Dubai is a dream destination for families, packed with exciting kids activities in Dubai that cater to all ages. From thrilling theme parks to interactive indoor attractions, there’s something for everyone. Outdoor adventures, waterparks, and unique learning experiences make the city perfect for year-round family fun. Whether your little ones love exploring, playing, or learning, Dubai has it all. This guide will explore over 50 amazing kids activities in Dubai, promising unforgettable memories for the whole family.
Indoor Activities for Kids
Tourism in UAE with your kids is one of the most enjoyable experiences ever! Here are some indoor activities in Dubai for kids and families:
1. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
- What to Expect: One of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, featuring over 33,000 marine creatures, including sharks, rays, and exotic fish.
- Activities for Kids:
- Walk through the 48-meter underwater tunnel for a 270-degree view.
- Experience shark encounters and feedings.
- Ride a glass-bottom boat over the aquarium.
- Educational Value: Learn about marine ecosystems and conservation efforts.
- Location: Dubai Mall.
- Why Visit? A perfect mix of fun and learning for animal-loving kids.
2. KidZania Dubai
- What to Expect: A mini-city where kids can play grown-up roles in over 40 real-world professions.
- Activities for Kids:
- Be a pilot, doctor, chef, or firefighter in a life-like setting.
- Earn KidZos (KidZania currency) for completing tasks and spend them on experiences.
- Educational Value: Encourages problem-solving, teamwork, and money management.
- Location: Dubai Mall.
- Why Visit? A highly interactive and educational experience for kids aged 4-16.
3. OliOli – Interactive Museum
- What to Expect: A hands-on museum with eight themed galleries designed for imaginative play and exploration.
- Activities for Kids:
- Build creations in the Tinkering Studio.
- Enjoy water play and learn about motion at the Water Gallery.
- Explore sensory play in the Toddler Gallery (for younger children).
- Educational Value: Promotes creativity, problem-solving, and STEM learning.
- Location: Al Quoz.
- Why Visit? A creative haven for curious and imaginative kids.
4. Trampo Extreme
- What to Expect: A fun-filled trampoline park perfect for burning off energy.
- Activities for Kids:
- Jump on trampolines of different sizes and styles.
- Climb walls, tackle obstacle courses, and enjoy foam pits.
- Special zones for younger kids to play safely.
- Fitness Value: Helps improve coordination, balance, and overall fitness.
- Locations: Nakheel Mall and Dubai Mall.
- Why Visit? Ideal for energetic kids looking for an exciting activity indoors.
5. The Green Planet
- What to Expect: A biodome replicating a rainforest ecosystem, complete with over 3,000 species of plants and animals.
- Activities for Kids:
- Meet sloths, parrots, and reptiles up close.
- Attend interactive feeding sessions.
- Walk through the Canopy and Flooded Forest levels for different views.
- Educational Value: Kids learn about biodiversity, conservation, and sustainability.
- Location: City Walk.
- Why Visit? A unique indoor experience that brings nature closer to city kids.
6. IMG Worlds of Adventure
- What to Expect: The world’s largest indoor theme park, divided into zones like Marvel, Cartoon Network, and Lost Valley (Dinosaur Adventure).
- Activities for Kids:
- Ride age-appropriate roller coasters and carousels.
- Meet favorite Marvel superheroes and Cartoon Network characters.
- Explore the dinosaur-themed Lost Valley with thrilling rides.
- Entertainment Value: Features live shows and themed dining options.
- Location: E311 Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road.
- Why Visit? Perfect for thrill-seekers and fans of popular characters.
Outdoor Adventures for Kids
1. Dubai Parks and Resorts
- What to Expect: A massive entertainment complex featuring three theme parks and a water park.
- Activities for Kids:
- Enjoy thrilling rides at Motiongate Dubai, inspired by Hollywood blockbusters.
- Explore LEGO-themed attractions at Legoland Dubai and Legoland Waterpark.
- Dive into cultural fun at Bollywood Parks Dubai with Indian-inspired shows and rides.
