Exciting Family-Friendly Days Out in the UAE

Are you planning some unforgettable family adventures in the UAE? While summer temperatures soar, there are still plenty of exciting activities to enjoy with the kids during the holidays. From thrilling adventures to aquatic fun, soft play areas, and more, this guide will help you organize your next family outing before the heat becomes too intense.

If you enjoy reading this: Check out our guide on kids’ summer camps in Dubai for 2024 and where to book now!

If you prefer to keep the little ones entertained indoors, there are incredible options that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re looking for a waterpark, kid-friendly attractions, or affordable family outings, here are some top choices for family days out in the UAE.

Family-Friendly Days Out

Al Barari Playground

Kick off your family morning at Al Barari Playground, where kids can splash in shallow waters, climb cargo nets, conquer rope bridges, navigate stepping stones, and explore pirate ships. Open until 8 PM, you can also enjoy a cooler evening visit during the summer months.

Pricing: Dhs45 for 2 hours (Mon-Thurs), Dhs65 for 2 hours (Fri-Sun). Open Mon 2 PM-8 PM, Tue-Sun 8 AM-8 PM. Location: Al Barari. Contact: albarariplayground.com (056 686 7439).

Aventura Parks

While the outdoor zipline and courses are closed until September 15, Aventura Parks offers various indoor summer camps and team-building activities during the hotter months. Check their website for more details.

Pricing starts from Dhs35. Open daily from noon to 9 PM. Location: Mushrif Park, Gate 1, Dubai. Contact: aventuraparks.com (052 178 7616).

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Discover an underwater wonderland at the Dubai Aquarium, featuring a stunning 10-million-litre tank and a tunnel that leads to an impressive underwater zoo, where you can observe hundreds of marine creatures up close.

Prices start at Dhs199. Open Mon-Fri 10 AM-11 PM, Sat-Sun 10 AM–midnight. Location: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai. Visit: thedubaiaquarium.com.

Jebel Jais Adventure Park

If you’re seeking an adrenaline-filled day out, head to Jebel Jais Adventure Park in Ras Al Khaimah. Experience thrilling attractions like the world’s longest zipline, the Jais Ropes Course, and the self-guided Sky Maze.

Timings and prices vary. Location: Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah. More info at visitjebeljais.com.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Marvel at one of the region’s most architecturally stunning buildings, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Children’s Museum. This space is dedicated to young visitors, featuring artwork at child’s eye level, interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational workshops.

Entry: Dhs63, free for under 18s and over 60s. Open Tues-Sun 10 AM-midnight. Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Contact: louvreabudhabi.ae (600 565 566).

Ribambelle

Located at Bluewaters, Ribambelle is a new restaurant featuring an in-house slide and ball pit. Kids can enjoy a magical experience while parents sip coffee or wine. The play zones include candle-making and t-shirt painting.

Open daily from 10 AM-10 PM. Location: The Wharf, Bluewaters Island. Visit: Ribambelle.ae (04 572 2296).

Ripe Market

This seasonal outdoor market celebrates local, homegrown products, offering everything from fresh fruits to handmade jewelry. Kids can enjoy pony rides, animal petting, storytelling sessions, and live music. The market has moved indoors for summer, now at Springs Souk every Saturday.

Indoor market open Sat 10 AM-10 PM, Location: Springs Souk. More info at ripeevents.com.

Topgolf

Beat the heat at the newly air-conditioned Topgolf. Kids can practice their swings, and with the code FREE60, you can enjoy an additional hour of play for free when you book a game from Monday to Friday.

Open Mon-Fri 10 AM-2 AM, Sat-Sun 9 AM-2 AM. Location: Emirates Golf Club. Visit: topgolfdubai.ae (04 371 9999).

Wavehouse

Wavehouse combines live music, gaming, bowling, dining, and a wave machine, making it a perfect spot for family outings. Overlooking Aquaventure Waterpark, it offers a ten-pin bowling alley with 3D mapping projections.

Open daily from noon to 11:30 PM. Location: The Avenues, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. Visit: atlantisthepalm.com (04 426 2000).

Family-Friendly Theme/Adventure Parks

Action Park

This indoor and outdoor adventure park features exciting attractions, including the city’s second Smash Room and a thrilling paintball arena. Grab a refreshing drink or snack at the converted open-top London-style bus.

