Dubai is a city that truly has it all – from breathtaking architecture to thrilling theme parks, stunning beaches, and rich cultural experiences, it’s the perfect destination for a family vacation. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best “things to do in Dubai with kids”, ensuring unforgettable memories for the entire family! Are you ready to discover the magic of Dubai with your kids? Let’s dive in!
Short Summary
- Explore the ultimate family fun at Dubai’s top attractions like The Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah!
- Experience thrilling activities with your kids, from Desert Safari to Ziplining at XLine Dubai Marina!
- Indulge in unique dining experiences like interactive KidZania & mesmerizing Turkish Ice Cream Show for a lifetime of memories!
Table of Contents
Dubai’s Top Family Attractions
Dubai is a city that never sleeps, and its top family attractions are no exception. With a diverse range of options to choose from, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the top family attractions in Dubai include:
- The Dubai Mall, which offers world-renowned shopping opportunities
- The Burj Khalifa, where you can enjoy breathtaking views
- The luxurious man-made island of Palm Jumeirah
Your family is guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience while visiting Dubai.
Whether you’re looking for a fun day out at the Dubai Aquarium or Underwater, you’re looking for a fun day out at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater.
Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is a must-visit destination for families, offering a dazzling array of shopping, entertainment, and attractions for all ages. Home to the world’s largest suspended aquarium tank, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, your little ones will be mesmerized by the 300 species of marine animals, including the world’s biggest collection of Sand Tiger sharks.
For an icy escape from the desert heat, don’t miss the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink at Dubai Mall. With ticket prices starting at a reasonable AED 85, it’s an ideal activity for families looking to cool off and have some old-fashion fun.
And for LEGO enthusiasts, the massive LEGO Store at the Mall of Emirates has every imaginable LEGO kit and a “Pick a Brick” section where you can choose your own single pieces of LEGO! With so much to see and do, the Dubai Mall is the perfect place for a day of family fun.
Burj Khalifa
No trip to Dubai would be complete without visiting the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower standing at an astonishing 2722 feet, and the luxurious Burj Al Arab. This iconic landmark offers incredible views and an interactive exhibit about its construction. Ascend to the observation decks on levels 124 & 125 for a breathtaking perspective of Dubai’s skyline. Be sure to visit during sunset for the best views and an unforgettable experience.
Dining options at the Burj Khalifa range from Breakfast in the Clouds on the 152nd floor to Tea in the Clouds on the 154th floor, or enjoy a meal at Atmosphere on the 122nd floor. This truly unique experience will leave your family with memories to last a lifetime.
Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island shaped like a palm tree, is a testament to Dubai’s innovation and luxury. Featuring upscale hotels, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly attractions like Aquaventure Waterpark, it’s a must-visit destination for families. With thrilling rides and slides, a private beach, and live entertainment, Aquaventure Waterpark provides endless fun for kids and adults alike.
Palm Jumeirah also offers a variety of exciting activities, such as kayaking, interacting with dolphins at Atlantis, and visiting the VIP section at The View at the Palm. With so much to experience, Palm Jumeirah is the perfect spot for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Water Parks and Beaches for Kids
When the temperature rises, water parks and beaches in Dubai offer the perfect escape for families. With options like Aquaventure Waterpark, Wild Wadi Waterpark, and Kite Beach, you’ll never run out of fun and refreshing ways to spend your days.
Whether you prefer thrilling water slides or simply relaxing by the shore, these attractions cater to all ages and interests.
Aquaventure Waterpark
Located at The Atlantis, The Palm resort, Aquaventure Waterpark is a must-visit attraction for families seeking a thrilling theme park experience. Boasting over 105 rides, slides, and attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at one of the best theme parks, from adrenaline-pumping slides like the Tower of Poseidon and the Leap of Faith to more relaxed activities like the lazy river and wave pools.
Don’t miss the chance to swim with dolphins, mingle with sea lions, and feed cownose rays for an extra special experience.
