Indoor Activities to Explore in Dubai for Families

As the summer season winds down, there’s still plenty of excitement to be had indoors in Dubai. With a wealth of incredible attractions and activities, you can keep the fun alive without braving the heat outside. Whether you’re looking for thrilling adventures or unique experiences, Dubai has it all. Here’s a list of some fantastic indoor activities to try with your family:

Air Maniax

Air Maniax is Dubai’s premier multi-activity indoor play arena, sprawling over 23,000 square feet. This facility features an extensive inflatable arena suitable for all ages. Kids can challenge themselves with various obstacle courses, zip lines, and engaging laser tag games. To add a competitive edge, scores are recorded so you can crown a champion at the end of your visit.

Starting from Dhs85. Open Mon-Thurs 12pm-8pm, Fri 12pm-10pm, Sat 9am-10pm, Sun 9am-9pm. Located in Al Quoz, visit airmaniax.com or call (04 348 8981).

Adventure Island

Adventure Island at JBR provides hours of entertainment for the entire family. Begin your adventure in one of the Pixel rooms, which are equipped with sensors that track your movements as you jump around. If you’re still feeling energetic, engage in thrilling games of laser tag as you outmaneuver your friends.

Starting from Dhs59. Open Mon-Thurs 12pm-10pm, Fri 12pm-11:30pm, Sat-Sun 12pm-midnight. Located at Bahar Plaza, adventureisland.ae or call (058 833 9204).

Battle Kart

Get ready for an exhilarating experience at Battle Kart, where you can step into a video game-inspired world. Located in Dubai Investment Park, the track features various games that allow you to either team up with or compete against your friends as you race around. There’s even a game inspired by the classic Nokia Battle Snake, making it a nostalgic treat!

Open Mon-Wed 2pm-10pm, Thurs-Fri 2pm-midnight, Sat 1pm-2am, Sun 1pm-10pm. Book at battlekart.com or call (058 588 0116).

Boo Boo Land

Set to open in September, Boo Boo Land in Dubai Mall promises an expansive 25,000 square meters filled with fun for kids of all ages. With over 30 attractions ranging from a snow park to a princess dress-up area, trampolines, and interactive shows, it’s a paradise for children to explore and enjoy.

Opening in September 2024. Open Mon-Thurs 10am-12am, Fri-Sun 10am-1am. Visit Boo Boo Land at Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, or check out booboolaand.com.

Bounce

Let your family jump for joy at Bounce, where trampoline skills can be tested. Whether you’re a pro at flips or just want to enjoy free jumping, this trampoline park is the place to be. With locations across Dubai, there’s bound to be one near you.

Starting from Dhs55. Open Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-8pm. Locations in Al Quoz and Al Ain, check bounce.ae or call (04 321 1400).

Chaos Karts

Experience the thrill of Chaos Karts, a must-visit for older kids (11+). This virtual reality experience transports you into a real-life version of Mario Kart, allowing you to race against friends in a safe environment.

Starting from Dhs140. Open Mon-Thurs 1pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-midnight, Sun 11am-11pm. Find them at 6A St, Al Quoz or visit chaoskarts.ae (04 324 2344).

Dubai Bowling Center

Enjoy a classic pastime at the Dubai Bowling Center, a nostalgic venue with 16 bowling lanes adorned in retro decor. Challenge your family to a friendly competition or relax and enjoy classic films projected on the walls.

Pricing varies. Open Sun-Thurs 10am-midnight, Fri-Sat 10am-1am. Located in Al Quoz, visit bowlingdubai.com or call (04 339 1010).

Dubai Butterfly Garden

Immerse yourself in a magical world at the Dubai Butterfly Garden, home to over 15,000 butterflies. Wander through different zones and witness the enchanting lifecycle of butterflies, with opportunities to observe them hatching from their pupae.

Starting from Dhs55. Open daily 9am-6pm. Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand Area, visit dubaibutterflygarden.com or call (04 422 8902).

Mille Miglia Gallery and Café

For the F1 enthusiasts, Mille Miglia Gallery and Café in Al Quoz is a must-visit. With an extensive collection of F1 memorabilia, rare Ferrari cars, and signed items by current drivers, it’s a thrilling experience for any racing fan.

Open daily 10am-9pm. Sheikh Zayed Rd, call (04 295 0878) for more information.

GLITCH

Step into the world of gaming at GLITCH, where you can enjoy activities from bowling to roller gliding. With a variety of VR challenges and arcade games, it’s a perfect spot for adrenaline junkies and game lovers alike.

Open daily 10am-midnight. Located on Level 2, Al Ghurair Centre, Al Rigga Road, Deira, visit glitcharabia.com or call (04 205 5263).