Prices start from Dhs59. Open Mon-Thurs 11 AM-11 PM, Fri-Sat 10 AM-1 AM. Location: The Last Exit, Sheikh Zayed Road. Visit: actionpark.ae (04 235 8893).

Air Maniax

Air Maniax offers inflatable zones that are a hit with kids and adults alike. Older children can tackle obstacle courses, zip lines, and laser tag, while toddlers have their dedicated area to bounce around.

Prices start at Dhs85. Abu Dhabi hours: Sun-Thu 10 PM-10 PM, Fri-Sat 10 AM-midnight. Dubai hours: Mon-Thurs noon-8 PM, Fri noon-10 PM, Sat-Sun 10 AM-10 PM. Location: Al Quoz 1. Visit: airmaniax.com (04 348 8981).

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Home to the world’s fastest rollercoaster, Ferrari World is a haven for car enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Experience the Formula Rossa, which reaches speeds of 240 km/h and heights of 52 meters, along with gentler rides for those who prefer less adrenaline.

Entry: Dhs345. Open Mon-Fri 11 AM-8 PM, Sat-Sun 10 AM-8 PM. Location: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Island. Contact: (02 496 8000).

IMG World of Adventures

As one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world, IMG World features three themed zones: The Marvel Zone, The Lost Valley with dinosaurs, and The Cartoon Network Zone. There’s something for every young adventurer!

General admission: Dhs365, free for kids under 1.05m. Open Sun-Thu noon-10 PM, Fri-Sat noon-11 PM. Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Dubai. Visit: imgworlds.com (600 500 962).

LEGOLAND

At Dubai Parks and Resorts, LEGOLAND brings Lego to life with over 40 rides, shows, and attractions across six themed lands filled with 15,000 Lego models. Enjoy a guided factory tour and interactive experiences.

From Dhs295 (online booking), Dhs330 (on the door), free for kids under three. Open daily 10 AM-6 PM (weekdays), 10 AM-7 PM (weekends). Location: Dubai Parks And Resorts, Jebel Ali. Visit: legoland.com/dubai (04 820 0000).

Modesh World

Let the kids unleash their energy at Modesh World, featuring a massive inflatable park. With an all-day pass, they can enjoy unlimited access to slides, ball pits, and more, plus live performances and bumper cars.

Dhs215 per person (day access). Open Mon-Thu 10 AM-10 PM, Fri-Sun 10 AM-midnight. Location: Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road. Contact: (600 555 559).

Motiongate

With exhilarating rides like The Madagascar Mad Pursuit and The Bullet Train, Motiongate offers a mix of thrilling and family-friendly attractions. Explore themed zones based on popular movies.

From Dhs295 (day ticket). Open Sun-Thu 11 AM-8 PM, Fri-Sat 11 AM-9 PM. Location: Dubai Parks and Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai. Visit: motiongatedubai.com (04 820 0000).

Sky Zone

Sky Zone is an indoor trampoline park where kids can bounce around various areas, including a foam zone and dodgeball arena. It’s a perfect spot for energetic youngsters!

From Dhs49 (60 minutes). Open Mon-Thu noon-10 PM, Fri-Sat 10 AM-11 PM, Sun 10 AM-10 PM. Location: Persia Court, Ibn Battuta Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Visit: skyzone.ae (800 759 9663).

The Arcade by Hubzero

This immersive virtual reality gaming park in Al Khawaneej offers over 50 games, including AI, VR, and motion capture experiences, all set in a trendy environment.

Free entry. Open daily 10 AM-11:30 PM. Location: Al Khawaneej Walk, Dubai. Visit: dxbvenues.com (800 7699).

VR Park

VR Park features a range of virtual reality games suitable for all ages, offering adventures across distant planets and futuristic scenarios.

Free entry, pay per attraction. Open Sun-Thurs 10 AM–11 PM, Fri-Sat 10 AM-midnight. Location: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai. Contact: (800 382246255).

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

This immersive indoor theme park boasts 29 rides based on beloved Warner Bros. stories, offering kids the chance to meet their favorite characters while enjoying various themed attractions.

From Dhs345. Open weekdays 11 AM-7 PM, Sat 10 AM-8 PM, Sun 10 AM-7 PM. Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Visit: wbworldabudhabi.com (600 511115).