Wild Wadi Waterpark
Experience Arabian-themed water park fun at Wild Wadi Waterpark, featuring over 30 thrilling rides, slides, and attractions based on the character Juha from Arabian folklore. Some of the highlights include:
- Tantrum Alley: an adrenaline-pumping slide experience
- Burj Surj: another thrilling slide for the adventurous
- Lazy river floating: a relaxing way to enjoy the water park
- Wave pools: perfect for those who love the beach experience
Whether you’re seeking excitement or relaxation, Wild Wadi Waterpark has something for everyone.
Wild Wadi Waterpark offers an unforgettable day of excitement for the whole family. With something for everyone, it’s the perfect place to make memories that will last a lifetime.
Kite Beach
Kite Beach is a popular coastal spot in Dubai, offering families a variety of water sports, playgrounds, and dining options to enjoy. Try your hand at kite flying, kayaking, or kite surfing, and let the kids run wild at the adventure playgrounds.
With soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, Kite Beach is the perfect place for families to unwind and soak up the sun.
Indoor Adventures for Hot Days
Dubai’s scorching heat can sometimes be overwhelming, but fear not! The city offers a plethora of indoor adventures to keep you entertained and cool. With attractions like Ski Dubai, Green Planet, and the OliOli Interactive Museum, families can enjoy a day of fun and learning away from the sun.
Ski Dubai is the world’s largest indoor ski resort, offering a variety of activities.
Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East, offers a unique and exciting experience for families. Spanning 22,500 square meters and featuring a 400-meter-long run with five slopes of varying difficulty, there’s something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned skiers and snowboarders.
The Snow Park also offers a chance to meet real penguins and enjoy other snow-based activities.
Green Planet
Green Planet is a vertical rainforest biodome, showcasing a diverse array of species and immersive experiences for families to explore. Home to over 3,000 plants and animals, Green Planet offers a unique opportunity for children to learn about the world’s rainforests and the importance of conservation.
With hands-on exhibits and educational play, Green Planet is an ideal destination for a fun and informative day out.
OliOli Interactive Museum
For a truly engaging and educational experience, visit the OliOli Interactive Museum. It features:
- Hands-on exhibits
- Educational play for children
- Focus on science, math, engineering, technology, and art
- 45 amazing exhibits across 8 galleries
- Suitable for children aged two to 11
Immerse your child in a world of discovery and learning at OliOli Interactive Museum.
From building their own robots to exploring the wonders of water, OliOli offers hours of entertainment and inspiration for young minds.
Cultural Experiences for Families
Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and taking the time to explore its rich history and traditions can be a rewarding experience for the whole family. Attractions like Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Jumeirah Mosque, and Global Village offer a glimpse into the city’s past and present, allowing families to learn and connect with the local culture. In addition, downtown Dubai provides a modern contrast to these historical sites, showcasing the city’s impressive growth and development, including the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain. A visit to Dubai Creek further enriches this cultural exploration, as it has played a significant role in the city’s history.
Visiting these attractions is a great way to get a better understanding of the city.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Step back in time at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, a preserved area showcasing traditional Emirati architecture, museums, and galleries in Abu Dhabi. Wander the narrow streets and admire the beautiful wind towers, which were an early form of air conditioning in the hot desert climate.
Visit the Dubai Museum, housed in the old Al Fahidi Fort, to learn about the city’s history and development.
Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque, one of Dubai’s largest and most beautiful mosques, offers an opportunity for families to learn about Islamic culture and religion. Open to non-Muslims, guided tours are available for those who wish to explore the stunning architecture and gain a deeper understanding of the mosque’s cultural significance.
This enlightening experience at the Dubai Butterfly Garden will create lasting memories and foster an appreciation for the diverse cultures that make up Dubai. Don’t miss the chance to also visit the nearby Dubai Garden Glow for an unforgettable evening.
Global Village
Global Village is a seasonal fairground that offers:
- Food from over 70 countries
- Entertainment and traditions from around the world
- Over 200 dining options with international cuisines
- Market stalls
- Shows and concerts
- Thrilling rides
Global Village is a cultural extravaganza that the whole family can enjoy.
Open from October to April each year, this popular attraction is a must-visit during your family vacation in Dubai.
