Ultimate Dubai Family Trip Itinerary for 5 days

Are you ready for an unforgettable family adventure in the dazzling city of Dubai? From awe-inspiring skyscrapers to serene desert landscapes, Dubai offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition that will captivate every member of your family. Join me as I take you through a comprehensive itinerary packed with exciting activities, mouthwatering cuisine, and unique experiences that will make your family trip truly memorable. So here is the ultimate Dubai family trip itinerary for 5 days.

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Arrived at Dubai International Airport around 8 pm. The customs processing went very smooth, but keep in mind that it’s a big airport so it takes a while to exit, but everything is well organized. As you go towards the exit you will find a sign that guides you to where are the taxis and ubers arrive.
Pay attention to the way that you are dressed. It is not mandatory to cover your shoulders or anything, but still beach attire is not really well seen in public areas like the airport or the mall.

I stayed at two different properties in Dubai. The first one was Al Seef Curio by Hilton. This one is close to the Historical part of Dubai, and 15 minutes away from the Airport. Located on Dubai Creek’s bank. The hotel offers an authentic experience with the room features.

Day 1: Cultural Discovery and Souk Shopping

Started the day early with an incredible breakfast and got ready to explore the city. When you think about Dubai the first thing that pops in your mind is new architecture and skyscrapers. But Dubai is more than that. Walk along the streets of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood along the Creek to discover more of Dubai’s past.
Photo tip- the coolest Starbucks is located here!

Next, visit the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort, where you can learn about the city’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a global metropolis through interactive exhibits and artefacts.

For lunch, indulge in a culinary journey at Arabian Tea House Café in Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. Sample authentic Emirati dishes like Fatayer and Lugaimat in a charming courtyard setting.

A must try experience in Dubai is taking the Abra (a boat) across the Creek from Al Fahidi station to Deira Old Souk Abra station. The trip costs 2 AED and it’s the best way to travel in this area and the views are spectacular as well.

In the afternoon, wander through the bustling lanes of the Gold and Spice Souks in Deira. Marvel at the dazzling displays of gold jewellery and precious stones, and immerse yourselves in the fragrant aromas of spices and herbs.

You must check out the Dubai Frame. An activity that I recommend doing at sunset. You will see that traveling around Dubai is easy. This time I used Uber to get to the Dubai Frame. This place is a must see, because it has a Guiness World Record and the views from above are just incredible. On one side you will see the Old Dubai and the other all the New Dubai. It is an unforgettable experience.

Day 2: Desert Safari and New Attractions

Started the day with a visit to Aya Experience. One of my favorite things to do in Dubai. It is one of the newest attractions in the city, but definitely worth it.

It was built to resemble a person’s imagination of what hides beyond the stars. You will start your journey by receiving a passport when you pay for your ticket( 125AED). When you enter each room you will receive a sticker. Every room has different types of lights and music. Be careful- do not visit if you are sensitive to lights or motion.
Otherwise .. it just leaves you speechless.

Later in the day experience the natural beauty and rich culture of Dubai with a thrilling desert safari. Embark on an adrenaline-pumping dune bashing adventure, followed by camel riding and sandboarding. Take in the breathtaking sunset over the desert before heading to a traditional Bedouin camp.

At the camp, you’ll be treated to a lavish Arabian feast under the starlit sky, accompanied by live music and dance performances, including belly dancing and Tanoura shows. Immerse yourselves in Emirati culture with activities like henna painting and falconry.

Day 3: Family Fun at Theme Parks

Spend your third day indulging in family-friendly fun at Dubai’s world-class theme parks. Start your day at IMG Worlds of Adventure, the largest indoor theme park in the world, where you can enjoy adrenaline-pumping rides and meet your favorite cartoon characters.

In the afternoon, head to Dubai Parks and Resorts, home to three theme parks and a water park. Explore motiongate™ Dubai, Bollywood Parks™ Dubai, and LEGOLAND® Dubai, offering a variety of attractions and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

For dinner, venture to City Walk, a vibrant destination with multiple dining options. A nice area with cute coffee shops. I wanted to check one specific location- the Secret Garden by L’Eto cafe. They have the best cocktails and desserts.

On the third day of the trip, I changed the hotel so that I would also try one near the beach. I chose the Hilton Jumeirah. This one is located in the Jumeirah Beach, near the Marina. It has its own private beach area and a swimming pool.

Day 4: Exploring the Iconic Landmarks

Downtown Dubai

Start your day by immersing yourselves in the iconic landmarks that define Dubai’s skyline. Begin with a visit to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city that will leave you breathless. What you need to know is that you should purchase your tickets before. The price starts from 169 AED if you want to reach levels 124-125, but if you want to get to level 148 it will be around 399 aed. Visiting at sunset is the hardest as it is the most requested time slot.

I planned a whole day around Downtown Dubai, the place where you will find The Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa. You can spend hours here and not get bored. There are tons of activities to do and definitely not like a regular mall. Indulge in some retail therapy while exploring the myriad of shops and boutiques. Don’t forget to marvel at the mesmerizing Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, located within the mall. Also some things that you can see inside are the Waterfall, the Dinosaur skeleton. There are also a lot of activities for kids, like a huge gaming area and an ice- skating rink. A lot of cafes and restaurants.
Tip: be prepared to walk a lot

For lunch I chose The Cheesecake Factory. With an extensive menu featuring everything from salads to sandwiches to their famous cheesecakes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Other restaurants that you can try are Zou Zou Turkish & Lebanese , Texas De Brazil, Texas Roadhouse. Social House is a sophisticated dining destination offering modern interpretations of Asian and Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy panoramic views of the Dubai Fountain while savoring sushi rolls, mezze platters, and grilled specialties.

Dubai Marina

Spent the second part of the day enjoying the beach. One thing that I love about Dubai is that the water is so clear and so warm. Swimming is really a pleasure.

In the evening, you can take a leisurely stroll along the Dubai Marina Walk or end your day with a relaxing walk to Bluewaters Island. The easiest way to get there is by walking, which takes you around 15 minutes. Here is where the Ferris Wheel, Ain Dubai is located, but at the moment it is not working.

Day 5: Leisure and Relaxation

On your final day in Dubai, take some time to unwind and relax at one of the city’s pristine beaches, where you can soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters, or indulge in water sports activities like paddle boarding and jet skiing.

Alternatively, spend the day at one of Dubai’s luxurious resort pools, where you can lounge in cabanas and enjoy poolside service. Some that you can try are Zero Gravity, White Beach, Drift or Bla Bla.

If you want and have the time to explore other attractions I could recommend The view at the Palm or Atlantis Aqua park.

Getting Around

Dubai offers a convenient and efficient public transportation system, including the Dubai Metro, buses, and water taxis. Alternatively, you can easily hail taxis or use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem for added convenience.

Unique Experiences

Dubai is renowned for its record-breaking attractions, including the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, and the Palm Jumeirah. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience these architectural marvels firsthand.

Additionally, Dubai’s multicultural population ensures a diverse culinary scene, ranging from traditional Emirati cuisine to international flavors. Be sure to sample local delicacies like Shawarma, Falafel, and Kunafa during your stay.

In conclusion, Dubai offers a ton of experiences that cater to every member of the family, from thrilling adventures to cultural discoveries and gourmet delights. Embark on this journey to have the ultimate Dubai family trip and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!