The UAE is a paradise for families looking for adventure, education, and relaxation. From thrilling theme parks to serene nature escapes, Tourism in UAE for Kids offers an endless array of attractions designed to captivate young minds. Whether you’re looking for an exciting roller coaster ride, an immersive wildlife encounter, or a day of creative indoor fun, the UAE has something for every child.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best places for kids in the UAE, covering theme parks, waterparks, educational attractions, free activities, and family-friendly accommodations. Get ready to plan an unforgettable trip that will keep your little ones entertained and engaged!

Best Theme Parks and Waterparks for Kids in the UAE

The UAE is home to some of the world’s most exciting theme parks and waterparks, offering endless fun for children of all ages. Whether your little ones love thrilling roller coasters, interactive play zones, or water-based adventures, there’s something for everyone.

From world-famous theme parks like Warner Bros. World and Ferrari World to kid-friendly waterparks like Jungle Bay and Yas Waterworld, this guide covers the top destinations for family-friendly fun in the United Arab Emirates.

Top Theme Parks in the UAE

If your children love high-energy rides, live shows, and immersive experiences, these theme parks in the UAE should be on your must-visit list:

1. Dubai Parks and Resorts (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Families looking for a mix of movie-themed attractions and interactive experiences.

This massive entertainment complex is home to some of the most exciting attractions for kids in Dubai:

• Motiongate Dubai – Hollywood-inspired rides featuring DreamWorks, Columbia Pictures, and Lionsgate movies.
• Legoland Dubai – Perfect for younger kids, with LEGO-themed rides, building stations, and a waterpark.
• Riverland Dubai – A beautifully designed family entertainment boulevard with restaurants, live shows, and interactive exhibits.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Ride on roller coasters based on Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and The Hunger Games.
✅ Build and race their own LEGO cars.
✅ Enjoy a boat ride through different themed lands in Riverland.

2. IMG Worlds of Adventure (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Superhero and cartoon lovers who enjoy indoor thrills.

This fully indoor theme park is one of the largest of its kind in the world, spanning 1.5 million square feet.

• Marvel Zone – Meet Spider-Man, The Avengers, and The Hulk in action-packed rides.
• Cartoon Network Zone – Interact with The Powerpuff Girls, Ben 10, and Adventure Time characters.
• Dinosaur Adventure – Encounter life-sized dinosaurs and ride the Velociraptor roller coaster.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Meet their favorite Marvel superheroes and cartoon characters.
✅ Enjoy a fully air-conditioned indoor park, perfect for summer.
✅ Ride on the world’s fastest indoor roller coaster.

3. Warner Bros. World (Abu Dhabi)

⭐ Best for: Families looking for a unique experience with classic cartoon characters.

One of the newest theme parks in the UAE, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is an indoor wonderland featuring:

• Gotham City & Metropolis – Exciting Batman and Superman rides for action-loving kids.
• Cartoon Junction – A colorful play area with Scooby-Doo, Tom & Jerry, and Bugs Bunny attractions.
• Bedrock – A Flintstones-inspired prehistoric adventure land.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Meet Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Batman, and Scooby-Doo.
✅ Enjoy indoor roller coasters and immersive rides.
✅ Live interactive shows featuring their favorite characters.

4. Ferrari World (Abu Dhabi)

⭐ Best for: Families with kids who love cars and racing.

Although Ferrari World is known for high-speed roller coasters, it also offers kid-friendly attractions, including:

• Junior Grand Prix – A driving experience where children can race mini Ferraris.
• Flying Aces – A roller coaster designed for adventure-seeking families.
• Family Zone – A dedicated area for younger kids with mini rides and interactive car-themed games.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Drive a real mini Ferrari.
✅ Experience racing simulations in the world’s fastest theme park.
✅ Enjoy a mix of high-thrill and beginner-friendly rides.

