Saturday, September 9: Explore Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa
Start your trip by visiting Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls. In the morning, explore the shopping avenues, indulge in delicious food at the numerous restaurants, and let the kids enjoy the indoor theme park. In the afternoon, head to the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take an elevator ride to the observation deck on the 124th floor for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai. As the evening approaches, witness the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show, a captivating water and light spectacle.
Dubai Mall: Estimated cost per person - free entry, shopping and dining costs vary. Estimated time spent - half a day.
Burj Khalifa: Estimated cost per person - AED 149 for non-prime hours, AED 224 for prime hours. Estimated time spent - 2 to 3 hours.
Dubai Fountain Show: Estimated cost per person - free. Estimated time spent - 30 minutes.
Restaurants
A delicious breakfast option near Dubai Mall is Salt, known for its mouthwatering burgers and fries. Average cost per person is about AED 50.
Grab a quick and satisfying lunch at Social House, located within Dubai Mall. They offer a variety of Asian and Western dishes, with an average cost per person of around AED 90.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Zuma, a contemporary Japanese restaurant located in DIFC. Indulge in their exquisite sushi and grilled dishes, with an average cost per person of about AED 400.
Sunday, September 10: Aquaventure Waterpark and Lost Chambers Aquarium
Start your day with a visit to Aquaventure Waterpark, located at Atlantis, The Palm. Enjoy thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and a private beach. In the afternoon, head to the Lost Chambers Aquarium, where you can explore the remarkable marine life and learn about the lost city of Atlantis. End the day with a relaxing walk along the Palm Jumeirah boardwalk, offering stunning views of the Dubai skyline.
Aquaventure Waterpark: Estimated cost per person - AED 289 for adults, AED 235 for children. Estimated time spent - full day.
Lost Chambers Aquarium: Estimated cost per person - AED 105 for adults, AED 75 for children. Estimated time spent - 2 to 3 hours.
Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk: Estimated cost per person - free. Estimated time spent - 1 to 2 hours.
Restaurants
Eggspectation: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Eggspectation, located at The Beach, opposite JBR. Indulge in their famous eggs benedict and savory crepes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
Mo's Bagels: For a quick and satisfying lunch, head to Mo's Bagels, located in Dubai Marina Mall. Try their freshly baked bagels with a variety of fillings and toppings. Average cost for a meal is about AED 40 per person.
Trader Vic's: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Trader Vic's, situated at Madinat Jumeirah. This Polynesian-themed restaurant offers a fusion of flavors in their dishes and signature cocktails. Average cost for a meal is about AED 200 per person.
Monday, September 11: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village
Spend your morning exploring the breathtaking Dubai Miracle Garden, home to an extensive collection of vibrant floral displays. Afterward, head to Global Village, a multicultural festival park offering shopping, entertainment, and international cuisine. Enjoy cultural performances, thrilling rides, and unique shopping experiences. In the evening, catch the mesmerizing fireworks display at Global Village.
Dubai Miracle Garden: Estimated cost per person - AED 55 for adults, AED 40 for children. Estimated time spent - 2 to 3 hours.
Global Village: Estimated cost per person - AED 15 entry fee, additional costs for rides and attractions. Estimated time spent - half a day.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Shakespeare and Co. located nearby. This charming cafe offers a delightful menu featuring a variety of breakfast options, including eggs benedict, pancakes, and fresh pastries. The average cost for a meal here is about 60 AED per person.
If you're looking for a delicious lunch, make sure to visit Jones the Grocer. This contemporary Australian restaurant offers a range of healthy and flavorful dishes, such as gourmet sandwiches, salads, and artisanal cheeses. The average cost for a meal here is about 100 AED per person.
In the evening, indulge in delectable Italian cuisine at Trattoria Toscana. This cozy restaurant serves authentic dishes like homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and mouthwatering desserts. The average cost for a meal here is about 180 AED per person.
Tuesday, September 12: Dubai Museum and Old Dubai
Start your day by immersing yourself in Dubai's rich history at Dubai Museum, located in the Al Fahidi Fort. Explore the exhibits that showcase the city's past, culture, and traditions. Afterward, take an Abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek to the vibrant neighborhood of Deira. Visit the traditional Spice Souk and Gold Souk, where you can shop for spices, fragrances, and exquisite gold jewelry. End the day with a delicious dinner at an authentic Arabic restaurant.
Dubai Museum: Estimated cost per person - AED 3 for adults, AED 1 for children. Estimated time spent - 1 to 2 hours.
Abra Ride: Estimated cost per person - AED 1. Estimated time spent - 15 minutes.
Deira Spice Souk and Gold Souk: Estimated cost per person - varies based on purchases. Estimated time spent - 2 to 3 hours.
