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Best things to do in Dubai with kids for a fun-filled stay

Between the glitz and the glam of this recognisable city, there’s plenty of things to do across Dubai to entertain young holidaymakers.

By Rebecca Roberts | Last updated Sep 2, 2022

Things to do in Dubai with kids

Known for its bar-setting standards, Dubai has been a favourite destination for many seeking winter sun for years now.

With huge, luxury resorts, indulgent cuisines and a high-class standard of service, it’s understandable why young travellers and expats flock here for the lifestyle and experiences it offers. Unbeknown to some though, is that Dubai is an extremely family-friendly destination. In fact, family and hospitality are two significant values in the local Emirati community here - and these are two values that have helped shape the United Arab Emirates as a whole today.

Tourists visiting here may be surprised to find so many things to do with kids in Dubai, as there’s plenty of family-focused activities to enjoy across the emirate.

From huge indoor play areas like Kidzania and Magic Planet, to award-winning theme parks like Aquaventure and Wild Wadi, to world-class attractions like Dubai Aquarium and Green Planet - there’s lots to do in Dubai for young holidaymakers.

To help you plan your trip, we’ve handpicked - along with the help of Mumsnetter recommendations - some must-do activities to bring you the ultimate list of the best things to do with kids in Dubai.

Top kids activities in Dubai: a roundup

Best things do to with kids in Dubai

Keep reading to find our complete, detailed guide to child-friendly activities in Dubai that the whole family will enjoy. There's a whopping 40 options in total so we're sure you'll find something for everyone during your trip.

It's a huge city with lots to do, so planning a trip to Dubai can get overwhelming. But with the help of real parents on our Mumsnet forums and the expertise of our resident ex-UAE expat, Rebecca, we feel there's something in this list for everyone that caters for all budgets and interests.

1. Enjoy record-breaking views from the top of Burj Khalifa

At The Top Burj Khalifa

At The Top, Burj Khalifa | Get your tickets 

“Places to visit include Burj Khalifa and certainly a trip to the Observation Deck to watch the sun rise.” Areyoureallykidding

“Book the burj Khalifa for lunch (tallest building in the world). It is quite expensive but I think they do a 3 course set menu for £50 pp. it’s really worth it!” 19lottie82

Take a ride in the world’s fastest elevator as you rise to levels 124 and 125 and take in the view from Burj Khalifa’s observation deck. This must-do is sure to amaze younger guests, and is also toddler-friendly. In fact, children under three are free to visit.

Although, it’s worth mentioning that prams and buggies are not allowed up and should be checked into the coatroom downstairs - something worth bearing in mind if you have younger babies with you, a carrier would be a good idea to take along. Another thing is that if you want to avoid crowds, don't visit around sunrise and sunset as these tend to be the busiest times.

2. Role play at KidZania in Dubai Mall

Kidzania Dubai Mall

Kidzania at The Dubai Mall | Get your tickets 

“Kidzania is worth a look if they haven't been to something similar.” Blahblahblab

“Kidzania at Dubai mall - a whole world for kids, where they can work in the bank, a a dentist, make a real MacDonald's themselves, make perfume, coke factory, deliver parcels, earn money, work at Waitrose. truly amazing and my dd 8 spends hours upon hours in there!” kelly14

Fun for all ages is available at KidZania in Dubai Mall, a huge indoor edutainment center that lets kids role play in ‘real life’ jobs - including being a pilot!

3. A ride to remember at the world’s largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai

Ain Dubai

Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island | Get your tickets 

One of Dubai’s newest additions, Ain Dubai is the world’s largest observation wheel located on Bluewaters Island. The attraction opened in 2021 after eight years in the making, and stands at 250 metres tall - that’s twice the size of the London Eye.

4. Burn off some energy and explore The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall | Find out more

“Time Out Market is also a must visit - can sit outside and watch the fountains at Dubai Mall and there are so many wonderful food places to try. Everyone can choose their own food and sit together, they also have great cocktails and deserts.” tiutinkerbell

“The Dubai Mall website will also give you an idea of dining options / prices and things to do. It houses an aquarium, cinema, virtual reality park, trampoline park etc.” NotMyWay

“You could lose a whole day in Dubai mall easily- breakfast, cinema, ice skating, underwater Zoo, dinner overlooking the fountains.” RHODXB

Shop til you drop, gaze at the huge Dubai Aquarium tank, dine at The Cheesecake Factory, see Dubai Dino’s skeleton, watch ice skaters, or join the crowds watching Dubai Fountains… You’ll never be bored during a trip to the world’s largest shopping mall. For little ones, there’s a whole section of the mall dedicated to kids clothing and toys - including a huge Hamleys store. For older kids, brave a trip to Hysteria, Dubai’s first haunted attraction.