Best Waterparks for Kids in the UAE

For those looking to cool off from the UAE’s heat, these top-rated waterparks offer thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and dedicated play zones for children.

1. Aquaventure Waterpark (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Families looking for a mix of extreme slides and kid-friendly splash areas.

Located at Atlantis, The Palm, this award-winning waterpark features:

• Leap of Faith – A vertical drop through a shark-filled lagoon.
• Splashers Lagoon – A dedicated area for children with mini slides and water cannons.
• Lazy River – Perfect for relaxing while floating through the park.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ One of the biggest waterparks in the world.
✅ Specially designed splash zones for younger children.
✅ Access to a private beach with shallow waters.

2. Wild Wadi Waterpark (Dubai)

⭐ **Best for: A mix of adventure rides and gentle water attractions for kids.

• Jumeirah Sceirah – A fast drop slide for thrill-seekers.
• Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon – A water playground for toddlers and younger kids.
• Lazy River – A relaxing ride perfect for families with small children.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Over 30 water attractions for all ages.
✅ A wave pool with shallow areas for small kids.
✅ Iconic views of Burj Al Arab while having fun in the water.

3. Jungle Bay Waterpark (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Toddlers and younger children.

Designed for families with younger children, Jungle Bay offers:

• Mini slides and splash areas for toddlers.
• Wave pools with gentle currents.
• No height restrictions, making it accessible to all ages.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Safe and fun water attractions for toddlers.
✅ A family-friendly atmosphere with comfortable seating.
✅ Perfect for younger kids who may not enjoy extreme water slides.

Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, interactive play zones, or exciting water slides, the UAE has endless options for kids. From world-class theme parks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to family-friendly waterparks, there’s something for every age and preference.

Start planning your perfect family adventure in the UAE today and create unforgettable memories with your little ones! 🚀

Indoor Entertainment for Kids in the UAE

The UAE’s warm climate can sometimes make outdoor activities challenging, especially during the summer. However, the country offers plenty of indoor entertainment options where kids can learn, play, and explore in safe, air-conditioned environments.

Whether your child enjoys STEM-based learning, virtual reality gaming, interactive museums, or trampoline parks, there’s something for every little adventurer. Here’s a guide to the best indoor attractions for kids in the UAE.

Edutainment and Creative Play Areas

For families who want their children to learn while having fun, these interactive and educational venues provide hands-on experiences that spark creativity and curiosity.

1. KidZania (Dubai Mall)

⭐ Best for: Young children who love role-playing real-world professions.

KidZania is an interactive mini-city where kids can experience adult life in a fun, safe, and realistic environment. The city is complete with streets, buildings, and a functioning economy, allowing children to work in different professions.

👩‍🚒 Job Experiences Include:

• Firefighter – Put out pretend fires and save the day.
• Doctor – Work in a mini hospital and take care of patients.
• Pilot – Learn how to fly an aircraft with a real cockpit simulator.
• Radio DJ – Broadcast live from the KidZania Radio Station.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Over 60 career choices in various industries.
✅ Earn KidZos (KidZania’s own currency) and spend them in the city.
✅ Fully immersive and interactive learning experience.

2. OliOli (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Children who enjoy hands-on learning and creative experiments.

OliOli is a one-of-a-kind interactive museum featuring eight different play galleries, all designed to encourage STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) learning.

🔬 Key Attractions:

• Toshi’s Net – A vibrant hanging play area made from woven ropes.
• Water Gallery – Splash, spray, and experiment with water physics.
• Creative Lab – Tinker, build, and create mini engineering projects.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Encourages critical thinking and creativity.
✅ Perfect for younger children (ages 2-11).
✅ No screens! 100% hands-on experiences.

3. AYA Universe (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Kids and teens who love immersive technology and digital experiences.

AYA Universe is a next-generation indoor playground where children can step into surreal, interactive digital environments featuring 3D visuals, soundscapes, and futuristic designs.

