Start your trip by visiting the iconic Dubai Mall in the morning. Explore its vast array of shops, including luxury brands and local boutiques. Don't miss the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, where you can witness marine life up close. In the afternoon, head to KidZania Dubai, an interactive edutainment center where kids can role-play various professions. As the evening approaches, enjoy the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show, a choreographed water display set to music.
Dubai Mall: Entrance is free, shopping costs vary. Estimated time spent: 4-6 hours
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: AED 120 per adult, AED 90 per child. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
KidZania Dubai: AED 180 per child, AED 95 for accompanying adults. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
Dubai Fountain: Free. Shows every 30 minutes in the evening. Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Baker & Spice Dubai Mall. This charming bakery offers a variety of freshly baked pastries and healthy breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, try out The Cheesecake Factory. Located in Dubai Mall, this restaurant serves a wide range of American dishes and, of course, delicious cheesecakes. Average cost for a meal is about 100 AED per person.
For dinner, indulge in the flavors of India at the Maharaja Bhog Dubai. Located near Dubai Mall, this restaurant offers an authentic thali dining experience with an array of Indian vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 80 AED per person.
Thursday, December 28: Desert Safari Adventure
Spend the morning exploring the cultural heritage of Dubai at the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort. Learn about the city's history and traditional way of life. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling desert safari adventure. Enjoy dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, camel riding, sandboarding, and witness a captivating sunset in the desert. As the evening sets in, indulge in a delicious BBQ dinner under the stars while being entertained by belly dancing and traditional performances.
Dubai Museum: AED 3 per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Desert Safari: Prices vary depending on the chosen package. Estimated time spent: 6-7 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to the Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. This charming restaurant serves traditional Emirati breakfast dishes such as balaleet (sweet vermicelli with eggs) and chebab (Emirati pancakes). Average cost for a meal is about AED 40 per person.
For lunch, visit the Al Mallah Restaurant in Satwa. This local favorite offers a menu of Lebanese dishes like shawarma, falafel, and hummus. Average cost for a meal is about AED 35 per person.
For dinner, try the Pierchic Restaurant located at the end of a pier in Madinat Jumeirah. This upscale seafood restaurant offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and a menu of fresh seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 500 per person.
Friday, December 29: Aquaventure Waterpark and Atlantis The Palm
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, explore the Lost Chambers Aquarium, a unique underwater world with exotic marine life. As the evening approaches, relax at Nasimi Beach, a beautiful beachfront spot with stunning views of the Dubai Marina skyline.
Aquaventure Waterpark: AED 289 per adult, AED 235 per child. Estimated time spent: 5-6 hours
Lost Chambers Aquarium: AED 135 per adult, AED 110 per child. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Nasimi Beach: Free entry with food and drinks available for purchase. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 30: Dubai Parks and Resorts
Spend the day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, a mega entertainment complex. Start with a visit to Motiongate Dubai, where you can experience thrilling rides based on popular movies. In the afternoon, explore Bollywood Parks Dubai, a park dedicated to the vibrant world of Indian cinema. End your day with a trip to Legoland Dubai, perfect for families with younger children, featuring interactive rides and attractions.
Motiongate Dubai: AED 275 per adult, AED 245 per child. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
Bollywood Parks Dubai: AED 175 per adult, AED 165 per child. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Legoland Dubai: AED 245 per adult, AED 225 per child. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Roseleaf Cafe, a cozy spot serving delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For lunch, try The Cheesecake Factory, a popular restaurant with a diverse menu including sandwiches, pasta, and of course, cheesecake. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For dinner, dine at Pierchic, an elegant seafood restaurant located on a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Average cost for a meal is about $100 per person.
Sunday, December 31: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village
In the morning, explore the enchanting Dubai Miracle Garden, home to over 50 million flowers arranged in stunning displays. Marvel at the imaginative sculptures and themed gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Global Village, a multicultural festival park where you can experience different cultures through food, shopping, and live entertainment. As the evening approaches, celebrate New Year's Eve at one of Dubai's spectacular firework displays.
Dubai Miracle Garden: AED 55 per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Global Village: AED 15 per person. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
New Year's Eve Fireworks: Free. Choose a suitable location in Dubai to enjoy the festivities.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Jones the Grocer, a trendy restaurant known for their specialty coffee and gourmet menu. Average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
For lunch, head to Zaroob, a popular Lebanese street food restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of tasty wraps and mezze dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 40 AED per person.
In the evening, indulge in a memorable dinner at Pierchic, an elegant seafood restaurant located at the end of a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes in a romantic setting. Average cost for a meal is about 350 AED per person.
Monday, January 1: Jumeirah Beach and Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Spend your final day at Jumeirah Beach, a pristine stretch of coastline with crystal-clear waters. Relax on the sandy shores or take a dip in the sea. In the afternoon, explore Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a traditional Arabian market offering unique shopping and dining experiences. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the canals and enjoy the picturesque views of the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel.
Jumeirah Beach: Free. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Free entry. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Lime Tree Cafe: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Lime Tree Cafe, known for its cozy atmosphere and delectable menu options. Average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
Bistro Des Arts: For a satisfying lunch, head to Bistro Des Arts, a charming French restaurant offering exquisite dishes and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Average cost for a meal is about 150 AED per person.
Majlis Al Bahar: Indulge in a luxurious dinner at Majlis Al Bahar, an idyllic beachfront restaurant offering a romantic ambiance and a menu filled with delectable Arabian and seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 AED per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting Dubai Parks and Resorts during their special events, such as the Halloween-themed event at Motiongate Dubai or the festive Winterland Carnival at Bollywood Parks Dubai. Additionally, take a day trip to Dubai Miracle Garden during the cooler months when the flowers are in full bloom, creating a magical atmosphere. Another local favorite is Dubai Safari Park, where you can observe a wide range of animals in their natural habitats.
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