You step off the plane in Dubai with kids in tow, and the Burj Khalifa rises before you, impossibly tall against the sky. The kids’ eyes widen—they’ve seen the movie where Tom Cruise scaled it, and suddenly the city feels like a giant movie set full of daring stunts and impossible escapes.
Even the desert feels like a movie set. Indiana Jones could appear at any moment on a camel, Lawrence of Arabia might be sitting by the fire under the stars, or a high-speed chase from Fast & Furious could roar across the horizon. It’s a desert safari Dubai adventure straight from the movies.
Everything here exudes this kind of excitement. Dubai somehow transforms every corner into a part of one grand adventure.
Best things to do in Dubai with kids
If you haven’t been to the UAE before, a Dubai City Tour is an ideal starting point. Coming off a long flight (and maybe dealing with jet lag), it’s low-effort sightseeing that helps you get your bearings—and the kids will hear the city’s story in a delightful way. You’ll also get a clear sense of how far apart the landmarks are, which makes planning the rest of your trip much easier.
Here are 11 of Dubai’s most kid-friendly activities—perfect for a wide range of ages and interests and sure to fill your itinerary.
💡 PRO TIP: If your family enjoys mixing fun with a bit of culture, consider a quick Riyadh-to-Dubai hop. It's a chance to experience genuine Middle Eastern hospitality and culture before returning to Dubai’s glittering skyline. Read our article about visiting Saudi Arabia here.
1. Hit the slopes indoors at Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai is a full-scale indoor ski resort inside the Mall of the Emirates, offering a real winter experience right in the middle of the desert. The park covers 22,500 square meters and includes five ski slopes ranging from beginner to advanced, a snow park for younger children, tobogganing hills, freestyle zones, and even a chance to meet penguins. For families who’ve never seen snow, it’s a surreal experience: the crisp air, the crunch under boots, and the bright winter gear feel cinematic in the middle of a shopping mall.
Children and teens can take ski or snowboard lessons, while younger kids can explore the Snow Park’s slides, snow maze, and gentle slopes. Parents can relax in heated seating areas with a clear view of the action or join the fun themselves. There’s even a cafe inside the park if adults need a break or a warm drink.
For a full-day family outing, you can combine Ski Dubai with lunch at the Mall of the Emirates or explore nearby shops. It’s a unique way to escape the desert heat while keeping children entertained with a memorable, interactive winter adventure.
Practical tips:
- Buy tickets to Ski Dubai online to skip lines and save on equipment rentals.
- Timing your visit is important. Mornings tend to be quieter, so families can enjoy multiple runs without long waits.
- Bring warm clothing, gloves, and socks if you can, though rental gear is available on site.
2. Explore marine life at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is located in Dubai Mall and is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, housing more than 30,000 marine animals, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish. Families can walk through the 48-meter-long acrylic tunnel for a 270-degree immersive view of the aquatic life, giving kids a sense of being inside the ocean without getting wet.
For adventurous visitors, there are options like cage diving with sharks or glass-bottom boat rides that provide a closer look at the larger species.
The Underwater Zoo, situated above the main aquarium tank, features a range of interactive exhibits. Children can see penguins, crocodiles, and otters and learn about different ecosystems. The zoo also emphasizes conservation and educational programs, making it both fun and informative for kids. For families planning a visit, it’s worth noting that timed-entry tickets can be purchased online, helping you avoid long lines, particularly on weekends or during school holidays.
Practical tips:
- Tickets are cheaper online; combo tickets with Burj Khalifa and other attractions are available.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to explore the mall afterward.
- Don’t miss the feeding sessions and interactive shows, which are scheduled throughout the day and are perfect for photo opportunities.
- The aquarium can easily be combined with a Dubai Mall day trip, including shopping, dining, and the nearby Dubai Ice Rink if you want a full-day family outing.
3. Try real-world jobs at KidZania Dubai
Another kid-friendly attraction in Dubai Mall is KidZania Dubai, a safe, supervised environment where kids aged 4–14 can step into real-world jobs like firefighters, doctors, chefs, pilots, or police officers. Each career station has a specific task, from putting out fires to running a hospital ward or piloting a simulator. Completing tasks earns KidZania currency that they can spend at other stations, which adds structure and incentive to the visit.
