A Birthday to Remember: Our Family Vacation to Dubai

Family vacations are always a special adventure - especially when the youngest member takes charge of the planning! These days, kids have a significant say in choosing destinations, and as parents, there’s no getting out of it. For the past two years, my son (Devansh) has been relentlessly lobbying for a trip to Dubai. What better occasion to fulfill his long-cherished wish than his birthday? (Incidentally, it’s also my birthday the very next day!)

So, this November, we embarked on an eight-day journey to the glittering city of Dubai and returned with memories that will last a lifetime. From towering skyscrapers to sandy dunes and rich cultural treasures, Dubai exceeded all our expectations. Dubai transformation over the past two decades is one of the most remarkable urban and economic metamorphoses in modern history. Its story is one of the ambition, planning, and relentless innovation, making it a global icon of modern development.

The Countdown Begins: Last-Minute Preparations

Despite two years of planning (or perhaps nagging), the actual travel arrangements were finalized just a month before departure - a classic case of last-minute prep. November marks the beginning of Dubai’s peak tourist season, so we faced soaring prices. But when you’ve promised your child a trip, there’s no turning back.

First on the to-do list: booking flights and accommodations before prices climbed even higher. To save on costs, we opted for post-midnight flights and chose a cozy 1BHK apartment over a hotel. This choice turned out to be perfect as it allowed us to cook, reheat food, or enjoy a cup of tea or coffee whenever we wanted - a big convenience during the trip.

We also booked all our sightseeing tours in advance. Given the peak season, securing tickets for preferred time slots can be tricky, and booking online often comes with great discounts. We used Klook for most of our reservations and found it both convenient and budget friendly.

An Unexpected Hurdle

Just two weeks before our much-anticipated trip, disaster struck. I was involved in a bike accident - a head-on collision with a reckless rider while my wife (Vidya) and I were on her scooter. I suffered a severe injury to my right hand, resulting in a thumb bone fracture that required a cast.

With everything already booked, cancelling the trip wasn’t an option. After immediate medical attention, the doctor assured me it was safe to travel with precautions in place. Although the incident added some challenges to our journey, it didn’t dampen our spirits or our excitement to make this a birthday celebration to remember.

Day 0: Flight from Mumbai to Dubai

The journey to Dubai began on 1st November 2024, a day that held special significance as it coincided with Laxmi Pooja, one of the most auspicious festivals in the Hindu calendar. This important ritual meant we had to shorten our vacation by a day, but it was well worth it to celebrate at home before embarking on our adventure.

We started the Laxmi Pooja rituals at 6:00 PM and wrapped everything up by 7:30 PM leaving us just enough time to freshen up before our cab arrived at 8:00 PM sharp. True to his word, our driver called exactly on time - punctuality at its finest!

Given Mumbai’s infamous traffic, we anticipated at least an hour-long drive to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. To our surprise, the roads were eerily empty, and we reached the airport in record time - just 35 minutes!

The Airport Experience

Since I was advised not to lift anything due to my injured hand in a plaster, Vidya and Devansh managed the luggage. I focused on handling the documents and making sure everything else went smoothly. My injury turned out to be an unintentional blessing, as it allowed us to skip almost all queues!

• Entry Security: Just 1 minute!

• Check-in and Boarding Passes: Less than 5 minutes.

• Physical Security Check: Completed via a special queue.

• Immigration: Done in 10 minutes flat.

The entire process, which usually feels like a marathon, was a breeze this time. With time to spare, we decided to enjoy our complimentary lounge access using bank cards and priority passes.

Lounge Bliss

The lounge was a perfect pit stop before our flight. Who doesn’t love free food and drinks? While Devansh happily indulged in his favourite snacks, I couldn’t resist a glass of chilled beer, and Vidya opted for wine. It was a relaxing break, but let’s face it, sitting in one place for too long gets boring.

An hour later, we ventured out of the lounge to explore the airport. Devansh, being a favourite among some of my friends who work at the airport, had his celebrity moment. He enjoyed the attention, and it added an extra layer of fun to our wait.

