Start your family-friendly adventure in Dubai by visiting the Dubai Mall in the morning. Explore the largest mall in the world, home to over 1,200 retail outlets and attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. In the afternoon, head to the Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm for thrilling water slides and a chance to swim with dolphins. Wind down the day with an evening desert safari, enjoying dune bashing, camel riding, and a traditional Arabian buffet dinner.
Dubai Mall: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Aquaventure Waterpark: Tickets start from £50 per person, estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
Evening Desert Safari: Prices start from £60 per person, estimated time spent: 6 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Shakespeare and Co. located in the Dubai Mall. This charming cafe offers a variety of breakfast options including eggs, pancakes, and pastries. The average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
For lunch, try out The Cheesecake Factory also located in the Dubai Mall. This popular restaurant offers a diverse menu with options like salads, sandwiches, and of course, an array of delicious cheesecakes. The average cost for a meal is about AED 80 per person.
For dinner, indulge in a seafood feast at Pierchic, a beautiful waterfront restaurant located in the Madinat Jumeirah. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes while admiring stunning views of the Burj Al Arab. The average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.
Day 2: Saturday, October 28 - Exploring Dubai's Landmarks
Start your day by visiting the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Enjoy panoramic views of Dubai from the observation deck on the 148th floor. Afterward, head to the Dubai Miracle Garden, a mesmerizing floral wonderland featuring intricate displays and over 150 million flowers. In the evening, take a traditional abra boat ride along Dubai Creek and explore the vibrant Gold and Spice Souks.
Burj Khalifa: Tickets start from £35 per person, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Dubai Miracle Garden: Tickets start from £10 per person, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Dubai Creek Abra Ride and Souks: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A great breakfast spot near Burj Khalifa is The Sum of Us, serving delicious pastries and healthy options. The average cost for a meal is about 75 AED per person.
For lunch, try Arabian Tea House in the Al Fahidi Historic District. Enjoy traditional Emirati cuisine in a charming courtyard setting. The average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
For dinner, head to Pierchic at Madinat Jumeirah, overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Indulge in exquisite seafood dishes while enjoying stunning views. The average cost for a meal is about 400 AED per person.
Day 3: Sunday, October 29 - Abu Dhabi City Tour
Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, starting with a visit to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Admire the stunning architecture and intricate details of this iconic landmark. Afterward, explore the family-friendly Yas Island, home to Ferrari World, where you can experience thrilling rides and attractions. In the evening, visit the Corniche and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beautiful waterfront promenade.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Ferrari World: Tickets start from £60 per person, estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
Corniche: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Breakfast Club, a cozy restaurant with a wide range of options including fluffy pancakes and eggs benedict. Average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, try Saffron, a popular Indian restaurant known for its delicious biryani and butter chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 80 AED per person.
For dinner, indulge in a seafood feast at Bu Qtair, a local hotspot famous for its fresh catch of the day and spicy marinades. Average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
Day 4: Monday, October 30 - Dubai Parks and Resorts
Spend the day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, a mega-theme park destination. Start with Motiongate Dubai, where you can experience attractions inspired by Hollywood movies. Then, head to Legoland Dubai for a fun-filled adventure with LEGO-themed rides and activities. In the evening, enjoy a performance of La Perle, a spectacular water-based show featuring acrobatics and special effects.
Motiongate Dubai: Tickets start from £60 per person, estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
Legoland Dubai: Tickets start from £55 per person, estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
La Perle: Tickets start from £70 per person, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club is a trendy cafe located in Dubai Parks and Resorts, offering a delicious breakfast menu with options like avocado toast and acai bowls. Average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, head to Joe's Pizza, a casual Italian eatery near Dubai Parks and Resorts. Enjoy their freshly made pizzas and pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at Boardwalk, an upscale seafood restaurant located by the waterfront in Dubai Parks and Resorts. Enjoy their delicious seafood platters and stunning views. Average cost for a meal is about 250 AED per person.
Day 5: Tuesday, October 31 - Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah
Explore the modern side of Dubai by starting your day at Dubai Marina. Take a relaxing boat ride along the marina and enjoy the stunning skyline views. Afterward, visit the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island known for its luxurious resorts and the iconic Atlantis, The Palm. Spend the afternoon at Aquaventure Waterpark or relax on one of the pristine beaches. In the evening, indulge in a dinner cruise on a traditional dhow boat.
Dubai Marina: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Palm Jumeirah: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Dhow Dinner Cruise: Prices start from £50 per person, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Breakfast Club at Dubai Marina for a delicious spread of pancakes, eggs benedict, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For lunch, check out Ribs & Brews at The Pointe on Palm Jumeirah for some mouthwatering BBQ ribs and craft beers. The average cost for a meal is about AED 100 per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Ossiano at Atlantis, The Palm. Enjoy exquisite seafood dishes while surrounded by a mesmerizing underwater ambience. The average cost for a meal is about AED 500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique family experience, consider visiting Dubai Butterfly Garden, a tropical paradise home to thousands of beautiful butterflies. Another hidden gem is the Green Planet, an indoor tropical rainforest where you can learn about exotic plants and encounter various species of animals. Locals love taking a day trip to Hatta, a picturesque mountain town where you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and visiting historical sites.