The park separates activities by age. For the younger ones, the Early Learning area offers safe, hands-on play. Older kids can handle more complex stations, where they follow procedures, manage equipment, and solve problems. Parents can watch them from the designated seating area or join in some activities for a shared experience.
KidZania runs on timed sessions, which typically last for 3–4 hours. Families can move at their own pace within the session. Most visitors cover the main zones during that time.
Practical tips:
- Booking in advance is important, especially on weekends.
- Popular stations—firehouse, hospital, and aviation—fill quickly, so head to them early in the session.
- Bring hats, water, and comfortable shoes, as kids walk and stand frequently. T
- here are cafes inside KidZania as well as in the mall if you need a bite to eat.
4. Go on virtual adventures at Play DXB
Play DXB is an indoor amusement center in Dubai that combines virtual reality and interactive gaming. Kids of all ages climb walls, navigate obstacle courses, or take on VR adventures. Popular experiences include scaling a virtual Burj Khalifa, piloting a spaceship, and completing missions inspired by movies and games. Each activity challenges coordination, strategy, and problem-solving while keeping the fun hands-on and immersive.
The park separates experiences by age and intensity. Younger kids enjoy soft-play zones and beginner VR challenges, while older kids tackle advanced courses and immersive simulations. Parents can watch from designated seating or join select activities for a shared experience.
Play DXB operates year-round with flexible entry times. Most families spend 2–3 hours, which is enough to try the major attractions.
Practical tips:
- Purchase Play DXB credit packages online before your visit; it often saves time and may include bonus credits.
- Some activities require socks, closed shoes, or safety gear—check requirements before arriving.
- Head to the most popular stations first, as VR experiences fill quickly.
- Bring water along and use seating areas or nearby cafes for short breaks.
5. Go sandboarding in the desert
Dubai is one of the best places in the world for sandboarding thanks to its vast dunes and fine desert sand. It's so popular, in fact, that it’s become a favorite family excursion. (Honestly, have you ever met a kid who didn’t enjoy getting dirty?)
Sandboarding is basically snowboarding on sand. It’s easy to learn, and the varying slope sizes make it suitable for all ages and skill levels. Most families spend two to three hours climbing the dunes, sliding down, taking breaks, and snapping photos along the way.
It's fun to watch your kids racing each other or trying new techniques, but they’ll love it even more if you join them. Many families alternate turns so everyone gets time to cool off and catch their breath.
It may look intimidating, but sandboarding is surprisingly safe. You can pick up decent speed, but falling is soft, expected, and part of the fun. If you have balance issues, you can always sit on the board for an easier glide!
Practical tips:
- Make the most of the desert adventure—book a sandboarding tour online that includes dune bashing and camel rides for an unforgettable day all in one. Transportation is included.
- Sandboarding at sunrise or sunset is less tiring.
- Wear lightweight, sun-protective clothing, and don't forget a hat and sunglasses.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and shoes that stay secure on the sand—or go barefoot if that’s easier for climbing.
- Encourage kids to bend their knees slightly and lean back when sliding.
- Plan short breaks between runs to rest, hydrate, and take photos.
6. Enjoy the flowers at Dubai Miracle Garden
If you visit Dubai between October and April, be sure to take your family to Dubai Miracle Garden. With more than 50 million flowers and 250 million plants, it’s the largest natural flower garden in the world and one of Dubai’s most popular spots for Instagram-worthy photos.
Every path is bursting with color and imagination—giant hearts, castles, peacocks, and a full-sized Emirates A380 airplane all covered in blooms. The Smurfs Village adds a playful touch, and the Floating Lady sculpture always draws a crowd. Kids can explore themed areas like Lake Park and the Sunflower Field while parents capture photos or relax under the shaded seating.
The highlight for many families is the Flower Parade, a lively event that fills the garden with dancers, musicians, and performers in bright floral costumes. The parade isn’t daily, so it’s worth checking the schedule at the gate before you go.
Most families spend about two to three hours here, with plenty of stops for photos or snacks at the small cafés inside.
