Dubai is a top destination for families looking for a mix of fun, adventure, and relaxation. There are many things to do in Dubai that can make your family trip unforgettable. From thrilling theme parks to peaceful beach days, the city offers activities for all ages. Whether you’re visiting for a short stay or a longer vacation, Dubai has something for everyone.
Many families are unsure where to start when planning a trip to Dubai. With so many exciting activities, it can be tough to choose the best options. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best family fun activities in Dubai. Dubai is not just about shopping malls and tall buildings, it’s a family-friendly city with endless opportunities for family activities.
You will learn in this guide about the top family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, indoor fun for all ages, theme parks, and cultural experiences that make Dubai a perfect family destination. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Dubai.
Dubai’s Best Family Fun Attractions
Dubai is home to some of the most fun and exciting kids attractions in the world. One place you shouldn’t miss is the Dubai Aquarium and Water zoo, located in The Dubai Mall. This is one of the largest aquariums in the world, filled with thousands of sea creatures like sharks and stingrays. Kids will love walking through a glass tunnel, where they can see fish swimming above and around them.
Another great spot for families is Dubai Parks and Resorts. This is a huge entertainment area with many theme parks, including:
- Motiongate Dubai – Where you can meet movie characters and go on thrilling rides.
- Dubai Parks – A vibrant theme park featuring thrilling rides and immersive shows for all ages.
- LEGOLAND WaterparkDubai – A place where kids can build their own creations and enjoy LEGO-themed attractions.
These family parks are perfect for all ages, offering fun rides, interactive shows, and many other exciting experiences.
Outdoor Adventures for Families
If your family enjoys being outdoors, Dubai has many fun activities to offer. One exciting adventure is the Desert Safari. In this activity, you get to ride over the sand dunes in a 4×4 vehicle, try sandboarding, and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the desert. It’s the perfect activity for families who love a bit of adventure and fun.
Other outdoor activities include:
- Dubai Creek: Take a boat ride in a traditional abra and explore the old markets and spice souks. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the views of old Dubai.
- Kite Beach: This beach offers plenty of outdoor fun. Kids can play in the sand, go kite surfing, or join a game of beach volleyball.
Indoor Fun for All Ages
Dubai can get really hot, but don’t worry there are plenty of indoor activities for kids to enjoy. Here are some great options:
- KidZania: This is a mini-city where kids can pretend to be doctors, chefs, or even pilots. It’s both fun and educational, and a great way for kids to explore different careers.
- Dubai Ice Rink: Located at The Dubai Mall, this ice rink lets kids glide on ice while staying cool. It’s a fun way to spend the day indoors.
- VR Park: If your kids love video games, this is the place to be. VR Park offers virtual reality games that will keep everyone entertained.
These activities are perfect for when the weather is too hot or if you just need a break from the sun.
Family-Friendly Theme Parks
Dubai is famous for its family parks, where kids can enjoy rides and attractions based on their favorite movies. Some of the best ones include:
- LEGOLAND Dubai: Kids can enjoy building their own creations with LEGOs, go on fun rides, and explore themed areas.
- Motiongate Dubai: This park brings famous movie characters to life with themed rides and shows.
- Bollywood Parks Dubai: A theme park where you can enjoy Bollywood-style entertainment, rides, and shows.
These theme parks offer fun for the whole family, and they’re perfect for family sightseeing.
Cultural and Educational Experiences
Dubai also offers cultural and educational activities that can be fun for both kids and adults:
- Dubai Museum: This museum gives kids a chance to learn about Dubai’s history and how it became the modern city it is today. It has interactive exhibits that make learning fun.
- Dubai Opera: If your family enjoys music and performances, the Dubai Opera offers shows like ballet and musicals that everyone will enjoy.
These are great places to visit when you want to balance family fun with a little bit of learning.
Shopping and Dining for Families
Dubai is home to some of the best shopping malls, and many of them are perfect for families. For example:
- The Dubai Mall: This mall isn’t just for shopping it has an indoor ice rink, a cinema, and even an aquarium. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in dubai to choose from.
- Mall of the Emirates: Here, families can shop, ski at Ski Dubai, and enjoy kids’ activities. It’s the perfect place to cool off after a day of shopping.
Best Time to Visit with Family
Dubai is a city that can be visited year-round, but the best time to go largely depends on the weather and the activities you want to enjoy. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide when to plan your family trip to Dubai.
- The best time to visit Dubai is during the cooler months, from November to March. This is when the weather is most comfortable for outdoor activities. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it ideal for enjoying family activities like the Desert Safari, Kite Beach, and visiting Dubai Parks and Resorts.
- The summer months in Dubai can be extremely hot, with temperatures often reaching over 40°C (104°F) during the day. While this can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, it’s still a great time to visit if you’re planning to stay indoors or enjoy indoor kids’ entertainment like KidZania or Dubai Ice Rink.
- If you’re looking to visit during the holidays, Dubai’s winter months from December to February are perfect. The weather is cool and pleasant, and there are plenty of family events like the Dubai Shopping Festival, which includes sales, entertainment, and activities for kids.
- The months of April and October are a good middle ground. While the temperatures are slightly warmer than during the cooler months, they are still manageable. These months are less crowded than the peak winter months, and you can often find better deals on hotels and tickets to attractions.
Tips for Planning a Family Trip to Dubai
Planning a family trip to Dubai can be easy if you keep a few things in mind:
- The best time to visit is from November to March when the weather is cooler.
- Look for family passes for attractions like Dubai Parks and Resorts or the Dubai Aquarium. These passes can help you save money.
- Getting around Dubai is easy with public transport, taxis, or rental cars. The Dubai Metro connects most of the major attractions.
- Always check opening times and special events, as some attractions may have different hours or offer discounts during holidays.
Dubai is a city full of family activities, kids entertainment, and fun things to do. Whether you love outdoor adventures, indoor fun, or cultural experiences, Dubai has something for everyone.
Conclusion
Dubai is a fantastic destination for families, offering a perfect blend of fun, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking thrilling theme parks, outdoor activities, or indoor entertainment, the city has something to keep every family member happy. From iconic attractions like Dubai Aquarium and Dubai Parks and Resorts to cultural experiences at the Dubai Museum, your family is guaranteed to make lasting memories.
Remember to plan your trip during the cooler months from November to March to enjoy outdoor activities comfortably, and consider using family passes for discounts on top attractions. Dubai’s efficient public transport system makes it easy to explore the city, so you can make the most of your time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best family attractions in Dubai?
Top attractions include Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Parks and Resorts, and KidZania.
When is the best time to visit Dubai?
The best time is from November to March when the weather is cooler.
What outdoor activities are family-friendly in Dubai?
Enjoy Desert Safari, Kite Beach, and Dubai Creek boat rides.
Are there indoor activities for kids?
Yes, visit KidZania, Dubai Ice Rink, and VR Park.
Are there family-friendly theme parks?
Yes, LEGOLAND Dubai, Motiongate Dubai, and Bollywood Parks Dubai are great options.
Which malls are good for families?
The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates offer shopping and fun activities.
