Family-Friendly Dubai and Abu Dhabi Itinerary

Friday, November 3: Arrival and Dubai Marina

In the morning, check into your hotel and get settled. In the afternoon, head to Dubai Marina, a vibrant waterfront community. Take a leisurely walk along the marina promenade, admire the stunning yachts, and grab lunch at one of the family-friendly restaurants. In the evening, enjoy a lovely Dhow Cruise Dinner, sailing along the marina while feasting on a delicious buffet.

• Dubai Marina Walk: Free, 2-3 hours
• Dhow Cruise Dinner: AED 150-250 per person, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Baker & Spice, located in Dubai Marina. This cozy bakery offers a variety of freshly baked goods and hearty breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
• For a tasty lunch, head to The Cheesecake Factory at Dubai Marina Mall. This family-friendly restaurant serves a wide range of dishes, including classic American comfort food and of course, their famous cheesecakes. The average cost for a meal is about AED 100 per person.
• In the evening, indulge in a delightful dinner at Pierchic. Located on a private pier in the Arabian Gulf, this upscale seafood restaurant offers breathtaking views and a menu featuring the freshest catches of the day. The average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.

Saturday, November 4: The Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

Start your day at The Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping destinations. Spend the morning exploring its vast array of shops, entertainment options, and attractions. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Head up to the observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai. In the evening, indulge in some retail therapy or watch the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show outside the mall.

• The Dubai Mall: Free, cost varies based on shopping, 4-6 hours
• Burj Khalifa: AED 149-249 per person for observation deck, 2-3 hours
• Dubai Fountain Show: Free, 30 minutes

Sunday, November 5: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Embark on a day of fun and excitement at Dubai Parks and Resorts. This large entertainment complex offers several theme parks to choose from, such as Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai. Enjoy thrilling rides, live performances, and interactive experiences suitable for all ages. Have lunch at one of the park's many dining options before continuing your adventure.

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: AED 245-295 per person for a 1-day ticket, 7-8 hours

Monday, November 6: Abu Dhabi City Tour

Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. Begin by visiting the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a magnificent architectural masterpiece. Explore the Emirates Palace, a luxurious hotel with stunning interiors. Enjoy a visit to the family-friendly Yas Island, home to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld. End your day with a walk along the beautiful Corniche, a waterfront promenade.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free, 2-3 hours
• Emirates Palace: Free (optional paid tour), 1-2 hours
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: AED 295-395 per person, 4-6 hours
• Yas Waterworld: AED 250-320 per person, 4-6 hours
• Corniche Walk: Free, 1-2 hours

Tuesday, November 7: Dubai Desert Safari

Embark on a thrilling desert safari adventure. Start with dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, experiencing the excitement of riding over sand dunes. Visit a traditional Bedouin camp where you can try sandboarding, camel riding, and henna painting. Enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner while watching mesmerizing cultural performances, including belly dancing and tanoura shows.

• Desert Safari: AED 100-250 per person, 6-8 hours

Wednesday, November 8: Aquaventure Waterpark and Atlantis The Palm

Spend a fun-filled day at Aquaventure Waterpark, located in the Atlantis The Palm resort. Enjoy thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and a private beach. Explore the Lost Chambers Aquarium, home to over 65,000 marine animals. Have lunch at one of the park's restaurants and relax by the pools. In the evening, take a stroll along Palm Jumeirah and admire the beautiful views.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: AED 269-339 per person, 6-8 hours
• Lost Chambers Aquarium: AED 125-170 per person, 2-3 hours
• Palm Jumeirah Walk: Free, 1-2 hours

Thursday, November 9: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village

Visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral paradise featuring intricate displays and themed gardens. Marvel at the vibrant and colorful flower arrangements. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant. In the evening, head to Global Village, an open-air entertainment and shopping destination. Explore the diverse pavilions, sample international cuisine, and enjoy cultural shows and live performances.

• Dubai Miracle Garden: AED 55 per person, 2-3 hours
• Global Village: AED 15 entry fee per person, additional costs for attractions and food, 4-6 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For some off-the-beaten-path attractions, consider visiting the Dubai Butterfly Garden, a magical indoor tropical garden filled with beautiful butterflies. Kids will also enjoy the Dubai Ice Rink, an Olympic-sized ice rink located in The Dubai Mall. Another local favorite is KidZania Dubai, an interactive edutainment center where children can role-play various professions in a simulated city.