- Family Facilities: Stroller rentals, dining options, and kid-friendly amenities.
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Road.
- Why Visit? A one-stop destination for non-stop fun and adventure for the whole family.
2. Dubai Miracle Garden
- What to Expect: A breathtaking floral paradise featuring over 150 million flowers arranged in stunning designs.
- Activities for Kids:
- Stroll through themed gardens, including Disney character installations.
- Enjoy interactive zones like trampolines and play areas.
- Photo Opportunities: Perfect for capturing memorable family moments.
- Seasonal Availability: Open from October to April.
- Location: Al Barsha South.
- Why Visit? A magical outdoor experience for nature-loving kids.
3. Al Barsha Pond Park
- What to Expect: A family-friendly park with scenic walking tracks and a serene pond.
- Activities for Kids:
- Ride bicycles and pedal boats.
- Play in the large playground equipped with slides and swings.
- Budget-Friendly: Entry is free, and rentals for bikes and boats are affordable.
- Location: Al Barsha.
- Why Visit? A peaceful outdoor space perfect for picnics and relaxed family outings.
4. Dubai Desert Safari (Family-Friendly)
- What to Expect: An unforgettable desert adventure tailored for families.
- Activities for Kids:
- Experience camel rides and sandboarding.
- Watch cultural performances like tanoura and belly dancing.
- Enjoy a delicious barbecue dinner in the desert.
- Family Safety: Choose family-friendly safaris with shorter durations and soft dune bashing.
- Location: Various desert camps outside Dubai.
- Why Visit? A mix of cultural immersion and adventure in the iconic Dubai desert.
5. Al Qudra Lakes
- What to Expect: A man-made desert oasis surrounded by wildlife and scenic walking trails.
- Activities for Kids:
- Spot flamingos, swans, and other bird species.
- Enjoy a picnic or BBQ by the lakes.
- Explore cycling tracks for a more active experience.
- Educational Value: Introduces kids to local wildlife and eco-friendly living.
- Location: Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve.
- Why Visit? A tranquil escape from the city’s hustle, perfect for family bonding.
6. Kite Beach
- What to Expect: A vibrant beach packed with activities for kids and families.
- Activities for Kids:
- Build sandcastles and play in the water.
- Try the outdoor trampoline park or skate park.
- Join water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding (kid-friendly options available).
- Dining Options: Kid-friendly food trucks and cafes nearby.
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Road.
- Why Visit? A perfect mix of relaxation and active fun by the sea.
7. Dubai Safari Park
- What to Expect: An expansive wildlife park home to over 3,000 animals from across the globe.
- Activities for Kids:
- Enjoy guided safari rides through different zones like African, Arabian, and Asian.
- Attend feeding sessions and educational talks about wildlife conservation.
- Explore the Kids Farm and interactive play zones.
- Location: Al Warqa 5.
- Why Visit? A great way to introduce kids to wildlife and the importance of conservation.
8. Dubai Marina Yacht Trips
- What to Expect: A family-friendly luxury boat ride with stunning views of Dubai’s skyline.
- Activities for Kids:
- Onboard games and activities designed for children.
- Watch Dubai’s famous landmarks, like Ain Dubai, from the water.
- Relaxation: Perfect for families seeking a calm and unique outdoor experience.
- Location: Dubai Marina.
- Why Visit? An unforgettable way to explore Dubai’s iconic waters in style.
Educational Experiences for Kids in Dubai
1. Children’s City
- What to Expect: A dedicated educational center for children aged 2-15, offering interactive exhibits and workshops.
- Activities for Kids:
- Explore science exhibits on space, the human body, and nature.
- Visit the planetarium for an immersive look at the stars and planets.
- Join workshops on art, STEM, and environmental awareness.
- Educational Value: Hands-on learning in science, technology, and culture.
- Location: Creek Park, Dubai.
- Why Visit? A fun, educational outing for curious young minds.
2. Dubai Museum of the Future (Kids Workshops)
- What to Expect: An innovative space showcasing futuristic technologies and ideas through interactive exhibits and workshops.