Off to Dubai

Soon enough, it was time to board the flight. Stepping onto the plane felt like the real beginning of our journey to Dubai, one of the most loved cities in the world. Our flight took off at 2:00 AM (India time) with excitement in our hearts and adventure on our minds, we were finally on our way!

Day 1: Arriving in Dubai – A Day of Adventure at Palm Jumeirah and JBR Walk

We landed at Dubai International Airport at 4:00 AM UAE time, buzzing with excitement despite a sleepless night. The moment you arrive in Dubai; you're struck by the city's unparalleled sense of order and hospitality. The airport staff were incredibly welcoming, guiding travellers efficiently through immigration and towards connecting flights.

One staff member noticed my hand in a cast and immediately ushered us to a counter with a shorter queue. Devansh, quick with his wit, exclaimed, "Baba, thanks to you, we get to go first!"

A Metro Ride to Kickstart the Day

After immigration and baggage collection, Devansh made a surprising suggestion: "Let’s take the metro!" Normally, he’d prefer the comfort of a car for airport transfers, but this time he was eager for an adventure. I approached the ticket counter and learned about the 7-day pass - a great deal for 147 AED per person, offering unlimited travel on the metro, buses, and trams. Without hesitation, I got one for each of us.

We headed straight to the metro station, conveniently located just a floor above the arrivals area. Our hotel, situated next to the Dubai Internet City Metro Station, made this an ideal choice. The 45-minute metro ride, with stunning city views, was a refreshing start to our day.

Early Adventures: Palm Jumeirah and Lost Chambers Aquarium

Arriving at our hotel, we realized it was 8 hours before check-in time. As expected, the receptionist informed us that no rooms were currently available due to the peak season. Thankfully, we had planned ahead and booked a morning visit to The View at The Palm.

A seamless ride via metro, tram, and monorail brought us to The View at The Palm, an observation deck on the 52nd floor, perched 240 meters above ground. The panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf, and the dazzling Dubai skyline were breathtaking. The interactive museum and gallery showcased the fascinating history and development of Palm Jumeirah, adding depth to the experience.

From there, we hopped back on the monorail to visit the iconic Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm. This mesmerizing attraction, themed around the mythical lost city of Atlantis, was a magical dive into the underwater world. With over 65,000 marine creatures across 21 unique exhibits, it offered an unforgettable journey through diverse aquatic ecosystems. Devansh’s excitement was palpable as we wandered among sharks, rays, jellyfish, and vibrant schools of fish.

Settling In

By 12:00 PM, we returned to the hotel, where the staff had prepared our apartment for an early check-in. The moment we stepped inside, we felt at home - only 26 stories high and much larger than our place in Mumbai! Starving after the morning’s activities, I quickly ordered food from a nearby restaurant while Vidya and Devansh freshened up. A satisfying meal later, we all took a well-deserved two-hour nap.

Evening Stroll at JBR Walk

The evening was intentionally kept light, knowing the next day would be packed. We headed to JBR Walk (Jumeirah Beach Residence Walk), a lively beachfront destination filled with dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The vibrant atmosphere, set against the backdrop of the Arabian Gulf, was the perfect way to unwind.

We strolled through the area, picked up groceries from a nearby supermarket, and wrapped up the evening with dinner at the Dubai Marina Mall. With tired feet and happy hearts, we returned to the hotel to rest and prepare for another exciting day ahead.

Day 2: Miracle Garden, Mall of the Emirates and Meeting a Dear Friend

After a restful night’s sleep, we were up by about 8:00 AM. Vidya whipped up breakfast using the groceries we’d picked up the day before, and soon we were ready to embark on the day’s adventures.

A Floral Wonderland: Miracle Garden

Our first stop was Miracle Garden, a spectacular floral paradise and one of Dubai’s most popular attractions. A quick 7-minute metro ride took us to Mall of the Emirates Metro Station, followed by a 40-minute bus ride to the garden. Known for its vibrant flower displays and record-breaking designs, Miracle Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers, families, and photography enthusiasts.

Spanning 72,000 square meters, it holds the title of the world’s largest natural flower garden, featuring over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants. The garden is arranged in intricate patterns and themed designs, making it a stunning visual spectacle. We spent about 2 hours exploring the vibrant blooms and capturing beautiful memories.

