6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Dubai

Friday, December 22

Start your trip in Dubai by exploring the iconic Palm Jumeirah. In the morning, visit the Aquaventure Waterpark and enjoy thrilling water slides and a lazy river. After lunch, head to The Lost Chambers Aquarium to discover marine life in an ancient Atlantis-themed setting. In the evening, take a walk along The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence, a lively waterfront promenade with shops, restaurants, and street performers.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: Cost estimate - AED 320 ($87) per adult, AED 260 ($71) per child. Time spent - 4-6 hours
• The Lost Chambers Aquarium: Cost estimate - AED 100 ($27) per adult, AED 70 ($19) per child. Time spent - 2-3 hours
• The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence: Free admission. Time spent - As long as you like

Saturday, December 23

Embark on a desert adventure today! In the morning, go on a thrilling dune bashing experience in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Enjoy sandboarding and camel rides before heading to a Bedouin-style camp for an Arabian cultural experience, including henna painting and a delicious BBQ dinner. At night, watch mesmerizing belly dance performances under the starry desert sky.

• Desert Safari: Cost estimate - AED 200-300 ($55-82) per person. Time spent - 6-8 hours

Sunday, December 24

Explore the modern side of Dubai today. Start your morning at the Dubai Mall. Visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, home to thousands of marine animals, including sharks and rays. Afterward, head to the top of the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, for stunning panoramic views of the city. In the evening, experience the magical Dubai Fountain show, showcasing water, music, and light.

• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Cost estimate - AED 180 ($49) per adult, AED 150 ($41) per child. Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Burj Khalifa: Cost estimate - AED 149-375 ($41-102) per person for At The Top observation deck tickets. Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dubai Fountain: Free admission. Time spent - 30 minutes

Monday, December 25

Spend a fun-filled day at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Start your morning at Motiongate Dubai, where you can experience rides and attractions based on popular movies. In the afternoon, visit Bollywood Parks Dubai, offering live shows, street performances, and themed rides. The evening can be spent at LEGOLAND Dubai, exploring the LEGO-themed world and enjoying interactive experiences.

• Motiongate Dubai: Cost estimate - AED 275-395 ($75-108) per person for a Park Hopper ticket. Time spent - Full day
• Bollywood Parks Dubai: Cost estimate - AED 175-245 ($48-67) per person for a Park Hopper ticket. Time spent - Half day
• LEGOLAND Dubai: Cost estimate - AED 215-295 ($59-80) per person for a Park Hopper ticket. Time spent - Half day

Tuesday, December 26

Immerse yourself in the traditional Emirati culture today. Start your morning with a visit to the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, where you can learn about the city's history. Explore the narrow lanes and art galleries of Al Bastakiya Quarter. Afterward, take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek to the lively Gold Souk and Spice Souk. In the evening, relax at the beautiful Dubai Miracle Garden, showcasing intricate floral designs.

• Dubai Museum: Cost estimate - AED 3 ($1) per adult, AED 1 ($0.27) per child. Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dubai Creek Abra Ride: Cost estimate - AED 1 ($0.27) per person. Time spent - 20-30 minutes
• Gold Souk and Spice Souk: Free admission. Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Cost estimate - AED 55 ($15) per adult, AED 40 ($11) per child. Time spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, December 27

Indulge in some retail therapy at the world-famous Dubai Mall today. In the morning, explore the mall's vast array of shops, including high-end fashion brands and luxury boutiques. Afterward, visit KidZania, an interactive edutainment center where kids can role-play various professions. In the evening, enjoy an unforgettable dinner at one of the mall's many restaurants, followed by a visit to the Dubai Ice Rink for some ice skating fun.

• KidZania: Cost estimate - AED 185 ($50) per child, AED 80 ($22) per adult. Time spent - 4-6 hours
• Dubai Ice Rink: Cost estimate - AED 75 ($20) per person (includes skate rental). Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting Global Village, an annual cultural extravaganza featuring pavilions representing different countries. Take a walk around the world, enjoying diverse cuisines, live performances, and shopping for traditional crafts. Another hidden gem is the Green Planet, an indoor rainforest housing over 3,000 plants and animals. It offers an educational and immersive experience for nature lovers of all ages.