- Activities for Kids:
- Learn about robotics, artificial intelligence, and sustainability.
- Participate in hands-on STEM workshops.
- Explore the immersive exhibits designed to inspire innovation.
- Educational Value: Encourages creativity and problem-solving while introducing kids to future technologies.
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Road.
- Why Visit? A must-visit for tech-savvy and future-forward families.
3. The Green Planet
- What to Expect: An indoor biodome replicating a rainforest ecosystem with over 3,000 species of plants and animals.
- Activities for Kids:
- Get up close with sloths, reptiles, and tropical birds.
- Join educational talks on biodiversity and conservation.
- Participate in interactive feeding sessions.
- Educational Value: Teaches kids about ecosystems, sustainability, and wildlife conservation.
- Location: City Walk.
- Why Visit? A perfect blend of nature and learning in an urban setting.
4. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo (Behind-the-Scenes Tour)
- What to Expect: Beyond the exhibits, kids can join educational tours to learn about marine life and aquarium operations.
- Activities for Kids:
- Behind-the-scenes tours of how the aquarium is managed.
- Learn about marine species and their habitats.
- Watch marine animal feedings.
- Educational Value: Inspires interest in marine biology and conservation.
- Location: Dubai Mall.
- Why Visit? A deep dive into marine ecosystems with an educational twist.
5. Al Qudra Lakes Wildlife Spotting
- What to Expect: A peaceful outdoor area where kids can observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Activities for Kids:
- Spot native and migratory birds, such as flamingos and swans.
- Learn about desert ecosystems and sustainable living.
- Enjoy nature walks and family picnics.
- Educational Value: Introduces kids to environmental conservation and local wildlife.
- Location: Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve.
- Why Visit? An enriching way to connect with nature and learn about the environment.
6. OliOli – Interactive Museum
- What to Expect: A children’s museum designed to encourage exploration and creativity through hands-on activities.
- Activities for Kids:
- Experiment with water-based exhibits in the Water Gallery.
- Build contraptions in the Tinkering Studio.
- Explore the Air Gallery and learn about physics.
- Educational Value: Focuses on STEM learning, creativity, and sensory play.
- Location: Al Quoz.
- Why Visit? A stimulating space for young explorers and inventors.
7. KidZania Dubai
- What to Expect: A role-playing mini-city where kids take on real-world jobs in a fun and safe environment.
- Activities for Kids:
- Act as a pilot, doctor, chef, or firefighter.
- Manage finances using KidZos (KidZania currency).
- Learn teamwork and decision-making through role-play.
- Educational Value: Promotes financial literacy, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
- Location: Dubai Mall.
- Why Visit? A practical and entertaining way to prepare kids for real-world experiences.
8. Dubai Safari Park – Educational Programs
- What to Expect: Beyond wildlife viewing, Dubai Safari Park offers programs that educate kids about animal care and conservation.
- Activities for Kids:
- Attend guided safari tours focused on animal behaviors and habitats.
- Participate in feeding sessions and interactive experiences at the Kids Farm.
- Learn about endangered species and conservation efforts.
- Educational Value: Builds awareness about wildlife protection and sustainability.
- Location: Al Warqa 5.
- Why Visit? A hands-on, educational experience with a focus on animal conservation.
Water-Based Fun for Kids in Dubai
1. Aquaventure Waterpark
- What to Expect: One of the largest waterparks in the world, offering thrilling rides and dedicated kids’ play areas.
- Activities for Kids:
- Splashers Kids Play Area with smaller slides, water cannons, and climbing zones.
- Family-friendly rides like the Lazy River.
- Marine animal encounters, including snorkeling with fish and feeding rays.
- Safety Features: Lifeguards and shallow play zones for young children.
- Location: Atlantis, The Palm.
- Why Visit? A paradise for kids and families with attractions for all age groups.
2. Wild Wadi Waterpark
- What to Expect: A waterpark themed around Juha, a character from Arabian folklore, with exciting rides and attractions.