🌌 Must-See Zones:

• The Falls – A breathtaking room where water appears to flow upward instead of down.
• The Celestia – A space-inspired area where kids can interact with glowing celestial objects.
• The Flora – A magical digital garden that reacts to movement.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Completely unique experience – unlike anything else in the UAE.
✅ 12 themed zones with interactive elements.
✅ Great for family photos and social media moments.

4. House of Hype (Dubai Mall)

⭐ Best for: Kids and teens who love gaming, technology, and futuristic experiences.

House of Hype is Dubai’s first mixed-reality entertainment hub, combining digital art, gaming, fashion, and interactive technology into one experience.

🎮 Key Attractions:

• Over 50 gaming experiences.
• VR adventure zones with interactive gameplay.
• Fashion-tech shopping for young trendsetters.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Immersive virtual reality worlds.
✅ Exciting mix of gaming, fashion, and futuristic experiences.
✅ Great for older kids and teens looking for high-tech entertainment.

Indoor Amusement Parks

For high-energy kids who love jumping, running, and testing their agility, these indoor adventure parks are perfect!

1. Play DXB (Dubai Mall)

⭐ Best for: Kids who love virtual reality gaming and simulations.

Play DXB is Dubai’s biggest VR park, featuring more than 30 thrilling experiences.

🕹️ Top VR Games:

• Burj Drop – Experience a simulated fall from Burj Khalifa.
• The Walking Dead VR – Fight off a zombie apocalypse.
• VR Roller Coaster – Feel the adrenaline of a high-speed ride without real movement.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Futuristic gaming experiences.
✅ Free entry – pay only for games.
✅ Perfect for older kids and teens.

2. Bounce Dubai (Al Quoz)

⭐ Best for: Energetic kids who love jumping, flipping, and playing sports.

Bounce Dubai is the UAE’s largest indoor trampoline park, featuring over 100 interconnected trampolines.

🏀 Activities Include:

• Slam Dunk Zone – Jump and dunk like an NBA player.
• Dodgeball Arena – High-energy trampoline dodgeball games.
• The Wall – A challenge to jump and land on vertical surfaces.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Burn off energy while having fun.
✅ Safe and supervised environment.
✅ Special areas for younger kids.

Unique Indoor Experiences for Families

For those looking for something completely different, the UAE offers one-of-a-kind indoor attractions that mix fun, science, and creativity.

1. The Green Planet (Dubai)

🌴 Step into a tropical rainforest, right in the middle of the city!

• Home to over 3,000 plants and animals.
• Meet sloths, parrots, reptiles, and exotic butterflies.
• Explore a four-story bio-dome.

2. Wild Paint House (Dubai)

🎨 Let your kids explore their creativity!

• Paint freely on walls, canvases, and even themselves!
• Fun activities like splat, swing, pour, and graffiti painting.

3. Illusion City (Dubai)

🧠 Mind-bending attractions for curious kids!

• Mirror mazes, gravity-defying rooms, and optical illusions.
• Interactive exhibits that challenge perception.

Indoor attractions in the UAE provide a perfect mix of education, adventure, and creativity, ensuring that kids stay entertained no matter the weather. Whether it’s learning through play, experiencing virtual reality, or jumping on trampolines, the UAE has something for every young explorer.

Plan your family’s next indoor adventure today!

Outdoor Adventures for Families in the UAE

The UAE is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a blend of nature, wildlife, adventure, and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re looking to explore desert landscapes, interact with wildlife, or enjoy thrilling activities, the country has something for every family.

This guide covers the best outdoor attractions in the UAE, ensuring that your kids stay entertained while learning about nature and history.

Nature & Wildlife Experiences

For families who love wildlife and marine adventures, the UAE offers some of the best nature experiences in the region.

1. Dubai Safari Park (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Families looking for a zoo-style safari experience.

Dubai Safari Park is home to over 3,000 animals, including lions, giraffes, elephants, and cheetahs.