Hamleys Play

Drive the kids to Hamleys Play at Dubai Hills Mall for a fun-filled afternoon. They can explore sensory zones, slide down exciting slides, and tackle obstacle courses. Don’t forget to stop by the toy shop for a special treat!

Open daily 10am-10pm. Dubai Hills Mall, call (056 996 0289) for details.

IMG World

IMG World of Adventures is one of the largest indoor theme parks globally, featuring four themed zones: The Marvel Zone, The Lost Valley, The Cartoon Network Zone, and IMG Boulevard. It’s an adventure that combines thrills with family-friendly fun, all under one roof.

General admission starts at Dhs365, free for kids under 1.05m. Open Sun-Thu 12pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-11pm. Located on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, visit imgworlds.com or call (600 500 962).

KidZania

Let your kids unleash their creativity and energy at KidZania, an interactive play city where they can explore various careers from firefighters to surgeons. It’s an engaging way for them to learn while having fun.

Starting from Dhs80. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Located in Dubai Mall, visit dubai.kidzania.com or call (04 448 5222).

Lush Workshop

Gather your friends for a delightful DIY session at a Lush store in Dubai. For Dhs200, you can create your own Lush product, enjoy in-store massages, and make a face mask. The host receives a special Lush gift worth Dhs200, ensuring everyone leaves happy!

Available at various Lush locations. Visit lush.com for more details.

Oli Oli

Oli Oli is an experiential children’s play museum filled with quirky installations. From a hand-knit macramé play park to over 40 hands-on exhibits, it’s a fantastic venue to keep children engaged and entertained.

Entry fees are Dhs69 for toddlers, Dhs139 for children aged 2-16, and Dhs42 for adults. Open Mon-Thu 9am-6pm, Fri 9am-9pm, Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-8pm. Located in Al Quoz, visit olioli.ae or call (04 702 7300).

Parkour DXB

Let your kids discover the thrill of Parkour in a safe environment. Available at three locations, this activity allows children to explore their physical limits on padded mats. There are even academies and weekly classes for those who want to dive deeper into the sport.

Hours and prices vary. Locations in Al Quoz, Port Rashid, and JVC, visit parkour.ae or call (800 7275687).

Ribambelle

Visit Ribambelle at Bluewaters for a unique dining experience that features an in-house slide and ball pit. Kids can enjoy creative activities like candle-making and T-shirt painting while you relax with a coffee or a glass of wine.

Open daily 9am-10pm at The Wharf, Bluewaters Island. Visit ribambelle.ae or call (04 572 2296).

Ripe Market

As it relocates indoors for the summer, Ripe Market can be found at the Spring Souk until the end of September. This iconic market offers a variety of locally-sourced crafts and produce, making it a great stop to support local businesses while exploring with your family.

Open Sat 10am-10pm. Visit ripeevents.com or call (04 315 7000) for more info.

VR Park

Dive into a world of virtual reality at VR Park, where a range of games awaits for kids of all ages. Experience distant galaxies, futuristic Dubai, and immersive adventures crafted by top VR production houses.

Free entry; pay per attraction. Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, Thurs-Sat 10am-midnight. Located in The Dubai Mall, visit vrparkdubai.com or call (800 382246255).

Wavehouse

Enjoy a nostalgic trip to Wavehouse, where retro arcade games await. Test your skills on the Thunder Hammer, try whack-a-mole, or book a bowling lane for a family challenge. Don’t forget to indulge in a cookies and cream sundae before heading home!

Open daily 12pm-11pm at Atlantis the Palm, visit atlantis.com or call (04 426 2626) for details.

Attractions and Museums

ARTE Museum

Explore the wonders of nature at the new ARTE Museum in Dubai Mall. Engage with interactive exhibits, including a live sketchbook feature that brings your drawings to life on digital walls. Don’t forget to unwind with a tea-inspired mocktail at the museum’s café.

Entry fees start from Dhs129 (adult) and Dhs69 (child). Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. Located on the 2nd Floor of Dubai Mall, visit tickets-dubai.artemuseum.com or call (055 660 1994).

AYA Universe

Discover the wonders of the universe at AYA Universe in Wafi City. This immersive experience includes 12 interactive rooms, allowing you to engage with galaxies and art while exploring mesmerizing installations like the light-up tree in ‘Flora’ and the dance floor in ‘The Falls’.

Starting from Dhs135. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Visit aya-universe.com or call (04 542 0300).

Burj Khalifa

If you haven’t yet visited the iconic Burj Khalifa, now is the perfect time! Experience breathtaking views from the observation deck, located over 555 meters above ground, and enjoy refreshments at the Sky Lounge on the 148th floor.