Practical tips:
- To avoid the hassle of arranging your own transport to and from the garden, buy a ticket/hotel transfer bundle through a tour provider.
- Visit in the morning or late afternoon for softer light and cooler temperatures.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat—shade is limited in some areas.
- Strollers are allowed, but the paths can get crowded on weekends, so arrive early.
7. Swim and relax on Dubai’s beaches
Some of the best family moments in Dubai happen on the beach. The soft sand, warm water, and plenty of space mean kids can run wild, build sandcastles, and chase waves while you keep an easy eye on them from a towel or sun lounger.
Popular public beaches include Kite Beach, Jumeirah Public Beach, Al Mamzar, Marina Beach, and JBR Beach. These spots offer free entry and have facilities like changing rooms, showers, and sun loungers for rent, so you can easily spend a few hours or the entire day there.
If you’re after extra perks, stay at resorts such as Atlantis, The Palm, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah, FIVE Palm, or Address Beach Resort. Rooms generally include free access to their private beaches and pools.
Not staying on the beach? No problem. Some Dubai hotels sell day passes that include access to sunbeds, towels, and pools, plus a food and beverage credit usable at on-site restaurants, bars, or beach outlets. Prices range from about AED 200 to AED 1500 (roughly US$55 to $410), depending on the resort and season.
Most families spend a couple of hours at the beach—enough to swim, explore the sand, and enjoy a relaxing bite at a nearby café.
Practical tips:
- Many public beaches close during the day’s hottest months (July–September) due to extreme heat—check opening status before you go.
- Weekdays are less crowded, especially mornings, since weekends (Friday-Saturday) attract families and locals.
- While public beaches allow bikinis, modest swimwear is recommended in family-oriented or local-frequented zones.
- Alcohol is prohibited on public beaches but available at private beach clubs and resorts with day passes.
- Some beaches offer paddleboard or kayak rentals, but book ahead at popular beaches.
8. The Green Planet
If your kids have never been in a rainforest, this is your chance to show them what one feels like—without leaving Dubai. The Green Planet at City Walk is an enclosed biodome that recreates a full tropical ecosystem, complete with waterfalls, mist, and the sound of birds echoing through the trees.
Inside, you’ll find more than 3,000 species of plants and animals, from parrots and sloths to snakes, insects, and even flying foxes (fruit bats). It’s built vertically, with a winding path that takes you from the forest floor all the way up into the canopy. Kids love spotting animals along the way—especially when a parrot lands close enough for a photo.
Educational displays show how each layer of the rainforest functions and how the layers work together. There’s even a small aquarium section and areas where staff let children touch things like snake skin or tortoise shells. The air is humid but comfortable, and the whole space is shaded and air-conditioned. It's a good way to escape the midday heat.
Most families spend about two hours here, or longer if your kids stop for every animal.
Practical tips:
- Purchase tickets online; weekday mornings tend to be quieter, and sometimes offer cheaper prices.
- Bring water, and a light sweater helps since the air-conditioning can feel cool after a while.
- Go in the morning if you want to see feedings or talks.
- Don’t rush—this is one of the few places in Dubai that’s meant to slow you down.
- Parking is available at City Walk; check rates ahead of time.
- The venue is stroller and wheelchair accessible.
- Some interactive animal touch zones might have age or height restrictions—confirm on arrival.
9. Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is a striking landmark that lets families see the city’s past and present in one glance. Standing 150 meters tall, it connects two towers with a glass-floored bridge at the top, giving a thrilling view of Old Dubai on one side and the modern skyline on the other. Kids love walking across the transparent floor and seeing the ground seemingly disappear beneath them.
Inside, interactive galleries show how Dubai transformed from a small fishing village into a global city. There are displays with historic photos, video projections, and hands-on elements that let children explore architecture, culture, and urban growth. The experience blends sightseeing with learning, keeping kids engaged while adults soak in the views.
Families usually spend about 1½ to 2 hours here, depending on wait times for the elevator and how much time they spend on the bridge.
Practical tips:
- Arrive in the late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best light for photos.
