Dubai with Kids: 20 Fun Things to Do with Family in Dubai
Dubai, known for its opulence, modern architecture, and vibrant nightlife, is also a family-friendly destination offering a wide range of activities for kids and adults alike. From the iconic landmarks of Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah to the attractions in Downtown Dubai like the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and Kidzania, the city promises an unforgettable family vacation. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore 20 fun things to do for the whole family in Dubai, ensuring a memorable trip for everyone.
1. IMG Worlds of Adventure
Overview
IMG Worlds of Adventure is one of the world’s largest indoor theme parks, offering a variety of thrilling rides and attractions across its four themed zones: Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley, and IMG Boulevard.
Attractions and Activities
Marvel Zone: Features rides and attractions based on popular Marvel superheroes like Spider-Man, Hulk, Iron Man, and Thor. Key attractions include the Avengers Battle of Ultron, a 3D ride that immerses you in an epic battle. Just as Dubai’s iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah captivate tourists, the Marvel superheroes draw visitors with their legendary appeal.
Cartoon Network Zone: Perfect for younger kids, this zone includes attractions based on popular shows like Ben 10, Adventure Time, The Powerpuff Girls, and The Amazing World of Gumball.
Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure: This prehistoric-themed zone features dinosaur-themed rides and attractions, including the Velociraptor roller coaster, which is one of the park’s most thrilling rides.
IMG Boulevard: Home to various retail outlets, dining options, and attractions like the Haunted Hotel, which offers a spine-chilling experience for older kids and adults.
Tips for Visiting
– Purchase tickets online to avoid long queues and take advantage of any available discounts.
– Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds.
– Plan your visit in advance and prioritize rides and attractions based on your family’s interests.
2. Legoland Dubai
Overview
Legoland Dubai, located in Dubai Parks and Resorts, is designed for families with children aged 2-12. It offers a variety of Lego-themed rides, building experiences, and interactive shows.
Attractions and Activities
– Miniland: A unique area where famous landmarks from the UAE and around the world are recreated using over 20 million Lego bricks.
– Lego City: Kids can drive Lego cars, pilot Lego planes, and participate in various interactive activities.
– Adventure: This zone includes thrilling rides and attractions like the Lost Kingdom Adventure, an interactive ride where families can go on a treasure hunt.
– Imagination: A place where kids can build and race their own Lego cars, and enjoy rides like the Lego Technic Twister.
– Kingdoms: A medieval-themed zone with attractions like the Dragon roller coaster and Merlin’s Challenge.
– Lego Friends: A colorful area where kids can meet their favorite Lego Friends characters and enjoy themed activities.
Tips for Visiting
– Take advantage of the parent swap option for rides with height restrictions.
– Bring swimsuits for the Legoland Water Park, which offers water slides, a lazy river, and splash areas.
– Plan your visit around the interactive shows and character meet-and-greets.
3. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Overview
Located in the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is home to thousands of aquatic animals, offering a fascinating underwater experience for families.
Attractions and Activities
- Aquarium Tunnel: Walk through a 48-meter-long tunnel in Downtown Dubai and enjoy 270-degree views of the aquarium, home to sharks, rays, and various fish species.
- Underwater Zoo: Located above the aquarium, the Underwater Zoo features exhibits showcasing different aquatic habitats and creatures, including the popular King Croc exhibit.
- Glass-Bottom Boat Rides: Experience the aquarium from a different perspective with glass-bottom boat rides.
- Cage Snorkeling and Shark Dives: For adventurous family members, these activities offer an up-close encounter with marine life.
Tips for Visiting
– Book tickets online to save time and money.
– Combine your visit with other attractions in the Dubai Mall, such as the Dubai Ice Rink and VR Park.
– Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the aquarium and underwater zoo.
4. Dubai Dolphinarium
Overview
The Dubai Dolphinarium, located in Creek Park, offers entertaining dolphin and seal shows, as well as opportunities for kids to interact with marine animals.
Attractions and Activities
- Dolphin and Seal Shows: Enjoy captivating performances where dolphins and seals showcase their skills through acrobatics, dances, and tricks. Creek Park is also conveniently located near some of Dubai’s iconic landmarks, making it an ideal spot for tourists.
- Swim with Dolphins: For an unforgettable experience, opt for a swim with the dolphins, where kids can interact with these friendly creatures up close.
