A trip to Dubai is one of the best options for families. It’s safe, with security cameras and guards everywhere, and a well-developed infrastructure. You’ll find plenty to do in Dubai for kids of all ages
After reading this article, you’ll understand how to plan a stress-free family trip. We’ll tell you about all kinds of activities in Dubai with kids, as well as give you practical tips if you’re planning a family vacation.
“Dubai has become one of the most family-friendly cities in the world, offering experiences that appeal to both children and adults.”
— Tom Marchant, co-founder of Black Tomato
Quick Guide: Dubai with Kids in 30 Seconds
- Best activities: Water parks, safaris, beaches, and indoor activities
- Best time for fun activities: November-March for comfortable weather
- Planning family travel: Keep the itinerary light and combine indoor and outdoor activities
- Logistics: Distances are long, so it’s best to plan transportation for a family trip in advance.
- Accommodations: Choose areas near the main attractions
“What makes Dubai special for families is the sheer variety — you can go from a beach to a theme park to a desert in a single day.”
— Jessica Lynn, TravelLynn Family
Why Dubai Is Perfect for a Family Vacation
Many people associate Dubai with luxurious restaurants, boutiques, and high prices, but it’s also ideal for families with kids.
- Safety: Dubai is considered one of the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates, strict laws, and widespread video surveillance. You can safely walk with children in the evening, use public transportation, and not worry about your personal belongings.
- Cleanliness: The city is kept in nearly perfect condition. Clean streets, beaches, and public spaces. Trash is collected regularly, there are trash cans everywhere, and fines are imposed for violating cleanliness rules.
- Convenient transportation: Getting around the city is easy. Good roads, clear navigation, a well-developed public transit system, and affordable taxis. Major attractions and locations with fun family activities are situated so that it’s easy to travel between them, and renting a car makes trips even faster and more comfortable.
- A huge selection of family activities in Dubai: Dubai offers entertainment for all ages: theme parks, water parks, zoos, aquariums, game centers, beaches, and desert safaris. You can easily plan a different itinerary for every day without repeating activities, and while catering to the interests of the whole family. Below, we’ll tell you about the best family activities in Dubai, both indoor and outdoor.
Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
Visit Dubai Parks and Resorts
Dubai Parks and Resorts is a large entertainment complex covering about 25 million sq ft. It includes multiple parks: Legoland and Legoland Water Park in Dubai, Motiongate, and Riverland (a dining and walking area).
Legoland Dubai is designed mainly for younger children (around 2-12). Kids will love interactive zones. Motiongate has a mix of attractions for kids and adults, including indoor sections that help in the heat.
There are restaurants and cafes across the park, plus parking areas available on-site. You can spend a full day here without leaving.
Explore Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is located inside the Dubai Mall. It is home to thousands of marine creatures, including sharks and stingrays.
There is perfect air conditioning, cafes, restrooms for all visitors, and everything else you need is right nearby. One of the best things is that families can combine a visit here with other attractions available in the same complex.
Spend a Day at the Beach (JBR, Kite Beach)
JBR Beach and Kite Beach are popular public places with free fun things to do. There are playgrounds, open spaces, and simple fun activities, and free things like sand play. You can bring your own food, but there are cafes and restaurants, and both beaches have toilets, showers, and changing areas. Lockers may be available in some zones or nearby paid facilities.
Go on a Desert Safari (Family-Friendly Options)
Trips to the Dubai Desert usually take place in the afternoon and evening. At this time, you will avoid peak heat, and kids will enjoy catching sunset views. Family-friendly tours in Dubai include gentler driving (no intense dune bashing), camel rides, cultural shows, and dinner in a desert camp.
Photography is allowed everywhere.
In addition to the real desert safari, there is also the Dubai Safari Park. It’s one of the best places for an eco-friendly outing is. Both children and adults are sure to have a great time. They offer a variety of kid-friendly activities, programs, and packages. You can check them all out on their website, where you can also purchase tickets.
Enjoy Waterparks (Aquaventure & Wild Wadi)
Aquaventure Waterpark and Wild Wadi Waterpark are suitable places to visit with kids. It suits different age groups.
In this attraction in Dubai, there are shallow play zones for younger kids. Older kids and adults can spend their time on slides and larger attractions. Plenty of rides for kids of all ages are available. If you arrive unprepared, basic swimwear is usually available for purchase at on-site shops. Tickets are better booked in advance, especially on weekends or holidays, to avoid queues.
Discover Indoor Dubai Attractions (Perfect for Summer)
These activities will save your vacation from being a bust if you’re visiting during the hot season. Shopping malls always have air conditioning, food courts, and everything you need.
