6-Day Family Friendly Budget Itinerary in Dubai

Friday, January 26: Arrival in Dubai

Morning: Arrive at Dubai International Airport and check-in to your hotel. Rest and relax after your journey.

Afternoon: Visit the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort to learn about the city's rich history and culture. Take a stroll through the nearby Al Fahidi Historic District, filled with traditional buildings and art galleries.

Evening: Head to the Dubai Creek area and take an abra (traditional boat) ride along the waterway, enjoying the picturesque views. Explore the vibrant Gold Souk and Spice Souk, known for their variety of goods.

• Dubai Museum: Admission cost is approximately 3 AED ($0.82). Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Al Fahidi Historic District: Free to explore. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Abra Ride and Souks: Abra ride costs 1 AED ($0.27) per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Dubai Creek is Basta Art Cafe, offering a variety of healthy options and delicious coffees. Average cost for a meal is about 40 AED per person.
• For lunch, head to Arabian Tea House, a charming eatery serving traditional Emirati cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
• For dinner, indulge in Middle Eastern flavors at Al Fanar Restaurant & Café, known for its authentic Emirati dishes in a cozy setting. Average cost for a meal is about 100 AED per person.

Saturday, January 27: Dubai City Tour

Morning: Start the day by visiting the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take the elevator to the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking views of the city.

Afternoon: Explore the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls globally, offering a wide range of shops, entertainment, and dining options. Don't miss the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo located inside the mall.

Evening: Head to the Dubai Fountain, located just outside the mall, to witness the stunning water, music, and light show.

• Burj Khalifa: Prices for observation deck tickets start from 149 AED ($40.58). Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Dubai Mall: Free to explore, but attractions inside may have separate fees. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
• Dubai Fountain: Free to watch the show. Estimated time spent: 30 minutes.

Sunday, January 28: Desert Safari

Morning: Enjoy a thrilling morning desert safari with activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding.

Afternoon: Visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, a delightful floral wonderland showcasing vibrant displays of flowers and sculptures.

Evening: Experience an authentic Arabian evening by joining a desert camp with traditional entertainment, including belly dancing, henna painting, and a delicious BBQ dinner.

• Morning Desert Safari: Prices start from 100 AED ($27.23) per person. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours.
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Admission cost is approximately 55 AED ($14.99). Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Desert Camp: Prices vary, approximately 150-250 AED ($40.87-$68.12) per person. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours.

Monday, January 29: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Morning: Explore Dubai Parks and Resorts, a large entertainment complex featuring four theme parks: Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, Legoland, and Legoland Water Park.

Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the movie-themed rides and attractions of Motiongate or enjoy the vibrant Bollywood-inspired world of Bollywood Parks.

Evening: Relax and enjoy the thrilling water slides and attractions at Legoland Water Park or explore the interactive Lego-themed attractions at Legoland.

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: Day passes start from 245 AED ($66.78) per person. Estimated time spent: Full day.
• Each park within Dubai Parks and Resorts: Estimated time spent in each park is 4-5 hours.

Tuesday, January 30: Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach

Morning: Take a walk along Dubai Marina, a stunning waterfront area lined with skyscrapers, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy breakfast at one of the numerous cafes or restaurants.

Afternoon: Head to Jumeirah Beach and relax on the sandy shores. Visit the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island, and explore the famous Atlantis, The Palm resort.

Evening: Visit The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), a bustling promenade filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

• Dubai Marina: Free to explore. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Jumeirah Beach and Palm Jumeirah: Free to visit. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
• The Walk at JBR: Free to explore. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.

Wednesday, January 31: Old Dubai and Departure

Morning: Visit the traditional neighborhood of Bastakiya and explore the Al Seef area, offering a blend of old-world charm and modern facilities.

Afternoon: Indulge in some last-minute shopping at the traditional markets of Meena Bazaar and explore the variety of souvenirs and textiles.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, savoring delicious Arabic cuisine.

• Bastakiya and Al Seef: Free to explore. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Meena Bazaar: Prices vary based on purchases. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Farewell dinner: Prices vary based on the restaurant's menu.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden, a picturesque floral paradise that captivates both kids and adults with its unique displays and structures. Another local favorite is the Al Qudra Lakes, a collection of man-made lakes surrounded by desert dunes, offering opportunities for picnicking, cycling, and observing wildlife. Families can also enjoy a day at Dubai Butterfly Garden, home to thousands of colorful butterflies and tropical plants, providing a serene and educational experience.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check out the available options on Kayak.