Travel writing based on first-hand experience
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.
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
Tips for Visiting Dubai with Kids
Dubai is wildly kid-friendly—think spotless metros, stroller-wide sidewalks, air-conditioned everything, and attractions built with families in mind. A little timing and a few smart hacks go a long way. Here’s the cheat sheet I wish I’d had on day one.
When to go (and how to plan the day)
- Best months: November–March for park/beach days without melting. April/October are shoulder months (warm but manageable). June–September ≙ indoor itinerary season.
- Beat the heat: Mornings outside (beach, playgrounds, abra ride), long indoor midday (nap, pool shade, mall play zones), sunset strolls after 5 p.m.
- Weekends: UAE weekends are Saturday–Sunday; Friday evenings through Sunday get busiest. Book popular kid venues then.
Getting around with little legs
- Metro + tram: Clean, elevator access, and stroller-friendly. Grab a rechargeable Nol card. Avoid peak commuter times (8–9:30 a.m., 5–7 p.m.).
- Car seats: Legally required, but standard taxis don’t carry them. Use Careem Kids to request rides with child seats, or bring a travel booster/compact seat.
- Stroller notes: Compact stroller wins. Boardwalks and malls are smooth; desert/old-town alleys are easier with a baby carrier.
- Abra boats: A 1–2 AED ride across Dubai Creek is the cheapest thrill in town. Hold hands, hold hats—short and sweet.
What to book (and when)
- Height matters: Waterparks and zip lines have strict height limits. Check charts before promising a slide.
- Timed entries: Burj Khalifa, Museum of the Future, and some indoor edutainment (KidZania, The Green Planet) sell out during school breaks—book ahead.
- Combo passes: Look for multi-attraction bundles (e.g., aquarium + Burj + VR Park) to save and avoid queues.
Pack like a pro (desert edition)
- Sun kit: UPF swim shirts, broad-brim hats with chin straps, high-SPF sunscreen, and collapsible water bottles (most malls have refill spots).
- Cooling tricks: Muslin cloths, a tiny stroller fan, and electrolyte sachets for the adults.
- Footwear: Water shoes for hot sand and splash pads; closed-toe sneakers for indoor parks.
- Layers: Malls can be cold. Pack a light cardigan for everyone.
Where to play (age-by-age hits)
- Toddlers: Kite Beach shaded play areas; soft-play zones in most malls; Dubai Aquarium viewing tunnel (free to admire the big tank from outside).
- 5–9 yrs: The Green Planet (indoor biodome), OliOli hands-on museum, IMG Worlds (kiddie zones), La Mer splash areas.
- 10–13 yrs: Aquaventure or Wild Wadi waterparks, Ski Dubai lessons, desert safari with gentle dune bashing + sandboarding (choose family-oriented tours).
- Teens: Dubai Mall ice rink, XLine zipline (if they meet age/weight), kayaking around Palm Jumeirah, sunset e-scooter rides on Marina promenade (where permitted).
Food, naps, and the sugar crash
- Feeding kids is easy: Every mall = food court + highchairs. Many restaurants have children’s menus and coloring kits.
- Hydration rhythm: Sip every 20–30 minutes outdoors; take shade breaks. Frozen laban (yogurt drink) is a great cool-down treat.
- Nap strategy: Do longer transfers (metro or rideshare) at nap time; blackout covers help in bright daylight.
- Snacks: Corner groceries (“baqalas”) sell fruit, yogurt, and nuts; stash snacks to blunt the “I’m starving” ambush.
Beaches & pools: simple rules that help
- Flags matter: Swim between flags and watch surf reports—winds can pick up.
- Shade first: Book loungers with umbrellas or bring a pop-up sun tent; midday sand gets hot.
- Modesty check: Standard swimwear is fine at beaches and hotel pools; cover up when leaving the beach area.
Cultural etiquette (easy and important)
- Dress smart: Shoulders/knees covered in mosques; many offer abayas/scarves to borrow. Teach kids “indoor voices” in prayer areas.
- Ramadan: Attractions and restaurants remain open, but be respectful around daytime eating/drinking in public; hours shift later—nights are festive.
- Public behavior: PDA is toned down; always ask before photographing people.
Health & safety (peace of mind section)
- Tap water: Generally safe; many families still use bottled—your call.
- Pharmacies: Everywhere, with English-speaking pharmacists; carry any prescriptions and a basic first-aid kit.
- Emergency numbers: Police 999, Ambulance 998, Fire 997.
- ID + insurance: Keep a photo of passports and travel insurance handy; some attractions ask for proof of age on discounted tickets.