- Creek Park Bird Show: A fun and educational show featuring various bird species performing tricks and showcasing their natural behaviors.
- Mirror Maze: A challenging and fun maze that kids will love exploring.
Tips for Visiting
– Arrive early to get good seats for the shows.
– Check the schedule for showtimes and plan your visit accordingly.
– Combine your visit with a trip to Creek Park, which offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and bike rentals.
5. Kidzania Dubai
Overview
Kidzania Dubai, located in the Dubai Mall, is an interactive edutainment center where children can role-play various professions in a mini-city setting.
Attractions and Activities
– Role-Playing Professions: Kids can explore over 80 professions, including doctor, firefighter, pilot, chef, and journalist. Each activity is designed to teach valuable life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and financial literacy.
– Earning and Spending KidZos: Children earn KidZos (Kidzania currency) for participating in activities, which they can spend on goods and services within the mini-city.
– Educational Workshops: Interactive workshops and training sessions that provide hands-on learning experiences in various fields.
Tips for Visiting
– Plan your visit in advance and prioritize activities based on your child’s interests.
– Take advantage of the parent lounge where adults can relax while kids explore.
– Purchase tickets online to avoid long queues and check for any available discounts.
6. Aquaventure Waterpark
Overview
Aquaventure Waterpark, located at Atlantis The Palm, is one of Dubai’s most popular water parks, offering a variety of water slides, a lazy river, and a dedicated kids’ play area.
Attractions and Activities
- Tower of Neptune: Features thrilling slides like the Leap of Faith, a near-vertical drop through a shark-filled lagoon. Jumeirah Beach Park, known for its white sands, elite resorts, and family-friendly activities, is also nearby.
- Tower of Poseidon: Home to some of the park’s most exciting rides, including Aquaconda, the world’s largest waterslide.
- River Rides: Relax on the lazy river or enjoy the rapids of the Torrent River.
- Splashers Kids’ Play Area: A safe and fun area designed for younger children, featuring mini slides, water cannons, and climbing structures.
- Marine Animal Encounters: Interactive experiences like swimming with dolphins, meeting sea lions, and snorkeling in the Ambassador Lagoon.
Tips for Visiting
– Arrive early to secure a good spot and make the most of your day.
– Bring waterproof sunscreen and water shoes for protection and comfort.
– Rent a cabana for a relaxing base throughout the day.
7. Wild Wadi Waterpark
Overview
Wild Wadi Waterpark, located next to the iconic Burj Al Arab, offers a variety of water slides, wave pools, and play areas suitable for all ages.
Attractions and Activities
– Jumeirah Sceirah: A thrilling slide with a steep drop, perfect for adrenaline seekers.
– Master Blasters: Water roller coasters that use high-powered water jets to propel riders uphill.
– Wave Pool: Enjoy the waves in the large, family-friendly wave pool.
– Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon: A large play area with over 100 water activities for younger children, including slides, tipping buckets, and water guns.
– Lazy River: A relaxing ride along the gentle current of Juha’s Journey.
Tips for Visiting
– Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds.
– Bring your own towels to save on rental costs.
– Check for online ticket discounts and promotions.
8. Dubai Parks and Resorts
Overview
Dubai Parks and Resorts is a vast entertainment complex that includes Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, Legoland Dubai, and Riverland Dubai. Each park offers unique attractions and experiences for families.
Attractions and Activities
– Motiongate Dubai: A Hollywood-inspired theme park featuring attractions based on DreamWorks Animation, Columbia Pictures, and Lionsgate films. Key rides include the Hunger Games-themed Capitol Bullet Train and the Shrek-themed Swamp Celebration.
– Bollywood Parks Dubai: Themed around Bollywood films, this park offers vibrant rides, live performances, and interactive experiences. Highlights include the Rajmahal Theatre and the Bollywood Skyflyer.
– Legoland Dubai: See previous details.
– Riverland Dubai: A themed dining and retail destination that connects the parks and offers various entertainment options, including street performances and live music.
Tips for Visiting
– Consider purchasing a multi-park ticket for better value.
– Arrive early to maximize your time and experience more attractions.
– Check the park schedules for showtimes and plan your visit accordingly.
9. Global Village
Overview
Global Village is a seasonal cultural and entertainment park that showcases pavilions from over 70 countries, offering food, crafts, and performances from around the world.
