Looking for somewhere to take the family in Dubai? From water parks to bowling, to record-breaking shows, these great-value activities in and around Dubai and the UAE will keep little ones (and your wallet) happy all long weekend...
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DUBAI HILLS PARK AND SPLASH PARK: The vast Dubai Hills park nestled within the popular new residential community is now home to a fabulous, kid-friendly Splash Park, which is also excellent value for money. While the park itself is awesome and totally free to enter, featuring three distinct playgrounds with zip lines, slides and a vast dragon climbing structure, during the day in summer the splash pad is the place to be. The perfect size for younger children, it is a proper playground of aquatic adventure, with super slides, flumes, spray tunnels, and even a water-spraying roundabout, all safely guarded from the sun by large sail shades. Best of all – it’s open and small enough that parents can sit back and relax while watching little ones frolic in the refreshing water. DETAILS: Dubai Hills Splash Park, Dubai Hills Estate, residents under 13 Dh20, non-residents under 13 Dh30. Adult residents cost Dh25 and adult non-residents will pay Dh40, open from 10am to 10pm daily.
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RAS AL KHOR WILDLIFE SANTUARY: This peaceful wetlands reserve is home to hundreds of fish, crustaceans and wading birds relaxing on the water. With the glittering towers of Sheikh Zayed Road an incongruous backdrop, the birds range from elegant heron to majestic osprey, but it’s the flamboyant pink flamingos that steal the show for most little ones, and there’s the chance to watch their daily feeding times from a wooden hide at the end of a pier. DETAILS: Free entry, the best time to visit is between November and April. Feeding times 9-9.30am, and 3-4pm, opening times Sat to Thurs, 9am-4pm, 800 900.
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AL THURAYA ASTRONOMY CENTRE: Expand children’s minds with this family-friendly Astronomy Centre within Mushrif Park, which houses a planetarium where families can view the wonders of the universe during an impressive space show. Alternatively you can visit the Astro Cinema which screens documentaries and sci-fi movies. Or visit post-sunset and let little ones marvel at the moon and planets through the centre’s telescopes. DETAILS: Dh20/ ticket, location Mushrif Park (there is a Dh10 fee for car entry to Mushrif park, take a Nol card), 04 2216603.
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THE PALM FOUNTAIN AT THE POINTE: Spanning across the boulevard of The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah, The Palm Fountain is officially the world’s largest fountain and kids will love watching the uplifting, multi-coloured display as the water shoots dance and sway to popular songs from around the world. The two giant floating platforms cover 14,000 sq meters of sea water, towering at 105 meters, and lighting up the sky of Dubai with magical 3,000 LEDs. You can amble along the boardwalk or view form one of The Pointe’s many family-friendly eateries. DETAILS: Free to view, there are shows daily every half an hour from sunset to midnight, The Pointe, The Palm Jumeirah, Thepointe.ae.
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DUBAI BOWLING CENTER: What better way to bond together as a family than by playing a game of bowling together? This air-conditioned, indoor activity is simple enough for even little ones to join in with, and they will love the challenge of working together as a team and knocking down as many bowling pins as possible. DETAILS: Dh24 per person for one game from 10am to 6pm Sunday to Wednesday; Dh30 per person from 6pm onwards on weekdays; Dh39 per person between 10am and 6pm on weekends and public holidays, or Dh49 from 6pm, Bowlingdubai.com.
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DUBAI CREEK HARBOUR PLAYGROUND: There’s a spectacular new marine-themed playground at Dubai Creek Harbour, featuring a vast yellow submarine structure, as well as a huge wooden whale, ‘seaweed’ forests to weave between, climbing area and slid, all on rubberized flooring. Head there in the morning or late afternoon and let the kids amuse themselves for hours, while you enjoy the view of boats floating in the marina. DETAILS: Free to enter, Dubai Creek Harbour playground.
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BUHAIS GEOLOGY PARK ARCHAEOLOGICAL CENTRE, SHARJAH: While you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve stumbled onto Mars, this rocky moonscape of a park, opened in 2019, is actually in Sharjah, situated about an hour’s drive from central Dubai in an area of staggering geological significance. The discovery centre makes for an amazing, air-conditioned activity during the summer months. Teeming with marine fossils, the site is based on what used to be an ancient sea bed, and features five interconnected pods, which house exhibitions investigating the UAE’s rich geological history. This unique site is the ideal day trip for little dinosaur-lovers, science buffs or fossil fans, and features an easy 1km trail loop that features ancient archaeological burial sites from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages, as well as giant Ophiolite boulders - parts of a section of the Earth’s crust that has been forced up and exposed - which make for a wonderful teaching aid to tell kids about tectonic plates and the history of the Earth. DETAILS: Roughly 1-2 hours drive from Dubai, Dh10 entry for adults and children to the archaeological centre, opening hours vary so call to check before setting out, 06 801 2100.