Adventurous Activities for Kids
For families seeking a more adrenaline-fueled experience, Dubai offers a variety of adventurous activities to keep the excitement high. From desert safaris and hot air balloon rides to ziplining at XLine Dubai Marina, there’s no shortage of thrilling options for kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re looking for a heart-pumping adventure or a leisurely day, you’ll find it here.
Desert Safari
A Dubai desert safari is an unforgettable way to experience traditional Arabic culture and enjoy exciting activities like camel riding, sandboarding, and dune bashing. As the sun sets, families can enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner under the stars and learn about the age-old local falconry tradition.
With a variety of packages available, a desert safari is an adventure that can be tailored to suit any family’s preferences.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Soar above Dubai’s stunning landscape on a hot air balloon ride, providing a unique and memorable experience for the whole family. Marvel at the beauty of the desert, the city’s impressive skyline, and the vibrant coastline as you float gently through the sky.
With options to include breakfast or a champagne toast, a hot air balloon ride is an adventure you’ll never forget.
Ziplining at XLine Dubai Marina
For thrill-seekers, XLine Dubai Marina is the world’s longest urban zipline, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience that you won’t want to miss. At a height of 170 meters above ground, and reaching speeds up to 80km/h, it’s an unforgettable way to take in the breathtaking views of Dubai Marina and its surrounding landmarks.
Suitable for children aged 12 and above, this exhilarating attraction is perfect for older kids looking for a unique adventure in Dubai.
Dining Experiences for Families
Dubai’s dining scene is as diverse as its attractions, offering a range of unique and entertaining experiences for families. From interactive dining at KidZania to mesmerizing Turkish ice cream shows and the unforgettable Dinner in the Sky, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out with the family.
KidZania
Located within the Dubai Mall, KidZania is an indoor city where children can role-play various professions and earn “KidZos” to spend on shopping and dining. With over 80 exciting professions to choose from, kids can learn valuable life skills while having a blast.
This interactive experience is perfect for young kids aged 4 to 16, making it an ideal activity when exploring Dubai with kids. It offers a fun and educational way to spend a day in the city.
Turkish Ice Cream Show
For a delicious treat and entertaining performance, head to The Walk in Dubai to catch a Turkish ice cream show. These skilled vendors put on a captivating show, playfully teasing customers before finally handing over their ice cream.
With a unique texture and unforgettable taste, Turkish ice cream is a must-try experience for the whole family.
Dinner in the Sky
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, book a table at Dinner in the Sky. This luxurious fine dining option suspends guests 50 meters off the ground, offering spectacular views of Dubai’s skyline while enjoying a gourmet meal.
With a variety of menu options and seating arrangements, Dinner in the Sky is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave your family with lasting memories.
Summary
In conclusion, Dubai offers a wealth of family-friendly activities and attractions, ensuring an unforgettable vacation for everyone. From world-class shopping and iconic landmarks to thrilling theme parks, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags and get ready to create lasting memories with your family in the dazzling city of Dubai!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Dubai is an amazing and kid-friendly destination. With its stunning beaches, family-friendly activities, beautiful architecture, and culture, it’s a great place to take your children for an unforgettable experience.
With a little preparation and knowledge of the local culture, you and your kids can have the time of your lives in Dubai!
Visiting Dubai with your family is sure to be an amazing experience, with attractions such as the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Aquaventure Waterpark, and Global Village.
These attractions provide endless fun for all ages!
Yes indeed! Dubai has so many great indoor attractions like Ski Dubai, Green Planet, and the OliOli Interactive Museum – all perfect options for hot days.
For a truly unique family experience, explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, admire the Jumeirah Mosque and explore the diverse cultures at Global Village in Dubai.
If your kids are looking for a thrilling adventure, Dubai is the perfect destination! They can enjoy exciting activities such as desert safaris, hot air balloon rides and ziplining at XLine Dubai Marina.
These activities are sure to provide your kids with an unforgettable experience. From the stunning views of the desert to the vibrant city life, Dubai has something for everyone. Plus, plus, there is a bonus.