7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Thursday, October 26: Arrival in Dubai

Start your trip in Dubai by checking into a family-friendly hotel and exploring the city's iconic sights. In the morning, visit the Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls, and enjoy attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Marina for a relaxing boat tour, taking in the stunning skyline. As the evening sets in, visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, a colorful oasis with over 50 million flowers.

• Dubai Mall: Entrance is free, attractions and shopping costs vary. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
• Dubai Marina Boat Tour: Starting from $40 per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Admission fee is around $20 per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.

Friday, October 27: Discovering Old Dubai

Explore the cultural side of Dubai in the morning by visiting the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi. Wander through the narrow streets, visit the Dubai Museum, and take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Spice Souq and Gold Souq, where you can shop for unique souvenirs. Spend the evening enjoying a traditional dinner in an atmospheric Arabian restaurant.

• Al Fahidi Neighborhood: Free admission. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Dubai Museum: Admission fee is around $3 per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Abra Ride: Costs around $0.50 per ride. Estimated time spent: 30 minutes.
• Spice Souq and Gold Souq: Prices vary depending on purchases. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Traditional Dinner: Costs around $30 per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.

Saturday, October 28: Aquatic Adventures

Indulge in water-themed activities by visiting Aquaventure Waterpark on the Palm Jumeirah in the morning. Enjoy thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and interact with marine life at the Lost Chambers Aquarium. In the afternoon, explore the unique underwater world at the Dubai Mall's Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Wrap up the day with a relaxing stroll along the Jumeirah Beach Walk, lined with shops and restaurants.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: Starting from $70 per person. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours.
• Lost Chambers Aquarium: Admission fee is around $25 per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Starting from $35 per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Jumeirah Beach Walk: Free to explore. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.

Sunday, October 29: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi

Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. In the morning, visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning architectural masterpiece. Explore the culture and heritage of the region at the Louvre Abu Dhabi in the afternoon. End the day with a visit to Yas Island, where you can experience thrilling rides at Ferrari World or cool off at Yas Waterworld.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free admission. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: Admission fee is around $15 per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Ferrari World or Yas Waterworld: Starting from $60 per person. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours.

Monday, October 30: Desert Adventure

Embark on an exciting desert safari in the morning. Enjoy dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and traditional entertainment such as belly dancing. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Butterfly Garden, a unique indoor tropical garden. End the day with a visit to Global Village, a multicultural festival park featuring food, entertainment, and shopping from around the world.

• Desert Safari: Starting from $50 per person. Estimated time spent: 6-7 hours.
• Dubai Butterfly Garden: Admission fee is around $15 per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Global Village: Entrance fee is around $10 per person. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.

Tuesday, October 31: Modern Dubai Exploration

Discover the modern side of Dubai in the morning by exploring the stunning Palm Jumeirah Island. Visit the Atlantis, The Palm hotel, and enjoy attractions like the Aquaventure Waterpark and Dolphin Bay. In the afternoon, visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and enjoy breathtaking views from the observation deck. End the day with a leisurely stroll along the Dubai Marina Walk, lined with restaurants and cafes.

• Palm Jumeirah Island: Free to explore, attractions have varying costs. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours.
• Burj Khalifa: Starting from $40 per person for the observation deck. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Dubai Marina Walk: Free to explore. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.

Wednesday, November 1: Farewell to Dubai

Spend your last day in Dubai by exploring the Dubai Parks and Resorts. Enjoy thrilling rides and entertainment at Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and Legoland. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Miracle Garden to soak in the beauty of the stunning floral displays. End your trip with a delicious farewell dinner at one of the city's renowned restaurants.

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: Starting from $100 per person. Estimated time spent: 5-6 hours.
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Admission fee is around $20 per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Farewell Dinner: Costs vary depending on restaurant choice. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Dubai, don't miss out on visiting the Dubai Frame, an architectural landmark offering panoramic views of the city. Families can also enjoy the Green Planet, an indoor tropical rainforest filled with exotic flora and fauna. For an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Hatta Village in the Hajar Mountains, where you can explore traditional Emirati houses and learn about the region's history.