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DUBAI TURTLE REHABILITATION PROJECT: Jumeirah Group’s Al Naseem Hotel runs The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation project in collaboration with Emirates Wildlife Protection Office. With the project they rescue, care for, protect, and rehabilitate sick turtles, while also raising awareness of the threats faced by marine turtles. The enclosure is open to the public every day of the week and kids will love spotting these gentle, ancient creatures in the shimmering waters. The weekly feedings at 11am on Wednesday mornings used to be open to the public and are set to reopen soon. DETAILS: Free entry, Jumeriah Al Naseem, 04 301 7198.
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CHILDREN’S CITY: Tucked in Dubai Creek Park, this excellent edutainment venue is often overlooked but contains a wealth of experiences for children of all ages. From the Forsherwelt galleries, which are designed to introduce children up to the age of 10 to the fascinating world of science and laboratory, to the interactive galleries dedicated to Earth sciences, nature, space exploration, the human body, international cultures, and even a toddler play area and a dedicated Planetarium, there’s plenty to fill up your day. All for the very reasonable price of Dh10 per child 2-10 years, and Dh15 for adults, or Dh40 for a family ticket (two adults and two children). There is an additional fee of Dh5 for park entry, Nol card required. Open 9am-7pm weekdays and 2-8pm Friday and Saturdays. Childrencity.dm.gov.ae, 04 334 0808.
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IMAGINE LIGHT AND LASER SHOW AT DFC: Dazzle little ones with the record-breaking light, fountain and laser show ‘Imagine’, which has now returned to Dubai Festival City Mall with new specially created bespoke content such as a 3D effect mapping show with enhanced and choreographed laser and brand-new musical fountain shows featuring popular hits such as C’est La Vie, Jai Ho and Imagine. DETAILS: Free to watch, shows last around 3-4 minutes each and will start from 7pm and play every half an hour until 10pm on weekdays and 11pm on weekends at Dubai Festival City Mall.
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ARABIA’S WILDLIFE CENTER: This hidden gem, located under an hour from Downtown Dubai in Sharjah, is sure to impress young and old alike. Home to all kinds of desert creatures from reptiles and birds, to nocturnal species, there’s an enclosure where you can view Arabian Oryx and gazelles as well as ostriches, flamingos and much more. DETAILS: Child 1-12 years free, 13 upwards Dh15, 06 531 1999.
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PLAYHOUSES IN MUSHRIF PARK: This vast desert park is a large protected area with indigenous Ghaf woodland. But what the kids will love is these replicas of traditional houses from all over the world. They have 13 models of Arabic and English houses in their international village. There are also BBQ areas, playgrounds for kids, courts to play volleyball and basketball and a cycle track. DETAILS: Dh3 per person, Dh10 per car, located in Al Khawaneej, 04 288 3624.
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JUMEIRAH FISHING HARBOUR: This fishing harbour surrounded by cafés and restaurants is a serene snapshot of Dubai’s marine past. Breathe in the salty sea air and take in the pretty coastal views ,complete with traditional-style architecture, fishermen relaxing in the shade and the quaint fishing boats dancing on the water. Kids will love watching crabs scuttle up and down the steps along the quay side, and there is a small play area to help (briefly) occupy toddlers. DETAILS: Free to visit, located in Jumeirah (while there’s no clear signage, it’s easy to find: drive along Jumeirah Beach Road with Mercato Mall to your left, pass two traffic lights and then turn right).
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TRADITIONAL ABRA RIDE ON DUBAI CREEK: The creek was once the historical centre of the city’s commerce and it remains an amazing opportunity to show your kids a different side of Dubai. Harking back to a simpler time, little ones will love this experience. Plus, boat rides don’t get much cheaper than this (be warned: the traditional abras are not very stroller-friendly, but the air conditioned abras have more space). DETAILS: Dh1 per ride (Dh2 for air conditioned abra), Bur Dubai (Creekside), daily 5am to midnight. See RTA.ae for timetable details.
