7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Saturday, December 2: Arrival in Dubai

Morning: Arrive at Dubai International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Spend the morning exploring the hotel facilities and relaxing by the pool.

Afternoon: Visit the Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping mall, and enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants. Explore the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, where you can see a variety of marine species.

Evening: Head to Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, for breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck. Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in the surrounding area.

• Dubai Mall: Entrance Fee: Free, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Entrance Fee: AED 120 (approx. $33) per adult, AED 80 (approx. $22) per child, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Burj Khalifa: At The Top Observation Deck Entrance Fee: AED 149 (approx. $41) per adult, AED 114 (approx. $31) per child, Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 3: Dubai Desert Safari

Morning: Start your day with a visit to Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral oasis featuring various themed gardens and intricate displays.

Afternoon: Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure. Enjoy activities such as dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. Experience a traditional Bedouin-style dinner and entertainment in the evening.

• Dubai Miracle Garden: Entrance Fee: AED 55 (approx. $15) per adult, AED 40 (approx. $11) per child, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Desert Safari: Cost: AED 200-300 (approx. $55-$82) per person, Time Spent: 6-7 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Dubai Desert Safari is The Sum of Us. Their extensive breakfast menu offers a variety of options, from classic eggs benedict to innovative dishes like cornflake-crusted French toast. Average cost for a meal is about 55 AED per person.
• A great choice for lunch is Tom&Serg, known for their delicious and comforting café fare. Try their signature burger or their mouthwatering salads. Average cost for a meal is about 70 AED per person.
• For dinner, head to Jones The Grocer for a unique dining experience. Their menu features gourmet dishes made with high-quality ingredients. Don't miss the Wagyu beef burger or the truffle mac and cheese. Average cost for a meal is about 150 AED per person.

Monday, December 4: Abu Dhabi City Tour

Morning: Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Marvel at its stunning architecture and intricate details.

Afternoon: Explore Yas Island and visit Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, an indoor amusement park featuring thrilling rides and attractions.

Evening: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Corniche Promenade, offering beautiful views of the city skyline and the Arabian Gulf.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Entrance Fee: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Entrance Fee: AED 295 (approx. $80) per person, Time Spent: 3-4 hours

Tuesday, December 5: Palm Jumeirah and Aquaventure Waterpark

Morning: Take a monorail ride to Palm Jumeirah, an iconic man-made island. Explore the luxurious Atlantis, The Palm resort and visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium.

Afternoon: Enjoy a day of fun at Aquaventure Waterpark, located within Atlantis, The Palm. Slide down thrilling water rides, relax on the lazy river, and visit the marine exhibits.

• Lost Chambers Aquarium: Entrance Fee: AED 120 (approx. $33) per adult, AED 90 (approx. $25) per child, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• Aquaventure Waterpark: Entrance Fee: AED 269 (approx. $73) per adult, AED 225 (approx. $61) per child, Time Spent: 4-5 hours

Wednesday, December 6: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Morning: Visit Dubai Parks and Resorts, a mega-theme park complex. Start your day at Motiongate Dubai, a park dedicated to Hollywood movies.

Afternoon: Explore Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park, perfect for families with young children. Enjoy interactive attractions and water slides.

Evening: Head to Bollywood Parks Dubai for live entertainment, musicals, and cultural experiences.

• Motiongate Dubai: Entrance Fee: AED 275 (approx. $75) per adult, AED 235 (approx. $64) per child, Time Spent: 4-5 hours
• Legoland Dubai: Entrance Fee: AED 275 (approx. $75) per adult, AED 235 (approx. $64) per child, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
• Bollywood Parks Dubai: Entrance Fee: AED 275 (approx. $75) per adult, AED 235 (approx. $64) per child, Time Spent: 2-3 hours

Thursday, December 7: Dubai Marina and JBR

Morning: Explore Dubai Marina, a vibrant waterfront area. Take a scenic boat ride or stroll along the promenade lined with restaurants and shops.

Afternoon: Visit The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), known for its beachfront cafes, boutique shops, and street artists. Relax on the public beach or enjoy water sports activities.

• Dubai Marina: Entrance Fee: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
• The Walk at JBR: Entrance Fee: Free, Time Spent: 3-4 hours

Friday, December 8: Departure from Abu Dhabi

Morning: Visit Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, a thrilling waterpark featuring slides, rides, and attractions for all ages.

Afternoon: Checkout from your hotel and transfer to Abu Dhabi International Airport for your departure.

• Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi: Entrance Fee: AED 250 (approx. $68) per adult, AED 210 (approx. $57) per child, Time Spent: 4-5 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have some extra time, consider exploring the traditional souks (markets) in Dubai, such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, where you can find unique souvenirs and experience local culture. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Dubai Miracle Garden, where you can admire stunning floral displays in a variety of designs and patterns. Don't forget to try some authentic Arabic cuisine at local restaurants for a taste of the region.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.