Entry is Dhs399. Open daily 8am-midnight. Visit burjkhalifa.ae or call (04 888 8124).

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Step into a mesmerizing underwater world at the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. With a 10-million-litre tank, you’ll encounter a variety of marine life, including stingrays and sharks, making it an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Entry fees start at Dhs199. Open Mon-Fri 10am-11pm, Sat-Sun 10am-midnight. Located in The Dubai Mall, visit thedubaiaquarium.com for more information.

Dubai Frame

Visit the stunning Dubai Frame for a unique perspective on the city’s past, present, and future. The tour includes breathtaking views of both ‘old’ and ‘new’ Dubai from a sky glass bridge that stands 150 meters high.

Entry fees are Dhs20 (kids) and Dhs50 (adults). Open daily 9am-9pm. Visit dubaiframe.ae or call (800 900).

Foundry Art Space

Enjoy a culturally enriching experience at the Foundry Art Space, featuring open exhibitions, talks, and film screenings. With changing displays each month, it’s a great spot to visit regularly for something new.

Open daily 10am-10pm. Located at Boulevard Crescent, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, visit foundry-downtowndubai.ae or call (04 367 3696).

Museum of Illusions

Bring the family to the Museum of Illusions for a day filled with laughter and amazement. Experience mind-bending exhibits that will challenge your perception, including floating heads and vortex tunnels.

Entry starts at Dhs90. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Located at Al Seef, Dubai Creek, visit museumofillusionsdubai.com or call (04 357 3999).

Storm Coaster

Brace yourself for the thrill of the Storm Coaster, a record-breaking rollercoaster located inside Dubai Hills Mall. Riders can expect heart-pounding speeds of up to 77km/h, with plenty of twists and stomach-dropping turns.

Entry starts at Dhs55. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Visit dubaihillsmall.ae or call (04 448 5033).

Ski Dubai

Cool off at Ski Dubai, where you can enjoy skiing or snowboarding on real snow. For non-skiers, the snow park offers activities such as zorbing, bobsledding, and tubing runs. Cap off your visit with some hot chocolate and a penguin encounter!

Prices vary. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri 10am-midnight, Sat-Sun 9am-midnight. Located in Mall of the Emirates, visit skidxb.com or call (04 409 4000).

The Green Planet

Experience the lush environment of The Green Planet, an indoor rainforest housing over 3,000 species of plants and animals. Explore the vertical rainforest and get up close with sloths and reptiles, followed by a meal at the jungle-themed café.

Entry starts at Dhs155. Open daily 10am-6pm. Located at City Walk, Al Wasl, visit thegreenplanetdubai.com or call (800 7699).

La Perle

Don’t miss La Perle, Dubai’s only permanent show, featuring breathtaking aquatic performances and stunning stunts. Enjoy a luxurious dining experience alongside the show for a memorable night out.

Prices vary. Shows run Wed-Sat 6:30pm-8pm and 9pm-10:30pm, Sun 4pm-5:30pm & 6:30pm-8pm. Located at Al Habtoor City, visit laperle.com or call (04 437 0001).

Madame Tussauds

Get up close and personal with your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds. Snap photos with lifelike wax figures of stars like Dwayne Johnson and Justin Timberlake. UAE residents can enjoy a special summer discount!

Entry starts at Dhs130 (adult, online). Open daily 10:30am-7:30pm. Located at Bluewaters Island, visit madametussauds.com or call (04 873 3042).

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

Take a break from the summer heat at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library. Explore the seven floors of books, cozy up with a good read, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by literature.

Free entry. Open Mon-Thu 9am-9pm, Fri 2pm-9pm, Sat 9am-9pm, closed on Sun. Located in Al Jaddaf, visit mbrl.ae or call (04 222 2025).

Museum of the Future

Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Museum of the Future, ranging from outer space to health and environmental sustainability. With interactive displays aimed at engaging young minds, it’s an educational experience for the whole family.

Entry starts at Dhs145 per person. Open daily 9am-9:30pm (last entry at 7pm). Visit museumofthefuture.ae or call (800 2071).

Shindagha Museum

Immerse yourself in UAE culture at the Shindagha Museum, the largest heritage site in Dubai. Learn about the lives of the first residents of Dubai Creek, and if you arrive by RTA abra, you can enjoy free entry!

Entry is Dhs50. Open daily 10am-8pm (last entry at 7pm). Visit alshindagha.dubaiculture.gov.ae or call (800 33 222).

