Best Things to Do in Dubai With Kids: Top Family Adventures

Top Family-Friendly Activities in Dubai

Planning a family vacation to Dubai promises an unforgettable experience, but with so many incredible attractions, deciding what to do can feel overwhelming. The key to a successful trip with kids is to choose activities that captivate all ages, balancing thrilling adventures with cultural insights and plenty of opportunities for relaxation. This guide zeroes in on the absolute best things to do in Dubai, ensuring every member of your family, from toddlers to teenagers and parents, finds something to spark their joy and create lasting memories. We’ve curated a list of must-visit spots that blend excitement, education, and pure family fun, helping you craft the perfect Dubai itinerary and discover the best things to do in Dubai with kids.

Our Top 9 Must-Do Activities for Families in Dubai

Aquaventure Waterpark (Atlantis, The Palm)

Aquaventure Waterpark, nestled within the iconic Atlantis, The Palm resort, offers an exhilarating escape for families seeking thrilling water slides, relaxing river rides, and dedicated play areas for younger children. It’s renowned for its record-breaking rides like the Leap of Faith and the Aquaconda, ensuring adrenaline-pumping fun for older kids and adults alike. Meanwhile, Splashers Island provides a safe and engaging environment with smaller slides, climbing frames, and water cannons perfectly suited for toddlers and preschoolers, truly making it one of the best things to do in Dubai with kids who love water.

This immense waterpark is suitable for visitors of all ages, offering specific zones designed for toddlers, known as Splashers Island, alongside exhilarating thrill-seeker slides that typically have a height restriction of 1.2 meters (4 feet) for safety. Guests can find entertainment whether they are splashing in shallow pools or conquering massive slides.

• Best Age Range: Suitable for all ages, with specific zones for toddlers (Splashers Island) and thrill-seekers (some slides have a height restriction of 1.2m/4ft).

Entry tickets for Aquaventure Waterpark are generally on the higher side, typically ranging from AED 300 to 400 or more per person for a full day of fun. An excellent perk for families is that guests staying at the Atlantis, The Palm resort, receive complimentary access, which can be a significant saving.

• Price Range: Entry tickets are typically high, ranging from AED 300-400+ per person. Guests staying at Atlantis, The Palm, receive complimentary access.

Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to visit during peak season or holidays, as this helps secure your entry and saves valuable time waiting in queues. Often, you can also find better rates and special offers by purchasing tickets through the park’s official website beforehand.

• Booking: Highly recommended to book online in advance, especially during peak season or holidays, to secure entry, save time, and often get better rates.

The park is designed with convenience in mind, featuring stroller-friendly paths available throughout most areas, making it easy for families with young children to navigate. Additionally, life jackets are provided free of charge for children and non-swimmers, ensuring everyone can enjoy the water safely and with peace of mind.

• Accessibility: Stroller-friendly paths are available throughout most of the park. Life jackets are provided free of charge for children and non-swimmers.

Pro-Tip: Arrive early at opening time to beat the crowds and enjoy popular rides with shorter queues. Consider purchasing a Fast Pass if your budget allows, to maximize ride time and ensure you get to experience all the thrilling attractions.

KidZania Dubai (The Dubai Mall)

KidZania Dubai offers a unique indoor edutainment experience where children can role-play over 80 different professions in a meticulously recreated miniature city. From firefighters and doctors to pilots and chefs, kids earn KidZos (the local currency), which they can then spend on goods and services within KidZania. This interactive city is designed to ignite their imagination, teach them about the value of money and teamwork, and expose them to various career paths in a fun, hands-on environment, easily ranking it among the best things to do in Dubai with kids for a creative and educational outing.

KidZania is primarily designed for children aged 4 to 16, offering a vast array of engaging activities tailored to this age group. Younger children under 4 also have a dedicated toddler zone where they can play safely. Adults are generally not allowed into the activity stations themselves, encouraging kids to take the lead, though parents can observe from designated areas.

