We all know Dubai is one of the best cities in the world to live in, even more so for those raising families here, with loads of things to see and do, created especially with children in mind.

And while the summer sun might keep us indoors for the next few months, there are so many things to do with the family in Dubai.

From a flavour-filled ice pops brand, and the coolest family-friendly ‘rave’ party to a book subscription service inspiring imaginations and pretty personalised travel accessories for kids, these will keep you busy.

If you like reading this: Kids summer camps in Dubai 2024: Where to book now

And the best bit? All the companies are home-grown in Dubai, meaning you can shop local and support small businesses while earning brownie points with your kids. That’s a win-win in our book!

Six of our favourite things to do with the family in Dubai this summer

Akindemy

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Launched: 2022.
Why try it: To expand your kids’ minds.
Looking to keep your kids busy over the summer when it’s too hot to be outside? This book subscription service for kids wants to ‘turn your little readers into kind future leaders’ with fully customisable book boxes that arrive each month.

Set up in 2022 by Agne Skutelis, the bilingual book subscription service has diverse topics, plus you can choose as many books as you like so you can tailor it to your plans (and budget). There are also discussion cards and surprise gifts included.

akindemy.com.

Carob

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Launched: 2024.
Why try it: For matchy-matchy looks.
Launched at the start of this year by celebrity stylist Holly Elgeti, Carob specialises in matching mother and daughter dresses.

The brand also focuses on sustainability as well as style using organic fabrics, ethical manufacturing and recycled packaging – aiming to safeguard the planet for generations to come. Get chic mummy-and-me looks that are perfect for your summer adventures.

carobdubai.com.

FamilyBeatz

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Launched: 2022.
Why try it: To party with the whole gang.
Launched in 2022 by Gail Clough (of much-loved, home-grown comedy club The Laughter Factory) and Kerry Bowen-Pacaud, the family-friendly party takes place regularly across the city.

The pair started FamilyBeatz so that people who have kids but miss clubbing can introduce their family to ‘the best parts of rave culture’, making it one of the best things to do with the family in Dubai this summer.

The FamilyBeatz parties have music from live local DJs, kids’ activities like arts and crafts, face painting and, of course, plenty of dancing. Events are designed for families spending time together and are wrapped up by 6pm, which means bath and bedtime aren’t disturbed either. As the pair says “families that rave together, stay together”.

familybeatz.co.

House of Pops

Launched: 2018.
Why try it: For natural and plant-based pops.
Self-proclaimed ‘soulful foodies crafting 100 percent natural plant-based fruit pops’ House of Pops launched in 2018 and values purity, wellness, creativity and sustainability. Selling tasty ice lollies, the company was set up by Lebanese-born Mazen Kanaan and Costa Rican Marcela Sancho, starting off experimenting with fruits found in their fridge.

Flavours today include choco-matcha, coconut strawberry, dragon colada and even cold brew. It uses plastic-free, compostable packaging, so the pops are good for you and the environment too. Plus it’s been such a success in the UAE that its recently expanded into Saudi.

houseofpops.ae.

Pretty Events

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Launched: 2022.
Why try it: You have a kids’ party coming up.
With balloons, cakes, activities, a guest list, catering, kids’ parties can become quite the occasion (and effort) for parents. Pretty Events was launched in 2022 to take some of the stress out of the events.

Whether you have a toddler birthday or a baby gender reveal party there’s a set-up for you, with balloon arches, flower walls, glitter backdrops and more.

@prettyevents.ae.

The Happy Tribe

Launched: 2022.
Why try it: For new summer travel gear.
For cute personalised items, The Happy Tribe is a hit for everyone, from fashion-conscious teens to colour-loving kids and parents wanting practicality. Set up in 2022 by Gillian Sutherland and Jessica Ward, The Happy Tribe sells loads of items, like beach bags, pouches, hoodies, pyjamas, socks and more.

In 2023, The Happy Tribe launched its first bricks and mortar store in Motor City, plus there’s a new range of customisable pouches just out for summer 2024, if you’re travelling with the fam and need fresh gear.

Motor City, thehappytribe.ae.

More family-friendly things to do in Dubai

Kids summer camps in Dubai 2024: Where to book now
How to keep the kiddos occupied during the summer holidays

Family brunches in Dubai that you and the kids will love
Because brunch is for everyone

10 best family restaurants in Dubai to suit everyone
Everyone will be happy, trust us