- Activities for Kids:
- Juha’s Lagoon, a safe and fun play area for young children.
- Gentle slides and wave pools for all ages.
- Kid-friendly rides like the lazy river and water games.
- Safety Features: Lifeguards and shaded areas for kids.
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Road.
- Why Visit? Perfect for families looking for an engaging water experience.
3. Laguna Waterpark
- What to Expect: A compact, family-friendly waterpark with zones for thrill-seekers and younger children.
- Activities for Kids:
- Aqua Play, a dedicated play area with small slides and water splash zones.
- A lazy river for relaxing family rides.
- Fun wave pools for beginners to learn surfing.
- Additional Amenities: Access to the nearby beach at La Mer.
- Location: La Mer.
- Why Visit? Combines beach vibes with waterpark fun, making it a favorite for kids.
4. Dubai Marina Yacht Trips (Family-Friendly)
- What to Expect: A luxury experience with kid-friendly options for families.
- Activities for Kids:
- Onboard games and activities like drawing and storytelling.
- Enjoy spectacular views of Dubai landmarks like Ain Dubai and Burj Al Arab.
- Relaxing family time on the open deck with snacks.
- Safety Features: Safety equipment and child-friendly staff onboard.
- Location: Dubai Marina.
- Why Visit? A unique water-based experience perfect for family bonding.
5. Jumeirah Beach Park
- What to Expect: A beautiful beach with calm waters and family-friendly amenities.
- Activities for Kids:
- Build sandcastles and paddle in shallow water.
- Play in the shaded playground.
- Enjoy a picnic or BBQ at the designated areas.
- Facilities: Lifeguards, restrooms, and changing rooms.
- Location: Jumeirah.
- Why Visit? A budget-friendly spot for outdoor water fun.
6. Dubai Dolphinarium (Swimming with Dolphins)
- What to Expect: A unique opportunity for kids to interact with friendly dolphins.
- Activities for Kids:
- Swim with dolphins in shallow water (safe for young children).
- Learn about dolphin behavior and marine conservation.
- Watch live dolphin and seal shows.
- Educational Value: Teaches kids about marine animals and their natural habitat.
- Location: Creek Park, Dubai.
- Why Visit? A once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines fun and learning.
7. The Lost Chambers Aquarium
- What to Expect: An underwater experience inspired by the lost city of Atlantis, featuring over 65,000 marine animals.
- Activities for Kids:
- Explore themed chambers filled with exotic marine life.
- Join interactive programs like marine animal feeding sessions.
- Take part in fun educational tours about ocean ecosystems.
- Location: Atlantis, The Palm.
- Why Visit? Perfect for curious kids who love learning about sea creatures.
8. Water Sports at Kite Beach
- What to Expect: A vibrant beachfront offering kid-friendly water sports and outdoor fun.
- Activities for Kids:
- Paddleboarding and kayaking with kid-sized equipment.
- Play in shallow, calm waters under lifeguard supervision.
- Try beginner-friendly kite flying on the beach.
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Road.
- Why Visit? A mix of water sports and outdoor fun in a family-friendly environment.
9. Dubai Creek Abra Ride
- What to Expect: A traditional wooden boat ride across Dubai Creek.
- Activities for Kids:
- Experience the charm of Dubai’s old town from the water.
- Spot iconic landmarks like the gold and spice souks.
- Cost: Extremely budget-friendly (AED 1 per ride).
- Location: Dubai Creek.
- Why Visit? A cultural and affordable water experience for families.
Seasonal and Special Events
1. Global Village
- What to Expect: in the global village, find a cultural extravaganza featuring pavilions from over 90 countries, funfair rides, live performances, and delicious food from around the globe.
- Activities for Kids:
- Explore different cultural pavilions showcasing traditional crafts, foods, and performances.
- Enjoy the funfair rides, carnival games, and kid-friendly attractions.
- Watch live entertainment, including acrobatic shows and musical performances.