5. Stand in awe at the size of the tank at Dubai Aquarium

Dubai Aquarium

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo | Get your tickets 

“Have a wander around Dubai Mall and visit the aquarium. At the aquarium take a glass bottomed boat and have a ride across the water. Maybe if you feel brave go diving with the sharks.” TarquinMoriartyGruntfuttockII 

“Aquarium in Dubai Mall is cool as well for the novelty. Green Planet is amazing - plus loads of nice places to eat at City Walk!” Hillary17

While you’re in The Dubai Mall, don’t miss the chance to visit Dubai Aquarium… Especially if you have kids with you! Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is home to thousands of aquatic animals and over 140 species - including King Croc! Stop by The Rainforest Cafe just outside for lunch or dinner after your visit.

6. Get up close to the Dubai Fountains with a boat ride

Dubai Fountains

Dubai Fountains | Get your tickets

“Definitely go to watch the fountain show at Dubai Mall on an evening. It's great to chill out there for a few hours too - plenty of people watching, cafes, restaurants, kids love the cheesecake factory for food!” icelolly12

Shows start at 6pm every day, every 30 minutes until 10pm on weekdays and 11pm on weekends. If crowds put you off, book a boat cruise around Dubai Fountains if you can… Young holidaymakers will surely love being up close to the huge dancing fountains as they sing along to the music. They're free to witness if you join the crowds next to Souk Al Bahar and The Dubai Mall, but for an extra special experience, why not try a boat ride or access the walk bridge?

7. Or witness the world’s largest fountains at Dubai’s Palm Fountain

Dubai Palm Fountain

Dubai Palm Fountains, The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah | Find out more

Many tourists will be familiar with Dubai Fountains at the base of Burj Khalifa, but few will know about the latest addition to Dubai’s list of must-see attractions. Dubai Palm Fountains are located at The Pointe on Palm Jumeirah, and are even bigger than the original fountains near Dubai Mall. So much so, the show won the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest fountains… It’s also Dubai’s only multicoloured fountain show and spans an area of 14,000sqft.

8. Take in the view from The Pointe

The Pointe

The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah | Find out more

Speaking of The Pointe, an afternoon and evening spent here is a great way to make some memories as a family. Young children will no doubt enjoy dipping their toes in the sea at a small beach located here, and there’s often children’s entertainment arranged - particularly on weekends. Don’t forget to grab an ice cream for Baskin Robbins as you explore!

9. Visit Burj Al Arab’s turtle rehabilitation sanctuary

The Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary at Burj Al Arab

The Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary at Burj Al Arab | Find out more

A unique experience for anyone, but particularly fun for kids, a trip to The Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary is a must for any young animal lovers visiting Dubai. Located at Burj Al Arab, turtles are rehabilitated here before being reintroduced to their natural habitat, and visitors can meet these rescued sea turtles before they’re released.

10. Hit the slides at Wild Wadi water park

Wild Wadi water park

Wild Wadi | Get your tickets 

Dubai is home to several water parks, but there are two that stand out and attract tourists all year round. First up is Wild Wadi, which is located next Jumeirah Beach Hotel and offers unparalleled views of Burj Al Arab as you ride the slides here. All ages are welcomed into the park, and a trip here is a great way to spend a day together.

11. Or visit Aquaventure water park at Atlantis The Palm

Atlantis The Palm

Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm | Get your tickets 

“Aqua venture is more impressive I would say but currently parts are being renovated so check it is open before you book.” RHODXB

The other water park is Aquaventure. Located at Atlantis The Palm, Aquaventure is often recommended by Mumnsetters as a must-do activity. In fact, if you’re short for time, it’s recommended you visit this water park instead of Wild Wadi simply because you also have access to the beach during a day trip here… And from that beach is an incredible view of Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina. There’s also animal interaction experiences available, as well as thrilling water rides.

