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A Week in Dubai: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

Tuesday, May 14: Arrive in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by settling into your hotel and getting oriented with the city. Take a walk along the vibrant Jumeirah Beach, where you can enjoy the warm sand and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. In the afternoon, head to The Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls, and explore its numerous attractions including an aquarium, an ice rink, and a virtual reality park. As the evening sets in, visit the Dubai Fountain outside the mall and witness the mesmerizing water and light show accompanied by music.

  • Jumeirah Beach: Free, 2 hours
  • The Dubai Mall: Varies depending on activities, 3-4 hours
  • Dubai Fountain: Free, 30 minutes
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Arabian Tea House in Bastakiya, a charming cafe serving traditional Arabian breakfast dishes like khameer and balaleet. The average cost for a meal here is about AED 50 per person.
  • For lunch, visit Local House Restaurant in Al Fahidi, a quaint restaurant offering Emirati and Middle Eastern cuisine. Don't miss their delicious machboos and harees. The average cost for a meal here is about AED 70 per person.
  • For dinner, dine at Pierchic, a stunning seafood restaurant located on a pier in Al Qasr Hotel. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes while taking in breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. The average cost for a meal here is about AED 400 per person.

Wednesday, May 15: Discover Ancient Dubai

Start your day by exploring the historic neighborhood of Bastakiya. Wander through its narrow lanes lined with traditional Arabian architecture, visit art galleries, and learn about the city's rich heritage at the Dubai Museum. In the afternoon, take a boat ride across Dubai Creek on an abra, a traditional wooden water taxi. Explore the bustling souks on the other side of the creek, such as the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk, where you can shop for unique souvenirs. Wrap up your day by enjoying a delightful dinner aboard a traditional dhow cruise, where you can experience the charm of Dubai at night.

  • Bastakiya: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Museum: AED 3, 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Creek Abra Ride: AED 1, 30 minutes
  • Gold Souk and Spice Souk: Free, 2 hours
  • Dhow Cruise Dinner: AED 150-200, 2-3 hours

Thursday, May 16: Thrills and Adventures

Get ready for an exciting day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, the largest integrated theme park destination in the Middle East. Explore Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai, where you can enjoy thrilling rides, live entertainment, and interactive experiences suitable for the whole family. Don't miss the opportunity to meet your favorite characters from movies and indulge in delicious dining options within the parks.

  • Dubai Parks and Resorts (3 parks): Starting from AED 245, 7-8 hours

Friday, May 17: Desert Safari Experience

Embark on an unforgettable desert safari adventure today. Start your morning by visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden, a vast floral paradise filled with unique displays. In the afternoon, head to the outskirts of Dubai and venture into the desert for an exhilarating dune bashing experience. Enjoy camel rides, sandboarding, and traditional activities like henna painting and falconry. As the sun sets, settle down at a desert camp where you can savor a delicious BBQ dinner while being entertained by cultural performances under the starry sky.

  • Dubai Miracle Garden: AED 55, 1-2 hours
  • Desert Safari: Starting from AED 200, 6-7 hours

Saturday, May 18: Family Fun at Aquaventure Waterpark

Indulge in aquatic adventures at the renowned Aquaventure Waterpark located at Atlantis The Palm. Spend your morning gliding down thrilling water slides, floating along lazy rivers, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Experience close encounters with marine life as you get up close with dolphins and sea lions at Dolphin Bay and Sea Lion Point. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the park's restaurants before continuing the fun in the afternoon. Don't forget to explore The Lost Chambers Aquarium, home to an incredible array of marine species.

  • Aquaventure Waterpark: Starting from AED 269, 6-7 hours
  • Dolphin Bay and Sea Lion Point: Starting from AED 795, 1-2 hours
  • The Lost Chambers Aquarium: Starting from AED 90, 1-2 hours

Sunday, May 19: Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah

Take a leisurely morning stroll along the picturesque Dubai Marina, lined with stunning skyscrapers and luxurious yachts. Stop by the Marina Mall for some shopping and grab a bite to eat at one of the waterfront restaurants. In the afternoon, head to Palm Jumeirah, an iconic man-made island shaped like a palm tree. Visit Atlantis The Palm, explore its impressive aquarium, and relax on the beautiful Nasimi Beach. End your day with an unforgettable dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the Dubai skyline.

  • Dubai Marina Walk: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Marina Mall: Varies depending on activities, 2-3 hours
  • Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis The Palm: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Nasimi Beach: Free, as per preference

Monday, May 20: Modern Dubai Exploration

Start your day by visiting the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take the high-speed elevator to the observation deck on the 148th floor and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai. In the afternoon, explore the luxurious Dubai Mall, indulge in some retail therapy, and discover unique dining options. Don't miss the opportunity to ice-skate at the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink. As evening approaches, take a walk along Downtown Dubai and witness the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show once again.

  • Burj Khalifa: Starting from AED 149, 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Mall: Varies depending on activities, 3-4 hours
  • Dubai Ice Rink: Starting from AED 60, 1-2 hours
  • Downtown Dubai: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Fountain: Free, 30 minutes

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Explore some of Dubai's hidden gems and local favorites by visiting The Green Planet, an indoor rainforest that offers an immersive experience, especially for families. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Dubai Butterfly Garden, where you can marvel at a vast array of colorful butterflies fluttering around you. For a unique dining experience, head to local food markets like Ripe Market or Kite Beach Market, where you can sample a variety of local delicacies and indulge in homemade treats.

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