🦁 Key Highlights:

• Safari Village: Experience a guided safari drive-through, encountering zebras, rhinos, and gazelles.
• Asian Village: Discover the Bengal tigers and Moon bears.
• Arabian Desert Safari: Observe native species like oryx and Arabian leopards.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Up-close animal encounters.
✅ Educational talks and feeding sessions.
✅ Petting zoo and reptile house.

2. Dolphin Bay (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Families who love marine life and interactive experiences.

Located at Atlantis, The Palm, Dolphin Bay offers one of the most sophisticated dolphin habitats in the world.

🐬 Activities Include:

• Shallow Water Interaction: Perfect for young kids who want to touch and play with dolphins.
• Dolphin Swim: Older kids can swim and dive alongside these intelligent creatures.
• Behind-the-Scenes Tour: Learn about dolphin care and conservation.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Friendly dolphin interactions.
✅ Shallow areas for non-swimmers.
✅ Perfect for animal lovers.

3. National Aquarium (Abu Dhabi)

⭐ Best for: Families who love ocean exploration and interactive exhibits.

With over 46,000 marine animals, the National Aquarium is one of the largest in the region.

🐠 Key Attractions:

• UAE’s Natural Treasures: Discover local marine species from the Arabian Gulf.
• Amazon Flooded Forest: Walk through a rainforest environment with piranhas and exotic fish.
• Shark Encounter: Get up close with sand tiger sharks in an immersive tunnel.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Educational and interactive exhibits.
✅ Diving and glass-bottom boat experiences.
✅ Live feeding sessions.

Adventure & High-Energy Activities

For kids who love climbing, zip-lining, and adventure, these outdoor activities provide the perfect mix of excitement and fun.

1. Aventura Parks (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Kids who love outdoor obstacle courses and climbing challenges.

Aventura Parks is Dubai’s largest outdoor adventure park, featuring 80+ obstacle courses and zip lines.

🌲 What’s Included:

• Explorador Course: Designed for younger kids to build confidence.
• Thriller Course: Features fast zip lines through the Ghaf tree forest.
• Xtreme Course: A high-rope challenge for older kids and teens.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Real outdoor adventure in nature.
✅ Levels suitable for all ages.
✅ Guided safety training and professional instructors.

2. Ski Dubai (Mall of the Emirates)

⭐ Best for: Kids who love winter sports and snow play.

Ski Dubai is the only indoor ski resort in the Middle East, offering real snow and skiing all year round.

🎿 Key Attractions:

• Snow Park: Build snowmen, slide down icy slopes, and have snowball fights.
• Ski & Snowboard Slopes: Learn to ski with beginner and advanced lessons.
• Penguin Encounter: Meet King and Gentoo penguins up close.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Experience real snow in the desert!
✅ Perfect for beginners and experienced skiers.
✅ Fun penguin interactions.

3. Desert Safari (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)

⭐ Best for: Families who want an authentic Arabian adventure.

The UAE’s deserts offer unforgettable experiences, from dune bashing to campfire dinners under the stars.

🐪 Exciting Activities:

• Camel Riding: A classic way to explore the desert.
• Sandboarding: Surf down the sand dunes.
• Falcon Shows: Get close to these majestic birds of prey.
• Overnight Camping: Experience stargazing and traditional Emirati hospitality.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Thrilling 4×4 dune rides.
✅ Meet camels and try sandboarding.
✅ Cultural performances and fire shows.

Iconic Landmarks for Kids

The UAE is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, offering stunning views and fun experiences for families.

1. Ain Dubai (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Families who want a unique city view experience.

Standing at 250 meters, Ain Dubai is the world’s largest observation wheel.

🎡 Experience Includes:

• 48 air-conditioned cabins.
• Breathtaking views of Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab.
• Private family cabins available.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Amazing city views.
✅ Exciting ride in a glass capsule.
✅ Perfect for family photos.