- Best Time to Visit: Open seasonally from October to April.
- Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road.
- Why Visit? A perfect place for families to experience culture, fun, and adventure in one destination.
2. Dubai Festival City Laser Show
- What to Expect: A mesmerizing laser and fountain show set against the stunning backdrop of Dubai Festival City Mall.
- Activities for Kids:
- Watch the free IMAGINE Show, combining water, light, and sound in a spectacular performance.
- Take a stroll along the waterfront promenade with scenic views.
- Explore the mall’s family-friendly dining options and entertainment venues.
- Show Times: Evenings, with multiple shows daily.
- Location: Festival City Mall, Dubai.
- Why Visit? A budget-friendly evening outing with entertainment for the whole family.
3. Spring and Winter Camps in Dubai
- What to Expect: Seasonal camps across Dubai offering diverse activities to keep kids engaged during school breaks.
- Activities for Kids:
- Art and craft workshops to inspire creativity.
- Sports programs like swimming, tennis, and football.
- Science and robotics camps to encourage STEM learning.
- Popular Locations: Dubai Sports City, Dubai Hills, and Jumeirah Beach.
- Why Visit? An excellent way for kids to learn, socialize, and have fun during holidays.
Sports and Adventure
1. Adventure HQ Indoor Climbing Wall
- What to Expect: A state-of-the-art indoor climbing facility offering safe and exciting challenges for kids.
- Activities for Kids:
- Climbing walls of varying difficulty to suit all ages and skill levels.
- Engage in obstacle courses designed to improve agility and confidence.
- Educational Value: Builds strength, problem-solving skills, and confidence.
- Location: Times Square Center.
- Why Visit? A thrilling activity for active kids who love to climb and explore new challenges.
2. Dubai Ice Rink
- What to Expect: A world-class Olympic-sized ice rink located in the heart of Dubai Mall.
- Activities for Kids:
- Ice skating lessons for beginners and intermediate skaters.
- Public skating sessions for families to enjoy together.
- Themed events like disco nights and snowfalls for added fun.
- Safety Features: Skate aids and professional instructors available for kids.
- Location: Dubai Mall.
- Why Visit? A unique opportunity for kids to enjoy ice skating in a safe, controlled environment.
3. Horse Riding Lessons
- What to Expect: Professional horse-riding schools offering lessons and experiences tailored for kids.
- Activities for Kids:
- Learn basic riding skills and horse care.
- Participate in guided rides through beautiful landscapes.
- Popular Locations:
- Al Habtoor Polo Club: Offers lessons in a luxurious polo setting.
- Desert Palm: Combines riding lessons with scenic desert views.
- Educational Value: Teaches discipline, responsibility, and a love for animals.
- Why Visit? A memorable and enriching activity for animal-loving kids.
FAQs
1. Where can I bring my kids in Dubai?
Dubai offers a wide variety of kid-friendly attractions that cater to different interests:
- Theme Parks: Dubai Parks and Resorts (Motiongate, Legoland, and Bollywood Parks) and IMG Worlds of Adventure for thrilling rides and entertainment.
- Educational Spots: OliOli Interactive Museum, Children’s City, and the Museum of the Future for hands-on learning experiences.
- Nature & Wildlife: The Green Planet, Dubai Safari Park, and Al Qudra Lakes for animal encounters and outdoor fun.
- Water Fun: Aquaventure Waterpark and Wild Wadi Waterpark for endless water-based activities.
- Indoor Activities: KidZania Dubai and Dubai Aquarium for interactive, air-conditioned fun.
With activities ranging from theme parks to educational attractions, there’s no shortage of places to bring your kids in Dubai.
2. Which is the best activity for kids?
The best activity depends on your child’s interests:
- For Thrill-Seekers: IMG Worlds of Adventure offers exciting rides themed around Marvel and Cartoon Network characters.
- For Nature Lovers: The Green Planet is a biodome where kids can interact with tropical animals.
- For Creative Minds: OliOli provides a space for kids to experiment, build, and learn through play.
