Planning a vacation with kids can be quite challenging and you have to make travel choices that cater to keeping your kids amused and excited. So, if you’re heading to Dubai, here’s a list of fun things to do in Dubai with kids!
Dubai, apart from being a chic modern metropolis and a shopping haven for travellers, has over the years proved itself as a promising destination for families. Dubai is one of those cities in the world that has something for everyone irrespective of age. For kids and teens, Dubai offers various activities and entertainment which are not only exciting but happen to be some of the best and unique experiences seldom found in any other destination.
We highly recommend getting the Dubai Explorer Pass to save up to 47% on the cost of admission at 3, 4, 5 or 7 kid friendly attractions in Dubai (including most of the below + more). Buy yours here.
Here’s our complete guide to some of the best kid friendly and family friendly attractions in Dubai.
See also: Where to Stay in Dubai
Fun things to do in Dubai with kids
Aquaventure Water Park and Lost Chambers Aquarium
Based on the mythical world of Atlantis, Aquaventure Water Park and the Lost Chambers Aquarium is one place where you and your kids can enjoy a wet splashing day full of exciting rides and marvel at the wondrous aquatic world. A perfect place for your kids to come close to beautiful marine species as well as enjoy heart thumping water slides and thrilling rides, some of which takes you through glass tunnels surrounded by sharks, rays and other aquatic animals.
The park has dedicated spots for kids and toddlers – the Splashers children’s play area which is designed keeping kid’s safety in mind offers large pools to splash around along with little slides, hanging bridges and climbing areas. Let the little ones have a fantastic time splashing around in water, watch them getting awestruck by the sheer beauty of amazing ocean life and have splendid moments filled with fun and laughter.
Book your combo ticket online before you go!
Dubai City Tour
Dubai is a land of wonders and taking a city tour through its amazing collection of iconic landmarks, famous Dubai parks, theme parks, record-breaking sights and scenic spots is a worthwhile experience. See your kids get awestruck at the sight of the world’s tallest structure and marvel at Dubai Fountain’s beautifully synchronised musical performance.
Take photo stops at Burj Al Arab, stroll around Old Dubai and experience the astounding change in scenery – from the glitzy modern ambience of modern Dubai to the charming quaint vistas of Al Bastakiya Quarters and bustling lanes of Dubai Souks. Young ones would enjoy sampling some of Dubai’s local Arabian cuisine as well as enriching their knowledge on the historic culture during a Dubai city tour.
Dubai Mall
If there is one place in Dubai where you can spend an entire day shopping while enjoying the best in entertainment, cuisine and recreational activities all under one roof, Dubai Mall perfectly fits your desire. It’s one of the must-do things to do in Dubai with kids – purely because there’s so much to do and see here!
While you can enjoy the shopping trip of your dreams, kids and teens can have a fun day keeping themselves occupied with stunning attractions.
They can visit mesmerizing ocean world at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, have fun playing exciting games and simulated rides at SEGA Republic and Kidzania, and glide and swirl around on an ice field at the Olympic sized Dubai Ice rink. After an enthusiastic day, refresh and tuck into some delicious food from an assortment of traditional and international restaurants and cafes.
See also: Shopping in Dubai
Ski Dubai
Surprise your kids by taking them to play in snow amid the desert land. Visit Ski Dubai and watch them wonder in disbelief that changes into shrieks of amazement as they step inside this freezing indoor arena. Enjoy a whole day having snow fights, making snow angels or snowman, watching penguin parades and enjoying winter activities such as chairlifts, skiing and snowboarding. Ski Dubai is also a great way to spend some refreshing time away from Dubai’s harsh heat.
Bounce Dubai
Go crazy jumping at Bounce Dubai. As usual, Dubai adds another unique attraction to its endless list of amazing attractions. Located in a warehouse in Al Quoz, you will find yourself amid rows of brightly coloured trampolines where your kids can jump up high and down, tumble down splitting into laughter. Join in the fun for a game of dodgeball and slam dunk with your kids. Bounce Dubai is extremely popular indoor trampoline park among youths and is a great way to spend quality time with kids.
Children’s City Dubai
Get your kids to have fun and learn simultaneously at Children’s City – an edutainment park specially designed for kids between the age of 2 to 15 years. The Children’s City is set at Creek Park and offers science-based galleries and exhibitions, a planetarium, nature spots and theater. Children’s City is UAE’s first edutainment city focusing on learning via fun and enjoyment. It lets your children discover, explore and learn about the world they live in while having a great time partaking in various activities.
Dubai Dolphinarium
One of the most loved attractions among children, Dubai Dolphinarium lets your kids have a wonderful time watching dolphins and seals perform amazing skills and tricks as well as come close to them, touch and interact with them. Dubai Dolphinarium is the Middle East’s first fully air-conditioned indoor amusement park where dolphins and seals are kept in a comfortable habitat to entertain you with their talents through live performances. Watch your kids clap in delight as the Dolphins jump high, dance and juggle. Later on, interact with them and capture these memories with a photo session.
Dubai LEGOLAND
LEGOLAND Dubai features 15,000 LEGO® models plus themed rides, shows & attractions. It’s a full day of fun for kids and parents. Make sure to get your tickets online before you go – you can get them here.
From ski areas to splashing water parks, innovative high-tech rides to close encounters with nature’s best creations, Dubai is bound to make your kids fall in love with the city.
Places to stay in Dubai with Kids
If it wasn’t clear from all of the content above, let the record show that Dubai is a complete and total family-friendly wonderland. It is clear that this city has put a lot into the entertainment of families, but they haven’t forgotten about accommodation wither. Better yet, there are a wide variety of locations for you and your loved ones to choose from that have all-inclusive packages too!
So, to help seal the deal on your Dubai trip, let’s look at some awesome kid-friendly places for you and your whole family to stay at!
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
Located in a prime area of Jumeirah Beach, this 5-star beach resort is the perfect place to take your family! For starters, this spectacular resort has 5 incredible pools, access to a beach and 8 incredible restaurants. And while you enjoy the amazing sunshine and cooling pool options, the kids are entertained too. At the Westin Mina Seyahi children can enjoy a kids pool, daily beach games and kids club!
Book your stay here.
Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai
Situated in Dubai, 6 km from Grand Mosque, Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai features accommodation with a number of inspiring amenities for you to enjoy! From the private beach area to the renowned restaurant with an impressive variety of foods and the shared lounge area for all guests, this place is often considered to be a paradise. At Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai, there is also a great interactive kids club that will keep the kids busy and entertained.
Book your stay here.
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
If you are looking for an accommodation spit that is close to fun outdoor activities, then the Mandarin Oriental Jumeira is the ideal location for you. The property is situated 250 m from Mercato Mall, 2.6 km from The Village Mall and 3.1 km from City Walk Mall. This exclusive resort is also known for its innovative cuisine and world-class mixology in a vibrant setting. One of which s Sublimotion, a unique multi-sensory dining experience by renowned two-Michelin-starred Chef Paco Roncero. There are also a number of onsite areas for the kids to explore and enjoy while you rest!
Book your stay here.
Taking your kids to Dubai is an experience you and your little ones will never forget. So pack your bags, book your seats and let the adventure of a lifetime begin!