2. Burj Khalifa (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Kids who love sky-high adventures.

As the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa offers a once-in-a-lifetime view from its observation decks.

🏙️ Observation Decks:

• Level 124 & 125: Outdoor terrace with interactive telescopes.
• Level 148: The highest public observation deck in the world.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Panoramic views from the top.
✅ High-speed elevators.
✅ Interactive exhibits about Dubai’s growth.

3. Dubai Frame (Dubai)

⭐ Best for: Families who want historical and futuristic views in one place.

The Dubai Frame is a 150-meter-high glass bridge that connects past and future Dubai.

🖼️ Experience Includes:

• Old Dubai View: See traditional neighborhoods like Al Fahidi.
• New Dubai View: Stunning skyscrapers and modern landmarks.
• Glass Floor Walk: Walk above the city for a thrilling experience.

Why Kids Will Love It:
✅ Fun glass floor experience.
✅ See Dubai’s history and future in one place.
✅ Unique family photos.

From wildlife encounters and desert safaris to high-energy adventures and stunning city views, the UAE is filled with outdoor experiences that will excite the whole family.

Plan your next family outdoor adventure in the UAE today! 🏕️🌟

Free & Budget-Friendly Family Attractions

The UAE offers plenty of exciting activities that don’t cost a dirham!

Best Public Parks

• Zabeel Park (Dubai): Home to Dubai Garden Glow and Dinosaur Park.
• Al Barsha Pond Park (Dubai): A peaceful park with bike rentals and play areas.
• Mushrif Park (Dubai): A great place for family picnics and pony rides.

Beaches & Waterfront Fun

• Kite Beach (Dubai): Play in the sand, swim, or enjoy the outdoor trampoline park.
• Saadiyat Beach (Abu Dhabi): A scenic beach with gentle waves, perfect for kids.
• Jumeirah Beach (Dubai): A family-friendly beach with soft white sand and playgrounds.

Cultural & Educational Experiences

• Global Village (Dubai): A cultural hub featuring pavilions from 90+ countries.
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi): An architectural marvel with free guided tours.
• Qasr Al Watan (Abu Dhabi): A majestic palace showcasing Emirati heritage and history.

Shopping Malls with Kids’ Activities

Shopping in the UAE is more than just retail therapy—it’s an experience!

• Dubai Mall: Home to KidZania, Play DXB, and the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.
• Mall of the Emirates: Features Ski Dubai, Magic Planet, and a cinema complex.
• City Walk (Dubai): An open-air shopping district with family-friendly attractions.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels & Resorts

• Lapita Hotel (Dubai): A Polynesian-themed resort inside Dubai Parks & Resorts.
• Atlantis, The Palm (Dubai): A world-famous resort with Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium.
• Jumeirah Beach Hotel (Dubai): A beachfront hotel with direct access to Wild Wadi Waterpark.
• Emirates Palace (Abu Dhabi): A luxurious stay with kid-friendly pools and activities.

Tips for Traveling with Kids in the UAE

• Best time to visit: November–March (cooler temperatures).
• Getting around: Metro, taxis, and rental cars are family-friendly options.
• Dining: Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus.
• Safety tips: Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and be mindful of UAE’s laws and customs.

The UAE is a dream destination for families, offering a mix of adventure, education, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring a theme park, cooling off in a waterpark, or discovering cultural landmarks, there’s no shortage of ways to create unforgettable family memories.

Start planning your perfect family getaway to the UAE today! 🚀

If you are interested more in Tourism in UAE, we advise you to read our Journeys Junkie’s Blogs from:

• Popular Tourist Areas in Dubai in 2025
• Tourism in Dubai 2025
• Best Kids Activities in Dubai 
• UAE Tourist Visa 2025
• Skydiving in Dubai
• Dubai Art Season 2025
• Best Time to Visit Dubai

FAQs about Tourism in UAE for Kids

Here are some FAQs about Tourism in UAE for Kids with the accurate answers:

What is special in Dubai for kids?