Shopping and a Special Purchase: Mall of the Emirates

After soaking in the beauty of the garden, we headed back to Mall of the Emirates. This iconic shopping destination is a fusion of luxury, fashion, entertainment, and dining, located in the Al Barsha area. After a delightful lunch at the mall’s food court, we made our most expensive purchase of the vacation: an Apple Watch 10 for Vidya. She’d been eyeing it for a while, and Dubai’s pricing turned out to be much cheaper than in India, making it a great deal.

Catching Up with Old Friends

We returned to the hotel for a brief rest before meeting up with some dear friends in the evening. Ryan, one of my dearest friends from school days, has been living in Dubai for nearly two decades. Vidya was excited to meet Michelle, Ryan’s wife, and Devansh couldn’t wait to hang out with Evan, their son.

By 6:30 PM, we arrived at Ryan’s place, where we were warmly welcomed by the whole family. However, they were a bit surprised (and saddened) to see my hand in a cast. After I shared the story of my accident, Ryan gave us a quick tour of his beautiful home, and we settled in with drinks in hand.

The evening was filled with laughter, great conversation, and delicious food. The kids were off having fun on their own, while the adults relaxed and caught up. It felt like old times, and before we knew it, the clock had struck 11:30 PM. We reluctantly said our goodbyes and headed back to the hotel, ready to wind down and rest after a fulfilling day.

Day 3: Devansh's Birthday, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Aquarium, Underwater Zoo, Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain

Today was a special day – Devansh’s 10th birthday, and the destinations were all picked by him. As with the previous days, we started with a homemade breakfast at the apartment, courtesy Vidya, and set off to explore the city’s wonders.

The Iconic Burj Khalifa

Our first stop was none other than the towering Burj Khalifa. A 30-minute metro ride followed by a short walk brought us to the base of this iconic skyscraper. Standing at an awe-inspiring 828 meters (2,717 feet), the Burj Khalifa symbolizes Dubai’s ambition, innovation, and architectural brilliance. It holds multiple records, including the title of the tallest building in the world, the tallest man-made structure, and the highest observation deck on the 148th floor.

The design is inspired by a desert flower and incorporates modern elements with Islamic architectural influences. The triple-lobed structure minimizes wind resistance and enhances stability.

We had pre-booked tickets for the observation decks:

• At the Top (Level 124): Offers panoramic views of Dubai, the desert, and the Arabian Gulf, along with interactive displays. To celebrate Devansh’s birthday, we grabbed a cupcake and had a mini celebration on the observation deck.

• Level 125: Another observation area with a thrilling glass floor for an extra adventure.

Due to sky-high ticket prices, we skipped the At the Top Sky (Level 148), the highest observation deck, which offers exclusive 360-degree views. It’s a premium experience with a luxurious lounge, but we felt the lower levels were enough for the occasion.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid the long queues, even with pre-booked tickets.

The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Next, we walked to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, located inside The Dubai Mall – just a short walk from the Burj Khalifa. It’s one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world and an unforgettable experience for all ages.

The centrepiece is a 10-million-liter tank, home to over 33,000 aquatic animals. Here, you’ll find sharks, rays, stingrays, and an array of exotic fish. A 48-meter-long tunnel runs through the centre of the tank, offering 360-degree views of marine life swimming overhead and all around.

On the second floor, the Underwater Zoo showcases a variety of ecosystems, including the rainforest, desert, and marine habitats. We marvelled at crocodiles, otters, penguins, jellyfish, and vibrant coral reefs, with themed sections like the Rainforest and the Ocean School, featuring sea turtles and small sharks.

We finished our tour around 1:00 PM, and since we were already in the Dubai Mall, we decided to take a break for lunch.

Shopping and Exploring the Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is one of the largest malls in the world, boasting over 1,200 stores along with a variety of dining options and entertainment attractions. We spent several hours exploring the mall, though we barely scratched the surface. After a few breaks for lunch and rest (and a bit of shopping, especially for Devansh), we realized that time flies in this retail wonderland.