Family-Friendly Waterparks

Aquaventure Waterpark

Aquaventure Waterpark offers splashing fun for all ages, featuring thrilling rides and a dedicated area for younger kids to explore. Experience record-breaking waterslides and a giant pirate ship.

Prices vary. Open daily 9:45 AM-6:30 PM. Location: Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah. Contact: (04 426 2000).

LEGOLAND Water Park Dubai

LEGOLAND Water Park is perfect for family fun, featuring the Joker Soaker kids’ area with slides, lazy rivers, and more.

From Dhs295 (online booking), Dhs330 (on the door), free for kids under three. Open Mon-Thurs 10 AM-6 PM, Fri-Sun 10 AM-6 PM. Location: Dubai Parks and Resorts, Jebel Ali. Contact: (04 820 3123).

Wild Wadi

With over 30 rides, a wave simulator, and a lazy river, Wild Wadi is a must-visit waterpark. Thrill-seekers will love the Jumeirah Sceirah’s tandem slides.

General admission from Dhs295 (adult over 1.1m), Dhs245 (child under 1.1m). UAE residents’ rates available. Open daily 10 AM-6 PM. Location: Umm Suqeim. Contact: (04 348 4444).

Yas Waterworld

Yas Waterworld features over 40 slides and attractions, from thrilling drops to relaxing poolside lounging. Enjoy the world’s largest sheet wave and a 5D cinema experience.

From Dhs295 (adults), Dhs225 (junior), free for children under three. Open Sat-Thurs 10 AM-7 PM, Fri 1 PM-10 PM (ladies day). Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Visit: yaswaterworld.com (02 414 2000).

Kid-Friendly Encounters

Aquaventure

At Aquaventure’s Dolphin Bay Lagoon, kids can swim and interact with dolphins while learning about their care from professionals. This experience is open to children aged eight and above.

From Dhs575. Daily. Location: Atlantis The Palm. Visit: aquaventureworld.com (04 426 0000).

Dubai Butterfly Garden

Home to over 15,000 butterflies from 50 different species, the Dubai Butterfly Garden is a magical place for kids to learn about the butterfly life cycle and improve their photography skills.

From Dhs55. Open daily 9 AM-6 PM. Location: Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand Area. Visit: dubaibutterflygarden.com (04 422 8902).

Green Planet

Give your child a unique experience as a zookeeper for a day at Green Planet, where they can get close to the bio-dome’s inhabitants and shadow a biologist.

From Dhs155. Daily 10 AM-6 PM. Location: City Walk, Al Wasl. Visit: thegreenplanetdubai.com (800 7699).

JA Hatta Resort

Introduce your kids to animals at JA Hatta Resort, where they can see deer, peacocks, and even ride horses while enjoying a safe and secure environment.

Free for hotel guests. Location: Hatta Oman Road Hatta Roundabout 9277. Visit: jaresortshotels.com (04 809 9333).

Sustainable City Equestrian Club

For aspiring equestrians, the Sustainable City Equestrian Club offers lessons for beginners and intermediates, along with grooming and stable management classes.

From Dhs1,700 (ten 30-minute classes). Daily. Location: Dubai Sustainable City. Visit: sustainablecityequestrianclub.com (04 557 6611).

Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary

Visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary at Jumeirah Al Naseem to see the recovery process of critically endangered Hawksbill turtles and even help feed these incredible creatures.

Daily, 11 AM. Location: Jumeirah Al Naseem’s Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary. Visit: jumeirah.com (04 3665 000).

Cheap Family-Friendly Days Out

Abu Dhabi Corniche

Rediscover the beauty of the Abu Dhabi Corniche with family-friendly amenities like barbecue pits, badminton courts, and serene lakes for exploration. It’s a perfect spot for a day out.

Free entry. Location: Off Corniche Road.

The Desert Lakes

Pack a picnic and some outdoor games for a fun-filled day at the Desert Lakes, where you can enjoy picturesque views and relax by the water.

Free entry. Location: Al Qudra, Dubai.

Have a Beach Day

Whether you prefer surfing, swimming, or building sandcastles, the UAE offers a range of stunning beaches. Find serene spots or vibrant beach areas filled with activities.

