Family-Friendly 7-Day Dubai Itinerary: Explore Iconic Landmarks, Desert Adventures & Cultural Experiences

Day 1: Explore Downtown Dubai

Dubai, UAE on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Comptoir 102

Enjoy a healthy and organic breakfast in a cozy café known for fresh juices and wholesome dishes at Comptoir 102, open from 7:00am.
AED 70, 1h

9:30am

Visit Burj Khalifa Observation Deck

Ascend to the Burj Khalifa’s At The Top observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai and beyond. Book tickets in advance, open from 8:30am to 11:00pm.
AED 180, 1h30m

11:15am

Explore Dubai Mall

Discover family-friendly attractions including the Dubai Aquarium, KidZania, and a vast shopping complex. Dubai Mall hours are from 10:00am to midnight.
Varies, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at Social House

Enjoy a diverse menu with indoor and outdoor seating facing the Dubai Fountain at Social House in Dubai Mall, open from 10:00am to 1:00am.
AED 120, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Dubai Fountain

Watch the spectacular Dubai Fountain show which runs every 30 minutes from 6:00pm to 11:00pm; arrive early to choose a good viewing spot.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Armani/Ristorante

Dine at the elegant Armani restaurant located in Burj Khalifa, offering refined Italian cuisine within a sophisticated setting, open from 12:00pm to 11:30pm.
AED 300, 1h30m
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Day 2: Discover Old Dubai

Dubai, UAE on May 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabian Tea House

Start your day with traditional Emirati breakfast and tea in the charming Arabian Tea House located in Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, open from 7:00am.
AED 60, 1h

9:30am

Tour Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Explore the narrow lanes and traditional wind-tower architecture at Al Fahidi, experiencing Dubai’s cultural heritage. Open-air walk, free entry.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Visit Dubai Museum

Learn about Dubai’s transformation at the Dubai Museum housed in Al Fahidi Fort, open 8:30am to 8:30pm.
AED 3, 1h

12:30pm

Abra Ride on Dubai Creek

Take a traditional boat ride across Dubai Creek to the Spice and Gold Souks for an authentic shopping experience. Abras run 24/7, cost applies only for the ride.
AED 1, 30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Al Bait Al Shami

Savor authentic Middle Eastern dishes in a welcoming setting near the creek, open from 12:00pm to 11:00pm.
AED 90, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Gold and Spice Souks

Browse colorful markets filled with spices, textiles, and exquisite gold jewellery for souvenirs and gifts, open until sunset.
Free to explore, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Boardwalk Dubai

Enjoy waterfront dining with views of Dubai Creek, featuring fresh seafood and international cuisine, open until 11:00pm.
AED 150, 1h30m
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Day 3: Marina & Beach Day

Dubai, UAE on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Hamptons Cafe

Enjoy classic American breakfast with a beachside vibe at The Hamptons Cafe in Dubai Marina, open from 7:00am.
AED 80, 1h

9:30am

Stroll Dubai Marina Walk

Explore the picturesque Marina Walk with shops, cafes and beautiful yachts along the waterfront promenade.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Relax at JBR Beach

Spend late morning by the beach enjoying water sports, playgrounds and beachside cafes; public beach is open 24/7.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Catch 22

Casual dining with a fun vibe offering seafood and eclectic menu at JBR, open from 12:00pm to 2:00am.
AED 120, 1h

3:00pm

Visit The Walk at JBR

Shop and explore entertainment options along The Walk, including boutique stores and street performances.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Pier 7

Choose from multiple restaurants offering stunning marina views in the Pier 7 tower, open from 6:00pm.
AED 200, 2h
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Day 4: Desert Safari & Global Village

Dubai, UAE on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Light Breakfast at hotel

Have a quick and light breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the day's adventure.
Included in hotel stay, 30m

10:00am

Relax and prep for desert safari

Enjoy some downtime in the hotel or pool to rest before afternoon desert activities.
Free, 4h

2:30pm

Desert Safari Pickup

Get picked up from hotel for a thrilling desert safari featuring dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding. Safari tours usually run between 2:30pm to 8:30pm.
AED 250 per person, 6h

8:30pm

Explore Global Village

Visit Global Village, a multicultural festival park open from 4:00pm to midnight, featuring pavilions from around the world, live shows, and street food.
AED 15 entry, 2h

10:30pm

Dinner at Global Village

Sample diverse global cuisines from various stalls while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
AED 50-100, 1h
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Day 5: Atlantis & Waterpark

Dubai, UAE on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a nourishing breakfast at your hotel before a full day at Atlantis The Palm.
Included in hotel stay, 1h

9:30am

Aquaventure Waterpark

Enjoy thrilling water slides, river rides, and a private beach at Aquaventure Waterpark, open from 10:00am to 6:00pm.
AED 320 per person, 5h

3:30pm

Visit The Lost Chambers Aquarium

Explore fascinating marine exhibits showcasing underwater tunnels and diverse sea life, open until 5:00pm.
AED 120, 1h

5:15pm

Relax and stroll at The Pointe

Visit The Pointe nearby to enjoy shopping and sunset views of Atlantis from afar.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Bread Street Kitchen & Bar

Dine at Gordon Ramsay’s casual restaurant at Atlantis, featuring British-European cuisine with views over the marina, open till 11:00pm.
AED 200, 1h30m
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Day 6: Gardens & Views

Dubai, UAE on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Urth Caffé

Enjoy organic coffee and fresh pastries at Urth Caffé, open from 7:00am.
AED 70, 1h

9:30am

Dubai Miracle Garden

Marvel at the world’s largest natural flower garden with stunning displays in vast outdoor space, open 9:00am to 9:00pm.
AED 55, 2h

11:45am

Visit Dubai Frame

Walk on the glass bridge and enjoy views across old and new Dubai from this iconic frame structure, open 9:00am to 9:00pm.
AED 50, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Zaroob

Feast on Levantine street food and traditional dishes in a vibrant setting, open 9:00am to midnight.
AED 90, 1h

3:00pm

Shopping at City Walk

Explore boutique shops, cafes and street art in this open-air shopping destination.
Free to browse, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

End the day with comforting American dishes and desserts, located at City Walk, open till 11:00pm.
AED 140, 1h30m
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Day 7: Expo & Shopping

Dubai, UAE on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last morning breakfast at the hotel, preparing for a day of exploration and shopping.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Expo City Dubai

Explore Expo City, the legacy site of Expo 2020, experiencing pavilions, innovation hub, and cultural zones open from 10:00am.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Expo Village

Dine at one of the international cuisine outlets offering diverse choices within the Expo site.
AED 100, 1h

2:30pm

Shopping at Mall of the Emirates

Spend your afternoon shopping and leisure at Mall of the Emirates, which includes Ski Dubai and numerous stores open from 10:00am to 11:00pm.
Varies, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Al Hallab Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Lebanese cuisine at Al Hallab inside Mall of the Emirates, open till 11:00pm.
AED 150, 1h
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