Arabic Dinner: Estimated cost per person - AED 100 onwards. Estimated time spent - 1 to 2 hours.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Arabian Tea House. This charming restaurant offers a variety of traditional Emirati dishes, pastries, and refreshing tea. Average cost for a meal is about 70 AED per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Al Ustad Special Kabab. This iconic restaurant has been serving mouthwatering kebabs for over 30 years. Don't miss their famous lamb tikka kebab. Average cost for a meal is about 80 AED per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Qbara. This contemporary Arabic restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. Enjoy their flavorful mezze, grilled meats, and indulgent desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 250 AED per person.
Wednesday, September 13: Dubai Parks and Resorts
Spend the day exploring Dubai Parks and Resorts, a mega entertainment complex that includes Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, Legoland Dubai, and Legoland Water Park. Enjoy thrilling rides, live entertainment, and interactive experiences suitable for the whole family. Indulge in various dining options within the parks. End the day by watching a captivating show at the Rajmahal Theatre in Bollywood Parks Dubai.
Dubai Parks and Resorts (1-day pass): Estimated cost per person - AED 295 for adults, AED 275 for children. Estimated time spent - full day.
Rajmahal Theatre Show: Estimated cost per person - show timings and prices vary. Estimated time spent - 1 to 2 hours.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Eggspectation, located near Dubai Parks and Resorts. This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of egg-based dishes, pancakes, French toast, and more. The average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For lunch, try Chillis Restaurant, also located near Dubai Parks and Resorts. Enjoy delicious American-style dishes including burgers, fajitas, and ribs. The average cost for a meal is about AED 70 per person.
For dinner, visit P.F. Chang's at Ibn Battuta Mall, a short drive away from Dubai Parks and Resorts. This Asian-inspired restaurant offers a wide range of dishes including sushi, noodles, and stir-fry. The average cost for a meal is about AED 100 per person.
Thursday, September 14: Dubai Marina and JBR Walk
Start your day by visiting Dubai Marina, a picturesque waterfront area with stunning skyscrapers and luxurious yachts. Take a scenic walk along the Marina promenade and enjoy breakfast at one of the waterfront cafes. In the afternoon, head to Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) Walk, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Relax on the beach, take part in water sports, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. End the day with a delightful dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Dubai Marina: Estimated cost per person - free. Estimated time spent - 1 to 2 hours.
JBR Walk: Estimated cost per person - varies based on purchases. Estimated time spent - 2 to 3 hours.
Beach Activities: Estimated cost per person - varies based on chosen activities. Estimated time spent - 1 to 2 hours.
Beachfront Dinner: Estimated cost per person - AED 150 onwards. Estimated time spent - 1 to 2 hours.
Restaurants
Start your day with breakfast at The Scene by Simon Rimmer, a trendy waterfront restaurant at Dubai Marina. They offer a delicious selection of dishes, from traditional English breakfast to Middle Eastern delights. Expect to spend around AED 70 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Eggspectation, located on JBR Walk. They serve a variety of egg dishes, salads, sandwiches, and more, making it perfect for a family-friendly meal. The average cost for a meal here is about AED 90 per person.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at Beachcombers, a beachfront restaurant in Jumeirah Beach Residence. This Asian-inspired restaurant offers a fusion of flavors, with dishes like satay, sushi, and curries. The average cost for a meal at Beachcombers is around AED 200 per person.
Friday, September 15: Desert Safari and Dinner
Embark on a thrilling desert safari experience in the morning. Enjoy dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding in the vast desert landscape. Experience the rich Bedouin culture with activities like henna painting, falconry, and traditional Arabic performances. Indulge in a delicious barbecue dinner under the starry desert sky. End the day with mesmerizing belly dancing and tanoura performances.
Desert Safari: Estimated cost per person - AED 200 to AED 300. Estimated time spent - half a day.
Barbecue Dinner and Entertainment: Estimated cost per person - AED 150 onwards. Estimated time spent - 2 to 3 hours.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Baker & Spice located in Souk Al Bahar. They offer a delightful selection of fresh baked goods and hearty breakfast options. The average cost for a meal here is about 60 AED per person.
For lunch, visit QD's at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. This restaurant offers stunning views of Dubai Creek and serves a variety of international dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 120 AED per person.
For dinner, dine at Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa. This restaurant offers a magical dining experience in the desert with its Arabian-themed setting and buffet spread of traditional dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 250 AED per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a family-friendly hidden gem, visit The Green Planet, an indoor tropical rainforest located in City Walk. It offers an immersive experience, allowing you to explore the wonders of nature and learn about exotic animals and plants. Another local favorite is the Dubai Butterfly Garden, showcasing a variety of colorful butterflies in a serene setting. Both attractions provide educational experiences for kids and adults alike.