A Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Dubai

Thursday, November 16: Exploring the Dubai Mall

Start your trip by visiting the iconic Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world. In the morning, explore the various shops and boutiques, and make sure to check out the incredible Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. In the afternoon, head to KidZania, an interactive children's edutainment center where kids can role-play different professions. In the evening, catch the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show outside the mall.

• Dubai Mall: Cost varies, Time spent: 4-6 hours
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• KidZania: Cost varies, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Dubai Fountain: Free, Time spent: 30 minutes

Friday, November 17: Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium

Spend a thrilling day at the Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark. Start your morning by enjoying the exhilarating water slides and rides. In the afternoon, explore The Lost Chambers Aquarium, where you can witness a variety of marine life. Wrap up the day by relaxing on the beautiful sandy beaches of Atlantis The Palm.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: Cost varies, Time spent: Full day
• The Lost Chambers Aquarium: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Atlantis The Palm Beach: Free, Time spent: Flexible

Saturday, November 18: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village

Start your day by visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral paradise with vibrant displays. Spend the morning exploring the beautiful flower arrangements and unique structures. In the afternoon, head to Global Village, a multicultural festival park where you can experience various cuisines, entertainment, and shopping from around the world.

• Dubai Miracle Garden: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Global Village: Cost varies, Time spent: 4-6 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, try the nearby Cafe Bateel known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine and healthy breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
• For lunch, head to Operation: Falafel, a casual eatery offering tasty falafel wraps and other Middle Eastern fast food options. Average cost for a meal is about AED 35 per person.
• For dinner, dine at The City Grill, a steakhouse specializing in high-quality grilled meats. Enjoy mouthwatering steaks and a cozy ambience. Average cost for a meal is about AED 150 per person.

Sunday, November 19: Dubai Desert Safari

Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure in the morning. Experience thrilling dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. In the afternoon, visit a traditional Bedouin camp and enjoy cultural activities such as henna painting, belly dancing, and a delicious BBQ dinner under the stars.

• Desert Safari: Cost varies, Time spent: Half day

Monday, November 20: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend your last day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, a massive entertainment complex featuring four theme parks. Start with Motiongate Dubai, where you can experience attractions based on popular movies. In the afternoon, head to Bollywood Parks Dubai for a dose of Indian cinema and culture. End the day at Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park, perfect for families with younger kids.

• Motiongate Dubai: Cost varies, Time spent: 4-6 hours
• Bollywood Parks Dubai: Cost varies, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park: Cost varies, Time spent: 4-6 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden during the evening when the garden is illuminated by thousands of lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Another local favorite is the Dubai Frame, an architectural landmark offering panoramic views of the city. Don't forget to explore the vibrant traditional markets, or souks, such as the Spice Souk and the Gold Souk, where you can indulge in some shopping and cultural immersion.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.