Wondering how to keep your kids occupied during the school holidays? Dubai has endless things to do, whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor activities that won’t cost you a fortune.

So, why not make the most of your time together and explore everything this exciting city has to offer?

To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of the best free things to do with kids in Dubai this week and beyond.

Check out the Dubai Fountain show

If you’re hunting for a cool experience on a budget, the Dubai Fountain display never gets old. Whether you’re visiting Dubai or are a seasoned resident, the whole family is sure to be in awe as the stunning dancing water show in Downtown Dubai comes to life.

The Dubai Fountain kicks off every 30 minutes between 6pm and 11pm each day, so there’s plenty of time to catch the incredible show. It’s totally free to watch, too, just grab a spot outside The Dubai Mall and you’ll be set.
Show daily every 30 minutes from 6pm-11pm. Downtown Dubai, thedubaimall.com (04 567 2030).

Dive in at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

While there’s an entry fee to enter the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, you can still see some of the best it has to offer at the main tank in Dubai Mall. The kids will love seeing marine life, like sharks, stingrays, clownfish and other sea creatures up-close, so pay a visit the next time you’re in the mall.
Free (main tank inside the mall). The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, thedubaiaquarium.com.

Get a dose of art at Jameel Arts Centre

Boasting exhibition spaces, a library and an outdoor amphitheatre, Jameel Arts Centre is one of the best venues for a free day out in Dubai. A range of programmes and tours are available here, including for little ones. Jameel Arts Centre regularly hosts workshops for kids in the Jameel Library. Dates vary, so check the website regularly for upcoming kids’ events.
Free. Open Sun-Mon 10am-4pm; Wed 10am-4pm and 8.30pm-11pm; Thu 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-4pm and 8.30pm-11pm. Jaddaf Waterfront (04 873 9800).

Have a picnic in Al Barsha Pond Park

Whether you’re in the mood to stroll or enjoy a leisurely picnic, Al Barsha Pond Park is the perfect venue. The expansive park is the perfect mini escape, featuring fresh date palms, flower-lined hedgerows and a central lake. Head here with all your favourite treats in a cute picnic basket, a blanket, some cards or board games and you’ll be set. If you’d like to get moving, head to the kids’ play area, take on the 1.5km running track, go for a spin along the cycle trail or have a game of tennis, football or volleyball.
Free. Open Sun-Thu 8am-10pm, Fri -Sat 8am-11pm. Opposite Al Barsha Mall, Al Barsha 2.

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Join story time at The Old Library

If you’re a family of bookworms, make a beeline to Old Library. You can explore over 25,000 books for adults and kids alike. Run by and for the expat community in Dubai, events are also hosted here, including a weekly story time usually hosted on Fridays and other fun activities for kids. Keep an eye on The Old Library’s social media page for announcements.
Free. Open Mon-Fri 10am-6pm and Sat noon-4pm. Gold & Diamond Park, Building 7 (04 321 3939).

Step back in time at the Coins Museum

If you have an inquisitive kid on your hands, head to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood to check out the Coins Museum. You can look forward to a brilliant day out as the whole family can learn about history in a traditional Arabian venue. Rare coins dating back to ancient Middle East are on display in special cabinets. All the displays run across themed rooms and you can learn more about each coin with a touchscreens, including shape, size, metal, method, date of minting, and more.
Free. Open daily. Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Visit the birds at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Does your little one love animals? Take them on a fun trip to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. Just metres away from Dubai in the wetlands, you can discover thousands of bird species, including stunning flamingos. Multiple ‘hides’ are available for wildlife viewings. The hides are free to use and no bookings are required. Free guided tours are also available to book online. Grab your best camera and binoculars and don’t miss out.
Free. Open daily 7.30am-5.30pm. Ras Al Khor Road, Ras Al Khor, dm.gov.ae/dubai-protected-areas/plan-your-visit/#tour

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