Dubai, the shimmering jewel of the UAE, isn’t just about skyscrapers, luxury shopping, or desert safaris—it’s also one of the most kid-friendly destinations I’ve ever visited. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, pre-teens, or teenagers, this city offers an endless array of activities that combine fun, education, and unforgettable experiences.
Having visited Dubai with my nieces (ages 5 and 11), I discovered how the city caters beautifully to families. From world-class theme parks and aquariums to cultural villages and indoor snow adventures, Dubai truly stands out as a family playground in the desert. This article explores the best things to do in Dubai with kids, with tips from personal experience, expert opinions, and reliable resources.
Why Dubai Is a Top Choice for Families
Dubai consistently ranks among the safest cities in the world. According to the 2023 Numbeo Safety Index, Dubai scores an impressive 83.3/100 in safety. Combine that with modern infrastructure, excellent public hygiene, and family-friendly amenities, and you’ve got the perfect setting for stress-free travel with kids.
Additionally, Dubai Tourism reports show that family travelers make up a significant portion of the 17 million+ tourists annually, indicating the city’s growing reputation as a family destination.
1. Theme Parks & Entertainment Zones
Dubai Parks and Resorts
Location: Jebel Ali
Ideal For: Kids aged 3 and above
Dubai Parks and Resorts is home to:
- LEGOLAND Dubai – perfect for ages 2-12
- Motiongate Dubai – think Hollywood meets thrill rides
- LEGOLAND Water Park – water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers for younger kids
My Tip: Arrive early and wear comfy shoes. LEGOLAND has interactive stations where kids can build and race their own LEGO cars—my niece spent over an hour here!
Expert Insight: According to Travel Weekly Middle East, Dubai Parks and Resorts attracts over 2 million visitors annually and offers over 100 indoor and outdoor attractions.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
World’s largest indoor theme park with zones based on:
- Marvel superheroes
- Cartoon Network characters
- Dinosaur-themed rides in the Lost Valley
Pro Tip: This is fully air-conditioned, making it perfect for hot summer days.
2. Water Adventures for All Ages
Aquaventure Waterpark, Atlantis The Palm
This is not just a waterpark—it’s an adrenaline-filled aquatic wonderland.
- Zip-line across the park
- Tunnels and rides like the Leap of Faith
- Kid-only splash areas and safety-supervised pools
Trust Note: Life jackets are provided for all kids, and lifeguards are everywhere. We found it reassuring as parents and caretakers.
Wild Wadi Waterpark
A great alternative, especially for younger kids, located near the iconic Burj Al Arab.
3. Educational & Cultural Attractions
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Location: Dubai Mall
Home to over 33,000 aquatic animals, including a 40-year-old King Croc.
- Walk through a 48-meter tunnel surrounded by sharks and stingrays
- Kids can join Junior Aquarist programs
Personal Insight: My younger niece was spellbound seeing a shark so close up—she talked about it for weeks.
The Green Planet
An indoor rainforest in City Walk featuring over 3,000 species of flora and fauna.
- Learn about ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation
- Meet sloths, parrots, and reptiles in a carefully controlled habitat
Educational Tip: Join the “Zookeeper for a Day” program for hands-on learning.
4. Desert Safari & Camel Encounters
While desert safaris are often associated with dune bashing, many tour operators offer family-friendly safaris that include:
- Short camel rides
- Henna painting
- Falcon shows
- Traditional Bedouin dinners
Recommended Provider: Platinum Heritage offers sustainable and culturally respectful experiences suitable for kids. They also provide car seats and child-safe options.
5. Unique Indoor Experiences
Ski Dubai
Location: Mall of the Emirates
Yes, it’s snowing in the desert! Ski Dubai features:
- Snowboarding, skiing, and sledding
- A penguin encounter program
- An indoor snow park
Safety Tip: Full winter gear is included with entry. Don’t forget gloves, as snow can get too cold for little hands.
KidZania Dubai
Location: Dubai Mall
A miniature city where kids try out real-life jobs—from doctors and chefs to police officers.
- Kids earn and spend their own currency (KidZos)
- Perfect for ages 4-14
Research-Backed: Studies show that role-playing helps children develop empathy and decision-making skills (Journal of Early Childhood Research, 2020).
6. Cruises, Gardens, and Global Culture
Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise
Enjoy a gentle cruise on traditional boats with dinner and live shows—great for relaxing after a busy day.
Dubai Miracle Garden
- Over 150 million blooming flowers arranged in stunning patterns
- Disney characters, heart-shaped arches, and butterfly designs
Visit Timing: Best from November to March (it’s closed during the summer).
Global Village (Oct–Apr)
A massive open-air cultural park with:
- Pavilions from 90+ countries
- Carnival rides and games
- International street food
Expert Tip: According to Khaleej Times, Global Village saw a record 9 million visitors in 2023.
Common Questions Answered
Is Dubai Safe for Kids?
Yes. It’s one of the safest cities globally with tight regulations, family zones, and low crime rates.
What’s the Best Time to Visit?
November to March is ideal due to cooler temperatures and access to outdoor parks.
Can I Use Public Transport with Kids?
Absolutely. Dubai Metro is clean, efficient, and has designated cabins for women and children.
Are There Kid-Friendly Restaurants?
Yes. Try:
- Cheesecake Factory (Dubai Mall)
- Rainforest Café
- Reform Social & Grill (has a kids’ playground)
Helpful Travel Tips
- Use a stroller: Dubai is huge and malls require walking.
- Buy tickets online: Saves money and time (many parks offer up to 20% discount online).
- Hydrate: Always carry water, especially during desert excursions.
- Plan midday breaks: Use indoor attractions to escape the afternoon heat.
Final Thoughts
Dubai isn’t just a playground for adults—it’s an enchanting world for children of all ages. From thrilling rides to educational adventures, every corner of the city has something that sparks joy, curiosity, and awe.
As someone who explored Dubai with kids firsthand, I highly recommend mixing high-energy parks with slower, cultural attractions to keep children both engaged and well-rested.
Have more questions about traveling to Dubai with kids? Drop them in the comments or message me directly—I’d love to help you plan a memorable family adventure!
My name is Tuhin, the founder of Royal Dubai Travel, a premier travel agency in Dubai dedicated to crafting unforgettable travel experiences. With a deep passion for tourism and years of expertise in the industry, Tuhin specializes in curating personalized tours, luxury experiences, and hassle-free travel solutions for visitors to Dubai. Whether you’re looking for desert adventures, city explorations, or VIP travel services, Royal Dubai Travel ensures a seamless and memorable journey.
For travel inquiries and expert recommendations, connect with Tuhin and explore the best of Dubai with confidence!