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RIPE MARKET: Ripe Market is held at The Dubai Police Academy Park in Umm Suqeim over the winter, and features a farmers’ market, street food trucks and artisan crafts stalls, as well as a full program of activities for kids, including a bouncing area, mini petting zoo and an array of workshops and activities. From May 2021 however it is moving indoors, so you can now catch it from 10am at Springs Souk on Fridays, at Nakheel Mall on both Fridays and Saturdays, and on the first three Saturdays of the month at Times Square Center. DETAILS: Free to attend the indoor markets, Fridays at Springs Souk (10am till late), first three Saturdays of the month at Times Square Center (10am till 5pm) and at Nakheel Mall every Friday and Saturday throughout summer, 10am till 7pm.
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SHARJAH DISCOVERY CENTRE: This great-value edutainment venue is divided into seven different sections to entertain the kids, including a Drive Town, Airport, Build Town, petroleum refinery, TV studio, Climbing Walls, Sound Zone and an area dedicated to teaching the human anatomy. DETAILS: Dh5 for children (2-12yrs), Dh10 age 13+, free for under 2s, located on Sharjah airport road between interchanges 4 and 5, opposite Sharjah Classic Cars Museum and Sharjah Airport, 06 558 6577.
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DUBAI MARINA BOAT TOUR: You could spend a packet on a tourist boat ride, or you could pay peanuts for an equally pleasant journey on the low-cost, clean and rarely busy commuter boat service that is the Dubai Water Bus. Departing from just outside Dubai Marina Mall, there are many different routes to choose from, but our favourite is the one that heads over to Marina Walk, where there are plenty of coffee shops and fountains for the children to splash in. The water bus is buggy-friendly and air conditioned, and a fine way to enjoy the marina from the water. DETAILS: Dh3-11 depending on the route, children are free, see RTA.ae for timetable and route details.
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AL FAHIDI HISTORICAL DISTRICT: This rich heritage area, previously known as Al Bastakiya, features Dubai’s oldest building (1780s) the Al Fahidi Fort, as well as the Dubai Museum (Dh3 for adults to visit and Dh1 for children), and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). But there is enough to enjoy just wandering through the beautiful traditional buildings, peeking into the odd art gallery here or catching a glimpse of a picturesque courtyard there, and kids will love running through the dusty narrow streets and looking up at the wind towers. Head over to the Arabian Tea House’s breezy courtyard for a relaxed refreshment or atmospheric lunch that feels a world away from the manic modernity of new Dubai. DETAILS: Free to visit, you can reach the location through the Al Fahidi Metro Station nearby.
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DUBAI FOUNTAINS: Situated in the shadow of the glittering Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain’s spectacular, choreographed water and light show can be viewed at various points throughout the day, but the 6pm showing is perfect for little ones, with the sun setting, and the temperatures cooling. If you want to eat too, head to one of the Dubai Mall restaurants with an outdoor terrace at around 5pm (we like Carluccio’s for its kid-friendly menu and frequent promos), grab a table overlooking the water and fountains, and wait for the show to start. DETAILS: Free to view, showings Saturday to Thursday 1pm, 1.30pm, and 2pm; Friday afternoon 1.30pm, 2pm, and 2:30pm; Evening shows every 30 mins 6-11pm (times may vary).
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PALM BOARDWALK: On the edge of the southern crescent of The Palm Jumeirah, the stunning views back towards JBR from the Boardwalk will wow your guests and are well worth the effort it takes to get there. Pack scooters and trikes and let the little ones ride up and down the wooden boardwalk. It’s fully enclosed so safe and completely flat so great for buggies. Stroll along and take in the magnificent panoramic views, with the jet skiers swirling in front of you, leisure boats sailing past, as well as skydivers falling towards Sky Dive Dubai. DETAILS: Free to visit any time but late afternoon into early evening will be cooler and you may catch one of Dubai’s spectacular sunsets.
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DUBAI WATER CANAL: Little ones will love scooting through the perspective-altering length of the architectural wonder that is the Twisted Bridge over Dubai Water Canal. Head there first thing in the morning or pre-sunset for some jaw-dropping views, and follow up with a bridge-hop over to Tolerance Bridge and then a pleasant walk along the Dubai Canal, where you can also catch a magical, purple-lit waterfall gushing beneath Sheikh Zayed Road come sundown. DETAILS: Free to visit, situated off Sheikh Zayed road.
