7-Day Family-Friendly Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Dubai

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at Al Mallah

Start your Dubai adventure with a delicious breakfast at Al Mallah, known for its tasty manakish and fresh juices.
Located in the Satwa area.
AED 30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Dubai Mall

Explore the vast Dubai Mall, where you can enjoy window shopping and watch the mesmerizing indoor waterfall.
Take the metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Karachi Darbar

Indulge in affordable and delicious Pakistani cuisine at Karachi Darbar, a family favourite.
Short walk from Dubai Mall.
AED 50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Dubai Fountain Show

Catch the Dubai Fountain show outside the mall, where sparkling water dances to music - a magical experience for all ages.
Outdoor area of Dubai Mall.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Al Fahidi Historical District

Wander around the Al Fahidi Historical District, experiencing the cultural heritage of Dubai.
Take the metro to Al Fahidi station, then a short walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ravi Restaurant

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at Ravi Restaurant, famous for its authentic Indian dishes.
In the Al Satwa area, short taxi ride.
AED 60, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Experience

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your accommodation before heading out for a day of exploration.
N/A
Free with hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dubai Museum

Discover the rich history of Dubai at the Dubai Museum, located in Al Fahidi Fort.
Take a short walk from Al Fahidi.
AED 3, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Spice and Gold Souks

Stroll through the Spice and Gold Souks, taking in the vibrant sights and scents - perfect for souvenir shopping.
Take an abra (water taxi) to Deira.
AED 1, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Al Bawadi Restaurant

Enjoy a range of affordable Middle Eastern dishes at Al Bawadi in Al Quoz.
Return to the metro to Al Quoz area.
AED 50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Desert Safari Tour

Experience an affordable desert safari tour, including dune bashing, camel riding, and a cultural dance show.
Pre-booked transportation available.
AED 150, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at the Safari Camp

Savour a traditional dinner while watching enchanting performances at the desert camp.
Part of the safari package.
Included, 2 hours
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Day 3: Beach Day

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker & Spice

Fuel up with a wholesome breakfast at Baker & Spice, located in Souk Al Bahar with great views.
Just next to Dubai Mall.
AED 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Jumeirah Beach

Spend your morning soaking up the sun and playing in the waves at the stunning Jumeirah Beach.
Take the metro to Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) station.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Beach Mall

Indulge in a casual lunch at one of the beachfront cafés at The Beach Mall.
Short walk from the beach.
AED 60, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Burj Al Arab

Take pictures at the iconic Burj Al Arab from the beach before exploring the surrounding area.
On the beach, easy access.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Wild Wadi Waterpark (Optional)

For a thrilling adventure, visit Wild Wadi Waterpark, but ensure to manage your budget as entry can be pricey.
Short taxi ride from Jumeirah Beach.
AED 299 (Optional), 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Pizza Express

Enjoy a family-friendly meal at Pizza Express near JBR with pizza and pasta options.
Located in The Beach Mall.
AED 70, 1 hour
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Day 4: Adventure & Aquatic Fun

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hamptons Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Hamptons, offering various healthy options.
In Jumeirah area, accessible by metro.
AED 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Aquaventure Waterpark

Spend the day at Aquaventure Waterpark; a day filled with fun slides, lagoons, and a private beach.
Take a taxi to Atlantis the Palm.
AED 319 (If not previously purchased a combo ticket), 5 hours

3:30PM

Lunch Inside Aquaventure

Grab lunch at one of the eateries in the waterpark for convenience and to keep the fun going.
Eateries located throughout Aquaventure.
AED 80, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit The Lost Chambers Aquarium (Optional)

Explore the fascinating marine life at The Lost Chambers if you have extra time and budget.
Inside Atlantis hotel, near Aquaventure.
AED 155 (Optional), 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Shore

Enjoy beachfront dining at The Shore, featuring relaxed vibes and various options suitable for kids.
In Atlantis resort.
AED 90, 1 hour
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Day 5: Indoor Fun & Culture

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at Shake Shack

Treat yourself to a delicious breakfast at Shake Shack inside the Dubai Mall.
Located on the ground floor of Dubai Mall.
AED 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Visit one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, featuring a variety of marine life.
Located inside Dubai Mall.
AED 100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Food Court

Enjoy an affordable lunch at the food court in Dubai Mall where numerous options are available.
Within Dubai Mall.
AED 50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit KidZania

Let the kids enjoy interactive activities and role-play in this creatively engineered city for children.
In Dubai Mall.
AED 160, 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit Dubai Ice Rink

Head to the Dubai Ice Rink for a fun skating experience that the whole family can partake in.
Just a short walk within Dubai Mall.
AED 100, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Fast Food Options

Grab a quick bite from one of the fast food outlets in the mall to keep things simple.
Located inside Dubai Mall.
AED 50, 1 hour
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Day 6: Nature and Relaxation

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at The One Cafe

Enjoy a laid-back breakfast at The One Cafe, renowned for their pastries and coffee.
Located in Dubai Design District.
AED 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dubai Creek Park

Relax at Dubai Creek Park, perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll while enjoying the outdoors.
Take the metro to Al Jaddaf, then a bus.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Aseelah Restaurant

Enjoy local Emirati cuisine at Aseelah, an affordable and authentic experience.
Located near Dubai Creek.
AED 60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Dubai Dolphinarium

Watch marine shows and dolphin performances that will leave the kids in awe.
Located within Dubai Creek Park.
AED 120, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Al Mamzar Beach Park

Unwind at Al Mamzar Park where you can enjoy the beach, swimming, and picnicking.
A taxi ride from Dubai Dolphinarium.
AED 5 for entrance, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Al Farooj Fresh

End your day with a casual dinner at Al Farooj Fresh, known for its grill and wraps.
Short trip back to Dubai.
AED 45, 1 hour
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Day 7: Shopping & Departure

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Bateel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Cafe Bateel, known for its gourmet menu and beautiful atmosphere.
Located in Dubai Mall.
AED 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Global Village (Seasonal)

Explore the vibrant Global Village with its international pavilions and cultural performances, open from November to April.
Take a taxi to Global Village.
AED 15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Global Village

Savour diverse international cuisine at various booths and restaurants within Global Village.
Inside Global Village.
AED 60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Shopping at Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Finish off with some last-minute shopping and enjoy the stunning views of the waterways and Burj Al Arab.
Taxi ride from Global Village.
Free to browse, 2 hours

4:00PM

Departure Prep

Prepare and check out of your accommodation while getting ready for your departure.
Back to your hotel.
Free, 2 hours
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