Welcome to Dazzling Dubai!
Dubai, a city in the United Arab Emirates, is a global tourism hub known for its extravagant attractions, luxurious experiences, and a unique blend of modernity and tradition. The city's skyline is dominated by iconic structures such as the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and the vast Dubai Mall.
This 5-7 day itinerary is specially designed for families, balancing iconic sights with kid-friendly activities to create an unforgettable vacation. Dubai holds several world records, including the tallest building (Burj Khalifa), the largest shopping mall by total area (The Dubai Mall), and the largest natural flower garden (Dubai Miracle Garden)!
Sample 5-Day Family Itinerary
Here's a carefully crafted 5-day Dubai family adventure, balancing iconic sights with fun activities. Feel free to mix and match based on your family's interests and pace!
Day 1: Arrival & Downtown Wonders
- Morning: Arrive in Dubai, check into your hotel, relax
- Afternoon: Head to Downtown Dubai - Ascend the Burj Khalifa for breathtaking views (book in advance!)
- Evening: Enjoy the captivating Dubai Fountain show, explore The Dubai Mall
- Optional: Visit Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo or KidZania
Day 2: Water Fun & Iconic Views
- Full Day: Spend the day splashing at Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm
- Highlights: Tower of Neptune slides, Lazy River, Splashers Kids' Play Area
- Late Afternoon: Head to The View at The Palm for stunning sunset views over Palm Jumeirah
- Alternative: Visit Wild Wadi Waterpark™
Day 3: Theme Parks or Cultural Exploration
Option 1 (Theme Parks):
- Dedicate the day to Dubai Parks and Resorts (Motiongate™, LEGOLAND®, or LEGOLAND® Water Park)
- Explore Riverland™ Dubai for dining and entertainment (free entry)
Option 2 (Culture):
- Explore Old Dubai - Take an Abra ride across Dubai Creek
- Wander through the Gold and Spice Souks
- Visit the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Day 4: Desert Adventure
- Morning: Relaxed start - enjoy hotel pool or visit Kite Beach
- Afternoon: Desert safari pickup (3-4 PM)
- Activities: Dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, henna painting
- Evening: BBQ dinner with vegetarian options, cultural shows (belly dance, Tanura), stargazing
Day 5: Unique Experiences & Departure
Depending on your flight schedule and interests:
- Visit the futuristic Museum of the Future (book well in advance!)
- Marvel at the Dubai Miracle Garden (seasonal: Oct-May)
- Explore the immersive Aya Universe
- See the city from the Dubai Frame
- Last-minute shopping at Dubai Mall or Gold Souk
Note: Global Village and Miracle Garden are seasonal (typically October-May). Check their operating dates before planning your visit!
Top Family Attractions in Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa & Dubai Fountain
No family trip is complete without visiting the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building at 828 meters (2,717 feet). The observation decks offer breathtaking views for all ages, and the high-speed elevators alone are an experience!
Observation Decks:
- At The Top (124 & 125): 360° views, outdoor terrace, digital telescopes
- At The Top SKY (148): Highest outdoor deck at 555m, exclusive lounge, refreshments
- Dubai Fountain: FREE choreographed water, music & light shows every 30 mins (6 PM onwards)
Family Tips:
- Book tickets online in advance (cheaper!)
- Visit at sunset for day & night views
- Elevators travel at 10 meters/second!
- Connected directly to Dubai Mall
2. Aquaventure Waterpark
Located at Atlantis, The Palm, Aquaventure is one of Dubai's top spots for family fun! This massive waterpark offers thrilling slides, a lazy river, and dedicated areas for younger children.
Thrill Rides:
- Leap of Faith: Near-vertical drop through shark lagoon
- Aquaconda: World's largest tube slide
- Poseidon's Revenge: Trapdoor drop slide
For Families:
- Splashers Kids' Play Area: Safe zone for young children
- Lazy River: Relaxing float around the park
- Private Beach: Access to beautiful Arabian Gulf beach
3. Dubai Parks and Resorts
The Middle East's largest integrated theme park resort! You can easily spend a full day (or more!) exploring different themed worlds.
Motiongate™ Dubai
Hollywood-themed park with DreamWorks, Columbia Pictures zones
LEGOLAND® Dubai
Perfect for ages 2-12 with 40+ interactive rides and building experiences
4. Museum of the Future
One of the most beautiful buildings in the world! This stunning torus-shaped structure covered in Arabic calligraphy offers immersive journeys through future scenarios.
Highlights:
- Simulated trip to space station (OSS Hope)
- Future Heroes area for children ages 3-10
- Interactive VR and AR exhibits
- Book well in advance - very popular!
5. Global Village (Seasonal)
Experience the world in one place! This multicultural festival park is open during cooler months (October-May), offering country pavilions, shows, rides, and diverse cuisine.
6. Dubai Frame
A 150-meter high picture frame' offering split views - Old Dubai on one side, New Dubai on the other. The glass-floored Sky Bridge is a unique experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis
- LEGOLAND Dubai (ages 2-12)
- Motiongate Dubai (Hollywood-themed)
- IMG Worlds of Adventure (indoor)
- Wild Wadi Waterpark
Family Dining Options
Vegetarian & Jain-Friendly Restaurants
- Saravanaa Bhavan: Authentic South Indian vegetarian (multiple locations)
- Govinda's: Pure vegetarian Hare Krishna restaurant
- Dishoom: Bombay-style cafe with great veg options
- Dubai Mall Food Court: Multiple vegetarian chains
- Hotel Restaurants: Most offer extensive vegetarian menus
Plan Your Family Dubai Trip
Let us create a customized itinerary perfect for your family with theme park tickets, desert safaris, and vegetarian dining!
Plan My Family Trip