Various locations, Dubai.

Town Square Park

For a fun family park day, Town Square Park features ample playground equipment and a splash zone to cool off in the heat.

Free entry. Open Sun-Wed 11 AM-9 PM, Thurs-Sat 11 AM-10 PM. Location: Al Quadra Road. Visit: nshama.ae.

Kids Attractions That Families Love

Adventure Island

Located in JBR, Adventure Island offers hours of fun, with games like Pixl and laser tag for the whole family to enjoy.

Open Mon-Thurs noon-10 PM, Fri noon-11:30 PM, Sat-Sun noon-midnight. Location: Bahar Plaza, Jumeirah Beach Residence. Visit: adventureisland.ae (058 833 9204).

AYA Universe

Experience the cosmos with AYA Universe’s interactive exhibition, featuring 12 zones filled with wonders like a giant galaxy ball pit and rain simulation.

From Dhs135. Open Sun-Thurs 10 AM-10 PM, Fri-Sat 10 AM-midnight. Location: AYA, Wafi City, Oud Metha. Visit: aya-universe.com (04 542 0300).

BOUNCE

Unleash your inner superhero at BOUNCE, where kids can explore parkour zones and tackle obstacles.

From Dhs55 (locations vary). Visit: bounce.ae.

Chaos Karts

If your family loves Mario Kart, Chaos Karts is the perfect place to race against each other in imaginative karts with music and power-ups.

From Dhs140. Open Sun 10 AM-10 PM (Sun-Thurs), 10 AM-midnight (Fri and Sat). Location: Al Quoz. Visit: chaoskarts.ae.

Cheeky Monkeys

Cheeky Monkeys offers soft play centres with vibrant slides, mini zip lines, and massive ball pits, along with a café serving kid-friendly meals.

Dhs63 (first hour), Dhs35 (subsequent hours). Times vary. Various locations including J3 Mall and Arabian Ranches 2 in Dubai. Visit: cheekymonkeys.com (04 276 0011).

EKart Zabeel

Challenge your family to a race at EKart Zabeel, located on the rooftop of The Dubai Mall, offering an eco-friendly karting experience with stunning views.

From Dhs95. Open Mon-Thurs 10 AM-11 PM, Fri-Sun 10 AM-midnight. Location: The Dubai Mall Zabeel. Visit: ekartzabeel.ae (800 382246255).

KidZania

Let your kids explore over 40 professions in a magical world of role-play at KidZania, where they can earn their own KidZania money.

From Dhs80. Open Mon-Thurs 10 AM-10 PM, Fri-Sun 10 AM-11 PM. Location: Dubai Mall. Visit: dubai.kidzania.com (04 448 5222).

Oli Oli

Oli Oli features eight galleries with over 40 exhibits focused on positive play and imagination, offering a creative environment for children.

Dhs139 (standard visit, 1 child aged 2-16 and 1 adult), Dhs69 (1 toddler aged 12 months-23 months and 1 adult). Open Mon 11 AM-6 PM, Tues-Thurs 9 AM-6 PM, Fri 9 AM-7 PM, Sat 9 AM-8 PM, Sun 9 AM-7 PM. Location: Al Quoz 1, Dubai. Visit: olioli.ae (04 702 7300).

The Green Planet

Explore a rainforest ecosystem in the heart of Dubai at The Green Planet, home to over 3,000 plants and animals, including sloths and snakes.

From Dhs155. Daily 10 AM-6 PM. Location: City Walk, Al Wasl. Visit: thegreenplanetdubai.com (800 7699).

Woo-hoo

The Woo-hoo center offers a blend of education and play for kids up to 12 years old, featuring interactive exhibits across ten themed galleries.

Dhs110 (1 child and 1 adult), Dhs60 (1 toddler aged 12 months-24 months), Dhs30 (1 infant aged 0-11 months and 1 adult). Open daily 10 AM-7 PM. Location: Al Quoz. Visit: woo-hoo.ae (800 966 466).

Other Things to Do in Dubai

How to Summer Indoors: Explore picnics, wildlife walks, and yoga under the sea.

7 Free Things to Do with Kids in Dubai: Discover activities that won’t cost a dime.

13 Brilliant Things to Do in Dubai After Sunset: Embrace the vibrant nightlife with family-friendly outings.