How many days do you need in Dubai?

This itinerary covers 8 days in Dubai, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Dubai?

Plan your perfect 8 days trip to Dubai. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Ultimate 8-Day Family Adventure in Dubai

Day 1: Arrival in Dubai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

10:00AM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive at your family-friendly hotel and settle in; consider staying at Atlantis, The Palm for its water park and aquarium.

AED 200, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cave

Savour a delicious lunch at The Cave in Atlantis while enjoying an underwater view.

AED 150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Aquaventure Waterpark

Spend the afternoon at Aquaventure, enjoying thrilling water slides and relaxing on the lazy river.

AED 300, 5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nasim Al Dhabba

Experience traditional Emirati cuisine with dishes like lamb shawarma in a comfortable setting.

AED 200, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll on The Walk

Enjoy a stroll along JBR The Walk while taking in views of the beach and shopping stalls.

Free, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Dubai

Day 2: Exploring Modern Dubai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Petite Maison

Delight in a family breakfast of fresh pastries and eggs to start your day.

AED 180, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Explore the spectacular underwater zoo featuring sharps and diverse marine life.

AED 100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dubai Mall Food Court

Choose from various global cuisines for a family-friendly lunch.

AED 150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Burj Khalifa Observation Deck

Soar to the top of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, for breathtaking views of Dubai.

AED 150, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Dubai Fountain Show

Enjoy the dazzling fountain show which features music and lights set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa.

Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Explore Souk Al Bahar

Wander through this traditional souk featuring shops and cafés that represent Arabian culture.

Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Meat Co.

Indulge in a steak dinner with a stunning view of the Burj Khalifa light show.

AED 400, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Dubai

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker & Spice

Enjoy organic, locally-sourced breakfast options to energise your day.

AED 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dubai Museum

Learn about the rich history of Dubai in the oldest existing building in Dubai.

AED 40, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Stroll through the narrow lanes and visit art galleries and cultural exhibits.

Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Arabian Tea House

Taste authentic Emirati dishes in a charming courtyard environment.

AED 120, 1 hour

2:30PM

Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise on a traditional dhow while spotting historical landmarks along the creek.

AED 150, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Gold and Spice Souks

Explore the vibrant markets filled with spices, textiles, and gold, a true cultural experience.

Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Al Dawaar

Dine at Dubai's only revolving restaurant with a beautiful 360-degree view of the city.

AED 400, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Dubai

Day 4: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before the journey.

Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Abu Dhabi

Travel to Abu Dhabi (1.5-hour drive) to explore the capital city.

AED 400, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Marvel at the stunning architecture of one of the world's largest mosques.

Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Qasr Al Watan

Explore the majestic presidential palace and its stunning gardens.

AED 80, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Emirates Palace

Dine in luxury at the Emirates Palace and try their famous gold-flaked cappuccino.

AED 300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Heritage Village

Step back in time and experience the traditional lifestyle and crafts of the UAE.

Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Drive Back to Dubai

Return to Dubai and relax at your hotel.

Included, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Al Safadi

Enjoy a casual dinner with an array of Lebanese dishes that the whole family can enjoy.

AED 200, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Abu Dhabi

Day 5: Thrill-Seeking Adventures

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a well-balanced breakfast with options for all ages.

Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend the day enjoying thrilling rides at Motiongate Dubai, Legoland, and Bollywood Parks.

AED 400, 6 hours

4:30PM

Snack at the Parks

Grab a quick snack from one of the many food stands within the parks.

AED 100, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Return to the Hotel

Head back to freshen up after a day of fun.

AED 50, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner with options for every palate.

AED 250, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Dubai

Day 6: Desert Safari Experience

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for a busy day ahead with a filling breakfast.

Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Dubai Miracle Garden

Explore an expansive garden featuring over 150 million flowers; great for family photos.

AED 55, 2 hours

11:00AM

Head Back to the Hotel

Return to relax and freshen up before the evening's festivities.

AED 50, 30 minutes

2:00PM

Desert Safari Tour

Embark on an exciting desert safari filled with dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding.

AED 350, 6 hours

8:00PM

BBQ Dinner in the Desert

Enjoy a traditional barbecue dinner under the stars, complete with entertainment.

Included, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Dubai

Day 7: Shopping and Relaxation

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Noir

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at this trendy café.

AED 150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Mall of the Emirates

Experience shopping and enjoy indoor skiing at Ski Dubai, even if you don’t ski!

AED 300, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Escapade

Refuel with international cuisine at the mall’s food terrace.

AED 150, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at the Hotel Pool

Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool while the kids enjoy water games.

Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Dubai Marina

Stroll along Dubai Marina while enjoying dinner at a restaurant with waterfront views.

AED 300, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Dubai

Day 8: Departure Day

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before preparing for departure.

Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Last-minute Shopping

Take advantage of any last-minute souvenirs or gifts at the Gold Souk.

AED 200, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Check-out of Hotel

Complete your check-out process and prepare for your onward journey.

AED 100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Departure

Say goodbye to Dubai and board your flight with unforgettable memories.

N/A, Varies

Find Hotels in Dubai

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Ultimate 8-Day Family Adventure in Dubai

Day 1: Arrival in Dubai

10:00AM

12:00PM

1:00PM

6:00PM

8:00PM

Day 2: Exploring Modern Dubai

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 4: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi

7:00AM

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

4:30PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Thrill-Seeking Adventures

8:00AM

9:30AM

4:30PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Desert Safari Experience

7:00AM

8:30AM

11:00AM

2:00PM

8:00PM

Day 7: Shopping and Relaxation

9:00AM

10:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 8: Departure Day

8:00AM

10:00AM

12:00PM

1:00PM

More About Dubai

Plan Your Dubai Trip