Dubai has family activities for every age and almost every month of the year, from beaches, waterparks and desert adventures to aquariums, indoor theme parks and hands-on learning. The key is choosing activities that suit your children's ages, interests and the time of year. This guide explores the best things to do in Dubai with kids, including outdoor adventures, indoor attractions, free family activities and practical tips for planning a memorable family holiday.
What are the best family activities in Dubai?
If you're short on time, these seven options cover the main types of family day out:
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
- Best for: All ages, especially younger children
- Indoor / outdoor: Indoor
- Time needed: 1.5-2 hours
Aquaventure Waterpark
- Best for: Ages 5+ and teens, thrill and splash fun
- Indoor / outdoor: Outdoor
- Time needed: Full day
Desert safari
- Best for: Families with older children
- Indoor / outdoor: Outdoor
- Time needed: 5-6 hours
Dubai Mall & KidZania
- Best for: Ages roughly 4-14, role-play and learning
- Indoor / outdoor: Indoor
- Time needed: Half to full day
Dubai Miracle Garden
- Best for: Younger children, slow-paced days
- Indoor / outdoor: Outdoor, seasonal
- Time needed: 2-3 hours
Dubai Creek and an abra ride
- Best for: All ages, culture and short outings
- Indoor / outdoor: Outdoor
- Time needed: 2-4 hours
Kite Beach / family beach day
- Best for: All ages, downtime and water play
- Indoor / outdoor: Outdoor
- Time needed: Half to full day
If you're visiting during the hotter months, prioritise indoor attractions and save outdoor experiences for cooler mornings or evenings.
Things to know when visiting Dubai with kids
Dubai is a family-friendly destination, but a little preparation can make a big difference, particularly when traveling with young children. Keep these points in mind when choosing activities:
Consider the distances between attractions: Dubai is spread out, and places that appear relatively close on a map can involve lengthy journeys. Planning activities within the same neighbourhood will save time and make outings more enjoyable.
Think about the weather: The most comfortable months for outdoor family activities are generally November to March. During summer, indoor attractions become particularly useful, while beach and pool time is best planned carefully around the heat.
Check age and height restrictions: Waterparks, theme parks and adventure experiences often have restrictions that determine which rides children can use. Check these before booking, especially if children of different ages are travelling together.
Book popular attractions in advance: Dubai's best-known family attractions can become busy during weekends, school holidays and peak travel periods.
Plan time for breaks: A day at a waterpark or theme park can be exhausting, particularly for younger children. Balance longer outings with quieter days at the beach, by the pool or at your accommodation.
If you're travelling with a baby or toddler, it's also worth checking pushchair access, changing facilities and transport arrangements. Child car-seat availability can vary between taxi and ride-hailing services, so arrange suitable seating ahead of journeys.
Best outdoor family activities in Dubai
Dubai's outdoor attractions are among its biggest highlights, particularly during the cooler months. From exciting waterparks to desert landscapes and beautiful beaches, there are plenty of ways to spend time together outside.
During summer, plan outdoor activities carefully and prioritise early mornings or evenings wherever possible. For the hottest part of the day, you'll find more ideas in our indoor activities section below.
Spend a day at the Aquaventure Waterpark
Aquaventure, at Atlantis on Palm Jumeirah, works for families because it offers something for different thrill levels in one place, with big slides for older children and gentler areas for younger ones. Suitability varies by age and height, and restrictions can change, so check them directly before booking. Plan a full day, arrive at opening and take a break from the sun in the middle. Prices vary by ticket type and date, so check the current price on the official website before you book.
Good to know: Weekdays are usually calmer than weekends, so go on a weekday if your dates allow. Pack swimwear, sunscreen and a change of clothes, and agree on a meeting point with older children in case you separate.
Experience a family-friendly desert safari
A trip into the Dubai desert is one of the most memorable experiences you can share as a family. Desert experiences vary considerably, so it's worth choosing one that matches your children's ages and interests.
Families can choose between several options:
- Traditional desert safaris: Often include dune driving, camel rides, sandboarding and an evening camp experience.
- Nature and conservation tours: Focus on desert landscapes and wildlife, often offering a gentler experience.
- Camel rides: A slower way to experience the desert, suitable for families when age and safety requirements are met.
- Private family safaris: Offer greater flexibility over the itinerary and pace.
For families with younger children, a calmer desert experience may be more suitable than an adventurous safari with intensive dune driving.
Good to know: Ask the operator about minimum ages, child restraints, travel times and the activities included. Some experiences may not be suitable for babies, very young children or certain health conditions. Late-afternoon departures are particularly appealing because temperatures are generally more comfortable, and families can enjoy the desert around sunset.
Enjoy a Family Beach Day in Dubai
Not every family outing needs a packed schedule. Sometimes a few hours at the beach is exactly what everyone needs between sightseeing days. Dubai has several beaches that work well for families, each offering a slightly different atmosphere.
Kite Beach is a popular choice for active families. Its long sandy shoreline, walking areas and nearby food outlets make it easy to combine swimming, beach games and a relaxed lunch.
