Visiting Dubai with Kids | 25 Super FUN Things to Do

Dubai is a city for all! This means you definitely don’t have to leave your little ones behind for your Dubai holiday. After all, there are plenty of things to do in Dubai with kids and family.

We have created this post to give you an idea of the top Dubai attractions and experiences that you should visit with kids. This also includes some cool tips and practical information to help you plan your visit.

So read on to learn how to make the most of your Dubai trip with family and little ones. 

Things To Do In Dubai With Kids – Overview 

In this post, we have covered activities and experiences in every category, so that you can easily pick the ones that fit with your kids’ or family’s preferences. 

Sightseeing with a twist 

Experiencing the culture is a must when visiting a new city or destination. Here are some great ways to experience the best of Dubai and see its top sights.

Heritage Express Dubai Tour

This distinct tour aboard a traditionally decorated, bright red bus is one of the best ways to introduce your little ones to the region’s unmissable historical points of interest.

Aptly dubbed as “Culture on Wheels”, this promises you an authentic understanding of the Emirati culture and heritage, with a knowledgeable local guide by your side. 

Dhow Cruise

This is another alternative sightseeing experience which your kids are definitely going to enjoy. It’s mostly in the form of a dinner cruise which kicks off after the sunset and lasts for about two hours.

Beyond scrumptious dining and live entertainment onboard, it allows you to see Dubai’s city skyline from a distinct standpoint on water. 

Wonder Bus Tour

It’s a surefire sightseeing option to excite your kids. Given its amphibious characteristics, this tour guarantees the best of both worlds as it lets you see Dubai from both land and water. 

Escape Games & Coolest Ever Theme Park Rides 

No list of things to do in Dubai with kids would be complete without mentioning the city’s incredible amusement parks, themed adventures, and thrilling rides. Here are a few to consider adding to your family’s Dubai itinerary.

IMG Worlds of Adventure 

Whether you want to delight your kids or want to be a kid again, the largest of its kind IMG Worlds of Adventure will never disappoint you.

Its four exciting zones have some amazing rides and attractions which allow you to catch up with your favorite Marvel superheroes, cartoon characters and even dinosaurs. 

Dubai Parks and Resorts 

Theme park fun and excitement can’t get any better than with Dubai Parks and Resorts.

It’s the region’s first integrated resort and its main attraction is certainly its four theme parks such as Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, LEGOLAND Dubai and LEGOLAND Water Park. 

Escape Hunt 

Looking for a fun and adventure-packed activity that you can enjoy with your whole family?

Consider a trip to Escape Hunt within the Galleria Mall.

Pick from your favorite theme and then tap the best qualities of all members in your group to unravel the hidden message, piece together the puzzles, and solve the mystery, so that you can escape the room before the time runs out. 

Ski Dubai 

Fancy throwing snow in the desert? Ski Dubai inside Mall of the Emirates is the place to be.

Yes, this snow-filled destination will transport you to a real wonderland where you can ski, sledge, and snowboard, among other snow inspired activities. 

It is a great place to teach little ones to ski. But be sure to come dressed to ski, as Ski Dubai is a chilly -1 degrees Celsius (30 degrees Fahrenheit) inside.

Nature, Adventure and Wildlife Experiences 

If nature and wildlife interest you more than amusement parks, these experiences will make you feel thousands of miles away from the city.

The Green Planet Dubai 

Dubai may be a desert city; that said; you get to experience lush rainforest and refreshing greenery at its best. And you don’t have to go to a country like Costa Rica to experience the rainforest.

You can experience it for yourself in Dubai with a visit to Green Planet at the City Walk.

It’s the Middle East’s first Bio-Dome where you can discover over 3,000 distinct flora and fauna. With its four layers built around a massive 25-meters high tree and filled with several exotic creatures, your smaller ones are sure to enjoy this place. 

Aventura Park 

Let your kids get active in the midst of nature! Lying along the indigenous ghaf forest, Aventura Park in Mushrif Park is your go to place.

With access to over 80 challenges (including ziplining, tree climbing, and rope swinging) across its five courses, there is probably no more amazing way than a visit here to satisfy your little Tarzan. 

Dubai Safari Park 

Who told Dubai is not a place for wildlife enthusiasts? Take your kids to Dubai Safari Park; this 119-hectare attraction in Al Warqa region is more than a zoo.

It has over 5,000 animals brought from different parts of the world in its four zones. You also get to participate in many exciting experiences such as drive through adventure which brings you closer to some of the most ferocious and mightiest wild animals like lions and tigers. 

Desert Safari 

Whether it’s your first or fiftieth Dubai visit, this quintessential Dubai activity is hard to miss.

This guided tour will journey you to the middle of the Arabian Desert which is still pristine and well preserved. Similar to Sahara Desert experiences in Morocco and North Africa, many activities covered in a Dubai Desert Safari, such as 4X4 dune bash, camel ride, and sandboard, enable you to take in the desert beauty up-close and in its entire splendor.

It is one of the best day trips from Dubai, especially for families who want to experience the Middle East’s iconic deserts.

Want to add cultural and traditional experiences to your desert trip? Choose evening desert safari inclusive of henna tattooing, Shisha smoking, falconry and BBQ dining. 