Money-savers that actually work
- Kids go free: Summer promos often include “kids go free” deals on hotels and attractions—watch for seasonal campaigns.
- Family rooms: Many hotels include rollaway beds/sofa beds at no extra cost; confirm before booking two rooms.
- Ride bundles: Day passes for metro/tram and attraction combos beat pay-as-you-go.
- Free fun: Dubai Fountain shows, abra rides (almost free), beach playgrounds, Al Seef and Al Fahidi heritage strolls.
Bottom line: keep mornings outdoors, afternoons indoors, and expectations flexible. Dubai makes it easy to pivot—there’s always a shaded playground, a clean restroom, and an air-conditioned plan B just a few minutes away.
Top 10 Things to Do in Dubai With Kids
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 in Dubai with kids?
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.
READ ALSO: 9 Best Family Friendly Hotels In Dubai
Where to Eat in Dubai with Kids
Good news: Dubai is insanely easy to feed kids in. High chairs are everywhere, most menus have child portions, and nearly every mall has a great food court with changing rooms right next door. Here’s a parent-tested lineup—by vibe and area—so you can match meals to moods, naps, and energy levels.
Big, buzzy icons (easy wins in the malls)
- Rainforest Café (Dubai Mall) — Animatronic jungle, thunder “storms,” and a kids’ menu that buys you 40 quiet minutes. Great pre- or post-aquarium stop.
- Cheesecake Factory (Dubai Mall, JBR) — Enormous booths for strollers + coloring sheets. Massive menu means even picky eaters find something.
- Din Tai Fung (Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall) — Soup dumplings = table entertainment. Ask for less-chili options; high chairs on tap.
- Eataly (Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills Mall) — Pasta, pizza, fruit cups, and gelato for a low-drama lunch. Seating is spacious for prams.
- P.F. Chang’s / Shake Shack / Paul — Reliable chains when you need fast, familiar, and kid-ammable fare.
Beachy & breezy (let them run between bites)
- SALT (Kite Beach) — Sliders and fries right on the sand; casual benches and lots of room for scooters.
- Catch22 (JBR “The Beach”) — Burgers, sushi, and crazy milkshakes; kids can hit the splash pads after.
- Operation: Falafel (JBR/Kite Beach) — Affordable, build-your-own wraps and bowls; quick counter service keeps hangry meltdowns at bay.
- Black Tap (JBR) — For the “we earned a sugar bomb” day—over-the-top shakes plus a kids’ menu.
Local flavors they’ll actually eat
- Arabian Tea House (Al Fahidi) — Courtyard calm, Emirati breakfast trays, fluffy khameer bread with date syrup. Bring a stroller-friendly mindset; floors are rustic.
- Al Safadi / Reem Al Bawadi (multiple) — Lebanese grills, hummus, rice, and fresh breads—aka the kid trifecta. Family seating and fast service.
- Al Fanar (Festival City/Time Out Market) — Emirati classics like machboos and luqaimat (donuts + date syrup) in a heritage-style setting.
Play-while-you-eat (parent sanity savers)
- Wavehouse (Atlantis, The Palm) — Bowling, arcade, soft play, and a full restaurant. Order a pizza, release the kids, reclaim your shoulders.
- Reform Social & Grill (The Lakes) — Gastropub with a playground and lawn. Popular for relaxed weekend lunches.
- Phileas Fogg’s (Dubai Hills/Emirates Golf Club area) — Big terrace, play space, and kid-friendly roasts on weekends.
- Last Exit Food Truck Parks (various) — Novelty trucks, picnic tables, and open space for wiggly legs; go at sunset.
Food halls = choice (and zero drama)
- Time Out Market Dubai (Souk Al Bahar) — Quality vendors under one roof, Burj views outside. Grab different plates and share.
- Depachika Food Hall (Nakheel Mall) — Calmer vibe on the Palm; great for stroller laps and fuss-free grazing.
- Ripe Market (seasonal) — Weekend outdoor market with food stalls, crafts, and pony rides. Perfect “let them roam” meal plan.
Allergy-aware & veggie-forward picks
- Common Grounds / Tom&Serg (various) — Cafés with clear labeling, good salads, pastas, and kids’ breakfasts; staff used to substitutions.
- Wagamama (multiple) — Noodle bowls with simple toppings; allergen guides and high chairs.
- Wild & the Moon / Brambles — Healthy bowls, smoothies, and snacks if you’re steering clear of sugar crashes.
Sweet bribes & dessert finales
- Hudson Tavern Soft Serve (various pop-ups) or Gelato Divino — Easy win after a long mall trek.
