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

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Dubai, UAE

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Al Mallah

Kickstart your day with a delicious mixed shawarma breakfast at Al Mallah, a local favorite known for its affordable prices.
Located in Satwa, accessible via metro from your accommodation.
AED 30, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Dubai Marina

Stroll along the picturesque Dubai Marina Walk with its stunning waterfront views and leisure atmosphere.
Take the Metro to the Damac Properties Station and walk about 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Marina

Enjoy a budget-friendly meal at one of the numerous eateries at Dubai Marina, such as the Dubai Marina Mall food court.
Located within walking distance of the Marina.
AED 50, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit the Dubai Aquarium

Explore the fascinating underwater world at the Dubai Aquarium located inside the Dubai Mall.
From Marina, take the metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station and a short walk.
AED 100 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Evening at The Dubai Fountain

Witness the spectacular fountain show at Burj Khalifa Lake, which happens every half hour after 6 PM.
Just outside the Dubai Mall.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Ravi Restaurant

Savor Pakistani cuisine at the well-known Ravi Restaurant, where you can indulge in flavorful dishes without breaking the bank.
A short taxi ride from Downtown Dubai.
AED 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Day

Dubai, UAE

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Baker’s Kitchen

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Baker’s Kitchen, offering a variety of pastry and egg dishes.
Located in Al Garhoud, easily reachable by taxi.
AED 60, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Dubai Museum

Discover the city’s rich heritage at the Dubai Museum, housed in the historic Al Fahidi Fort.
Take the metro to Al Fahidi Station and walk about 10 minutes.
AED 15 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Wander through the charming narrow lanes of Al Fahidi, offering a glimpse of Dubai’s past.
Walking distance from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Al Bait Al Qadeem

Enjoy traditional Emirati food in an authentic setting at Al Bait Al Qadeem.
Short walk from Al Fahidi.
AED 70, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Ride an Abra across Dubai Creek

Take a traditional water taxi, or Abra, to experience the exceptional views along Dubai Creek.
Head to the nearby Dubai Creek Abra Station.
AED 2 per person, 30 minutes

3:00 PM

Visit the Gold Souk

Explore the vibrant Gold Souk and marvel at the stunning displays of gold jewelry.
Located near the Dubai Creek.
Free to explore, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Visit Spice Souk

Immerse yourself in the sensory delights of the Spice Souk, where aromatic spices are plentiful.
Directly adjacent to the Gold Souk.
Free to explore, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Al Tawasol Restaurant

Relish a delicious and budget-friendly dinner with various Middle Eastern dishes.
A short taxi ride from the souks.
AED 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature Day

Dubai, UAE

7:30 AM

Breakfast at The Sum of Us

Enjoy artisanal bread and fresh brews at The Sum of Us, a fantastic start to your day.
Located in Trade Center area.
AED 70, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Dubai Miracle Garden

Experience the stunning floral displays at the largest flower garden in the world.
Take the metro to Mall of the Emirates, then a taxi to the garden.
AED 100 for a family of four, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Dubai Parks and Resorts

Explore the various theme parks and family-friendly attractions available, such as Motiongate and Legoland.
Taxi to Dubai Parks and Resorts.
AED 400 for entry for a family of four (consider smaller parts for shoestring options), 6 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Bismillah Restaurant

Unwind after a long day with a family dinner at Bismillah Restaurant known for their budget-friendly Indian cuisine.
A taxi back to the city center.
AED 70, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure and Sightseeing

Dubai, UAE

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Tim Hortons

Grab a quick and affordable breakfast at Tim Hortons, featuring a range of coffee and pastries.
Conveniently located near your accommodation.
AED 50, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Kite Beach

Relax at Kite Beach, a family-friendly beach with free sunbathing and play areas.
Take a taxi, it’s access via Al Wasl Road.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Jumeirah Beach Residence

Stroll along JBR with its lively atmosphere, shops, and beach activities.
Short walk from Kite Beach.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Beach at JBR

Choose one of the affordable food stalls at The Beach for lunch by the sea.
Conveniently located at JBR.
AED 60, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit The Walk at JBR

Enjoy beachside shopping or simply take a stroll along The Walk at JBR, rich in entertainment.
Continuation from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Al Ain Oasis (Day Trip)

Take a quick trip to Al Ain Oasis for a unique desert natural experience.
Taxi or a budget tour from Dubai.
AED 80 for a taxi, 3 hours including travel

7:00 PM

Dinner at Al Ain Restaurant

End your day with a relaxing dinner at a local spot serving simple yet delicious dishes.
Located in Al Ain.
AED 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Marketplace and Relaxation

Dubai, UAE

8:00 AM

Breakfast at GINDO Cafe

Savor a local breakfast with a variety of pastries and local dishes at GINDO Cafe.
In Dubai Marina.
AED 70, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Global Village

Discover the diverse cultures showcased at Global Village, presenting artisan crafts, food, and entertainment from around the world.
Public transport via metro and bus or taxi.
AED 40 for a family of four, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Global Village

Grab an affordable meal from one of the many food stalls available within Global Village.
Located on-site.
AED 50, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Dubai Frame

Explore the iconic Dubai Frame, offering panoramic views of the old and new Dubai.
Take the metro to Al Jafiliya Station.
AED 100 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Relax at Zabeel Park

Unwind with a leisurely walk or enjoy children's play areas at Zabeel Park near the Dubai Frame.
Just a short walk from the museum.
AED 5 per person, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Al Shorfa Restaurant

Savor delicious local dishes before concluding your Dubai experience at Al Shorfa.
Located near your accommodation.
AED 80, 1.5 hours
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