5-Day Family-Friendly Adventure Itinerary in Dubai on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Explore Old Dubai

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at Arabian Tea House

Kick-off your Dubai adventure with a traditional Emirati breakfast at the Arabian Tea House, where you can savor dishes like Foul Medames and freshly baked Khameer bread.
Take the Metro to Al Fahidi Station.
AED 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dubai Museum

Explore the Dubai Museum located in Al Fahidi Fort, offering fascinating insights into the city's rich cultural history.
Walk to the museum from the tea house.
AED 3, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Abra Ride across Dubai Creek

Take a traditional Abras (wooden boats) across Dubai Creek for stunning views and a taste of local transportation.
Head to the Abra station near the museum.
AED 1, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Al Bait Al Qadeem

Enjoy a local meal at Al Bait Al Qadeem, famous for its authentic Arab cuisine without breaking the bank.
Walk from the Abra station.
AED 60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Gold and Spice Souks

Stroll through the vibrant Gold and Spice Souks, where the kids can marvel at the glittering displays and fragrant spices.
Walk to the souks from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Al Seef

Enjoy the modern and heritage blend at Al Seef, a waterfront area showcasing traditional architecture with quaint shops and cafes.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to Al Seef.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ravi Restaurant

End your day with a satisfying dinner at Ravi Restaurant, popular for its mouth-watering Pakistani dishes in a casual setting.
Take a taxi to Ravi Restaurant.
AED 70, 1 hour
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Day 2: Modern Marvels of Dubai

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Arabian Tea House

Enjoy a repeat visit to gather energy with some nutritious pancakes and fresh juices in a calming garden atmosphere.
Take the Metro to Al Fahidi Station.
AED 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Marvel at the mesmerizing marine life in the world's largest suspended aquarium located in Dubai Mall.
Take the Metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station.
AED 100 (entry to the aquarium), 2 hours

11:30AM

Walk around Dubai Mall

Explore the vast Dubai Mall with fun activities for the kids, including an ice rink and interactive displays.
Enjoy the mall premises after the aquarium.
Free to explore, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Dubai Mall Food Court

Grab a budget-friendly meal from the food court with diverse options, ensuring everyone gets their favorite.
Stay in the mall.
AED 60, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Burj Khalifa Observation Deck

Experience breathtaking views of the city from the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa, a highlight of your Dubai trip.
Take the elevator within the mall.
AED 150, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dubai Fountain Show

Catch the spectacular Dubai Fountain show, an enchanting dance of water and light set to music.
View from the waterfront area right outside the mall.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Visit Souk Al Bahar

Stroll through Souk Al Bahar for shopping or just to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Walk from the fountain.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Denny's

Unwind with a relaxed dinner offering comfort food favorites in a casual environment, perfect for kids.
Walk back to Dubai Mall for convenience.
AED 70, 1 hour
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Day 3: Adventures in Nature

Dubai, UAE

7:30AM

Breakfast at Café Arabia

Start your day with an aromatic cup of coffee and healthy breakfast options in a cool and laid-back café.
Take the Metro to Al Quoz Station.
AED 50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend a thrilling day at Dubai Parks and Resorts with kids-friendly parks like Motiongate and Legoland, offering a great budget value.
Take a taxi to Dubai Parks and Resorts.
AED 250 (entry for all parks, check for discounts), 8 hours

5:00PM

Head back to Hotel

After a long adventure, take some time to relax before dinner.
Take a taxi to your hotel.
AED 30, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Al Mallah

Feast on delicious Shawarma and Falafel in a delightful casual eatery, a family favorite that won't stretch your budget.
Take a taxi back to Al Mallah.
AED 60, 1 hour
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Day 4: Desert Safari Fun

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tiffin Room

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast filled with diverse tastes in this Indian-themed restaurant, suitable for all ages.
Take the Metro to the nearest station.
AED 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Desert Safari Tour

Experience an exhilarating desert safari, with dune bashing, camel rides, and henna painting - a highlight for the entire family.
Pick-up from your accommodation.
AED 200 per person (Discounts may apply for children), 6 hours including travel time

3:30PM

Return from Safari

Enjoy the last moments in the serene desert before heading back to your hotel.
Return back via tour company.
Included, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at hotel

Take a moment to refresh and relax at your hotel after the safari.
Stay in your hotel until dinner.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at the Beach

Savour a meal from one of the budget-friendly food stalls along Kite Beach, while enjoying the sunset view.
Take a taxi to Kite Beach.
AED 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relaxation and Art

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Enjoy a late breakfast at a nearby café, having pancakes or eggs Benedict to fuel your last day in Dubai.
Find a local spot near your accommodation.
AED 50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Alserkal Avenue

Explore the art galleries and creative spaces at Alserkal Avenue, perfect for immersing the family in Dubai's contemporary art scene.
Take a taxi to Alserkal Avenue.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Wild & The Moon

Enjoy a healthy lunch at Wild & The Moon, focusing on organic ingredients and vibrant flavors suitable for all diet types.
Walk or take a short taxi.
AED 80, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit City Walk

A vibrant outdoor destination with shops and art installations, perfect for a casual stroll and some family fun.
Take a taxi to City Walk.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at the hotel

Take advantage of your hotel amenities one last time to recharge before your departure.
Head back to the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Bikanervala

Enjoy a farewell dinner stacked with diverse Indian vegetarian dishes that will please all family members.
Take a taxi to Bikanervala.
AED 70, 1.5 hours
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