• Best Age Range: Primarily designed for children aged 4 to 16, though younger children (under 4) have a dedicated toddler zone. Adults are not allowed into the activity stations unless accompanying toddlers.

Entry tickets typically range from AED 150-250 per child, providing access to a wide variety of interactive professions. There are varying rates for toddlers and adults, with adult tickets usually being less expensive as they primarily serve as observers.

• Price Range: Entry tickets typically range from AED 150-250 per child, with varying rates for toddlers and adults (who primarily observe).

Families should plan to spend a significant amount of time here, as the activities are incredibly engaging and children will undoubtedly want to try many different professions within the city. Expect to spend anywhere from 3 to 5 hours exploring and participating to get the most out of the experience.

• Duration: Expect to spend 3-5 hours here, as activities are engaging and kids will want to try many professions.

The convenience of KidZania Dubai’s location inside The Dubai Mall is a major advantage, as it offers easy access to a multitude of other attractions, dining options, and shopping opportunities. This allows families to combine their KidZania visit with other adventures within the mall.

• Location: Conveniently located inside The Dubai Mall, offering easy access to other attractions and dining options.

Pro-Tip: Encourage your kids to try a variety of professions, especially those that involve teamwork. It’s a great way to let them lead their own adventure while you observe from designated parent areas, fostering independence and confidence.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo (The Dubai Mall)

Located within The Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is home to thousands of aquatic animals, boasting one of the world’s largest suspended aquariums. Families can marvel at sharks, stingrays, and countless fish species swimming overhead as they walk through the spectacular 270-degree transparent tunnel. Above the aquarium, the Underwater Zoo features various marine habitats, including a rainforest, rocky shore, and UAE night creatures. Educational talks and feeding presentations enhance the experience, offering fascinating insights into marine life and conservation efforts, making it both entertaining and enlightening for all ages and a true highlight among the best things to do in Dubai with kids.

This attraction is suitable for all ages, making it a perfect family outing. Toddlers will be captivated by the vibrant colors and movements of the fish, while older children and adults will appreciate the sheer scale, diversity of marine life, and the educational aspects provided.

• Best Age Range: Suitable for all ages; toddlers will enjoy the vibrant fish, while older children and adults will appreciate the scale and diversity of marine life.

A portion of the tunnel viewing is actually visible from the mall for free, allowing a glimpse of the impressive aquarium without an entry ticket. However, for full access, including the complete tunnel experience, the underwater zoo, and a glass-bottom boat ride, tickets typically start from AED 199 per person.

• Price Range: Tunnel viewing is partially visible from the mall for free. Full access tickets (including tunnel, underwater zoo, and glass-bottom boat ride) start from AED 199 per person.

Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues, especially if you plan to visit during busy times like weekends or public holidays. This ensures a smoother entry and more time to enjoy the incredible aquatic displays.

• Booking: Booking online in advance is recommended to avoid queues, especially during weekends and public holidays.

The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible, with lifts and ramps conveniently available throughout the attraction. This thoughtful design ensures that all families, regardless of mobility needs, can comfortably explore and enjoy the marine wonders.

• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair and stroller accessible, with lifts and ramps available throughout the attraction.

Pro-Tip: Visit during non-peak hours, such as weekday mornings, for a more serene experience and fewer crowds. Consider combining your visit with the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain show, along with other Dubai Mall attractions, for a full day of unforgettable family fun.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world’s largest indoor theme park, providing a welcome escape from Dubai’s heat with its four epic adventure zones: Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure, and IMG Boulevard. Families can meet beloved superheroes, cartoon characters, and dinosaurs through thrilling rides, live shows, and interactive attractions. From high-speed roller coasters for older kids and adults to more gentle rides and character meet-and-greets for younger ones, this park offers a diverse range of entertainment. It’s an ideal choice for a full day of excitement, regardless of the weather outside, making it one of the most exciting things to do in Dubai with kids.

