A Week in Abu Dhabi and Dubai: Family-Friendly Itinerary
Saturday, October 21: Arrival in Abu Dhabi
Welcome to Abu Dhabi! Begin your family adventure by exploring the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, admiring its stunning architecture and intricate details. In the afternoon, head to Yas Island and visit Ferrari World, the world's largest indoor theme park, where you can enjoy thrilling rides and experiences. Wrap up the day with a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, taking in the beautiful views of the city skyline.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Entrance is free, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Ferrari World: Ticket prices vary, estimated time: 4-5 hours
Corniche: Free, estimated time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at this popular Abu Dhabi spot, known for their mouthwatering pancakes and fluffy omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
Aryaas: For lunch, indulge in the flavors of South Indian cuisine at Aryaas. From crispy dosas to spicy curries, this restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 35 per person.
Li Beirut: Experience the rich flavors of Lebanese cuisine at Li Beirut, located in Abu Dhabi's The Ritz-Carlton. From mezze to grilled kebabs, this restaurant offers an extensive menu of traditional Lebanese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 180 per person.
Sunday, October 22: Explore Abu Dhabi
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi, home to an impressive collection of art and cultural artifacts. In the afternoon, head to the Yas Marina Circuit, where you can go karting or take a guided tour of the Formula 1 race track. As the sun sets, enjoy a desert safari experience with dune bashing, camel riding, and a traditional Arabian dinner.
Louvre Abu Dhabi: Ticket prices vary, estimated time: 2-3 hours
For breakfast, try "Jones the Grocer" located in Abu Dhabi. They offer a variety of breakfast options such as avocado smash and eggs benedict. The average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
For lunch, "Leopold's of London" is a great choice. They serve delicious sandwiches, salads, and soups. The average cost for a meal is about 80 AED per person.
If you're looking for a nice dinner spot, "Li Beirut" is highly recommended. They serve traditional Lebanese cuisine in a beautiful setting. The average cost for a meal is about 150 AED per person.
Monday, October 23: Travel to Dubai
Make your way to Dubai and start your exploration at the Dubai Mall. Discover the wonders of the underwater world at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, followed by a visit to the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. In the evening, enjoy the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show, a spectacular water and light performance.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Breakfast Club. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options, from classic scrambled eggs to fluffy pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For lunch, head to Zaroob, a popular Lebanese street food restaurant located in The Dubai Mall. Indulge in their mouthwatering shawarmas and falafels. Average cost for a meal is about AED 70 per person.
In the evening, dine at Pierchic, a romantic seafood restaurant situated on a pier in the Arabian Gulf. Enjoy stunning views while savoring fresh seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Family Fun in Dubai
Spend the morning at Wild Wadi Water Park, where you can enjoy thrilling water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. In the afternoon, visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm, to explore the marine life and mythical ruins. Wrap up the day with a visit to Kite Beach, where you can relax, fly kites, or indulge in various water sports activities.
Lost Chambers Aquarium: Ticket prices vary, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Kite Beach: Free, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, October 25: Cultural Experiences in Dubai
Start your day by visiting the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, where you can learn about the history and heritage of Dubai. In the afternoon, explore the traditional markets of Deira, including the vibrant Gold Souk and Spice Souk. End the day with a relaxing abra (water taxi) ride along Dubai Creek, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
Deira Markets: Free entry, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Dubai Creek Abra Ride: AED 1, estimated time: 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Baker & Spice, located in Souk Al Bahar. They offer a variety of freshly baked goods and breakfast dishes with prices averaging around 60 AED per person.
For lunch, head to the Arabian Tea House in Bastakiya. This charming restaurant offers traditional Emirati dishes and a peaceful courtyard atmosphere. The average cost for a meal here is about 80 AED per person.
End your day with a dinner at Pierchic, a stunning seafood restaurant located at the end of a pier in Madinat Jumeirah. With breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf, this fine dining experience comes with an average cost of around 400 AED per person.
Thursday, October 26: Dubai Theme Parks
Spend the day exploring Dubai's famous theme parks. Start with a visit to Motiongate Dubai, where you can experience rides and attractions inspired by Hollywood movies. In the afternoon, head to Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park for a fun-filled adventure with interactive LEGO-themed rides and water slides. Wrap up the day by enjoying a magical evening at Bollywood Parks Dubai.
Bollywood Parks Dubai: Ticket prices vary, estimated time: 3-4 hours
Friday, October 27: Farewell to Dubai
Spend your last day in Dubai by exploring the Miracle Garden, a vibrant floral paradise with stunning displays and unique sculptures. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Marina and enjoy a relaxing dhow cruise along the waterfront, while savoring a delicious buffet dinner. End your trip with some shopping at the Mall of the Emirates, home to numerous international brands and entertainment facilities.
Mall of the Emirates: Free entry, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Sum of Us, a trendy café known for its deliciously fluffy pancakes and artisanal coffee. Expect to spend around AED 60 per person for a filling breakfast.
For lunch, try Jones the Grocer in Dubai Marina. They offer a variety of gourmet sandwiches and salads, along with a selection of cheeses and freshly baked goods. The average cost for a meal here is around AED 80 per person.
For dinner, dine at Pierchic, an upscale seafood restaurant located at the end of a pier with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. Indulge in their exquisite seafood dishes, and be prepared to spend around AED 400 per person for a memorable dining experience.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique family-friendly experience, visit the Dubai Miracle Garden. It's a breathtaking display of millions of flowers arranged in stunning patterns and structures. Another hidden gem is The Green Planet, an indoor tropical rainforest in Dubai, where you can explore diverse ecosystems and interact with exotic animals. Both attractions offer an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family.
Remember to check hotel and flight prices on kayak.com to plan your trip efficiently!