- Strollers aren’t allowed on the glass bridge, but secure storage is available at the entrance.
- Comfortable shoes help.
- Plan a quick stop at the gift shop or café afterward if you have younger kids.
- Tickets can be booked online; look for family or combo deals.
- The attraction is wheelchair and stroller accessible with elevators and ramps.
- Parking is nearby; public transport options include metro and buses.
10. Global Village
Global Village is like a mini world tour for kids and families, all in one evening. More than 25 country pavilions showcase food, crafts, and performances from around the globe, giving children the chance to taste new cuisines, see traditional dances, and learn about different cultures in a fun, interactive way.
The park has a mix of attractions for every age. Younger children can ride the Ferris wheel, merry-go-round, or small carnival rides, while older kids enjoy bumper cars, 4D cinemas, or more adventurous carnival rides. Live shows on outdoor stages—everything from acrobatics and fire performances to music and dance—add extra excitement, and the vibrant lights make the whole area feel magical after sunset.
Walking through the pavilions is an experience in itself. Kids often pause to watch artisans handcraft items, sample treats like Belgian waffles or Turkish ice cream, or explore themed areas that reflect each country’s culture. There’s also plenty of space to sit, rest, and enjoy street performances along the way.
Global Village is seasonal, running from October through April. This timing coincides with Dubai’s cooler months, making it ideal for walking outdoors comfortably.
Families usually spend 3 to 5 hours exploring, which is enough to hit the main rides, see a few performances, and wander through several pavilions without feeling rushed.
Practical tips:
- Check ticket prices here.
- To avoid crowds, visit on a weekday.
- Arrive before sunset so you can enjoy the daytime pavilions as well as the evening lights.
- Map out the pavilions you most want to see to make the most of your time and energy.
- Wear comfortable shoes; there's a lot of walking.
- Bring water and hats if visiting earlier in the day.
- Carry cash for rides, small purchases, and street food.
- The park is stroller and wheelchair accessible, but expect crowds.
- Parking is ample but can fill quickly on weekends; consider public transport.
- Keep an eye on children closely in crowded areas.
11. Go to a Theme Park
Dubai Parks & Resorts is the city’s main theme park destination for families, featuring several parks spread across a vast space. You’ll find LEGOLAND® Dubai for creative play and coasters, MOTIONGATE™ Dubai’s Hollywood-inspired rides, the new Real Madrid World for football fans, and a family-friendly water park.
At the center of Dubai Parks & Resorts is Riverland, a quieter place where families can rest and eat between visits to the main parks. The area is divided into four themed parts, each featuring restaurants, shops, street performers, and interactive kid zones. Visitors can enjoy live music, street shows, and kid-friendly areas without buying a ticket.
Tickets come in different packages to suit your schedule and interests, from one-day single park access to multi-day, multi-park adventures. The more parks you include, the greater the savings per attraction, making it ideal for families or thrill seekers who want the full experience.
💡 PRO TIP: Dubai Parks & Resorts is about a 45-minute drive from downtown Dubai. If you’re planning to spend multiple days there, consider staying inside the resort. Not only does it save travel time and costs, but it's also easier to take a midday break if needed. Book your stay at Lapita now.
LEGOLAND® Dubai
LEGOLAND® Dubai is packed with rides, shows, and hands-on attractions for the 2–12 crowd. It’s divided into themed zones like LEGO® City, Adventure, and Kingdoms, each with a mix of coasters, interactive games, and building areas.
Highlights include the Dragon Coaster, where kids can feel the thrill of a real roller coaster, and the Lost Kingdom Adventure, a treasure hunt through an ancient LEGO® temple. LEGO® City Airport lets children pretend to be pilots, while Miniland shows off Dubai landmarks in intricate miniature detail, perfect for photos and inspiration.
What sets this park apart is how much of it involves building and doing, not just watching. Kids can earn their driver’s license, pilot a plane, or design cars to race on test tracks. If you've spent time at other LEGOLAND parks, you'll recognize the layout, though fortunately this one is more compact and shaded, which helps with the heat.
Most families spend 4 to 6 hours here. That's enough time to hit the main rides, try the interactive zones, and take a few breaks.