The park is primarily geared towards families with children aged 5 and above, offering a wide array of thrilling rides suitable for this group. However, there are also dedicated attractions for younger children in the Cartoon Network and IMG Boulevard zones, ensuring fun for everyone, though many rides do have specific height restrictions.

• Best Age Range: Primarily geared towards families with children aged 5+, though there are attractions for younger kids in Cartoon Network and IMG Boulevard. Many rides have height restrictions.

Full-day passes for IMG Worlds of Adventure typically start from AED 299-335 per person, offering access to all four exciting zones and numerous attractions. For families planning multiple visits, annual passes are also available, providing excellent value for frequent visitors.

• Price Range: Full-day passes typically start from AED 299-335 per person. Annual passes are available for frequent visitors.

Online booking is highly advisable to guarantee your entry, especially during peak seasons or holidays when the park can get very busy. Booking in advance can also potentially save you money, as online prices are often more favorable than gate prices.

• Booking: Online booking is highly advisable to guarantee entry and potentially save money.

A wide variety of dining options are available within the park, catering to different tastes and dietary needs, from quick snacks to full-service restaurants. While there are plenty of choices inside, outside food is generally not permitted, so plan your meals accordingly.

• Food Options: A wide variety of dining options are available within the park, catering to different tastes and dietary needs. Outside food is generally not permitted.

Pro-Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive indoor park. Plan your ride strategy around popular attractions during peak times, or consider visiting on a weekday for smaller crowds and shorter wait times.

LEGOLAND Dubai (part of Dubai Parks and Resorts)

LEGOLAND Dubai is a vibrant theme park specifically designed for families with children aged 2-12, bringing the beloved LEGO bricks to life across six themed lands. Kids can build, ride, and explore their way through more than 40 LEGO-themed rides, shows, and building experiences. Highlights include Miniland, featuring iconic Dubai landmarks made from millions of LEGO bricks, and the opportunity to get a driver’s license at the LEGO City Driving School. Adjacent to the park is LEGOLAND Water Park, offering additional splash-tastic fun. It’s a perfect destination for young builders and their families looking for creative play and adventure, undoubtedly one of the top family attractions in Dubai and a key entry among the best things to do in Dubai with kids.

This park is ideally suited for children aged 2 to 12, offering a wealth of attractions designed with younger guests in mind. Many rides are gentle and perfectly suitable for toddlers, while some slightly more thrilling attractions may have height restrictions to ensure safety and enjoyment for all.

• Best Age Range: Ideal for children aged 2-12. Many rides are gentle and suitable for younger children, with some height restrictions for slightly more thrilling attractions.

Single park tickets for LEGOLAND Dubai typically start around AED 295 per person, providing access to all the exciting lands and attractions. Families also have the option to purchase multi-park access if they wish to explore other parks within Dubai Parks and Resorts.

• Price Range: Single park tickets for LEGOLAND Dubai usually start around AED 295 per person, with options for multi-park access.

It’s always best to book your tickets online in advance to secure the most favorable rates and ensure a seamless entry process upon arrival. Pre-booking can help avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods.

• Booking: It’s best to book tickets online in advance to secure the best rates and streamline your entry.

For families looking to maximize their fun, consider purchasing a multi-park pass, especially if you plan to visit the adjacent LEGOLAND Water Park or other parks located within the Dubai Parks and Resorts complex. This offers great value and allows for extended adventures.

• Combining Parks: Consider a multi-park pass if you plan to visit LEGOLAND Water Park or other parks within Dubai Parks and Resorts.

Pro-Tip: Visit the MINILAND at night to see the illuminated LEGO models, which offer a truly magical glow. Don’t miss the factory tour to learn how LEGO bricks are made and receive a souvenir brick to remember your visit!

