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A Week in Dubai: Family Friendly Itinerary

Thursday December 21: Arrival in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and settling in. In the morning, head to the Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls, where you can explore over 1,200 stores and indulge in some retail therapy. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, located within the mall, where you can marvel at the diverse marine life. In the evening, take a walk around the Dubai Fountain, the world's largest choreographed fountain system, and witness its mesmerizing water and light show.

  • Dubai Mall: Cost varies, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Fountain: Free, Time spent: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Friday December 22: Cultural Exploration

Immerse yourself in Dubai's rich culture and heritage. Start your morning by visiting the Dubai Museum, located in the historic Al Fahidi Fort, to learn about the city's history. In the afternoon, explore the traditional markets of Old Dubai, such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, where you can shop for unique treasures and spices. In the evening, take an abra (traditional boat) ride along Dubai Creek and enjoy the scenic views of the city's skyline.

  • Dubai Museum: Cost: AED 3 (approx. $0.82), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Gold Souk: Cost varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Spice Souk: Cost varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Abra ride: Cost: AED 1 (approx. $0.27), Time spent: 30 minutes
Saturday December 23: Desert Adventure

Escape the city and venture into the magnificent desert that surrounds Dubai. Embark on a morning desert safari where you can experience thrilling activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. In the afternoon, visit a desert camp where you can relax, enjoy a traditional Arabic lunch, and witness cultural performances. As the evening approaches, get ready for a magical sunset over the sand dunes.

  • Morning Desert Safari: Cost varies, Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Desert Camp: Cost varies, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Sunday December 24: Family Fun at Atlantis, The Palm

Indulge in a day of excitement and adventure at Atlantis, The Palm. In the morning, visit Aquaventure Waterpark, where you can enjoy thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and a chance to get up close with marine animals at the Lost Chambers Aquarium. In the afternoon, head to Dolphin Bay for an unforgettable experience of swimming with dolphins. In the evening, explore The Avenues, a vibrant shopping and dining destination within the resort.

  • Aquaventure Waterpark: Cost varies, Time spent: 4-6 hours
  • Lost Chambers Aquarium: Cost varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Dolphin Bay: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • The Avenues: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Monday December 25: Modern Dubai

Discover the modern side of Dubai on this day. Start your morning with a visit to the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, where you can admire panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. In the afternoon, explore the Dubai Marina, a bustling waterfront area lined with skyscrapers, restaurants, and shops. Take a relaxing walk along the Dubai Marina Walk and enjoy the stunning views. In the evening, indulge in a delectable dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the marina.

  • Burj Khalifa: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Marina: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday December 26: Kid-Friendly Attractions

Today, focus on attractions that are perfect for families with kids. Start your day at the Dubai Miracle Garden, a whimsical garden filled with vibrant flower displays and unique sculptures. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Parks and Resorts, a mega-theme park that includes Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai. Enjoy thrilling rides, live entertainment, and interactive experiences. In the evening, explore The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence, a lively outdoor promenade with shops and restaurants.

  • Dubai Miracle Garden: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Parks and Resorts: Cost varies, Time spent: 4-6 hours
  • The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday December 27: Souvenir Shopping

On your last day, take the opportunity to buy souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local shopping scene. Start your morning at the Mall of the Emirates, where you can shop for international and local brands. In the afternoon, visit the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a traditional Arabian marketplace with a charming atmosphere. Explore its narrow alleys filled with shops selling handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing. In the evening, head to the Dubai Water Canal to witness the mesmerizing water show.

  • Mall of the Emirates: Cost varies, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Water Canal: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Dubai Butterfly Garden, a tropical garden home to numerous butterfly species. Another hidden gem is the Al Qudra Lakes, a series of man-made lakes surrounded by desert landscapes, ideal for picnics, cycling, and bird-watching. Locals also love visiting the Dubai Frame, an iconic structure offering panoramic views of old and new Dubai. These attractions provide unique experiences away from the typical tourist spots and are suitable for families.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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