What makes Dubai a great destination for kids?

Dubai offers an array of exciting attractions for children, from sky-high observation decks at Burj Khalifa to thrilling water slides at Aquaventure Waterpark. Families can also explore the stunning Dubai Fountain shows, visit the massive Dubai Mall with kid-friendly experiences like KidZania and the Dubai Aquarium, or take a trip to Miracle Garden, home to breathtaking floral displays. For a cultural experience, Global Village and Dubai Frame provide interactive learning opportunities while offering unforgettable views.

‪Why is UAE good for tourism?

Why is the UAE a top choice for tourists?

The UAE is a preferred tourist destination due to its strategic location, connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa. The country boasts world-class infrastructure, making travel smooth with well-connected airports, extensive metro systems, and luxurious accommodations for all budgets. With a mix of modern attractions, cultural heritage, and adventure experiences, the UAE caters to a variety of travelers.

What are some fun facts about the United Arab Emirates for kids? 

What are some interesting facts about the UAE for kids?

• The UAE is home to over 200 nationalities, making it one of the most diverse countries in the world.
• Dubai is the largest city in the UAE, known for its record-breaking skyscrapers and attractions.
• On February 9, 2021, the UAE became the first Arab country to reach Mars, a significant achievement in space exploration.

Is Dubai worth visiting with kids?

Is Dubai a good place to visit with children?

Absolutely! Dubai is one of the most family-friendly destinations, offering safe, clean, and engaging experiences for kids. Many hotels feature dedicated play areas and kid-friendly services, while attractions like theme parks, waterparks, and interactive museums provide endless fun. The city is well-organized, ensuring stress-free transportation and family-friendly amenities throughout.

Is there a Disneyland in Dubai? 

Is there a Disneyland in Dubai?

Currently, Dubai does not have a Disneyland, but it is home to several world-class theme parks that offer immersive experiences similar to Disneyland. Attractions like Motiongate Dubai, Legoland Dubai, and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi bring beloved characters and thrilling rides to life, making Dubai a fantastic destination for theme park lovers.

Where can I take my kids for free in Dubai?

Where can I take my kids for free in Dubai?

Dubai offers several free attractions for families, ensuring fun without breaking the bank:

What kind of tourism is popular in UAE?

What types of tourism are popular in the UAE?

The UAE attracts tourists with a variety of experiences, including:

• Luxury tourism – High-end hotels, exclusive shopping, and fine dining.
• Adventure tourism – Desert safaris, skydiving, and zip-lining.
• Cultural tourism – Visits to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Al Fahidi Historical District, and Qasr Al Watan.
• Eco-tourism – Wildlife reserves, mangrove kayaking, and mountain hikes.

What is the simple definition of tourism?

How do we define tourism in simple terms?

Tourism refers to the act of traveling to different places for leisure, business, or cultural exploration. It involves visiting attractions, experiencing new cultures, and engaging in recreational activities outside one’s home region.

Why is Dubai a tourist attraction?

Why is Dubai a top tourist attraction?

Dubai stands out as a leading travel destination due to its futuristic architecture, vibrant entertainment, luxury experiences, and record-breaking landmarks. From the world’s tallest building (Burj Khalifa) to the largest man-made islands (Palm Jumeirah), Dubai continuously pushes boundaries to offer visitors unparalleled attractions. The city also boasts expansive shopping malls, adventure parks, and cultural sites, making it an all-in-one destination.

‪What is Dubai explained for kids?

How can kids understand what Dubai is?

Dubai is an emirate (small kingdom) within the United Arab Emirates (UAE), located in the Middle East along the Persian Gulf. It is the second largest emirate in the UAE and is famous for its modern skyline, luxurious lifestyle, and exciting attractions. Dubai is a city where you can see deserts, beaches, skyscrapers, and theme parks—all in one place!