12. Explore the wonders of The Lost Chambers aquarium

The Lost Chambers aquarium

The Lost Chambers at Atlantis The Palm | Get your tickets 

“I would also recommend a visit out to the Atlantis hotel to see their Lost Chambers aquarium. The hotel also has some good restaurants (Gordon Ramsay's Bread Street Kitchen restaurant is there and is family friendly).” AttilaTheMeerkat

Walk through the glass tunnels of this huge aquarium located in Atlantis The Palm itself. Little ones will have a chance to see over 20 marine exhibits, and interact with some creatures and even help feed them with the help of animal experts. It’s definitely a must-visit if you’re staying in the hotel or nearby, and you can combine a trip here with a visit to Aquaventure next door.

13. Say hello to over 3,000 animals at Dubai Safari Park

Dubai Safari Park

Dubai Safari Park | Get your tickets 

If you’re visiting Dubai in the winter months, a trip to Dubai Safari Park is a must with young guests. Open for the season from September each year, the park is home to over 3,000 animals, with 78 species of mammals, 50 types of reptiles and 111 kinds of birds, plus amphibians and invertebrates, all living on the 119-hectare site.

14. Shop like never before at Dubai’s gold and spice souks

Dubai souks

Dubai's traditional souks | Find out more

“For cheap shopping and a fascinating experience try the old soukh including the gold and Bur Dubai fabric soukhs.” simitra

Lavish gold jewellery, handwoven textiles, traditional perfumes and unique souvenirs are what you’ll find at Dubai’s traditional souks. The emirate is often referred to as ‘the city of gold’, and it’s no surprise why when you visit the Gold Souk. For tourists seeking an authentic day, a trip here alongside the Spice Souk, Perfume Souk and Textile Souk are worth your while. If travelling here with smaller children, do be aware that crowds can get quite busy here on weekends and in peak tourist season.

15. See innovation first hand at Museum of the Future

museum of the future

Museum of the Future | Get your tickets 

Inside an impressive torus-shaped stainless steel structure, designed with Arabic calligraphy engraved, is the Museum of the Future. The museum welcomes people of all ages to see, touch, and shape ‘our shared future’, and visitors can embark on a journey through possible futures and technology. For younger visitors, there’s a ‘Future Heroes’ space entirely dedicated to children that offers an open world of exploration and play.

16. Compare old and new Dubai from the top of Dubai Frame

Dubai Frame

Dubai Frame | Get your tickets 

“Dubai Frame was always a favourite when people visited us, as well as the miracle gardens.” Hillary17

Kids under three go free at this popular Dubai attraction located between ‘old’ and ‘new’ Dubai. The 150 metre high, frame-shaped building offers a journey of three time-periods in the UAE - the past, present and future. Starting with ‘Old Dubai’, you’ll journey to the top of the building to enjoy 360-degree uninterrupted views of Dubai’s iconic skyline. There’s also a transparent glass floor to walk on for those brave enough to try!

17. Dine with incredible views at Souk Madinat

Souk Madinat

Souk Madinat Jumeirah | Find out more

“The madinat is lovely for an evening stroll.” TheCanyon

“One to add would be to visit Madinat Jumeirah for dinner or evening out. It’s a hotel resort type place with lake inside and souk style setup. Very nice in the evenings.” sst1234

“Set aside a morning or afternoon to visit Souk Madinat, which is near the Burj Al Arab. Take an abra boat ride through the resort, it's really picturesque and relaxing, meandering through all the waterways, and the guide has really interesting facts/stories. Souk Madinat has lots of great bars and restaurants, and a big indoor market place for souvenirs, art and more high end items. You can easily spend half a day there.” rainwilder

Mimicking a traditional Arabian bazaar, a trip to Souk Madinat is one of the most recommended things to do in Dubai with kids. Offering a slew of restaurants, cafes, and bars, a day here can be easily spent as you wander the shops, enjoy picture-perfect views of Burj Al Arab, and enjoy an abra ride around the waterways. There’s even a theatre here, so it’s worth checking out the schedule ahead of your trip to see if there’s anything your little ones might be interested in.

18. See Mickey Mouse made of flowers and other incredible sculptures at Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden | Get your tickets 

“Dubai Frame was always a favourite when people visited us, as well as the miracle gardens.” Hillary17

“I like Miracle Garden, nice to wander around.” Hairbrush123

Opening each year in October for the season, Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest natural flower garden - and is definitely worth a visit with kids in tow. As temperatures cool, the gates of Dubai Miracle Garden open offering visitors the chance to see more than 150 million flowers in full bloom.