The Green Planet

Escape to a tropical rainforest in the heart of the desert at The Green Planet, an immersive biodome that houses an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. This unique indoor ecosystem allows families to explore four distinct layers of a rainforest: the Canopy, Midstory, Forest Floor, and Flooded Rainforest. Children will be captivated by sloths, toucans, piranhas, and a stunning array of reptiles and insects living freely within the habitat. It’s a truly educational and mesmerizing experience, offering a chance to learn about biodiversity and conservation in a vibrant, living environment that feels a world away from bustling Dubai, and is an enriching entry among the best things to do in Dubai with kids.

The Green Planet offers an excellent experience for all ages, from curious toddlers who will be fascinated by the diverse animals and vibrant plant life to older children and adults with a keen interest in biology and ecosystems. Every family member will find something captivating to observe and learn.

• Best Age Range: Excellent for all ages, from curious toddlers fascinated by animals to older children interested in biology and ecosystems.

Entry tickets typically cost around AED 120-150 per person, providing access to this unique indoor rainforest experience. Families can often find discounts available by booking their tickets online in advance, making it a more accessible educational outing.

• Price Range: Entry tickets typically cost around AED 120-150 per person, with discounts often available for booking online.

Most families find that they spend a comfortable 2 to 3 hours exploring the biodome, immersing themselves in its various layers, and taking part in any scheduled animal encounters. This allows ample time to appreciate the environment without feeling rushed.

• Duration: Most families spend 2-3 hours exploring the biodome and attending animal encounters.

Keep an eye out for scheduled animal encounters and feeding times, as these interactive experiences provide a more up-close and personal look at the resident creatures. These opportunities enhance the educational value of your visit and create memorable moments.

• Interactive Experiences: Look out for scheduled animal encounters and feeding times for a more up-close experience.

Pro-Tip: Dress lightly as the biodome maintains a warm and humid environment, similar to a real rainforest, to support its delicate ecosystem. Don’t hesitate to ask staff about the best times to see specific animals being most active for the best viewing opportunities.

Desert Safari with a Family Focus

A desert safari offers an iconic Dubai experience, but with a family-friendly twist, it becomes an adventure for all ages. Opt for operators that provide options suitable for children, such as gentler dune drives (or skipping dune bashing entirely for younger kids), camel rides, sandboarding, and opportunities for beautiful sunset photography. The evening often culminates in a traditional Bedouin-style camp, complete with cultural performances like belly dancing and fire shows, henna painting, and a delicious BBQ dinner. It’s a fantastic way to introduce your family to Emirati culture and the stunning natural beauty of the Arabian desert, easily one of the best things to do in Dubai with kids for an authentic experience.

The suitable age range for a desert safari varies significantly by tour operator, so it’s essential to confirm beforehand. Many companies offer ‘gentle’ safaris that are perfectly suitable for children as young as 2-3 years old, focusing on cultural activities rather than extreme thrills. However, dune bashing, which involves fast drives over sand dunes, is generally recommended for kids aged 6 and above due to its intense nature.

• Best Age Range: Varies by tour operator. Many offer ‘gentle’ safaris suitable for children as young as 2-3 years old, while dune bashing is generally recommended for kids aged 6+.

Prices for desert safaris vary widely based on the duration of the tour, the inclusions (such as private car transport versus a shared vehicle), and the level of luxury offered by the package. Generally, prices start from around AED 150-200 per person, offering options to suit various family budgets.

• Price Range: Prices vary widely based on the duration, inclusions (e.g., private car vs. shared), and luxury level, starting from AED 150-200 per person.

It is crucial to book with a reputable tour company well in advance of your trip, making sure to specify that you require a family-friendly safari. This ensures that the operator provides appropriate activities and maintains safety measures suitable for children, guaranteeing an enjoyable and worry-free experience.

• Booking: Book with a reputable tour company well in advance, specifying you need a family-friendly safari to ensure appropriate activities and safety measures.