By 5:00 PM, we were ready for our final stop of the day.

The Dubai Fountain

The last attraction on our list was the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the Burj Khalifa and adjacent to the Dubai Mall. It’s the largest choreographed fountain system in the world, offering a spectacular visual and musical display. The fountain spans 275 meters (902 feet) and is set to music, with water jets shooting up as high as 150 meters (500 feet) - almost as tall as a 50-story building. The water is illuminated by 6,600 lights and 25 color projectors, making for a vibrant and magical spectacle, especially in the evening.

The fountain show was an absolute highlight and the perfect way to cap off our day.

Dinner at an Afghani Restaurant

After the fountain show, we headed back to the hotel. For dinner, we tried a local Afghani restaurant near our accommodation. The food was exceptional - we couldn’t get enough, but with our stomachs full and our waistlines growing, we had to stop before we overindulged.

Exhausted from the day’s activities, we quickly made our way back to the hotel and crashed into bed, ready to rest for the next day’s adventure.

Day 5: My Birthday – A Relaxed Morning and Thrilling Desert Safari

Today was my birthday, and I decided to celebrate it with one of the most exciting experiences Dubai has to offer - The Desert Safari. We kept the morning light and relaxed to prepare for the adventure, which started later in the afternoon.

A Lazy Morning

We woke up leisurely around 9:00 AM, and Vidya prepared some delicious tea and omelettes for breakfast. With the TV tuned to a Hindi movie channel, we spent the morning unwinding. By 11:30 AM, Vidya and Devansh went for a stroll to the Afghani restaurant we loved so much from earlier, bringing back a takeaway lunch.

Lunch was wrapped up by 1:00 PM, and we eagerly awaited the highlight of the day - The Desert Safari.

The Desert Safari: A Quintessential Emirati Experience

Desert Safari in Dubai is a blend of adrenaline-pumping adventure, cultural immersion, and the breathtaking beauty of the Arabian Desert. To make the day extra special, I opted for a private package, ensuring the 4x4 Nissan Patrol was reserved exclusively for our family of three.

At 3:00 PM, our friendly driver picked us up from the hotel. He was knowledgeable, conversational, and set the tone for an incredible experience. After a one-hour drive, we reached the first activity spot:

Quad Biking and Dune Buggy Rides

The adrenaline began with quad biking, though I had to skip the dune buggy ride due to my injured arm. Devansh, however, eagerly jumped at the chance to ride a quad bike. Initially cautious, he quickly got the hang of it and zipped through the desert sands with confidence. Watching his excitement made up for what I couldn’t experience.

Dune Bashing

Next came the thrilling dune bashing. The expert driver took us on a wild ride over the undulating sand dunes, delivering an exhilarating experience. Devansh couldn’t resist taking the front seat for the best view of the adventure. Every steep climb, sharp turn and sudden drop had him cheering at the top of his lungs - it was pure joy!

After the dune bashing, we paused for some sunset photography, capturing the serene beauty of the golden desert as the sun dipped below the horizon.

The Desert Camp: Dinner and Cultural Shows

By sunset, we reached the desert camp, a venue offering a perfect blend of Emirati culture, hospitality, and entertainment. Since we had opted for a premium package, the experience was nothing short of royal.

Vidya and Devansh enjoyed a camel ride, marvelling at the desert views from a different perspective.

We were welcomed with Luqaimat (bite-sized fried dough balls soaked in syrup) and Qahwa (a traditional Arabic coffee that symbolizes hospitality and community in Emirati culture).

The driver then guided us through the available activities before directing us to the seating area, where we secured front-row seats for the evening's performances. Vidya also tried on traditional Emirati attire, immersing herself in the local culture.

Devansh noticed a man carrying an eagle and approached him to take some pictures. To my surprise, he wasn’t scared at all and even held the eagle in his hand!

A Lavish Buffet Dinner

As the performances began, the BBQ buffet opened, offering a spread of Emirati, Arabic, and international cuisines. The dishes included grilled meats, hummus, salads, and an array of desserts, catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences. We indulged in the delicious fare, savouring every bite.