Attractions and Activities
– Country Pavilions: Explore different pavilions representing various countries, each offering unique products, crafts, and cultural performances.
– Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music, dance performances, and cultural shows on multiple stages throughout the park.
– Carnival Rides: A variety of rides and attractions for all ages, including Ferris wheels, carousels,
and roller coasters.
– Food and Dining: Savor international cuisine from numerous food stalls and restaurants, offering dishes from around the world.
Tips for Visiting
– Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds.
– Wear comfortable shoes as the park requires a lot of walking.
– Check the schedule for special events and performances.
10. Dubai Miracle Garden
Overview
Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest flower garden, featuring stunning floral displays and sculptures created from millions of blooming flowers.
Attractions and Activities
- Floral Installations: Admire beautifully designed flower beds, arches, and sculptures, including the famous Emirates A380 floral display.
- Butterfly Garden: Visit the adjacent butterfly garden, home to thousands of butterflies in a climate-controlled environment. The Dubai Butterfly Garden, located within the Dubai Miracle Garden, is the world’s largest covered butterfly garden, featuring over 15,000 butterflies of 50 different varieties. It offers interactive displays and educational opportunities for kids to learn about the lifecycle of butterflies and their importance in the ecosystem.
- Walking Paths: Stroll through the garden’s numerous walking paths, enjoying the vibrant colors and fragrant flowers.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture stunning photos against the backdrop of the garden’s unique floral arrangements.
Tips for Visiting
– Visit during the cooler months (November to April) when the garden is in full bloom.
– Arrive early to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
– Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.
11. The Green Planet
Overview
The Green Planet, located in City Walk, is an indoor tropical rainforest housing over 3,000 plants and animals. It offers an immersive and educational experience for families.
Attractions and Activities
– Bio-Dome: Explore the multi-level bio-dome, which replicates a tropical rainforest environment, complete with a giant tree structure.
– Animal Encounters: Interact with various animals, including sloths, birds, reptiles, and insects. Scheduled feedings and educational talks provide additional learning opportunities.
– Canopy Walk: Walk along the canopy level and observe the rainforest from above, spotting birds and other wildlife.
– Aquatic Zone: Discover the aquatic life that thrives in rainforest environments, including fish, turtles, and amphibians.
Tips for Visiting
– Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the exhibits.
– Participate in the scheduled animal encounters and feedings for a more interactive experience.
– Combine your visit with other attractions in City Walk for a full day of entertainment.
12. Desert Safari
Overview
A desert safari is a must-do activity in Dubai, offering a blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Various tour operators provide family-friendly desert safari packages.
Attractions and Activities
– Dune Bashing: Experience the thrill of driving over the sand dunes in a 4×4 vehicle, guided by an experienced driver.
– Camel Riding: Enjoy a traditional camel ride through the desert, providing a unique perspective of the landscape.
– Bedouin Camp: Visit a traditional Bedouin camp and participate in activities such as henna painting, falconry, and sandboarding.
– BBQ Dinner: Enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner under the stars, accompanied by live entertainment such as belly dancing and Tanoura dance performances.
Tips for Visiting
– Wear comfortable clothing and bring a light jacket for the evening.
– Book with a reputable tour operator to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
– Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen to protect against the sun.
13. Dubai Ice Rink
Overview
Located in the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Ice Rink is an Olympic-sized ice rink offering public skating sessions and skating lessons for all ages.
Attractions and Activities
– Public Skating: Enjoy open skating sessions with family-friendly music and a fun atmosphere.
– Skating Lessons: Enroll kids in skating lessons offered by professional instructors, catering to all skill levels.
– Ice Hockey: Watch or participate in ice hockey games and tournaments.
– Themed Events: Participate in special themed events and activities, such as Disco Nights and Snowfall Sessions.
Tips for Visiting
– Check the schedule for public skating sessions and lesson times.
– Wear warm clothing and bring gloves for comfort.
– Book tickets online to avoid long queues and ensure availability.
14. Dubai Frame
Overview
The Dubai Frame is a towering structure offering panoramic views of both old and new Dubai. It features a glass-floored walkway and interactive exhibits about the city’s history.