When preparing for your desert safari, it’s wise to pack layers of clothing, as desert evenings can become quite cool despite warm days. Don’t forget essentials like sunglasses and hats to protect from the sun, sunscreen, and cameras to capture the breathtaking scenery. If anyone in your family is sensitive to car rides, it’s also a good idea to bring motion sickness medication.

• What to Pack: Bring layers for the cooler desert evenings, sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and cameras. Motion sickness medication if sensitive to car rides.

Pro-Tip: Choose a safari that includes hotel pick-up and drop-off for maximum convenience, especially when traveling with children. Always confirm if car seats are available for very young children if needed, and diligently check reviews for family-friendly experiences to ensure the best fit for your group.

At The Top, Burj Khalifa

Visiting At The Top, Burj Khalifa offers families an awe-inspiring experience, ascending to the observation decks of the world’s tallest building. From the 124th and 125th floors, you’ll be treated to unparalleled panoramic views of Dubai’s sprawling cityscape, the Arabian Gulf, and the vast desert beyond. The interactive exhibits leading up to the elevators provide fascinating insights into the building’s construction and Dubai’s history. It’s an opportunity for kids to marvel at architectural grandeur and gain a unique perspective of one of the world’s most dynamic cities, creating a memorable highlight of your Dubai vacation and a truly unmissable experience among the best things to do in Dubai with kids. For more detailed tips, check out our guide on Visiting Burj Khalifa with Kids in Dubai.

This iconic attraction is suitable for all ages, offering something fascinating for every family member. Toddlers might be particularly entertained by the incredibly fast elevator ride and the expansive views from high above. Older children and teenagers will appreciate the incredible engineering marvel and the stunning panoramic vistas of the city.

• Best Age Range: Suitable for all ages. Toddlers might enjoy the fast elevator ride and looking out, while older children and teenagers will appreciate the incredible views and engineering marvel.

Ticket prices for At The Top vary depending on the chosen time slot, with prime sunset hours typically being more expensive due to high demand. Generally, prices start from around AED 169 for non-prime hours, offering a more budget-friendly option for families.

• Price Range: Tickets vary by time slot, with prime sunset hours being more expensive. Prices start from AED 169 for non-prime hours.

It is absolutely crucial to book your tickets online weeks in advance, especially if you hope to secure popular sunset slots, as these tickets sell out very quickly. Planning ahead will save you from disappointment and ensure you get your desired entry time.

• Booking: Crucial to book online weeks in advance, especially for sunset slots, as tickets sell out quickly.

To fully enjoy the experience, allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit, which includes time for security checks, the impressive elevator ride itself, and ample time to soak in the incredible views from the observation decks. This duration ensures a relaxed and unhurried visit.

• Duration: Allow 1.5-2 hours for the entire experience, including security, elevator ride, and time on the observation decks.

Pro-Tip: For slightly less crowded conditions and still fantastic views, consider visiting in the morning shortly after opening or in the late evening. You might also save money by purchasing a combined ticket that includes entry to the Dubai Aquarium or the Dubai Fountain show for added value.

Dubai Fountain Show & Souk Al Bahar

The Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the Burj Khalifa and outside The Dubai Mall, offers a spectacular free show that captivates families every evening. This choreographed fountain system shoots water jets as high as 150 meters, performing to a range of Arabic and world music. For the best views, find a spot along the boardwalk outside The Dubai Mall or book a table at one of the waterfront restaurants in Souk Al Bahar. Watching the water dance with colorful lights against the backdrop of the illuminated Burj Khalifa is a magical experience that provides a perfect, relaxing end to a day of exploration, and certainly one of the most delightful things to do in Dubai with kids.

This enchanting show is enjoyable for all ages, offering a captivating spectacle that even toddlers are usually mesmerized by, thanks to the dynamic lights and engaging music. It’s a wonderful experience that brings joy to every member of the family.

• Best Age Range: Enjoyable for all ages; even toddlers are usually mesmerized by the lights and music.