This picturesque attraction is a must do, and we’re sure young guests will love seeing the huge teddy bear, floating lady, and the life-sized Emirates A380 made of flowers. Don’t forget the Smurf Village, field of sunflowers and umbrella tunnel.

19. And while you’re there, head to Dubai Butterfly Garden

Dubai Butterfly Garden

Dubai Butterfly Garden | Get your tickets 

Located next to Dubai Miracle Garden, Dubai Butterfly Garden is a great day out with the kids for play, relaxation and edutainment. Families will enjoy witnessing the butterfly lifecycle up close, alongside a koi pond and even a kids cinema that runs educational movies about caterpillars and butterflies.

20. Spend an evening at City Walk and visit Hub Zero

City Walk

City Walk | Find out more

This family-friendly, pedestrianised eating and shopping district is worthy of a visit during your time in Dubai. Offering amazing views of Burj Khalifa, the Meraas development spans more than ten million square feet and is home to restaurants, shops, cafes, designer stores, street art and Dubai’s very own The Green Planet. There’s even a Michelin-star restaurant here! For kids, catch a flick at Roxy Cinemas, head to Mattel Play! Town to meet Bob The Builder, Fireman Sam, Angelina Ballerina, explore The Green Planet and get gaming at Hub Zero.

21. Get your swimsuits on and head the beach

kite beach

Kite Beach | Find out more

“Kite beach is our favourite but la mer is lovely too and has lots of restaurants along the front.” RHODXB

“Kite beach is great fun, has rides and an aerial adventure for the kids too.” TheCanyon

“If you want a day at the beach La Mer is absolutely the one to pick, gorgeous views and loads of places to eat nearby, plus water sports!” Hillary17

“Have a look at www.thebeach.ae/en/dine/ for a range of eateries at different price points around Jumeirah Beach Residence which is a pedestrianised entertainment area.” NotMyWay

If there’s one thing any visitor must do in Dubai - it’s head to the beach! It’s easy to forget that this city full of skyscrapers is in fact a coastal city, and there’s plenty of beaches to choose from for a relaxing day out for some sun, sea and sand.

There’s La Mer, Marina Beach, Jebel Ali Beach, JBR Open Beach, and Umm Suqeim Beach to name a few. Kite Beach is an old-time family favourite, as it offers lots of activities including kite surfing, soap football, beach tennis, beach volleyball and kayaking, alongside food trucks and cafes and superb views of Burj Al Arab.

22. Have fun taking pictures at the 3D World Selfie Museum

3D World Selfie Museum

3D World Selfie Museum | Get your tickets 

If you find yourself with a few hours to spare, why not head to one of Dubai’s newest attractions, 3D World Dubai? This selfie museum is packed with over 185 3D artworks and is - you guessed it - the largest 3D museum in the world.

23. Hit the slopes at the world’s third largest indoor ski slope, Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai | Get your tickets 

“Ski Dubai is fun but expensive and gets very busy weekends and afternoons so go early.” RHODXB

For skiing and snowboarding families, a Ski Dubai trip is a must while you’re here. Located in Mall of the Emirates, this snow park is quite a novelty as it’s located in the desert and is a great way to escape the heat during the day. For smaller guests who are unable to ski yet, there’s fun activities like sledging, Zorb ball rides and a penguin experience. There’s even a zip line in here!

24. Shop til you drop at Mall of the Emirates

Mall of the Emirates

Mall of the Emirates | Find out more

Dubai residents are frequent visitors to Mall of the Emirates thanks to the shopping experiences on offer here. This huge mall is home from high street brands to high-end designer brands, alongside restaurants, attractions and a huge cinema. There’s even a trampoline park here in the popular Magic Planet that’s worth a try with toddlers and kids. Older kids and teens may enjoy testing their rock-climbing skills at Go Sports, or ziplining in Ski Dubai.

25. Let the kids loose at Magic Planet

Magic Planet

Magic Planet | Get your tickets 

“Magic planet at Emirates mall is truly amazing.” TheCanyon

Designed with kids in mind, Magic Planet is a firm favourite among families in Dubai. This indoor arcade and gaming venue offers an array of games, indoor rides, simulators, skill games and attractions - promising a fun-packed day out for families to enjoy.