- Ladurée — Because macaron colors mysteriously fix bad moods.
- Local treats: Try lugaimat (mini donuts with date syrup) and fresh juices—ask for “less sugar.”
Parent hacks for smoother meals
- Go early: Aim for 11:30 a.m. lunch / 6:00 p.m. dinner to beat queues and noise.
- Ask for half portions: Many places will split a main or lighten spice levels on request.
- Pack a layer: A/C can be arctic. Light cardigans save the day.
- Scout the seat: Corner booths corral toddlers; terraces near promenades (JBR/Marina) let kids watch boats and burn energy.
- Prayer times: Around Friday noon, some areas get busier; book ahead if you’ve got a must-eat plan.
- Halal & pork-free: Nearly everywhere is halal; pork (if served) is segregated and clearly labeled.
Bottom line: stick close to beaches and big malls for stress-free options, sprinkle in a local spot for flavor, and keep dessert in your back pocket as a jet-lag negotiation tool. Dubai will meet you—and your snack schedule—more than halfway.
FAQs: Things to Do in Dubai With Kids
1) What are the best months to visit Dubai with kids?
November to March. You’ll get park and beach weather without the extreme heat. April/October are warm but doable; June–September = mostly indoor plans.
2) How many days do we need for a kid-friendly Dubai trip?
Three full days works; five to seven lets you pace things—one waterpark day, one desert day, one “Burj + Dubai Mall” day, plus beach and old town.
3) Are strollers easy to use in Dubai?
Yes. Metros, malls, and promenades are stroller-friendly with elevators and wide paths. Bring a compact stroller and a light cardigan—A/C can be chilly.
4) Do taxis have car seats?
Standard taxis usually don’t. Use a ride-hailing option with child seats (e.g., “Kids” cars) or bring a travel booster/compact seat.
5) What are the top attractions for younger kids (under 6)?
Kite Beach shaded play areas, The Green Planet biodome, soft-play zones in malls, OliOli children’s museum, and the (free-to-watch) Dubai Aquarium viewing wall.
6) What about older kids and teens?
Aquaventure or Wild Wadi waterparks, Ski Dubai lessons, Dubai Ice Rink, kayaking around Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina boat rides, and (if eligible) XLine zipline.
7) Is a desert safari suitable for kids?
Yes—choose a family-oriented tour with gentler dune bashing, seatbelts, and clear age/height guidance. Many include sandboarding and camel rides.
8) Any free or low-cost things to do?
Dubai Fountain shows, abra rides on Dubai Creek (very cheap), beach playgrounds, Al Seef and Al Fahidi heritage walks, and marina promenades at sunset.
9) What’s the best area to stay with kids?
JBR/Marina for beach + restaurants, Palm Jumeirah for resort pools and Aquaventure access, Downtown for Burj/Dubai Mall convenience, or Dubai Hills for calmer family neighborhoods.
10) Do attractions have height restrictions?
Yes—especially waterparks and adventure rides. Check the height charts before you promise a slide or zipline.
11) Should we book tickets in advance?
For Burj Khalifa, Museum of the Future, popular waterparks, and peak weekends: yes. Combo tickets often save money and time.
12) What should we pack for kids?
UPF swim gear, hats with chin straps, high-SPF sunscreen, water bottles, a tiny stroller fan, and closed-toe shoes for indoor parks. Add a light layer for A/C.
13) Is Dubai safe and clean for families?
Very. Public spaces are well-kept and well-lit. As always, mind your belongings in crowds and teach kids to meet at a clear landmark if separated.
14) What’s the dress code and etiquette for families?
Standard swimwear at pools/beaches; cover shoulders/knees for mosques (scarves/abayas often provided). Be mindful of PDA and always ask before photographing people.
15) How does Ramadan affect family travel?
Attractions run and many restaurants serve as usual, but hours can shift later. Be discreet with daytime eating/drinking in public; evenings are festive and great for strolls.
16) Are kids’ menus and high chairs common?
Yes—almost everywhere, especially in malls and beach areas. Many places will split mains or tone down spice on request.
17) Can we drink tap water?
Generally safe, though many families prefer bottled. Pharmacies are widespread; carry any prescriptions and basic first aid.
18) What are the emergency numbers?
Police 999, Ambulance 998, Fire 997.
19) How hot is “too hot,” and how do we plan around it?
From late spring through summer, plan mornings outdoors, long indoor middays (nap/pool shade/malls), and sunset outings after ~5 p.m.
20) Any money-savers for families?
Watch for seasonal “Kids Go Free” deals, attraction bundles, metro day passes, and hotel family rooms with sofa beds/rollaways included
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