Practical tips:
- Many families visit LEGOLAND® Water Park the same day.
- Arrive early and hit Dragon Coaster, Lost Kingdom Adventure, and LEGO® City Airport first.
- Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen; cafés are available, but having a few extras keeps everyone happy.
- Strollers are allowed, with designated parking areas.
- Plan for restroom and snack breaks between zones to keep kids happy and moving.
- Staying at Lapita Hotel lets you skip daily travel and spend full days at the parks.
LEGOLAND® Water Park
LEGOLAND® Water Park sits right next to LEGOLAND® Dubai and is designed for kids who want to cool off while still building, splashing, and exploring. It features over 20 slides, the Wave Pool, Build-A-Raft River, and areas tailored for younger children to play safely.
The park balances thrill and safety. Older kids can race down bigger slides or tackle the water obstacle courses, while little ones enjoy splash zones and shallow pools. Families typically spend 4 hours here, enough to cover the main attractions and take breaks without rushing.
Practical tips:
- Consider combining your visit with LEGOLAND® Dubai using a multi-park ticket.
- Arrive early to hit the most popular slides before lines build up.
- Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and water shoes.
- Lockers are available for personal items.
- Take short breaks between rides to rest and rehydrate.
Real Madrid World
If your family enjoys European football (soccer), this park is for you. Real Madrid World is a football-themed park where kids can immerse themselves in the world of their favorite club. The park combines interactive challenges, skill zones, and stadium-style setups so children feel like they’re part of a live match.
Activities include penalty kick challenges, dribbling obstacle courses, and timed skill tests. Younger kids can practice their first kicks and enjoy smaller play areas, while older children tackle advanced drills and competitions. Throughout the park, life-size player statues, trophies, and photo spots let families capture memorable moments.
Real Madrid World manages to balance active play with football culture. Kids can try their hand at goalkeeping, train like pros in the mini stadium, or join team challenges that encourage coordination and friendly competition. Parents can watch from seating areas or even join in to make it a shared experience.
Families typically spend 3 to 4 hours here. That’s enough time to try the main activities, take photos, rotate through the skill zones, and enjoy short breaks without feeling rushed.
Practical tips:
- Arrive early to try the penalty kick zones and obstacle courses before lines build up.
- Wear comfortable sportswear and sneakers for easy movement.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a light snack; cafés are available inside the park.
- Take turns with younger kids so older children can enjoy more challenging areas.
Along with the above parks, there's also Riverland Dubai, a themed retail and dining destination, and the Polynesian-themed family resort, Lapita Hotel Dubai.
MOTIONGATE™ Dubai
MOTIONGATE™ Dubai is a Hollywood-themed park where families can step into the worlds of their favorite movies. With over 27 rides and attractions, it’s easy to spend a full day exploring the zones based on DreamWorks, Sony Pictures, and Lionsgate films.
Thrill-seekers will love the Green Hornet: High-Speed Chase roller coaster, while the Madagascar Mad Pursuit offers a fun chase through scenes from the movies. Fans of The Hunger Games can experience the Capitol Bullet Train, a high-speed ride full of twists and turns. Younger kids can enjoy gentler rides and interactive play areas in DreamWorks zones, giving everyone something suited to their age and energy level.
MOTIONGATE™ is super immersive. Movie sets, detailed props, and themed shows make you feel like you’ve stepped onto a film set. Families can watch live performances, participate in interactive experiences, and explore movie-inspired attractions that mix storytelling with hands-on fun.
Most families spend 6 to 8 hours here. That’s enough time to hit the major rides, watch a few shows, explore themed zones, and take breaks without rushing.
Practical tips:
- Arrive at park opening to enjoy the biggest rides before lines form.
- Wear comfortable shoes, hats, and sunscreen.
- Bring water and light snacks; the park has cafés and dining areas throughout the park.
- Take breaks between zones to rest and plan your route, especially with younger kids.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you can see that Dubai is a family-friendly destination and has a wide array of attractions and activities specifically designed to cater to families.
From world-class entertainment facilities to unique experiences such as indoor skiing, the city would be a top choice for your next family vacation.
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