26. Little ones will love a trip to OliOli

OliOli

OliOli | Get your tickets 

“Kidzania is worth a look if they haven't been to something similar. Also OliOli. Not particularly 'Dubai' but fun for the kids.” Blahblahblab

For smaller tots, OliOli is a must if you’re looking for an easy way to tire your kids out. This spacious indoor sanctuary is made up of eight galleries with over 45 interactive exhibits suitable for various ages… Including adults! Kids are free to wander here, as they explore the various spaces designed to foster their creativity and imagination.

27. Don’t miss a chance to visit VR Park Dubai

VR Park Dubai

VR Park Dubai | Get your tickets

Explore the world's largest VR park at VR Park Dubai, located inside The Dubai Mall. Get a pass that provides access to seven immersive and interactive activities and choose from 10 different options.

28. Learn something new at The Green Planet

The Green Planet

The Green Planet at City Walk | Get your tickets 

“The Green Planet (it’s a indoor rainforest with lots of educational tours to learn about the wildlife and plants).” HerbivorousRex

This enchanting bio-dome is home to a tropical indoor rainforest, which sustains over 3,000 plants and animals. A visit here is truly immersive, as you explore the rainforest with animals around you and birds flying freely. Highlights here include seeing the two sloths up close, as well as feeding experiences for fish and birds. All infants under two go free here, too!

28. Wow little explorers and visit the Museum of Illusions

museum of illusions

Museum of Illusions | Get your tickets 

Dubai’s Museum of Illusions is located near Dubai Creek, in Al Seef, and offers an interactive, immersive experience for all ages. It’s an exciting and unusual attraction and is worth considering if you find yourself with a spare few hours one day.

29. Play a game of golf with the most incredible views at Emirates Golf Club

Topgolf in Dubai

Topgolf Dubai | Find out more

No age or experience is needed when you walk through the doors of Topgolf in Dubai. Located at the popular Emirates Golf Club, play and have fun as you and your young golf lovers get a whole lot of holes-in-one… And a whole lot of holes-in-none!

30. Dine with local Emiratis for an authentic, cultural experience

Dine with local Emiratis

Dine with locals in Dubai | Get your tickets 

For an authentic Dubai experience, book a dinner with local Emiratis over dinner for a two-hour cultural experience. Suitable for families with older children and teens, this must-try activity in Dubai is a great opportunity for some world education for the kids - and you! Meet your local host, listen to cultural information and history, understand Emirati cuisine, and learn more about the Emirati culture and its values.

31. Mingle with expats at one of Dubai’s most famous brunches

Brunch in Dubai

Dubai's famed for its weekend brunches | Find a family hotel with a brunch

If there’s one thing Dubai is renowned for among Brits - it’s brunch. Specifically, weekend brunches that last a few hours, cost a few pretty Dirhams, and offer entertainment for both kids and adults alongside indulgent foods and drinks.

There are endless brunches to choose from, but for the ultimate family-friendly brunch in Dubai head to The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi for the Bubbalicious brunch. It spans the hotel’s three restaurants, and offers ample children’s entertainment and play areas, and is hailed as one of the emirate’s best family brunches in Dubai.

It's worth noting that most family hotels in Dubai offer their own weekend brunch, so double check with the concierge when you arrive.

32. Meet your child’s favourite superheroes at IMG Worlds of Adventure

IMG worlds of adventure

IMG Worlds of Adventure | Get your tickets 

IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world’s best and biggest indoor theme park, and is packed with immersive experiences for families seeking thrills and an adrenaline rush. There’s four adventure zones to explore: including Marvel, the Lost Valley, Cartoon Network, and the IMG Boulevard. Alongside the rides and simulations, there’s also climbing walls, a football pitch, slides and a sweeper game in the IMG Kids Zone or for older kids and families who are feeling brave, there’s The Haunted Hotel for extra screams.

33. For thrill-seekers, head to Dubai Parks and Resorts

Dubai Parks and Resorts

Dubai Parks and Resorts | Get your tickets 

Located roughly 30 minutes from Downtown Dubai, Dubai Parks and Resorts is a fun-filled day out for the entire family and a must-try when the weather is cooler. There’s four parks to choose from in the resort - which include Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks, LEGOLAND Dubai and LEGOLAND Water Park - and all are designed for families with children aged 2 to 12 years old in mind.