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DUBAI MALL DINO EXHIBIT: Dinosaur-loving kiddos will love being transported back in time to the Jurassic period at Dubai Mall’s Souk Dome. Measuring over seven meters high and 24 meters long, this towering exhibit is a genuine fossil of a Diplodocus longus, which roamed the earth more than 150 million years ago. While you’re at the mall, be sure to head over to the aquarium, where you can marvel at the rays, sharks and hundreds of colourful tropical fish swimming behind the world’s largest glass panel. DETAILS: Free to visit, located in Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
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LA MER: Explore the laidback coastal vibe at La Mer, where stunning graffiti murals, lime-washed beach huts and bustling backstreets filled with family-friendly eateries make for a great place to visit with the kids. There are wooden play structures dotted along its picturesque boardwalks, and the stretch of sandy beach against the calm sea makes it ideal for a paddle. DETAILS: Free to visit, Jumeirah 1, retailers open from 10am to 9pm.
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AL QUDRA LAKES: Pack a breakfast picnic and trundle the kids in the car as soon as they wake up for a breathtaking dawn with the stunning waterside views and desert wildlife at Al Qudra Lakes. Feed the ducks, watch majestic heron feed and enjoy being in nature (but be warned, there are no bathrooms or retail outlets nearby). DETAILS: Free to visit, open daily.
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RIVERLAND DUBAI: This fun, themed dining and retail destination is split into four zones that give an atmospheric glimpse into past eras, from 19th century Europe to 1950s America. Home to Dubai Parks and Resorts’ various theme parks, including recently reopened Motiongate, you don’t have to buy a ticket to go to one of the theme parks in order to enjoy the festive feel of Riverland’s sandstone walkways and picturesque water views. Wander amongst the many dining and retail outlets and you’ll find free children’s playgrounds, as well as trampoline floors by the riverside that just have to be bounced on. Riverland is also home to the world’s largest mobile maze (Dh35 entry) in case you feel like a challenge. DETAILS: Riverland, Free to enter, Dubai Parks & Resorts, off Sheikh Zayed Road.
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TOWN SQUARE DUBAI PARK: This popular community park boasts its own carousel, splash pad, kid’s fountain, mini train, playground climbing frame and lots of green space for running around or having a picnic. Bring swim gear and a change of clothes and let little ones run riot. DETAILS: Dh10 for train ride or carousel, Dh25 for splash pad (for non residents), which opens from 3pm, located in Town Square community, Al Qudra Road.
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AL BARARI PLAYGROUND, AL BARARI: One of the newest and most impressive residential playgrounds on the block, this sprawling play area in upmarket Al Barari has a huge pirate ship, zip line, sand areas and climbing frames, and a water play area where kids can cool down and have a paddle. DETAILS: Open to residents from 10am to 8pm. It is Dh11 for non-residents on weekdays and Dh16 for entry on weekends, free for residents, Albarari.com/play.
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RAIN ROOM SHARJAH: Kids can sing in the rain without getting wet at this inspiring, immersive art installation in Sharjah, which sees you walking through an atmospherically lit, continuous indoor downpour that switches off as you walk so you don’t get drenched. The venue has reopened with strict health and safety measures, which mean a maximum of 5 people may enter at a time and each visit lasts 15 minutes. Tickets should be booked in advance. DETAILS: Free for five years and under, Dh25 per adult, Dh15 for students under 22. www.Sharjahart.org.
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LOVELOCK BRIDGE AT THE YARD: Leave your mark in the emirates by securing your own padlock on Promise Bridge, then enjoy a wander around the quirky street art and sculptures dotted around this suburban hideaway. DETAILS: The Yard, Al Khawaneej, Mirdif, open 7am to midnight.
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MLEIHA ARCHAEOLOGICAL CENTRE: Discover the UAE’s ancient past at this fascinating centre, where you can learn more about the history of the Bedouin culture, marvel at the artifacts and even spy rare desert flora and fauna. DETAILS: Access to the centre is Dh25 for adults and Dh15 for kids (3-12, under 3s are free), but you can opt to go on one of their fossil-hunting expeditions or other outdoor tours for an additional cost. Open Sat-Wed, 9am to 7pm, Thu-Fri until 9pm.
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