Live Entertainment

The live shows added magic to the evening:

Tanoura Dance: The hypnotic spinning of the dancers in vibrant, layered skirts created a mesmerizing visual spectacle.

Belly Dance: The elegant and rhythmic movements of the performers showcased the richness of Middle Eastern culture.

Fire Show: A dazzling display of skill and artistry, blending fire manipulation and choreography into a breathtaking act.

Emirati Dances: We were also treated to traditional performances like Al Yowla and Al Razfa, adding a deeper cultural flavour to the evening.

Wrapping Up

By 8:45 PM, our desert adventure came to an end. With full hearts and full stomachs, we made our way back to the hotel. The day's mix of thrills, cultural experiences, and culinary delights left us with cherished memories.

As I lay in bed that night, I couldn’t help but feel grateful - for the day, the celebration, and the incredible Emirati hospitality that made my birthday truly unforgettable.

Day 6: Dolphins, Sky-High Views, and a Glowing Garden

By now, we had fallen into a comfortable routine – Vidya preparing breakfast and then heading out for a day filled with adventure. Today’s itinerary promised a mix of fun, culture, and unique experiences, and we were all excited to dive in.

Dubai Dolphinarium: An Underwater Adventure

Our first stop today was the Dubai Dolphinarium, a must-visit family attraction that Devansh had chosen. Located in Riyadh Street, Dubai Creek Park, it’s home to dolphins and seals, who put on spectacular performances.

We watched the Dolphin and Seal Show, where these incredible animals showcased their remarkable talents. From jumping through hoops to dancing, playing ball, and performing acrobatics, it was an interactive and entertaining experience. The show was vibrant, full of energy, and accompanied by lively music, making it an enjoyable experience for both children and adults.

Another highlight of the Dolphinarium was the Creek Park Exotic Bird Show. This show featured some of the world’s most colourful and exotic birds, including parrots, macaws, cockatoos, and hornbills. The birds performed a series of tricks, such as flying through hoops, talking, dancing, and even executing “magic tricks” - showcasing their intelligence and agility in a fun and interactive way.

By the time we wrapped up these shows, it was lunchtime, so we grabbed a quick bite at the café before heading to our next destination.

Dubai Frame: A Window into the City’s Past, Present, and Future

Although there wasn’t a direct bus route to Dubai Frame, we hired a cab for a quick 30-minute ride. The Dubai Frame is an iconic landmark located in Zabeel Park, offering visitors a unique perspective of the city’s evolution. Standing 150 meters tall, it is designed to resemble a giant picture frame, connecting Dubai’s rich history with its modern skyline. The outer façade is made of golden-colored stainless steel and glass, creating a striking visual effect.

Even with our pre-booked tickets, the Dubai Frame was crowded, and we had to wait in a 45-minute-long queue before entering the elevator. But once we reached the observation deck on the 48th floor, the panoramic 360-degree views of the city made the wait worth it. From this vantage point, we could see landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah, as well as the contrast between old and new Dubai, framed perfectly by the structure itself.

Dubai Garden Glow: A Magical Light Display

After our sky-high adventure, we headed to Dubai Garden Glow, just a short walk away. However, we arrived a bit early and had to wait for about an hour before the park opened. But once inside, it was well worth the wait!

Dubai Garden Glow is known for its incredible glowing garden displays, featuring light sculptures of everything from animals and flowers to abstract designs and even giant replicas of famous landmarks. The sculptures are made from eco-friendly materials, and the glowing lights create a surreal, almost dreamlike atmosphere, especially as the sun begins to set.

Devansh was absolutely mesmerized by the glowing lights and spent much of his time capturing photos on my phone. The garden’s vibrant and imaginative displays created a perfect blend of art and nature, leaving us in awe.

A Relaxing End to the Day

By the time we finished exploring the Glow Garden, we were feeling a bit tired. We decided to take a cab to the nearest metro station for an easy ride back to the hotel. For dinner, we ordered food from a nearby Pakistani restaurant, which turned out to be delicious and the perfect way to end a busy day.

Another day filled with unforgettable experiences - Dubai Dolphinarium, Dubai Frame, and the magical Glow Garden - we were already looking forward to what tomorrow would bring.