- For Water Lovers: Aquaventure Waterpark is perfect for kids who enjoy slides and marine animal encounters.
Every child is different, but KidZania Dubai is a universal favorite because it allows kids to role-play real-life professions in a fun and educational setting.
3. Where to take kids in Dubai for free?
Dubai has several free attractions for kids:
- Beaches: JBR Beach and Kite Beach are free to access, with playgrounds and shallow waters for kids to enjoy.
- Parks: Al Barsha Pond Park and Safa Park offer free entry and large play areas.
- Dubai Fountain Show: A free spectacle of lights, water, and music at the Dubai Mall.
- Al Qudra Lakes: A great spot for picnics and bird-watching in nature.
- Cultural Areas: Stroll through Al Seef or the Dubai Creek to explore Dubai’s heritage.
4. Where to take kids in Dubai summer?
Dubai summers can be very hot, so indoor attractions are ideal:
- Indoor Theme Parks: IMG Worlds of Adventure and Motiongate Dubai offer air-conditioned fun.
- Aquariums: Dubai Aquarium and The Lost Chambers Aquarium are cool and engaging.
- Indoor Playgrounds: KidZania, Trampo Extreme, and OliOli are perfect for keeping kids active indoors.
- Waterparks: Wild Wadi Waterpark and Aquaventure Waterpark offer refreshing fun even in the heat.
During summer, Dubai’s indoor attractions make it easy to entertain kids while escaping the heat.
5. Is there Disneyland in Dubai?
No, there is no Disneyland in Dubai. However, Dubai offers similar experiences at its theme parks:
- Motiongate Dubai: Known as the “Hollywood-inspired Disneyland,” it features rides and attractions based on DreamWorks, Columbia Pictures, and Lionsgate movies.
- Legoland Dubai: Perfect for younger kids, with rides, shows, and interactive LEGO-themed activities.
While there’s no Disneyland, Dubai Parks and Resorts offers a comparable world-class experience.
6. Which month is best for kids in Dubai?
The best months to visit Dubai with kids are November to March, when the weather is cooler (20-28°C):
- Outdoor Activities: Ideal for parks, beaches, and desert safaris.
- Events: Seasonal attractions like Global Village and Dubai Miracle Garden open during these months.
- Comfortable Exploration: Families can enjoy outdoor activities without the extreme heat of summer.
7. Which month is cheapest for Dubai?
The cheapest months to visit Dubai are during the summer months (June to August):
- Lower Airfares: Airlines and hotels often offer discounts due to reduced tourist traffic.
- Stay Deals: Luxury hotels have summer offers with significantly lower prices.
- Indoor Fun: Although it’s hot, Dubai’s indoor attractions remain accessible and offer discounts during this time.
8. Is Dubai worth visiting with kids?
Absolutely! Dubai is one of the best destinations for family vacations because of its:
- Diverse Attractions: From thrilling theme parks to educational museums and waterparks, there’s something for kids of all ages.
- World-Class Facilities: Stroller-friendly malls, clean beaches, and family-focused resorts ensure comfort and convenience.
- Safety: Dubai is known for being safe and family-friendly, making it stress-free for parents.
With countless activities and a strong focus on family entertainment, Dubai is a fantastic choice for traveling with kids.
9. What is the most expensive month to go to Dubai?
The most expensive months to visit Dubai are December and January, coinciding with the peak tourist season:
- High Demand: Perfect weather attracts visitors from around the globe, especially during the Dubai Shopping Festival.
- Festivals: New Year celebrations and holiday events make this the most popular and costly time to visit.
10. What is the coldest month in Dubai?
The coldest month in Dubai is January, with average daytime temperatures of 20-25°C and cooler evenings around 14-18°C.
- Perfect Weather: It’s the ideal time for outdoor activities like desert safaris, beach outings, and park visits.
- Winter Events: Seasonal attractions such as Global Village and Dubai Miracle Garden are at their peak.
Although it’s winter, the weather remains mild and pleasant, making it perfect for family vacations.