Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary for Dubai

Friday, December 22: Arrival

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and settling in. Take this day to relax and acclimate to the city. In the evening, take a walk around your hotel and explore the nearby area.

Hotel and flight prices: Check here

Saturday, December 23: Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

Start your day with a visit to the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world. Enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment options suitable for the whole family.

In the afternoon, head to the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take a trip to the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai.

• Dubai Mall: Cost estimate - Free; Time spent - Flexible
• Burj Khalifa: Cost estimate - AED 149 (approx. $41) for observation deck tickets; Time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, December 24: Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Start your day by exploring the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, located within the Dubai Mall. Marvel at the diverse marine life and enjoy unique experiences like the Shark Tunnel and Glass Bottom Boat Tour.

In the afternoon, you can visit KidZania Dubai, an interactive children's edutainment center which offers various role-playing activities for kids.

• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Cost estimate - AED 160 (approx. $44); Time spent - 2-3 hours
• KidZania Dubai: Cost estimate - AED 140 (approx. $38); Time spent - 3-4 hours

Monday, December 25: Dubai Parks and Resorts

On this festive day, visit Dubai Parks and Resorts, the largest integrated theme park destination in the Middle East. Enjoy thrilling rides and attractions at Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai.

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: Cost estimate - AED 235 (approx. $64) for a 1-day 2-park ticket; Time spent - Full day

Tuesday, December 26: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village

Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden, a vast floral paradise featuring incredible designs and installations. Enjoy strolling through the beautiful gardens filled with millions of blooming flowers.

In the evening, head to Global Village, a cultural extravaganza showcasing pavilions from different countries, offering shopping, dining, and live entertainment options for the whole family.

• Dubai Miracle Garden: Cost estimate - AED 55 (approx. $15); Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Global Village: Cost estimate - AED 15 (approx. $4) entry fee; Time spent - 4-5 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Dubai Desert Safari

Embark on a thrilling Dubai Desert Safari experience. Enjoy dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and immerse yourself in Arabic culture with traditional performances and a delicious BBQ dinner.

• Dubai Desert Safari: Cost estimate - AED 200-300 (approx. $55-$82); Time spent - Evening excursion

Thursday, December 28: Aquaventure Waterpark and Palm Jumeirah

Spend your day at the Aquaventure Waterpark, located at Atlantis, The Palm. Enjoy thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a private beach. Explore the fascinating aquarium exhibits at The Lost Chambers Aquarium.

In the evening, relax and take a leisurely stroll along the stunning Palm Jumeirah, an iconic palm-shaped man-made island.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: Cost estimate - AED 269 (approx. $73); Time spent - Full day

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you want to experience some hidden gems and local favorites, visit Al Fahidi Historic District (Bastakiya) to explore the traditional side of Dubai. Take a leisurely abra (traditional boat) ride along Dubai Creek and visit the Dubai Museum located within the Al Fahidi Fort.