Dubai, with its spectacular skyline and bustling city life, may seem geared towards adults at first glance. However, it’s also packed with family-friendly activities that cater to all ages, making it an excellent destination for families looking to have fun together. Here’s your ultimate guide to family fun in Dubai, from theme parks to educational adventures.
1. Dubai Parks and Resorts
For families that enjoy thrill rides and entertainment, Dubai Parks and Resorts is a must-visit. This massive theme park complex includes Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and LEGOLAND Dubai, each offering a variety of rides, shows, and attractions. LEGOLAND also features a water park that’s perfect for cooling off in the desert heat.
2. Aquaventure Waterpark
Located at Atlantis The Palm, Aquaventure is one of Dubai’s premier water parks. It offers adrenaline-pumping slides, a lazy river, and the opportunity to interact with dolphins and sea lions. The park’s newest addition, Trident Tower, features 12 new slides and is sure to be a hit with thrill-seekers.
3. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Situated inside The Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium is home to thousands of aquatic animals, including sharks and rays. Families can walk through a 48-meter tunnel that runs under the aquarium, offering up-close views of the marine life. The Underwater Zoo, located above the aquarium, showcases different ecosystems and their inhabitants.
4. IMG Worlds of Adventure
As one of Dubai’s newer attractions, IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world’s largest indoor theme park. It features rides and attractions based on popular Cartoon Network characters, iconic Marvel superheroes, and dinosaurs, making it a great spot for families with diverse interests.
5. KidZania
Also located in The Dubai Mall, KidZania provides a unique educational environment where children can experience over 80 professions through role-playing in a replica of a real city. This interactive experience is both fun and educational, giving kids a taste of adult life in a dynamic way.
6. Dubai Miracle Garden
For a more laid-back experience, visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, where you can explore over 50 million flowers arranged in elaborate displays. The park is particularly popular for its floral sculptures and the Emirates A380 display, which is covered in more than 500,000 fresh flowers and living plants.
7. OliOli®
OliOli® is an interactive museum designed specifically for children aged 2 to 11 years. It features eight galleries and over 40 exhibits inspired by the work of leading educators, development psychologists, artists, and fabricators from around the world. It’s an excellent venue for children to unleash their creativity and learn through play.
8. Kite Beach
No visit to Dubai is complete without some beach time, and Kite Beach is perfect for families. It offers clean sands, clear waters, a dedicated play area for kids, and numerous cafes and restaurants. Additionally, the beach provides a spectacular view of the Burj Al Arab and has a track for biking and jogging.
9. Green Planet
Located in City Walk, Green Planet recreates a tropical rainforest with over 3,000 plants and animals. This bio-dome provides an immersive experience into the wonders of the natural world and is an educational outing for kids interested in biology and conservation.
10. Dubai Ice Rink
Escape the desert heat at the Olympic-size Dubai Ice Rink in The Dubai Mall. Whether you’re experienced skaters or first-timers, the ice rink offers a cool and fun challenge for the whole family. Regularly scheduled sessions and coaches are available to help new skaters find their footing.
Dubai offers countless activities that allow families to make lasting memories together. Whether your family prefers high-energy adventures or more subdued educational outings, Dubai has something to offer that will delight both kids and adults alike.