Attractions and Activities
- Observation Deck: Enjoy stunning views of Dubai from the observation deck, with one side showcasing the modern skyline and the other side offering views of the historic city. You can also catch a glimpse of the Dubai Fountain from the Dubai Frame, adding to the spectacular sights.
- Glass-Floored Walkway: Experience the thrill of walking on the glass floor, looking down at the ground 150 meters below.
- Exhibition: Explore interactive exhibits that tell the story of Dubai’s past, present, and future, providing an educational experience for kids.
Tips for Visiting
– Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best views and lighting.
– Purchase tickets online to avoid long queues.
– Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Zabeel Park for a full day of activities.
15. Al Fahidi Historical District
Overview
Al Fahidi Historical District, also known as Al Bastakiya, is one of Dubai’s oldest neighborhoods. It offers a glimpse into the city’s past with its traditional architecture, museums, and cultural centers.
Attractions and Activities
– Dubai Museum: Located in the Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum offers exhibits showcasing the city’s history and heritage, including artifacts, dioramas, and multimedia displays.
– Coffee Museum: Learn about the history and culture of coffee in the Middle East, with exhibits, tastings, and demonstrations.
– Art Galleries: Visit various art galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional Middle Eastern art.
– Cultural Centers: Participate in cultural activities and workshops at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, which offers guided tours, heritage experiences, and traditional meals.
Tips for Visiting
– Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
– Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the area.
– Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like the Dubai Creek and the Textile Souk.
16. Ski Dubai
Overview
Ski Dubai, located in the Mall of the Emirates, is an indoor ski resort offering skiing, snowboarding, and other snow activities. It provides a winter wonderland experience in the heart of the desert.
Attractions and Activities
– Skiing and Snowboarding: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding on five different slopes, catering to all skill levels. Equipment rentals and lessons are available.
– Snow Park: A large play area featuring snow slides, tobogganing, and snowball fights.
– Penguin Encounters: Meet and interact with the resident penguins through scheduled encounters and shows.
– Chairlift and Zorb Ball: Take a scenic ride on the chairlift or roll down the slopes in a giant Zorb ball.
Tips for Visiting
– Wear warm clothing and gloves, as the temperature inside is kept below freezing.
– Book tickets and activities online to save time and money.
– Plan your visit around the scheduled penguin encounters and shows.
17. Dubai Garden Glow
Overview
Dubai Garden Glow is a unique theme park featuring glow-in-the-dark installations, an Ice Park, and a Dinosaur Park. It offers a magical and educational experience for families.
Attractions and Activities
– Glow Park: Explore beautifully crafted light installations and sculptures that come to life after sunset.
– Dinosaur Park: Walk among life-sized dinosaur models and learn about these prehistoric creatures through interactive exhibits and displays.
– Ice Park: Marvel at intricate ice sculptures and enjoy the chilly environment, providing a stark contrast to Dubai’s desert heat.
– Live Performances: Enjoy live entertainment, including music and dance performances, throughout the park.
Tips for Visiting
– Visit in the evening to fully experience the glow-in-the-dark installations.
– Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket for the Ice Park.
– Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Zabeel Park for a full day of activities.
18. JBR Beach
Overview
JBR Beach, located in the Jumeirah Beach Residence area, is a popular family-friendly beach offering a variety of activities, dining options, and amenities.
Attractions and Activities
- Beach Activities: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles on the pristine beach.
- Water Sports: Try various water sports, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing.
- Playgrounds and Splash Pads: Let kids play in the well-maintained playgrounds and splash pads located along the beachfront.
- The Walk: Stroll along The Walk, a bustling promenade with numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Enjoy the variety of dining options available in all the restaurants, offering international cuisines with a Middle Eastern touch.
Tips for Visiting
– Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach.
– Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for sun protection and hydration.
– Explore the dining options along The Walk for a variety of cuisines and dining experiences.
19. Bounce Dubai
Overview
Bounce Dubai is an indoor trampoline park offering various activities like free jumping, dodgeball, and slam dunk. It’s a great place for kids to burn off energy and have fun.
Attractions and Activities
– Free Jump Arena: A large area with interconnected trampolines for open jumping and acrobatics.
– Dodgeball: Play dodgeball on trampolines, adding an extra element of excitement to the game.
– Slam Dunk: Practice your basketball skills and perform slam dunks on trampoline-enhanced hoops.
– X-Park: An adventure obstacle course with various challenges for kids and adults.
