Dubai and Abu Dhabi 5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Saturday January 13: Arrival in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. In the morning, take a trip to the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking views of the city. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Mall located at the base of the Burj Khalifa for shopping and dining. As the evening sets in, visit the Dubai Fountain show right outside the mall.

• Burj Khalifa: Estimated Cost - AED 370, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Dubai Mall: No entry fee, Estimated Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Dubai Fountain: Free, Show Times - Every 30 minutes in the evening

Sunday January 14: Exploring Dubai

Start your day by visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden, a beautiful outdoor garden showcasing numerous floral arrangements. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo located inside the Dubai Mall for an immersive underwater experience. In the evening, take a desert safari tour to experience thrilling dune bashing, camel riding, and traditional entertainment.

• Dubai Miracle Garden: Estimated Cost - AED 55, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Estimated Cost - AED 120, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Desert Safari Tour: Estimated Cost - AED 250-350, Estimated Time Spent - 6-7 hours

Monday January 15: Abu Dhabi City Tour

Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the UAE. Start your day by visiting the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. In the afternoon, explore the Yas Island, home to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and the famous Yas Waterworld. End your day with a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an art and civilization museum with a stunning architectural design.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Yas Island (Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld): Estimated Cost - AED 280-310, Estimated Time Spent - Full day
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: Estimated Cost - AED 63, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday January 16: Dubai Theme Park Fun

Indulge in the thrill of Dubai's theme parks. Start your day in Dubai Parks and Resorts, offering multiple theme parks including Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and Legoland. In the afternoon, head to IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world's largest indoor theme park. Enjoy various rides and attractions suitable for all ages. In the evening, visit the Dubai Marina Walk for a leisurely stroll and waterfront dining.

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: Estimated Cost - AED 245, Estimated Time Spent - Full day
• IMG Worlds of Adventure: Estimated Cost - AED 285, Estimated Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• Dubai Marina Walk: No entry fee, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday January 17: Departure from Dubai

On your last day, make sure to visit the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort to learn about the city's rich history and culture. In the afternoon, take a traditional abra boat ride across Dubai Creek and explore the vibrant souks, such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk. Bid farewell to Dubai with a dinner cruise along Dubai Marina, enjoying stunning views of the city skyline.

• Dubai Museum: Estimated Cost - AED 3, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Abra Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - AED 1, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Dinner Cruise: Estimated Cost - AED 160-300, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden, where you can admire the stunning floral displays. Another hidden gem is the Dubai Butterfly Garden, home to various species of butterflies in a tropical setting. Locals also love visiting the Al Ain Oasis, a tranquil oasis city with date palm plantations and traditional falaj irrigation system.