7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Wednesday, January 24: Arrival in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by exploring Dubai Mall, the largest shopping mall in the world. In the morning, visit Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, where you can see a fascinating array of marine life. In the afternoon, head to KidZania, an interactive children's city where kids can try out different professions. In the evening, enjoy the stunning Dubai Fountain show.

• Dubai Mall: Cost Estimate - Free (Shopping expenses extra), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Cost Estimate - AED 90 ($24.50) per adult, AED 75 ($20.50) per child, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• KidZania: Cost Estimate - AED 150 ($41) per child, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• Dubai Fountain: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 30 minutes

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to The Breakfast Club at Dubai Mall. They offer a delicious selection of breakfast items, including pancakes, eggs benedict, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
• For lunch, try the Mediterranean cuisine at Eat Greek Kouzina. Located in Dubai Mall, they offer a variety of Greek dishes such as souvlaki, moussaka, and gyro wraps. Average cost for a meal is about AED 80 per person.
• For dinner, indulge in the flavors of India at Asha's Restaurant. Situated in Dubai Mall, they serve authentic Indian dishes such as butter chicken, biryani, and naan bread. Average cost for a meal is about AED 120 per person.

Thursday, January 25: Dubai City Exploration

Embark on a city tour to discover Dubai's iconic landmarks. In the morning, visit the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and enjoy breathtaking views from the observation deck. In the afternoon, explore the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi, home to Dubai Museum and traditional Arabian houses. In the evening, take a traditional abra boat ride across Dubai Creek and explore the vibrant souks of Deira.

• Burj Khalifa: Cost Estimate - AED 149 ($40.50) per adult, AED 114 ($31) per child, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Al Fahidi Historic District: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Dubai Creek Abra Ride: Cost Estimate - AED 1 ($0.30) per person, Time Spent - 30 minutes
• Deira Souks: Cost Estimate - Free (Shopping expenses extra), Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

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Friday, January 26: Abu Dhabi Day Trip

Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. In the morning, visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece. In the afternoon, explore the cultural district of Saadiyat Island, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. In the evening, enjoy leisure time at the family-friendly Yas Island, where you can visit Yas Waterworld or Ferrari World.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: Cost Estimate - AED 63 ($17) per adult, AED 31.5 ($8.50) per child, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Cost Estimate - Free (under construction), Time Spent - N/A
• Yas Island: Cost Estimate and time spent depend on the chosen attraction

Saturday, January 27: Desert Safari Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable desert safari experience. In the morning, enjoy dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, followed by camel riding and sandboarding. In the afternoon, visit a traditional Bedouin-style camp, where you can experience activities such as henna painting, falconry, and traditional belly dancing. End the day with a delicious BBQ dinner under the stars.

• Desert Safari: Cost Estimate - AED 250-350 ($68-$95) per person, Time Spent - 6-7 hours

Sunday, January 28: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend a thrilling day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, an entertainment complex featuring Legoland, Bollywood Parks, Motiongate, and more. In the morning, indulge in the rides and attractions of your chosen park. In the afternoon, enjoy live shows and entertainment. Wrap up the day with dinner at one of the themed restaurants.

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: Cost Estimate - AED 275-330 ($75-$90) per person, Time Spent - Full day

Monday, January 29: Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah

Discover the modern side of Dubai by visiting Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. In the morning, take a stroll along the picturesque Dubai Marina Walk and enjoy breakfast at one of the waterfront cafes. In the afternoon, visit Aquaventure Waterpark, located at Atlantis, The Palm, for a day of water slides and marine encounters. In the evening, explore The Pointe, the vibrant waterfront destination offering dining, shopping, and entertainment.

• Dubai Marina Walk: Cost Estimate - Free (Café expenses extra), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Aquaventure Waterpark: Cost Estimate - AED 320 ($87) per adult, AED 275 ($75) per child, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• The Pointe: Cost Estimate - Free (Shopping and dining expenses extra), Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, January 30: Departure

On your last day, take some time to relax and enjoy the facilities of your hotel before checking out. If you have some spare time, you can visit Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest flower garden. Bid farewell to Dubai as you head back home with wonderful memories.

• Dubai Miracle Garden: Cost Estimate - AED 55 ($15) per adult, AED 40 ($11) per child, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Dubai Butterfly Garden, a tropical garden housing thousands of colorful butterflies. Another popular spot is the Green Planet, an indoor rainforest experience where you can interact with various species of plants and animals. These attractions offer a unique and educational experience for the whole family.

To check hotel and flight prices, you can visit Kayak.