Watching the show from the promenade is completely free, offering excellent viewing spots without any cost. For a unique perspective and an even more immersive experience, boat rides on the Burj Lake during a show are available for a fee, typically around AED 65 per person.

• Price: Free to watch from the promenade. Boat rides on the lake during the show are available for a fee (approx. AED 65).

The fountain shows run every 30 minutes, starting from 6:00 PM and continuing until 11:00 PM daily. Additionally, there are extra afternoon shows on Fridays, providing more opportunities for families to witness this stunning performance.

• Show Times: Shows run every 30 minutes from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily, with additional afternoon shows on Fridays.

The area can become very crowded, especially for the early evening shows, as many visitors gather to witness the first performances. To secure a good viewing spot, it is highly recommended to arrive at least 20-30 minutes early, allowing your family to comfortably settle in.

• Crowds: Can get very crowded, especially for the early evening shows. Arrive at least 20-30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot.

Pro-Tip: For a slightly less crowded and truly unique perspective, consider taking an Abra ride on Burj Lake during a show, offering an intimate waterside view. Afterwards, explore Souk Al Bahar for its charming traditional Arabian architecture and diverse dining options, completing a perfect evening.

Planning Smart: Logistics & Timing

Dubai is a city built for convenience, but a few strategic tips can make your family vacation smoother and more enjoyable, especially when navigating the many things to do in Dubai with kids.

Pro-Tip 1: Utilize Dubai’s Metro and Taxis. The Dubai Metro is exceptionally clean, efficient, and provides an excellent way to reach key attractions such as The Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, often connecting directly to shopping centers. Taxis are also plentiful and reasonably priced, offering convenient door-to-door service which is often preferable when traveling with young children. For metro travel, consider purchasing a Nol card, which is easily rechargeable.

Pro-Tip 2: Book Attractions in Advance. Many popular attractions, especially waterparks like Aquaventure, theme parks like LEGOLAND Dubai, and the iconic Burj Khalifa, offer significant discounts or guarantee entry if tickets are booked online ahead of time. This proactive approach saves both money and valuable vacation time by helping you bypass long queues, letting you enjoy more of the best things to do in Dubai with kids without unnecessary delays.

Pro-Tip 3: Embrace the Cooler Months (Oct-April). Dubai’s peak season for tourism is from October to April when the weather is pleasantly mild and ideal for outdoor activities, including visits to the best beaches in Dubai for families. If your travel dates fall during the hotter months (May-September), it’s best to prioritize indoor attractions and water activities, and plan any outdoor excursions for the early mornings or late evenings to avoid the intense midday heat.

Pro-Tip 4: Pack Essentials for Every Outing. Always carry sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles to ensure everyone stays hydrated in Dubai’s warm climate. Bringing along plenty of snacks is also a wise move, especially with children. A lightweight stroller or a comfortable carrier is often essential for younger children, making it easier to navigate large malls and expansive attractions without little legs getting tired.

Pro-Tip 5: Combine Nearby Activities. Grouping attractions that are geographically close to each other, such as The Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Fountain, can significantly save travel time and make your itinerary much more efficient. This strategic planning allows for more time enjoying the many amazing activities and less time commuting, maximizing your family’s fun exploring the best things to do in Dubai with kids.

Conclusion: Making Memories in Dubai

Dubai truly is a playground for families, offering an incredible array of activities that cater to every age and interest. From the dizzying heights of the Burj Khalifa and the thrilling slides of Aquaventure to the imaginative role-play at KidZania and the serene beauty of the desert, this city promises a vacation filled with excitement, discovery, and precious family moments. By planning ahead and utilizing these tips, you’re well on your way to crafting an unforgettable Dubai adventure where every day brings a new opportunity for joy and wonder. Embrace the magic, dive into the fun, and watch as Dubai sparks a lifetime of cherished memories for your family, showcasing why it offers some of the best things to do in Dubai with kids.