. In the afternoon, explore Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park, perfect for families with younger children. In the evening, enjoy live shows and entertainment at Bollywood Parks Dubai.

• Motiongate Dubai: AED 275 (approx.), 6 hours
• Legoland Dubai: AED 275 (approx.), 4 hours
• Bollywood Parks Dubai: AED 175 (approx.), 3 hours

Thursday, December 28: Old Dubai and Dubai Creek

Explore the historic side of Dubai in the morning. Visit the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, stroll through the traditional markets of Meena Bazaar, and take an abra ride across Dubai Creek. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant district of Al Bastakiya and enjoy a traditional Emirati lunch. In the evening, visit the Gold Souk and shop for unique souvenirs.

• Dubai Museum: AED 3 (approx.), 2 hours
• Meena Bazaar and Dubai Creek: Cost varies, 3 hours
• Al Bastakiya: Free, 2 hours
• Gold Souk: Cost varies, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden during sunset when the floral displays are beautifully illuminated. Another hidden gem is the Green Planet, an indoor tropical rainforest where you can interact with diverse wildlife. Locals also love spending time at La Mer, a beachfront development offering a relaxed atmosphere, water activities, and a variety of dining options.