Day 7: Shopping in Deria Dubai

Another day in Dubai, and we started with our usual routine - Vidya making breakfast and us heading out for the day's adventures. Today, we were headed to Deira Dubai, and after an hour-long metro ride, we reached Gold Souk Station.

Gold Souk: A Glittering Market of Treasures

The Gold Souk is a bustling marketplace that offers an unforgettable shopping experience. It’s a paradise for gold lovers and a must-see for anyone visiting Dubai. The souk features rows upon rows of gold shops, offering everything from traditional gold necklaces and bracelets to modern, intricate jewellery designs. You’ll find a range of styles inspired by Arabic, Indian, and Western influences.

The moment we stepped out of the metro station and walked towards the Gold Souk Shopping Centre, the sparkling displays of gold jewellery caught our eye. We couldn't resist taking pictures of the dazzling jewellery in every shop. The market was crowded with people, many window shopping, but very few were actually buying. Of course, when you have an Indian wife, a stop to browse for jewellery is inevitable. Vidya pulled me into a few shops, but, luckily, something changed her mind, and she dropped the plan to buy gold. It was tempting, but I guess we didn’t need a new piece just yet! And to be honest, the gold here is much cheaper than in India.

Herbs Souk: A Fragrant Journey Through Flavors

After our gold exploration, we wandered over to the Herbs Souk. This vibrant, aromatic market is a true sensory experience, filled with the rich scents of spices, herbs, and perfumes. The Spice Souk offers a peek into traditional Arabian culture and is famous for its vast array of ingredients used in Middle Eastern and Arabian cuisine.

We wandered through the stalls, mesmerized by the vivid colors and smells, and ended up buying some spices, chocolates, and perfumes. The shopkeeper was kind enough to direct us to a nearby underground Emirati restaurant, where we had one of the most delicious meals of the trip. The flavors were rich and authentic, a true taste of local cuisine.

Relaxing Evening and Dinner

After our busy day of shopping and exploring the markets, we headed back to the hotel by around 4:00 PM. The evening was more laid-back, with Vidya and I enjoying a few drinks and some delicious food from the same nearby Afghani restaurant that we had visited before. It was a perfect way to unwind and reflect on a day filled with cultural experiences and great finds.

Another fantastic day in Dubai, filled with shopping, flavors, and relaxation. The Gold Souk and Spice Souk were truly unforgettable, offering us a deeper insight into the traditional side of Dubai, before we ended the day with good food and drinks.

Day 8: Dubai Safari Park and Global Village

Our last full day in Dubai began early, as we had planned an exciting but long day ahead. We skipped breakfast and left the hotel by 7:30 AM, grabbing some quick tea for me and Vidya, and a slice of cake for Devansh at the metro station. Our journey to Dubai Safari Park involved a metro ride to Centerpoint Station, followed by a lengthy bus ride. The bus, while economical, took us through almost every road in the area, making the bus journey stretch to 1 hour before we finally reached the park.

Dubai Safari Park: A Wildlife Adventure

Dubai Safari Park is a world-class wildlife park, offering a glimpse into ecosystems from around the globe while emphasizing sustainability and animal welfare. The park is thoughtfully divided into several zones, each replicating a unique region of the world:

- African Village: Home to majestic wildlife such as lions, zebras, giraffes, and elephants, this area transported us to the vast African savannah.

- Asian Village: Featuring animals like tigers, orangutans, and bears, this section was an immersive dive into the forests and jungles of Asia.

- Arabian Desert Safari: This zone focused on native species like the Arabian oryx, sand gazelles, and camels, showcasing how they adapt to the desert climate.

- Open Safari: This safari-style tour brought us close to larger animals like elephants, cheetahs, and lions in expansive, naturalistic enclosures. It was a thrilling experience to see these animals roaming freely.

- Safari Village: We visited the Giraffe Feeding Zone, where Devansh was excited to feed giraffes up close—a truly memorable experience.

The park also hosted live animal shows and educational talks, where we learned about conservation efforts and fascinating facts about wildlife.

