5-Day Family-Friendly Dubai Itinerary with Dining and Attractions

Day 1: Modern Dubai Exploration

Dubai, UAE on April 27, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Cheesecake Factory, Dubai Mall

Start your day with a family-friendly breakfast offering diverse options including pancakes and omelets in the heart of Dubai Mall.
AED100, 1h

10:30am

Visit Burj Khalifa Observation Deck

Experience breathtaking views from the world’s tallest building at 'At The Top' observation deck on levels 124 and 125. Tickets are best booked in advance.
AED149, 1h

12:00pm

Explore Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Dubai Mall

Discover an underwater world with a massive tank housing thousands of aquatic animals, perfect for children and adults alike.
AED120, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Rainforest Cafe, Dubai Mall

Enjoy a jungle-themed dining experience with a menu suitable for kids and adults, making lunch fun and engaging.
AED120, 1h

3:00pm

Stroll through Dubai Fountain and Souk Al Bahar

Watch the captivating Dubai Fountain shows which start in the afternoon, and explore the traditional-style Souk Al Bahar nearby.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Armani/Deli, Burj Khalifa

Relish elegant European-style cuisine with a family-friendly menu in the Armani hotel, located inside Burj Khalifa.
AED200, 1h30m

Day 2: Beach and Marina Fun

Dubai, UAE on April 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Baker & Spice, Souk Al Bahar

Enjoy fresh, organic breakfast options with a relaxing view of the Dubai Fountain and the Burj Khalifa.
AED85, 1h

10:00am

Visit Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, Palm Jumeirah

Spend a thrilling morning at Aquaventure, one of Dubai’s best waterparks offering slides, a lazy river, and a private beach, ideal for family fun.
AED320, 4h

2:30pm

Lunch at Wavehouse, Atlantis The Palm

Casual dining with a vibrant atmosphere, kid-friendly menu, and arcade games for children to enjoy after lunch.
AED150, 1h

4:00pm

Dubai Marina Walk and Dhow Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along Dubai Marina, followed by a 1.5-hour traditional dhow boat cruise at sunset with views of skyline.
AED150, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pier 7, Dubai Marina

Choose from several restaurants offering diverse cuisines in a family-friendly environment overlooking the marina.
AED180, 1h30m

Day 3: Historic Dubai & Creek

Dubai, UAE on April 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabian Tea House, Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Traditional Emirati breakfast in a charming courtyard setting, perfect to start your day exploring old Dubai.
AED70, 1h

9:30am

Visit Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort

Learn about Dubai's history and culture at the city's oldest building turned museum. Opens from 8:30am to 8pm.
AED3, 1h

11:00am

Explore the Al Fahidi Historical District and Coffee Museum

Stroll through narrow lanes with traditional architecture and visit the Coffee Museum to enjoy an interactive experience.
AED15 (Coffee Museum), 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Bastakiah Nights Restaurant

Savor Middle Eastern dishes in an atmospheric setting within the historic district.
AED120, 1h

2:00pm

Take an Abra Ride across Dubai Creek

Ride a traditional wooden boat across the creek for a scenic and authentic local experience. Runs from early morning until late evening.
AED1, 30m

3:00pm

Visit Gold and Spice Souks

Explore bustling traditional markets full of vibrant sights and family-friendly shopping opportunities.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Bayt Al Wakeel Restaurant by the Creek

Enjoy delicious Arabic cuisine with views over the creek, perfect for a relaxing family dinner.
AED160, 1h30m

Day 4: Desert Adventure

Dubai Desert, UAE on April 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby cafe

Have a quick, light breakfast at your accommodation to prepare for the desert safari.
Variable, 1h

9:00am

Morning Desert Safari with dune bashing

Experience thrilling dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding with a reputable tour operator. Morning tours run approximately 4 hours.
AED400, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Al Hadheerah, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort

Enjoy an authentic Arabian buffet with live entertainment, ideal to immerse in desert culture after your safari.
AED250, 1h30m

3:30pm

Relax at hotel or resort

Time to rest or enjoy family time at the hotel pool or spa after morning desert activities.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Evening stroll or visit Dubai Garden Glow

Discover illuminated gardens and creative light installations, perfect for a relaxed evening outdoors. Open 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm.
AED85, 2h

Day 5: Shopping and Ski Dubai

Dubai, UAE on May 1, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Shakespeare and Co, Mall of the Emirates

Enjoy a varied breakfast menu in warm, family-friendly surroundings at one of Dubai's popular cafes.
AED90, 1h

10:00am

Ski Dubai Indoor Ski Resort

Experience snow and winter activities in the desert with skiing, snowboarding, and penguin encounters. Opens 10:00 am - 11:00 pm.
AED250, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Social House, Mall of the Emirates

Casual dining with international dishes and views of the indoor ski slope, perfect for families.
AED150, 1h

3:00pm

Afternoon shopping and leisure at Mall of the Emirates

Explore shops, entertainment zones, and chill zones for the family before heading back home.
Varies, 3h

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Al Hallab Restaurant, Mall of the Emirates

End your Dubai trip with authentic Lebanese cuisine in a comfortable family setting.
AED180, 1h30m