IMG Worlds of Adventure is a large, fully indoor park with rides themed around Marvel and Cartoon Network. It’s better for older kids and teenagers. There are both slower rides and more intense attractions. You can find food courts and rest areas inside.
KidZania Dubai is an interactive city where children can try different professions in a structured environment. Best for ages 4-14. Activities are supervised and run in scheduled sessions.
VR Park Dubai is a space focused on virtual reality and simulators. More suitable for older kids and adults due to equipment size and motion-based experiences. Ski Dubai in the Mall of the Emirates is an indoor snow park where kids can play in the snow, try beginner skiing, or just experience a cold environment. You can rent equipment and clothing right there when you arrive. Dubai Dolphinarium is an indoor venue with dolphin and seal shows. Sessions run at fixed times, so it’s better to check the schedule in advance. Shopping malls in Dubai, in general, function as activity hubs: beyond shopping, they offer play zones, cinemas, and various activities for kids, making them a practical option during peak heat hours.
Take a Ride to the Top of Burj Khalifa
The tallest building is more engaging for older kids who can appreciate the height and scenery.
Better visit it early in the morning because there will be fewer people, or at sunset. Sunset offers better views, but busier. Booking in advance is recommended.
Walk Around Dubai Marina & Take a Boat Ride
You can walk here with your family. There are places to eat, and space for kids to move around.
Boat tours in Dubai Marina can be booked online, through hotel desks, or directly at kiosks near the waterfront. Queues depend on timing. Typically, evenings and weekends are busier, so booking ahead is usually more convenient.
Getting Around Dubai with Kids
Taking a taxi with kids can be quite an adventure: the car seat might not fit, there might not be enough room, and you’ll have to lug around a bunch of stuff. In your own car, for example, you can stow everything in the glove compartment or trunk and customize the car to your preferences. Waiting for a taxi with children can also be uncomfortable. Public transportation can be less convenient with kids during peak hours, especially if you’re carrying strollers or bags. Taxis and the subway can significantly slow you down, and at some point, you’ll realize that you’ll have to cancel many of the items on your to-do list.
For families, renting a car often makes the trip much easier, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions across the city. Services like Octane.Rent offer spacious 7 seater cars, along with child seats and even strollers, which can be a huge help when traveling with younger kids.
“Distances in Dubai can be deceptive, and having your own car gives families the flexibility they really need.”
— Samantha Karen, SamSoMuch
Best Time to Visit Dubai with Kids
- Winter. Daytime temperatures range from 24°C to 28°C. This is ideal for both the best family activities in Dubai that can be enjoyed outdoors and those that take place indoors. At night, temperatures drop to between 12°C and 18°C. Light rain is possible, but the weather is very comfortable for family trips.
- Summer. In summer, plan only activities that can be done indoors. Things to do with kids include visiting malls, indoor ice rinks, etc. The heat in summer is extreme and can exceed 45°C. Of course, it’s best to wait until the warmer months to visit places like the Dubai Miracle Garden or Dubai Creek.
Tips for Visiting Dubai with Kids
- First tip: make sure you have plenty of water. Dehydration occurs particularly quickly in the heat, and children can get so caught up in playing that they don’t even realize they’re thirsty. Always bring water bottles; there are even special bags and lanyards for bottles, so everyone can carry their own water with them.
- Sun protection: This is an important point. Don’t overlook it. Hats, sun hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Be sure to bring all of these with you. By the way, you’ll thank yourself if you bring a pocket fan. It costs next to nothing, but it’s a lifesaver in long lines.
- Respect for another culture means adhering to the local dress code. Flip-flops aren’t appropriate everywhere; avoid shorts, short tops, and overly revealing clothing. Also, don’t wear T-shirts with inappropriate slogans.
- Planning: When planning, always leave room for breaks and unforeseen circumstances, such as traffic jams, lines, and so on.
“When traveling with kids in Dubai, less is more — choose a few key experiences and leave space to rest.”
— Annette White, Bucket List Journey
Final Thoughts on Visiting Dubai with Kids
Dubai is a convenient and safe destination for families. The key is to plan your itinerary carefully for family activities in Dubai with kids. Combine different types of activities (indoor and outdoor) and avoid overloading your schedule.
Plan, choose convenient transportation, and make the trip comfortable for the kids. For example, you can rent an SUV, van, or any other vehicle for a comfortable trip with Octane.Rent, and get your car delivered right to the airport, your hotel, or any other location.
