Family-Friendly 4-Day Dubai Itinerary with Top Attractions and Dining

Day 1: Downtown & Mall

Dubai, UAE on May 20, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Cheesecake Factory, Dubai Mall

Enjoy a family-friendly breakfast with a wide variety of options at The Cheesecake Factory inside Dubai Mall, open from 9:00 AM.
AED100, 1h

10:00am

Visit Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Explore the magnificent aquarium inside Dubai Mall, featuring a huge collection of aquatic life. The attraction opens at 10:00 AM and is fascinating for all ages.
AED120, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Social House, Dubai Mall

Relax with an international fusion meal at Social House, located inside the mall with great views of the Dubai Fountain. Open until 10:00 PM.
AED150, 1h

2:00pm

Burj Khalifa - At The Top observation deck

Visit the world-famous Burj Khalifa and experience breathtaking views from the observation deck. Tickets should be booked in advance. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM.
AED225, 2h

5:30pm

Dubai Fountain Show

Watch the spectacular Dubai Fountain water and light show outside the Dubai Mall, starting at 6:00 PM and repeating every 30 minutes in the evening.
Free, 0.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Armani/Ristorante in Burj Khalifa

Dine in style at the Armani/Ristorante offering authentic Italian cuisine in the Burj Khalifa. Reservations recommended; open till 11:30 PM.
AED250, 1.5h

Day 2: Marina & Beach

Dubai, UAE on May 21, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Baker & Spice, Dubai Marina

Healthy and organic breakfast options with outdoor seating by the marina, open from 8:00 AM.
AED90, 1h

9:45am

Walk along Dubai Marina Promenade

Enjoy a scenic stroll along the waterfront promenade with stunning skyscraper views, perfect for family photos and relaxing.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR) Beach day

Spend a fun and relaxing few hours at the popular JBR Beach, with playgrounds and water activities. Public beach access is free.
Free, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory, The Beach at JBR

Enjoy family-friendly meals right at the beachside location with plenty of options. Open from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
AED120, 1h

4:00pm

Ain Dubai Observation Wheel

Head to Bluewaters Island to ride Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, for spectacular skyline views. Open from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Tickets recommended.
AED130, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Pier 7, Dubai Marina

Choose from multiple restaurants offering diverse cuisines with views of the marina; perfect for families. Open till late.
AED200, 1.5h

Day 3: Desert & Culture

Dubai, UAE on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a convenient breakfast at your accommodation to fuel up for a full day ahead.
Included in accommodation, 1h

9:00am

Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner

Join a family-friendly desert safari including dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and a traditional BBQ dinner with entertainment. Most tours start in the late morning and last until evening.
AED300, 7h

Day 4: Old Dubai

Dubai, UAE on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabian Tea House, Al Fahidi

Experience traditional Emirati breakfast in a charming courtyard setting within the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. Opens at 8:00 AM.
AED75, 1h

9:30am

Visit Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Explore the preserved heritage area with traditional wind-tower architecture and cultural museums open from 9:00 AM.
Free, 2h

11:45am

Dubai Museum

Learn about Dubai’s history in the restored Al Fahidi Fort with interactive exhibits. Museum hours are 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM.
AED3, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Local Dubai Restaurant - Al Fanar

Taste authentic Emirati cuisine at Al Fanar, near Al Fahidi, offering a welcoming family atmosphere. Open 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
AED120, 1h

2:30pm

Abra ride on Dubai Creek

Take a traditional boat ride across Dubai Creek for an affordable cultural experience, operating 24/7 with frequent departures.
AED1, 0.5h

3:15pm

Visit Gold and Spice Souks

Explore the bustling traditional markets to experience local shopping and vibrant atmosphere.
Free to enter, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Bastakiah Nights

Enjoy an elegant dinner in the Al Fahidi district with a blend of Middle Eastern and international dishes. Reservations recommended.
AED180, 1.5h