Dubai and Abu Dhabi Family-Friendly Vegetarian Itinerary
Sunday, October 15: Arrival in Dubai
Start your trip by arriving in Dubai and checking into your hotel. Rest and relax to recover from your journey. In the afternoon, head to Dubai Marina for a stroll along the waterfront promenade and take in the stunning views of the modern skyscrapers and luxury yachts. In the evening, visit The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence for dinner at one of the many vegetarian-friendly restaurants.
Dubai Marina: Free, 2-3 hours
The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at "Comptoir 102 Cafe" in Jumeirah. This vegetarian-friendly cafe offers a variety of healthy options including smoothie bowls and avocado toast. Average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, head to "Bystro" in Al Barsha. This family-friendly restaurant offers a range of delicious vegetarian options including pizzas, salads, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 80 AED per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at "Govinda's" in Jumeirah. This vegetarian restaurant specializes in Indian cuisine and offers a buffet with a wide selection of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 100 AED per person.
Monday, October 16: Exploring the Old Dubai
In the morning, visit the historic Al Fahidi Historic District, also known as Bastakiya, which offers a glimpse into Dubai's past. Explore the narrow winding lanes, visit the Dubai Museum, and enjoy the traditional architecture. In the afternoon, take an abra (traditional boat) across Dubai Creek to Deira and explore the bustling spice and gold souks. In the evening, head to the Dubai Mall and enjoy the stunning Dubai Fountain show.
Al Fahidi Historic District: Free, 2-3 hours
Dubai Creek Abra: AED 1 ($0.27) per person, 1 hour
Dubai Spice and Gold Souks: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Dubai Mall & Dubai Fountain: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Wild and The Moon: A trendy vegan café located in the Al Fahidi Historic District, offering a wide range of plant-based breakfast options such as avocado toast and smoothie bowls. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
Ravi Restaurant: A popular spot in Deira known for its delicious vegetarian Indian and Pakistani cuisine. Try their flavorful vegetable biryani or samosas. Average cost for a meal is about AED 30 per person.
Pierchic: A romantic seafood restaurant situated on a pier in the Dubai Mall, offering stunning views of the Burj Al Arab. They have a dedicated vegetarian menu with dishes like truffle risotto and stuffed portobello mushrooms. Average cost for a meal is about AED 300 per person.
Tuesday, October 17: Desert Safari Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating desert safari adventure in the morning. Enjoy dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding in the vast Arabian desert. Afterward, experience a traditional Emirati lunch. In the evening, immerse yourself in Bedouin culture with a desert camp experience, including a delicious vegetarian barbecue dinner, henna painting, and entertaining performances.
Desert Safari: AED 300-400 ($80-110) per person, 6-7 hours
Desert Camp Experience: AED 200-300 ($55-80) per person, 4-5 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at Friends Avenue Café, located in Dubai. This cozy café offers a range of vegetarian options, including avocado toast and smoothie bowls. Average cost for a meal is about 35 AED per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit The Raw Place in Abu Dhabi. They offer a variety of fresh and healthy vegetarian dishes, such as salads, wraps, and raw desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
Indulge in a delicious dinner at Govinda's Restaurant, situated in Dubai. This vegetarian restaurant serves a wide selection of Indian and International vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 75 AED per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Dubai Parks and Resorts
Spend a fun-filled day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, an entertainment complex featuring several theme parks. Start your day by exploring Motiongate, a movie-inspired theme park. Afterward, head to Bollywood Parks Dubai for a taste of Indian cinema and culture. Enjoy vegetarian dining options within the parks. In the evening, catch a live performance at the Dubai Opera.
Dubai Parks and Resorts: AED 295-355 ($80-95) per person, full day
Dubai Opera: Cost varies, evening
Thursday, October 19: Abu Dhabi City Tour
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. Explore the entertainment hub of Yas Island in the afternoon, home to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld. Enjoy vegetarian-friendly dining options within the attractions. Return to Dubai in the evening.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free, 2-3 hours
Yas Island Attractions: Cost varies, full day
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Keki Modern Cakes for their delicious vegan pastries and specialty coffees. Average cost for a meal is about AED 40 per person.
For lunch, head to 3FILS for their vegetarian sushi rolls and Japanese-inspired dishes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 80 per person.
For dinner, indulge in an authentic Indian dining experience at Biryani Factory. They offer a variety of vegetarian biryanis and curries. Average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
Friday, October 20: Palm Jumeirah and Aquaventure
In the morning, visit Palm Jumeirah, the palm-shaped artificial island. Relax at one of the luxurious beach resorts or take a monorail ride to Atlantis, The Palm. Explore Aquaventure Waterpark, featuring thrilling water slides and attractions. Enjoy vegetarian dining options within the resort. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Emirati dinner at a local restaurant.
Palm Jumeirah: Free, 2-3 hours
Aquaventure Waterpark: AED 320-380 ($87-103) per person, half day
Emirati Dinner: Cost varies, evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, try The Surf Café located in Palm Jumeirah with a stunning beach view. They offer a variety of vegetarian options such as avocado toast and acai bowls. The average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
For lunch, head to Ronda Locatelli, a popular Italian restaurant located in Atlantis, The Palm. They have delicious vegetarian pasta dishes and pizzas, and the average cost for a meal is approximately 150 AED per person.
For dinner, dine at Al Fanar Restaurant, a local Emirati restaurant that offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes, including traditional Emirati cuisine such as falafel, hummus, and vegetable biryani. The average cost for a meal is around 90 AED per person.
Saturday, October 21: Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Departure
Spend your last day exploring the charming Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Wander through the traditional Arabian market, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy a vegetarian lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the picturesque waterways. Afterward, check out of your hotel and proceed to the airport for your departure.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Lime Tree Cafe in Dubai. This cozy cafe offers a range of vegetarian options, including avocado toast and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
For lunch, visit Comptoir 102 in Dubai. This health-conscious cafe and boutique serves delicious vegetarian dishes made with organic ingredients. Enjoy a refreshing salad or a nourishing Buddha bowl. Average cost for a meal is about 75 AED per person.
For dinner, dine at The Vegetarian Kitchen in Abu Dhabi. This popular restaurant offers a variety of flavorful vegetarian and vegan dishes inspired by cuisines from around the world. Feast on dishes like vegetable biryani or lentil curry. Average cost for a meal is about 90 AED per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you have extra time, discover the Dubai Miracle Garden, a captivating floral attraction displaying millions of flowers arranged in beautiful patterns. Another family-friendly option is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, where you can marvel at a wide variety of marine life through an aquarium tunnel or take a glass-bottom boat tour. Both attractions offer vegetarian dining options nearby.