Dubai might not be the first destination that comes to mind for a family trip, yet it’s one of the most exciting and accommodating places for parents traveling with little ones. This city of extravagance has spent years ensuring that families feel welcomed, entertained, and well taken care of. True to Arab hospitality, which we’ve experienced firsthand on several travels, Dubai offers countless family-friendly activities that blend culture, adventure, and modern entertainment.
Taking your family to Dubai means exploring jaw-dropping attractions—from scaling the Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world, to wandering through vibrant souks and mall attractions so grand they rival amusement parks.
So, what are the best things to do in Dubai with kids? Where should you stay? How can you make the most of your trip? Here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable family adventure in Dubai.
Table of Contents
See the Iconic Burj Khalifa
Dubai’s Burj Khalifa is the very symbol of the city—a monument as ambitious and spectacular as the city itself, which rose from the desert within just a few decades. The moment you spot it, you know you’ve arrived in Dubai.
Standing at 828 meters, it is the tallest building in the world, and you can reach the top in under two minutes thanks to high-speed elevators. If you’re traveling with a baby, consider making a stop or two on the way up to let them adjust to the altitude.
Once at the top, the view is breathtaking—Dubai sprawled out like a pearl on the edge of the desert.
Good to Know for Your Family Visit
- Book your tickets in advance to secure your spot and save money—especially during peak travel seasons.
- Visit at sunset for the most stunning views as the city lights up for the night.
- Get your tickets here for the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors of Burj Khalifa.
Ibn Battuta Mall – A Themed Shopping Adventure
Dubai’s shopping malls are far more than just shopping centers—they are entertainment hubs, especially for families. Among them, Ibn Battuta Mall stands out, designed like a museum, taking visitors on a journey through the history and cultures of the East.
Named after the legendary traveler Ibn Battuta, this mall introduces children to stunning Oriental-style architecture, ancient navigation instruments, a life-size boat, and even a time machine exhibit—making it as educational as it is entertaining.
Dubai Mall: More Than Just Shopping
One of the largest malls in the world, Dubai Mall is packed with family-friendly attractions. Here, your little ones can:
- Watch the famous Dubai Fountain show, with water jets dancing up to 140 meters high every evening.
- Stand in awe before a massive dinosaur skeleton on display.
- Experience The View at Palm Jumeirah, a 360° panoramic lookout from 240 meters above the iconic Palm Island.
Good to Know
- Another fantastic viewpoint is the Sky Views Observatory, offering a stunning skyline perspective from 219.5 meters above sea level.
Abras: A Cheap and Fun Boat Ride
One of the best budget-friendly experiences in Dubai is a ride on an abra—a traditional wooden boat that ferries passengers across the Creek River, splitting Dubai in two. Kids will love the novelty, and it’s a great way to travel to the souks.
Once across, immerse yourself in the magic of the souks—from the glittering Gold Souk to the fragrant Perfume and Spice Souks, where colors and scents transport you to a scene from One Thousand and One Nights.
For an even grander experience, consider taking a dhow cruise in Dubai Marina—a magical way to see the city’s illuminated skyline.
Dubai’s Water Parks: Wild Wadi & Aquaventure
Dubai knows how to deliver fun, and for water lovers, the city boasts two incredible water parks:
- Wild Wadi Waterpark, a thrill-packed park with water slides.
- Aquaventure, located at Atlantis The Palm, featuring record-breaking rides and stunning aquatic experiences.
Good to Know
- Height restrictions apply for some attractions.
- Book your Aquaventure tickets here to skip the lines.
Dubai Parks Resort: A Theme Park Wonderland
For amusement park lovers, Dubai Parks Resort is the largest theme park complex in the Middle East. It includes:
- LEGOLAND and a LEGOLAND Water Park.
- Motiongate Dubai, inspired by Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters.
Good to Know
- A multi-park pass is available, giving access to two parks of your choice.
The Dubai Mall Aquarium & Lost Chambers Aquarium
Dubai’s futuristic skyline isn’t just about architecture—it’s also home to world-class aquariums.
- The Dubai Mall Aquarium is among the largest in the world, featuring a massive glass tank where sharks glide above you in a tunnel.
- The Lost Chambers Aquarium, at Atlantis The Palm, lets kids explore over 65 marine species while wandering through the ruins of the lost city of Atlantis.
Miracle Garden & Butterfly Garden
Dubai’s Miracle Garden is the largest floral garden in the world, boasting millions of flowers arranged into castles, sculptures, and even an A380 airplane.
For an even more magical experience, visit the Butterfly Garden, where thousands of butterflies flutter around you in a dreamlike setting.
A Family-Friendly Desert Adventure
Should you visit the desert with your family? Absolutely. Dubai’s desert is a protected nature reserve, offering small-group excursions to discover the breathtaking dunes. Book a desert trip here.
However, if you want a truly authentic desert experience, consider Wadi Rum in Jordan or Tadrart in the Sahara—where Bedouins warmly welcome children.
Where to Stay with Family in Dubai?
Dubai offers excellent family-friendly hotels across various budgets. Here are some top choices:
- Riu Dubai All Inclusive Hotel – Seafront, water park, kids club, family rooms for up to 8 people.
- Centara Mirage Beach Resort – Private beach, kids club, babysitting service, family rooms for up to 6 people.
- Atlantis, The Palm – Luxury 5-star hotel with Aquaventure access, family accommodations for up to 12 people.
- Damac Maison Dubai Mall Street – Centrally located, family apartments for up to 8 people.
- Holiday Inn Express Dubai – Budget-friendly, free shuttle service, family rooms for up to 5 people.
Travel Tips for Dubai with Kids
- Best time to visit: October to May (milder temperatures).
- Stay: no visa needed for stays under 30 days.
- Getting around: Metro, taxis, and hop-on-hop-off buses are affordable and convenient.
- Baby essentials: Hotels provide high chairs and strollers, and supermarkets stock baby food and diapers.
