Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 116 travelers

A Week in Dubai: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Thursday, January 11: Arrival in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by heading to your hotel and taking some time to settle in. In the morning, consider visiting the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, located within the Dubai Mall. Explore the fascinating marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits. Afternoon can be spent at the Wild Wadi Waterpark, where your family can have a thrilling time on the water slides and wave pools. In the evening, head to the Dubai Marina Walk, a waterfront promenade with beautiful views and various dining options.

  • Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Cost varies, estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Wild Wadi Waterpark: Cost varies, estimated time: 4-6 hours
  • Dubai Marina Walk: Cost of dining, estimated time: flexible

Friday, January 12: Exploring Old Dubai

Begin your day by visiting the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi. Explore the Dubai Museum, housed in an 18th-century fort, to learn about the city's history and culture. Afterward, take an abra (traditional boat) across the Dubai Creek to the bustling Deira area. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant souks, such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, where you can shop for unique souvenirs. In the evening, experience a traditional Arabian dinner at one of the many cultural restaurants in the area.

  • Dubai Museum: Cost AED 3 (USD 0.82), estimated time: 1-2 hours
  • Deira Souks: Cost varies (shopping), estimated time: 2-4 hours
  • Arabian Dinner: Cost varies, estimated time: 2-3 hours

Saturday, January 13: Fun in the Sun

Enjoy a day of relaxation and adventure at Jumeirah Beach. Start your morning with a leisurely beach walk and take in the stunning views of the Burj Al Arab, one of Dubai's iconic landmarks. Spend the afternoon at Kite Beach, where you can try kiteboarding or simply relax on the sandy shore. In the evening, head to the Dubai Miracle Garden, a whimsical garden filled with vibrant flower displays and enchanting sculptures.

  • Jumeirah Beach: Free, estimated time: flexible
  • Kite Beach: Free, estimated time: flexible
  • Dubai Miracle Garden: Cost AED 55 (USD 15), estimated time: 2-3 hours

Sunday, January 14: Thrilling Adventures

Get ready for an action-packed day at IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world's largest indoor theme park. Spend the morning exploring various themed zones, including Marvel, Cartoon Network, and Lost Valley. Enjoy thrilling rides, live entertainment, and interactive attractions suitable for all ages. In the afternoon, head to Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort located within the Mall of the Emirates. Experience snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowball fights. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Dubai Fountain, where you can witness the spectacular water and light show.

  • IMG Worlds of Adventure: Cost AED 285 (USD 78), estimated time: 4-6 hours
  • Ski Dubai: Cost varies, estimated time: 2-4 hours
  • Dubai Fountain: Free, estimated time: 30 minutes

Monday, January 15: Desert Safari Experience

Embark on a thrilling desert adventure with a morning desert safari. Enjoy dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, try sandboarding, and experience the traditional Bedouin culture with camel rides and henna painting. Afterward, visit the Dubai Mall for some shopping and lunch. In the afternoon, take a trip to the Dubai Butterfly Garden, a tropical haven with thousands of colorful butterflies. End the day with a visit to the Dubai Opera, a stunning performing arts venue offering a wide range of shows and performances.

  • Morning Desert Safari: Cost varies, estimated time: 4-6 hours
  • Dubai Mall: Cost of shopping, estimated time: flexible
  • Dubai Butterfly Garden: Cost AED 55 (USD 15), estimated time: 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Opera: Cost varies (show tickets), estimated time: evening

Tuesday, January 16: Modern Marvels

Start your day by visiting the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take in the breathtaking views of Dubai from the observation deck on the 148th floor. Afterward, head to the Dubai Parks and Resorts, a mega entertainment complex featuring Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and Legoland. Enjoy thrilling rides, live performances, and interactive experiences throughout the day. In the evening, take a stroll along The Walk at JBR, a vibrant waterfront promenade with plenty of dining and entertainment options.

  • Burj Khalifa: Cost AED 169 (USD 46), estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Parks and Resorts: Cost varies, estimated time: full day
  • The Walk at JBR: Cost of dining, estimated time: flexible

Wednesday, January 17: Cultural Exploration

Discover the cultural side of Dubai by starting your day at the Dubai Opera District. Explore the Dubai Opera House and its surrounding area, filled with art installations and beautiful architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Frame, an impressive architectural landmark offering panoramic views of both Old and New Dubai. Dive into the Emirati heritage at the Al Shindagha Museum, which showcases the city's rich history through interactive exhibits. To end your trip on a high note, take a sunset abra ride along the Dubai Marina.

  • Dubai Opera District: Free, estimated time: 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Frame: Cost AED 50 (USD 14), estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Al Shindagha Museum: Cost AED 20 (USD 5.5), estimated time: 1-2 hours
  • Sunset Abra Ride: Cost AED 25 (USD 7), estimated time: 30 minutes

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Dubai, don't miss the opportunity to explore the Dubai Miracle Garden, a hidden gem filled with stunning floral displays that will captivate your entire family. Another local favorite is the Green Planet, an indoor tropical rainforest located in City Walk, where you can immerse yourself in a lush ecosystem and encounter various animal species. These attractions offer unique experiences and are perfect for families looking for something beyond the usual tourist spots.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version