By the time we finished exploring, it was 2:00 PM, and we grabbed a quick lunch before hiring a cab to our next destination: Global Village.

Global Village: A Cultural Extravaganza

Global Village is a multicultural theme park where the world comes together in one location. It’s a blend of cultural diversity, entertainment, shopping, and dining that offers something for everyone.

The park features over 25 country pavilions, each designed to showcase the culture, architecture, and heritage of the nation it represents. From India and Turkey to Egypt, Russia, China, Morocco, and more, every pavilion was an immersive experience.

We explored, handicrafts and traditional clothing unique to each country; delicious authentic cuisine from across the globe; vibrant performances and displays of cultural heritage.

One of the highlights for Devansh was the Kid’s Passport, which he took to every pavilion to get stamped. He was determined and managed to visit all 25 country pavilions!

For me, the park was a shopper's paradise. I eyed a leather jacket I’d been wanting for a while but couldn’t try it on due to the cast on my hand—so, unfortunately, I left it behind.

Wrapping Up the Day

After a full day of walking and exploring, we decided to skip public transport and took a cab back to the hotel. We ordered dinner from a nearby restaurant, enjoying a quiet meal to end our final day in the hotel.

It was a day filled with wildlife adventures, cultural exploration, and plenty of memories, marking a perfect conclusion to our week in Dubai.

Day 8: Last Day, Museum of the Future, Mall of the Emirates, and Back Home

Our final day in Dubai arrived, marking the end of an unforgettable journey. With a post-midnight flight, we still had the entire day to explore, and there was one destination on Devansh’s wish list that we couldn’t leave without visiting—the Museum of the Future. Tickets were hard to come by during our trip, but luckily, we secured the 3:30 PM timeslot for today.

Morning Preparations

We started the morning with packing our bags and enjoying our last meal in the hotel. The staff kindly allowed us a late checkout, so we took our time organizing everything. After lunch, we checked out, leaving our luggage at the hotel concierge before setting off for our final adventures in Dubai.

Museum of the Future: A Visionary Journey

The Museum of the Future is a symbol of innovation, blending cutting-edge design with a focus on solving global challenges. The building itself is a futuristic marvel, with its torus-shaped architecture and Arabic calligraphy etched into stainless steel panels. The quotes by Sheikh Mohammed reflect themes of innovation and progress, making the museum an inspiring landmark.

Inside, the museum offered interactive journeys that explored humanity’s future through themes like:

- Space Exploration: Showcasing the possibilities of life beyond Earth.

- Climate Solutions: Innovative approaches to combat environmental challenges.

- Artificial Intelligence and Biotechnology: A glimpse into the future of technology and human life.

Devansh was absolutely thrilled, trying out every gadget and experience the museum had to offer. Each exhibit was immersive and thought-provoking, sparking conversations about what the future could hold.

We spent two captivating hours exploring the museum before heading to our next stop.

Mall of the Emirates: Last-Minute Shopping

Our final stop before heading home was the Mall of the Emirates, where we indulged in some last-minute shopping for family and friends. The mall is home to a wide variety of stores, and we picked up electronics, dates, and other souvenirs. After wrapping up our shopping spree, we enjoyed a leisurely dinner at one of the mall’s restaurants.

Farewell to Dubai

By 9:00 PM, we returned to the hotel to collect our bags and then headed to the airport. Arriving at 11:00 PM, we had plenty of time to relax before our flight.

While Devansh snoozed on Vidya’s lap in the waiting area, I took the opportunity to browse the duty-free shops and treated myself to a selection of drinks - a small indulgence to cap off the trip.

Our flight departed on time, and by 11:30 AM India time, we were back home, carrying a treasure trove of memories.

Conclusion:

This long-awaited vacation, especially for Devansh, was an incredible experience. Every moment, from exploring Dubai’s iconic landmarks to indulging in its rich cultural heritage, felt like a dream come true.

Dubai is truly a city of superlatives - a blend of modern innovation and timeless tradition, offering something for every type of traveller. From its architectural marvels to its immersive cultural experiences, Dubai leaves you craving for more.

This trip was a reminder that, in Dubai, the sky is not the limit- it’s just the beginning.