Souk Madinat

If you’re in the mood for some shopping, head to Souk Madinat to experience the charm of traditional Arabian markets. From unique crafts to exquisite fragrances, it’s a shopper’s paradise. Afterward, indulge in a meal at one of the many restaurants in the souk.

Open daily 10am-11pm. Located on King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St, visit jumeirah.com or call (04 366 8888).

Date Night Ideas

At.mosphere

For a romantic dining experience, book a table at At.mosphere, situated in the Burj Khalifa at 442 meters high. Choose from a delightful lunch or dinner menu, or indulge in a seven-course tasting menu for a truly unforgettable evening.

Open daily 7am-12:30am, with lunch from 1pm-5pm and dinner from 5:30pm-1:30am. Located in Burj Khalifa, visit atmosphereburjkhalifa.com or call (04 888 3828).

Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant

Experience dining with a view at Al Dawaar, Dubai’s only revolving restaurant. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet while your table rotates, offering panoramic views of the city during your meal.

Open Mon-Fri 6:30pm-11:30pm, Sat-Sun 12:30pm-4pm & 6:30pm-11:30pm. Located on Corniche Deira, visit hyattrestaurants.com or call (04 209 6912).

Blended Wellness

Unwind at Blended Wellness with their Blend package, which includes a gel manicure or pedicure, a 30-minute massage or express facial, and a fitness class of your choice. It’s the perfect way to relax after a busy week.

Starting from Dhs300. Valid Mon-Wed from 7am-9pm. Located at Duke the Palm, visit blendedwellness.com or call (04 423 8313).

Boom Battle Bar

Get ready for a lively evening at Boom Battle Bar, where you can try augmented reality axe-throwing, crazy golf, shuffleboard, and even karaoke booths. It’s the ultimate venue for a fun night out!

Over 21s only. Open Sun-Thurs 4pm-1am, Fri-Sat 4pm-2am. Located at DoubleTree by Hilton, Dubai Marina, visit boombattlebar.com or call (04 585 7357).

Brass Monkey

Channel your inner child at Brass Monkey, where you can enjoy arcade games, bowling, and foosball at either City Walk or Bluewaters Island. After all the fun, satisfy your appetite with some delicious American cuisine.

Available at various locations, visit brassmonkeysocial.com or call (04 582 2244).

Dubai Opera

For a sophisticated night out, head to Dubai Opera for an evening of world-class performances. Enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants in the Opera District before settling in for an unforgettable show.

Located in Downtown Dubai, visit dubaiopera.com or call (04 440 8888) for upcoming events.

Game Over Escape Room

Challenge your problem-solving skills at Game Over Escape Room in Nakheel Mall, featuring themed rooms like Murder on the Orient Express and Alice in Wonderland. It’s a thrilling adventure for couples and groups alike.

Prices vary. Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. Located on the second floor of Nakheel Mall, visit gameover.ae or call (04 577 3289).

Smash Room

Release some stress at the Smash Room, where you can break electronics and fragile objects to your heart’s content. This therapeutic experience allows you to unleash your frustrations while knowing that the debris will be recycled.

Starting from Dhs69. Open Mon-Thurs 12:30pm-10pm, Fri-Sun 12:30pm-11pm. Located at 195 Umm Suqeim St, Al Quoz 4, visit thesmashroom.com or call (04 339 7810).

Showhouse

Experience the unique blend of dining and entertainment at Showhouse, where you’ll enter through the ‘dressing rooms’ and enjoy a tale unfolding as you dine. This immersive experience includes a French-Mediterranean menu created by renowned chef Robert Rathbone.

Entry fees: Dhs395 (silver), Dhs495 (gold), Dhs545 (VIP). Open Wed-Thu 7pm-midnight, Fri 7pm-3am, Sat 1pm-5pm & 7pm-3am. Located at InterContinental Dubai Marina, visit solutions-leisure.com/showhouse for more information.

SUSHISAMBA

Dine with a view at SUSHISAMBA, situated on the 51st floor. Enjoy breathtaking vistas over Palm Jumeirah while savoring delicious dishes like crispy taquitos and the classic Samba Dubai roll.

Open Sun-Thurs noon-3pm & 6pm-2am, Fri-Sat 1pm-3:30pm & 6pm-3am. Located at St Regis, Palm Jumeirah, visit sushisamba.com or call (04 278 4888).

Time Out Market

If your partner can’t decide what to eat, Time Out Market is the perfect destination. With a variety of food vendors, everyone can find something they love. Indulge in garlic knots from Pitfire Pizza or try local dishes from Liban.

Open Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am, Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-midnight. Located at Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, visit timeoutmarket.com or call (054 375 2421).

Looking for More Indoor Activities in Dubai?

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