Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dubai. In the morning, visit the Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls, and enjoy the various entertainment options like the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral oasis with over 150 million flowers. As the evening sets in, visit the Dubai Fountain to witness a mesmerizing water, music, and light show.
For breakfast, head to Shakespeare and Co located in the Dubai Mall. This charming restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options including eggs Benedict and French toast. The average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
For lunch, try The Cheesecake Factory also located in the Dubai Mall. This popular American chain restaurant offers a diverse menu with options like burgers, pasta, and of course, their famous cheesecakes. The average cost for a meal is about AED 85 per person.
For dinner, visit Pierchic, a romantic seafood restaurant located on a pier in the Arabian Gulf. This elegant restaurant offers stunning views of the Dubai skyline and serves fresh seafood dishes like lobster and grilled fish. The average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.
Wednesday, December 27: Desert Adventure
Spend a thrilling day in the desert. In the morning, embark on a desert safari where you can enjoy dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. After a delicious barbecue lunch at a desert camp, engage in activities like henna painting and falconry. In the evening, experience a traditional Bedouin-style dinner while being entertained by belly dancers and Tanoura performers.
Desert Safari: Estimated cost - AED 250-350 per person, Time spent - 7-8 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Karachi Bite for a variety of Pakistani and Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about AED 30 per person.
For lunch, visit Sushi Sarto to enjoy fresh and delicious sushi. Average cost for a meal is about AED 70 per person.
For dinner, dine at the Arabian Tea House and indulge in authentic Emirati cuisine in a traditional setting. Average cost for a meal is about AED 120 per person.
Thursday, December 28: Aqua Fun
Indulge in water adventures at Aquaventure Waterpark on Palm Jumeirah. In the morning, enjoy thrilling water slides, lazy river rides, and a visit to the Lost Chambers Aquarium. After a break for lunch, head to Jumeirah Beach for some relaxation and swimming. In the evening, take a stroll along the Dubai Marina Walk and enjoy the picturesque views.
Aquaventure Waterpark: Estimated cost - AED 289 per adult, AED 235 per child, Time spent - 6-7 hours
For a delicious breakfast, head to Eggspectation located in The Beach Mall. They offer a wide variety of breakfast options including omelettes, pancakes, and eggs benedict. The average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit The Cheesecake Factory in Mall of the Emirates. They have an extensive menu with options ranging from salads and sandwiches to pasta and burgers. Don't forget to save room for their famous cheesecake. The average cost for a meal is about AED 100 per person.
For a delightful dinner, dine at Pierchic, a seafood restaurant located at the end of a pier in Madinat Jumeirah. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf while indulging in fresh seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.
Friday, December 29: Cultural Immersion
Discover the rich culture of Dubai. Start your morning with a visit to the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort to learn about the city's history. In the afternoon, explore the traditional neighborhood of Bastakiya, known for its winding lanes and art galleries. Later, take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek and explore the vibrant spice and gold souks.
Dubai Museum: Estimated cost - AED 3 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Bastakiya: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Dubai Creek Abra Ride: Estimated cost - AED 1 per person, Time spent - 30 minutes
Spice and Gold Souks: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Arabian Tea House in Bastakiya, where you can enjoy delicious traditional Emirati breakfast items such as balaleet, chebabs, and regag. Average cost for a meal is about 40 AED per person.
For lunch, try Local Bites Café in Oud Metha, which offers a variety of Emirati and Middle Eastern dishes like shawarma, falafel, and machboos. Average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
For dinner, dine at Al Mallah Restaurant in Satwa, famous for its Lebanese cuisine. Enjoy mouthwatering dishes like shawarma, kebabs, and hummus. Average cost for a meal is about 80 AED per person.
Saturday, December 30: Family Fun
Enjoy a day filled with family-friendly activities. In the morning, visit the Dubai Parks and Resorts, a large entertainment complex featuring Legoland, Motiongate, and Bollywood Parks. After a break for lunch, head to Kite Beach for outdoor fun and kite flying. In the evening, watch a magical performance of La Perle, an aqua-based live show in a purpose-built theater.
Dubai Parks and Resorts: Estimated cost - AED 275-350 per person, Time spent - 7-8 hours
La Perle Show: Estimated cost - AED 249-599 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Tom & Serg, a trendy cafe known for its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
For lunch, head to The Sum of Us, a charming restaurant offering a diverse menu of salads, sandwiches, and hearty mains. Average cost for a meal is about 80 AED per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Pierchic, a stunning seafood restaurant set on a pier overlooking the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf. Average cost for a meal is about 400 AED per person.
Sunday, December 31: New Year's Eve Extravaganza
Celebrate New Year's Eve in Dubai with grand festivities. In the morning, visit the Dubai Frame, an iconic structure offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, head to the Global Village, a multicultural festival park showcasing food, shopping, and entertainment from around the world. As the evening approaches, secure a spot near the Burj Khalifa to witness the spectacular fireworks display.
Dubai Frame: Estimated cost - AED 50 per adult, AED 20 per child, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Global Village: Estimated cost - AED 15 per person, Time spent - 4-5 hours
New Year's Eve Fireworks at Burj Khalifa: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 30 minutes
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Baker & Spice located in Souk Al Bahar. Enjoy their delicious freshly baked goods and organic dishes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
For lunch, try the Tresind restaurant in Nassima Royal Hotel. Indulge in their modern Indian cuisine with a twist. Average cost for a meal is about AED 150 per person.
Dine at Pierchic for dinner, an upscale seafood restaurant located on a pier in Madinat Jumeirah. Enjoy their exquisite seafood dishes while taking in the breathtaking views of Burj Al Arab. Average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.
Monday, January 1: Farewell Dubai
End your Dubai adventure with some last-minute exploration. In the morning, visit the Dubai Butterfly Garden, a tropical haven with thousands of butterflies. Afterward, head to the Mall of the Emirates for shopping and indoor skiing at Ski Dubai. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Dubai's renowned restaurants.
Dubai Butterfly Garden: Estimated cost - AED 55 per adult, AED 45 per child, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Mall of the Emirates: Estimated cost - Free (shopping costs vary), Time spent - 3-4 hours
For breakfast, head to Baker's Kitchen, a charming cafe known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Indulge in their delicious croissants and homemade breakfast sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about AED 30 per person.
For lunch, try Saj Express, a popular Lebanese restaurant offering a wide range of authentic Middle Eastern dishes. Enjoy their flavorful shawarmas and delectable mezzes. The average cost for a meal is about AED 40 per person.
For dinner, dine at Pierchic, an upscale seafood restaurant located on a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Treat yourself to their exquisite seafood delicacies and enjoy the mesmerizing views. The average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For some off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Dubai Garden Glow, a unique theme park with illuminating light installations, or the Dubai Camel Racing Club, where you can witness the traditional sport of camel racing. Families with young children may enjoy spending time at Mattel Play! Town, an interactive indoor play area featuring popular children's characters.
For a taste of local culture, head to the Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz, an arts district with galleries, studios, and cafes. You can also explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, home to traditional wind-tower houses and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, where you can learn about Emirati customs and traditions.
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