Best Things to do in Dubai with Kids

Got Dubai plans or will have in the near future? Here’s something that could come handy especially if you are traveling with children. This guest post by Neha Singh lists the best things to do in Dubai when you are tripping with kids. If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to Dubai, it might help to know that Neha blogs at Dubai Wiki.

Things to do in Dubai

Most of us assume Dubai is a just a land of architectural marvels. But there’s more to it than its superlative sights and extraordinary landmarks. It’s also a destination with tons of attractions and experiences ideal for your young ones of all age groups.

Planning an unforgettable Dubai holiday with your family? We’ve put together some of the best things to do in Dubai with kids.

1. Go Skiing at Ski Dubai 

This is one iconic Dubai experience that your smaller ones will definitely enjoy. So don’t miss it; you’ll find this snow-filled attraction inside the Mall of the Emirates. It’s the Middle East’s first of its kind, and the world’s third largest indoor ski resort. There are ski slopes (ideal for all levels) and several snow themed rides. Most of all, it is an extensive snow park where you can get wild and crazy with snow that feels real.

A snow attraction is incomplete without penguins, and Ski Dubai has this sorted too. You’ll get to catch up with Gentoo Penguins here in a setting that takes after its natural habitat. 

2. Swim with Dolphins 

For this amazing marine adventure, you can head to Dolphins Bay inside Atlantis, The Palm Resort, which is also home to Aquaventure Water Park and Lost Chambers Aquarium. This place is ideal for all age groups and that means this place gives your kiddos a once-in-the-lifetime chance to observe, swim and even feed adorable dolphins in safe, shallow waters. Just take a pick from tours such as Atlantis Dolphin Encounter, Royal Swim, or Dolphin Adventure.

What if your little ones are non-swimmers or want to interact with these creatures without getting wet?
There are exclusive packages such as Dolphin Meet and Greet, just for them. 

3. Plan a Day at Dubai Parks and Resorts

If your child is crazy about theme park rides and attractions, a day in Dubai Parks and Resorts (DPR) should be at the top on your Dubai checklist. It’s the region’s first integrated resort with several accommodation and dining options plus three theme parks and a water park: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, LEGOLAND Dubai, and LEGOLAND Water Park. They have 100 plus rides inspired by the most iconic Hollywood movies and all-time favorite Bollywood characters, among others. It may not be easy to cover the entire ground in a single day so choose the right pass that offers access to one or more of your favorite DPR parks. 

4. Ascend Burj Khalifa & Spend Rest of the Day at The Dubai Mall 

Burj Khalifa probably needs no preface, being the world’s tallest man-made structure. So be sure to take your little ones to this massive 828-meter high structure. They would definitely enjoy scoping out Dubai’s wondrous skyline views from its observation decks on 124th, 125th and 148th levels. The icing on the cake is a multimedia display on Dubai’s past as well as an elevator ride that will transport you to the observation deck at lightning speed. There is also a variety of dining options to add to your visit here. 

Adjoining Burj Khalifa is The Dubai Mall, which is a hotspot for shopping, dining, leisure and of course whatever you’re looking for in your Arabian retreat. Not to mention, this is one of the ultimate destinations for kids. Let them check out in detail Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, take in icy fun at Dubai Ice Rink, and make the most of the largest of its kind VR Park. And did I mention that it is also the venue for KidZania Dubai Mall? Here your curious ones can experience their favorite adult profession and make and earning too. 

Before you wind up your Dubai Mall visit, make sure that you watch the astonishing Dubai Fountain where water, music and light create a breathtaking spectacle. 

5. Watch the Spectacular Palm Fountain Show 

Dubai Fountain Show is classic and mesmeric but the recently opened Palm Fountain Show is even more fantastic.  It’s the world’s largest fountain show and the region’s only colored fountain show. Added to this is its captivating location at The Pointe on the manmade island of Palm Jumeirah. That’s not all, this show is also set against the imposing Atlantis, The Palm Resort.

6. Hang Out at Mushrif Park 

Let your kids have some refreshing fun moments inside Mushrif Park. It’s one of the region’s oldest parks where loads of activities and experiences await you. Take in untouched nature and sheer adventure at its Aventura Park, complete with five circuits, which make it ideal for every age and ability. Another intriguing section is International Village where you’ll find replicas of traditional houses that represent different parts of the world.

For your little astronomer, an unmissable attraction here is Al Thuraya Astronomy Centre. Apart from these, you can plan a picnic amidst its lush settings, play your favorite net and goal games, and even ride horses, thanks to Mushrif Equistrian and Polo Club. 

7. Visit Dubai Safari Park 

If your little ones are fascinated about wildlife, be sure to take them to Dubai Safari Park. This place allows them to get up close and personal with over 2,500 animals brought from different parts of the world. From rare and endangered species to several different types of mammals, reptiles and birds, the park’s inhabitants are split into four unique segments: Asian Village, African Village, Al Wadi, and Explorer Village. Among many thrilling experiences here is also the exhilarating drive-through safari adventure, which allows you to have close encounters with freely roaming lions, tigers, etc. 

8. Desert Safari 

Be it tots or teens, your kids of all age groups will enjoy a trip to Dubai’s pristine desert landscape. From the most daring to the milder, mellower and most relaxed experiences, a desert safari in Dubai encapsulates the best of both worlds. Enjoy an electrifying dune bash, visit the campsite, relax in its modest yet inspiring traditional tents, and participate in a roster of cultural activities including henna tattooing, falconry, and Shisha smoking.

Morning desert safari is ideal for those with limited time in Dubai, while evening desert safari or overnight desert safari with BBQ dinner and traditional shows like Tanura show is designed for those looking for an unforgettable off-road adventure. 

9. Cool off at Dubai’s Water Parks 

Whether your kids are water enthusiasts or not, it goes without saying that your little ones will love a visit to the region’s water parks. From Wild Wadi – one of the region’s oldest water parks to the newest Laguna Park and impressive Aquaventure Water Park to AquaFun – the world’s largest inflatable water park, you’ll get to experience it all here. 

10. Dhow Cruise 

After all the action and amusement, wind down with an unperturbed dhow cruise along Dubai Marina or Dubai Creek. This allows you to see Dubai’s magnificent city scape and coastline views from the water.  But that’s not all this cruise is about; savor delicious buffet style dinner, watch traditional performances and revel in soothing music as you sail aboard a traditional Arabian wooden dhow. The cruise lasts for around 90 minutes. 

Conclusion

From its cool water parks and epic theme parks to fun-filled leisure spots, wherever you wish to go in the city – it’s very likely that there will be a dedicated section for kids. What’s more: there are even spots and experiences exclusively created for kids. In fact, all this proves that Dubai is definitely a place that you should travel to with your little ones, at least once in your lifetime. 

— Neha Singh.

More–
Kids Destinations on Tipsy from the TRIP