JBR Beach offers a livelier setting, with restaurants, shops and entertainment nearby. It's a convenient option if you want to combine beach time with other activities.
Creek Beach, in Dubai Creek Harbour, provides a different atmosphere. Its waterfront setting is particularly appealing for families looking for a quieter day by the water.
For younger children, choose a beach with convenient facilities and consider bringing shade, snacks and plenty of drinking water.
Good to know: The strongest sun is in the middle of the day, so early morning and late afternoon are the best times for children to be on the sand. A sunshade or umbrella is worth bringing, and the sea can be calm and shallow in places but always supervise children closely.
Explore Dubai Miracle Garden
Dubai Miracle Garden suits younger children and families looking for a slower-paced outdoor activity, with colourful floral displays that are easy to walk through and photograph. It is seasonal, typically open from around October to May, so make sure to check opening dates and timings before you visit. Nearby Dubai Butterfly Garden is another attraction worth considering for children interested in butterflies and nature. Check its current opening hours separately.
Take an abra across Dubai Creek
For a family activity that's both affordable and full of character, take a traditional abra ride across Dubai Creek. These wooden boats have connected the historic neighbourhoods of Bur Dubai and Deira for generations. The short journey offers views of traditional buildings, trading boats and the busy waterfront. Children often enjoy the boat ride itself, while parents can use the trip as an opportunity to explore Dubai's history and culture. It's also a good way to introduce them to a different side of the city from the skyscrapers and theme parks. For more tips on that part of Dubai, see our guide to exploring Dubai Creek.
Good to know: The crossing takes only a few minutes, so pair it with Al Fahidi and the souks to make a proper outing. Carry a little cash for the fare, and go in the morning or late afternoon when it is cooler.
Best indoor family activities in Dubai
Indoor activities in Dubai are particularly valuable for families visiting during summer, when spending long periods outdoors can be uncomfortable.
Fortunately, the city has a wide selection of indoor attractions, from aquariums and educational experiences to theme parks and indoor snow adventures.
Here are some of the best indoor activities in Dubai for families:
Discover Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Located in Dubai Mall, the aquarium lets families walk through a large tunnel with sharks and rays overhead, and explore the underwater zoo. It suits younger children well because it is visual and easy to follow, and the main viewing areas are simple for little ones to enjoy. Combine it with the rest of Dubai Mall for an easy half-day. Some operators offer optional extras, such as a glass-bottom boat ride, so check what is available and what is included in your ticket.
Let the Kids explore KidZania Dubai
KidZania is one of Dubai's most interesting family attractions because it's designed around learning through play. Located inside Dubai Mall, KidZania recreates a miniature city where children can try different professions and take part in realistic role-playing activities. They might become firefighters, pilots, doctors or shopkeepers, earning and spending KidZania's own play currency along the way. It's particularly appealing to children who enjoy imaginative play and making decisions independently. Unlike a traditional theme park, the emphasis is on participation, creativity and learning rather than rides.
Experience IMG Worlds of Adventure
IMG Worlds of Adventure is an indoor theme park with thrill rides and a range of ride levels, which means it's a good option when it's too hot to be outside. Ride restrictions are based on height rather than age, and children below 1.05 metres have typically been admitted free, but check current rules before you go. It is outside the central tourist areas, so plan transport in advance. Its themed zones and a range of ride levels mean there is usually something for different ages in the same group, so check the ride list and height limits for your children before you go.
Play in the snow at Ski Dubai
Experiencing real snow in the middle of the desert is something children are unlikely to forget. Located inside Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai offers an indoor snow environment with skiing, snowboarding and various snow-play experiences. You don't need to be an experienced skier to visit. Families can choose activities suited to different ages and abilities, including snow-based attractions for visitors who simply want to play. For children who have never experienced snow, it's a particularly unusual addition to a Dubai holiday.
Explore the rainforest at the Green Planet
The Green Planet is an indoor rainforest where families can see tropical plants, birds and other wildlife in one building. It is a quieter, more educational alternative to the theme parks and suits curious children and families who want a calmer pace. It is in City Walk, which has cafés and outdoor space nearby, so it combines easily with a relaxed lunch. Our 2-bedroom Laurel Central Park 501 in City Walk has a pool and park view, which makes it a convenient base for the day.
Free and low-cost family activities in Dubai
While Dubai is known for its luxury experiences, there are also plenty of enjoyable family activities that don't require expensive tickets.
Some of the best options include:
Public Beaches: public beaches are free to enter, and a day of sand and sea costs little.
Dubai Creek and an abra ride: an inexpensive adventure that doubles as a cultural outing.
Dubai Mall: free to walk around, with the fountain area and plenty of space for children to burn off energy.
Walking promenades: the Marina, Jumeirah and Creek Harbour waterfronts are good for scooters and strolls.
Parks and waterfront areas: a picnic or playground stop gives everyone a break from structured activities.