Aerial Adventure 

Traveling with an adrenaline lover? These experiences let them take to the skies and feel like their flying!

iFly Dubai 

Sky diving may be an extreme activity for your little ones. But iFly Dubai in the Playnation Level of Mirdif City Centre lets your little ones feel the bonafide thrill of freefall and skydive (without ever jumping out of the aircraft) in an absolutely safe environment.

And the best thing is that it is even ideal for your kids above three years. 

XLine Dubai 

This is one activity that allows your kids above 12 years to fly like a superhero. For those who don’t know, it is the world’s longest and fastest urban zipline. 

Water Fun And Rides 

Temperatures in Dubai can be hot, which makes water activities a very popular choice for family-friendly fun. Here are a few places to stay cool in Dubai during the heat of the day.

Aquaventure Water Park 

This is one of the ultimate parks for absolute water based amusement and thrill. Located inside the acclaimed Atlantis, The Palm Resort, Aquaventure Water Park has some incredible rides and slides to cater to every skill level. 

Laguna Water Park 

Featuring four remarkable zones, this brand-new water park in La Mer, is where you can splish and splash to your heart’s content.

It’s especially famous for its advanced surf machine, WaveOz 180 FloRider which is the first of its kind in the whole GCC area. 

AquaFun Dubai

Looking to have water fun and adventure with an unbelievable twist? You can’t go wrong by visiting AquaFun Dubai.

After all, it’s the world’s largest inflatable water park. All of its rides and attractions are set completely outdoors along the JBR Beach. 

Sweet Surprises 

Dubai may be known for its multitude of international cuisine options. But for kids, it’s all about the sweets! Here are a few places to let your little ones indulge.

Candylicious 

What’s a kids’ special Dubai trip without some delicious treat? Yes, be sure to take your kids to some of the city’s sweetest spots, mainly Candylicious.

Located inside Dubai Mall, it is the largest candy store in the Middle East. 

Pappabubble 

This is another must-visit spot for all candy lovers. You not only get to shop your favorite candies here but also take in first-hand how it’s created, molded and finally packed. 

Exciting Shows And Events

Dubai offers world-class entertainment and events. Here are a few kid-friendly shows that you can catch year round.

Dubai Dolphinarium 

It’s a must-see for anyone traveling to Dubai with kids.

Placed within Dubai Creek Park, its main attraction is a 45-minute dolphin and seal show which is certain to entertain your smaller ones from its start to end. 

Palm Fountain 

This latest Dubai attraction is the world’s largest fountain. It’s nothing but a choreographed aquatic show in perfect harmony of music and light.

What makes it extra special is that it’s the region’s first colored show. 

Dubai Fountain 

It was the largest fountain until the launch of Palm Fountain. That said, it still continues to be one of the most watched and admired Dubai shows. 

Finally, don’t miss these iconic sights

Of course, you cannot visit Dubai without including a few of the city’s most recognizable and noteworthy sights. These famous Dubai attractions are not to be missed!

Burj Khalifa 

Whether you are traveling to Dubai with kids or not, a Dubai holiday trip is not complete until you see Burj Khalifa.

With its needle-like design that soars to a height of 828 meters, it’s the world’s tallest building.

Take your kids to its observation deck on the 124th or 148^th level and they will surely enjoy it, from the fastest of its kind elevator ride to the stunning 360 degree views of the city skyline and multimedia presentation on Dubai’s past. 

The Dubai Mall 

It’s a shopper’s paradise with over 1,200 outlets. More than that, it is an absolute dining and leisure spot for all age groups with over 200 dining venues and attractions including Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

Not to mention, it’s hands down a treat for your kids, thanks to highlights like KidZania Dubai, Dubai Ice Rink, Dubai Dino and the largest of its kind VR Park Dubai. 

Palm Jumeirah 

This palm-tree-shaped island is so unique and iconic that it’s famed all over the world. So be sure to add this man-made island on your Dubai bucket list. 

Burj Al Arab 

This is another legendary spot that you shouldn’t miss in Dubai. It’s recognizable for its sail-shaped structure and is one of the world’s most luxurious hotels. 

Want to stay there? Check prices here!

Important Things To Consider For Your Dubai Trip With Kids 

• Any holiday or trip with kids in tow will be activity packed, so take care to plan each of them ahead of time. Compare prices and check for the best deals and coupon codes before you book an activity or tour. 
• The same applies to other aspects of your holiday or vacation, such as accommodations, sightseeing, airline tickets, and transfers. 
• Dubai is an incredibly safe city, but avoid taking your kids to an attraction or spot during its peak hours, as it will be crowded. 

Conclusion on visiting Dubai with kids

Did you ever consider going on a trip to Dubai with kids?

Throw all your speculations to the wind. Dubai has all staples and indeed some striking surprises to assure you an immaculate family-friendly holiday with the most prized and unforgettable moments. 

Like it? Pin this list of family-friendly activities in Dubai to save for later!

Thanks to our guest writer, Neha from Dubai Wikia for contributing this article on the best things to do in Dubai with kids. Neha is a postgraduate in Mass Communications and a keen writer. She is passionate about traveling to new places, reading fiction, learning new things and loves being a nature trekker.

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