Tips for Visiting
– Wear comfortable athletic clothing and grip socks, which are usually available for purchase on-site.
– Check the schedule for special events and activities.
– Book tickets online to secure your preferred time slot.
20. Hatta Wadi Hub
Overview
Hatta Wadi Hub, located in
the Hajar Mountains, offers a variety of outdoor activities and adventure experiences, making it an ideal destination for a family day trip.
Attractions and Activities
– Mountain Biking: Explore various biking trails suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders.
– Hiking: Discover scenic hiking trails with stunning views of the mountains and surrounding landscapes.
– Kayaking: Enjoy kayaking on the serene Hatta Dam, surrounded by picturesque mountains.
– Adventure Activities: Try other activities like archery, axe throwing, and zorbing for a fun-filled day.
Tips for Visiting
– Wear comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes.
– Bring plenty of water and snacks for hydration and energy.
– Check the weather forecast and plan your visit accordingly.
Conclusion
Dubai offers an abundance of family-friendly activities and attractions, ensuring an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. From thrilling theme parks and educational museums to beautiful beaches and cultural landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, Dubai promises a memorable family vacation filled with fun and excitement.
Which are the places to visit in Dubai on a 3 days trip?
Dubai Mall is one of Dubai’s major attractions for family with its stunning mall which is a natural attraction. Bloomingdale’s and Gucci’s Armani are only two places that are worth exploring.
Dubai Creek offers a variety of attractions such as taking a traditional abra water taxi, exploring the city on a hop-on hop-off bus, kayaking, riding a cable car at Creek Park, and enjoying a Dhow cruise with meals and entertainment.
Dubai Marina is a fantastic place to enjoy dinner cruises, boat tours, and a lively atmosphere with restaurants, cafes, and street performances.
The Burj Khalifa: Witness this world’s highest tower spanning 3 viewing decks and 148 floors. Reach the top in 124 levels to view an Arabian miniature Dubai and the desert landscapes.
Dubai Fountains: Dubai’s largest dance fountain is on display at the Burj Lake which regularly hosts concerts between 6 – 11 pm.
Another must-visit attraction is the Dubai Butterfly Garden, the world’s largest covered butterfly garden featuring over 15,000 butterflies of 50 different varieties. This gorgeous oasis of color and life within the Dubai Miracle Garden offers lush greenery, tropical gardens, and interactive displays that educate visitors about the lifecycle of butterflies and their importance in the ecosystem.
Is Dubai good for family trip?
Yes, Dubai is an excellent destination for a family trip, offering a wide range of activities and attractions suitable for all ages. Families can enjoy world-class theme parks like IMG Worlds of Adventure and Legoland Dubai, visit educational spots like Dubai Aquarium and The Green Planet, and relax at beautiful beaches such as JBR Beach. The city also boasts cultural experiences, thrilling desert safaris, and luxurious shopping malls with plenty of entertainment options. Dubai offers unique attractions in the Middle East, catering to families and tourists, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable vacation for the whole family.
What part of Dubai is best for families?
For a better area for your entire family in Dubai, we recommend Jumeirah Village Circles, Dubai Marina, Dubai Beachfronts, Dubai Harbours, Dubai Hills, Arabian Ranch (1, 2, and 3-), and DAMAC Hills (1). It does however depend upon your family’s preferences and circumstances.
What are the best leisure activities in Dubai?
Fun activities to do in Dubai: Skydive, water tours at Xline Dubai, Indoor Skiing and Snowboarding. For a fun activity suitable for both kids and adults, visit an indoor trampoline park, which offers interconnected trampolines, dodgeball courts, slam dunk hoops, ninja warrior courses, and dedicated areas for different age groups, along with amenities such as a café.
How family-friendly is Dubai?
In summary, Dubai is an enjoyable city with plenty of activities for the whole family. Although the city is a major tourist attraction in the UAE, it still has various peaceful places to live.
Is Dubai fun with kids?
From towering buildings and pristine beaches to enviable desert safaris, Dubai offers fun activities for the whole family. Children are welcome to explore the magical places of The Palm, take thrilling trips in motion-gate or have unforgettable adventures in Legoland Dubai. For an extra dose of excitement, families can visit Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, featuring the world’s fastest roller coaster and various Ferrari-themed rides and attractions.