Tip: Many of these free options are best in the early morning or after sunset, when the heat has eased and the waterfronts come alive. A simple routine of a morning outing, a midday break and an evening walk costs little and suits most ages
Family activities in Dubai for different ages
One of the biggest challenges when planning a family trip is finding experiences that suit everyone. A waterpark that excites a teenager might not be suitable for a toddler, while a long afternoon at a museum may not appeal to younger children. Here's how to choose activities based on your children's ages.
Dubai with toddlers and young children
Choose activities with short queues, few height limits and low physical intensity. The aquarium, Miracle Garden, beach time, abra rides and the Green Planet all work well, along with gentler zones at the waterparks and theme parks. Keep outings short and leave room for naps.
Dubai with children aged 5-12
This is the sweet spot for most attractions. KidZania, the aquarium, Aquaventure, Ski Dubai, interactive museums and selected family desert experiences all work well. Check height rules for slides and rides.
Dubai with teenagers
Teenagers tend to prefer thrills and some independence. Waterparks, IMG Worlds of Adventure, a desert safari with more active dune options and watersports at the beach tend to go down well. Letting them choose one activity each day often helps.
Three Easy Family Day Plans
Day 1: Dubai Mall and Downtown
Start with Dubai Aquarium or KidZania, depending on your children's ages. Have lunch inside Dubai Mall, then spend some time exploring the surrounding area.
If everyone still has energy, enjoy a short walk around Downtown in the late afternoon or evening. This is a convenient option because many attractions, restaurants and facilities are located close together.
Day 2: Old Dubai and a Relaxed Waterfront Evening
Spend the morning exploring Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood before taking an abra across Dubai Creek.
Browse the traditional souks, enjoy lunch and return to your accommodation for a midday break. Finish the day with a quieter waterfront walk or dinner near where you're staying.
Day 3: A Waterpark or Beach Adventure
For an active family day, head to Aquaventure Waterpark and allow plenty of time to enjoy the attractions. Alternatively, choose a relaxed beach day at Kite Beach, JBR or Creek Beach.
If you'd prefer something different, a family-friendly desert safari can replace the beach or waterpark, with the afternoon and evening dedicated to the excursion.
These plans are flexible rather than fixed itineraries. Adjust them based on your children's interests, the weather and how much time you have in Dubai.
For more inspiration, explore our guide to the top things to do in Dubai.
Practical Tips for Travelling to Dubai With Kids
Beyond choosing attractions, a few practical considerations can make family travel much easier.
What to pack for a family trip to Dubai
A few items earn their place in the bag. Pack light, breathable clothing, hats, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen for everyone, plus swimwear and a spare change of clothes for water days. Take a light layer for air-conditioned malls and attractions, which can feel cold after the heat outside, and warm clothing if you're visiting Ski Dubai, depending on what your ticket includes. Comfortable walking shoes, a refillable water bottle and some snacks will save you at least one meltdown.
Eating out and taking breaks with kids
Most malls, hotels and many restaurants in Dubai welcome children, and food courts and casual cafés make it easy to refuel between activities. Eating a little earlier than the adult dinner crowd keeps younger children happier, and it is worth asking whether a restaurant offers a kids' menu or smaller portions. Build in a break every few hours, whether that's a quiet café stop, a playground or an hour back at your accommodation. For restaurant ideas, see our guide to where to eat in Dubai.
Staying safe in the sun and the water
Dubai's heat can catch families out, even in the cooler months. Keep everyone hydrated, apply sunscreen regularly, use hats and shade, and take breaks indoors in the middle of the day. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion such as tiredness, headaches or flushed skin, and move to a cool place if they appear. Around water, supervise children closely at beaches, pools and waterparks, follow lifeguard advice and keep younger children within arm's reach.
For more ideas, see our guide to the things to do in Dubai.
Where should families stay in Dubai?
When travelling with children, choosing the right accommodation can be just as important as choosing the activities.
Dubai's attractions are spread across different neighbourhoods, so it's worth considering which areas you'll visit most often, so you spend less time in the car.
Downtown Dubai is convenient for families planning to spend time around Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and central attractions.
Dubai Marina and JBR are good options for families who enjoy lively waterfront surroundings, restaurants and beach activities.
Palm Jumeirah is particularly appealing for resort-style holidays, with beach clubs, waterparks and hotel facilities nearby.
For families who prefer a quieter base, Dubai Creek Harbour and Creek Beach offer pleasant waterfront settings with space for relaxed walks and evenings by the water.
Enjoy a Family-Friendly Stay Near Dubai Creek
Luxe City Rental's Creek Palace apartment is a comfortable base for families who want to explore the city and return to a peaceful waterfront setting. Meanwhile, the Vida apartment at Creek Beach offers direct beach access, making it particularly appealing for families who enjoy spending time by the water.
For families who prefer cafés, restaurants and attractions within walking distance, City Walk is another option. The two-bedroom Laurel Central Park 501 offers pool access and park views, with The Green Planet nearby.
Ultimately, the best area depends on your family's plans and the type of holiday you'd like to enjoy. Explore Luxe City Rental's collection of family-friendly holiday apartments in Dubai to find a stay that suits your trip.