34. Embarking on a desert safari is a must in Dubai

Dubai desert safari

A Dubai desert safari is a must-do | Get your tickets 

“Desert safari is a must, these should include dune bashing in the desert, an Arabic buffet meal and traditional show and usually camel rides and falcon shows, henna etc.” RHODXB

Often at the top of everyone’s must-do list in Dubai, a desert safari is a great opportunity to explore the desert dunes and culture that the UAE is famed for. There are various desert safari providers available in Dubai, and most - if not all - offer a similar itinerary. With transport to and from your hotel, you’ll be driven into the Arabian desert and have the opportunity to enjoy camel riding, dune bashing, sandboarding as well as a dinner (and a stay if you fancy it) in an Arabian village resort.

35. Fly above Dubai Marina at Xline

XLine Dubai Marina

XLine in Dubai Marina | Get your tickets 

Suitable for kids aged 12 years and up, XLine is a great thing to do for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Fly high over Dubai Marina as you zip across the man-made marina between its towering skyscrapers. It’s the world’s longest urban zipline, and measures 1km in length and is also one of the steepest and fastest… It’s also quite expensive, but a great treat for any parent wishing to make a fantastic memory together with their teen.

36. Catch the magnificent La Perle for a jaw-dropping show

La Perle in Dubai

La Perle at Al Habtoor City | Get your tickets 

Children aged two and above are allowed to this one-of-a-kid theatrical experience created and produced by famous artistic director, Franco Dragone. The theatre itself is an enormous playground, and you can expect to see a cast of 65+ artists acting, dancing and indulging in gravity-defying stunts in the air, ground and in water. La Perle is a permanent fixture at Al Habtoor City, and is a must if you have theatre lovers in the family.

37. Immerse yourself in other worlds at Global Village

Global Village in Dubai

Global Village | Get your tickets 

“Check the dates for Global Village, its another experience.” katscamel

Operating from October to April, Global Village is a multi-cultural, family-friendly seasonal destination. Somewhat like Walt Disney World’s Epcot, Global Village in Dubai allows visitors to wander through 80 different countries and cultures across 26 pavilions in the park. Plan your visit wisely though, as crowds tend to get quite large - and avoid a visit here on or around UAE National Day altogether as it gets very busy! With proper planning though, a day trip to Global Village is a great way to explore various cultures, wander with a pram, and let the kids spend some energy.

38. Kids can bounce for hours on end at Trampo Extreme

Trampo Extreme

Trampo Extreme | Get your tickets 

Trampo Extreme can be found in - yes, you guessed it - The Dubai Mall, and welcomes children aged three years and above for adrenaline-packed fun. There’s indoor trampolines, sky high climbing walls, basketball courts, dodgeball, and even a foam pit to enjoy.

39. Enjoy breathtaking views with a boat tour around Dubai’s coast

Dubai boat tour

See Dubai from a different angle | Book your Dubai boat tour

Embark on a magical tour of the Arabian Gulf and admire impressive views of Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, and Burj Al Arab in all their glory. Children weighing less than 10kg are not suitable for this ride due to safety reasons, but otherwise it’s a great afternoon activity to enjoy with older kids - and a great way to capture some impressive holiday pictures together!

40. Embark on an authentic dhow cruise

Dubai dhow cruise

Traditional Dubai dhow cruise | Get your tickets 

Enjoy a dinner cruise on Dubai Creek in a traditional Bedouin boat. These boats were once used for trade and transportation, and are now converted into restaurants to offer tourists an impressive cultural experience as they cruise and take in the sights. You’ll enjoy a delicious dinner together, and there’s even live music performances, Tanura dancing and more.

How we chose our recommendations

Recommendations by real parents

Before choosing any activities for our roundups, we first consult the Mumsnet forums. With over 10 million users per month, there’s a lot of suggestions by real parents who have been there, done that when travelling to Dubai with the family.

We’ve also picked the brains of our resident ex-UAE expat, Rebecca, to provide you with a detailed guide and advice on what to do with the kids in the emirate.

Expert guidance and traveller reviews

After we’ve collated our pick of activities and attractions, we then turn to the experts and consult the likes of TripAdvisorBooking.com, and Expedia to see what their recommendations include for family holidays here.

Here we’ll also check what travellers are saying about these Dubai attractions, taking into consideration both the positive and negative points of their trip to bring you a well-rounded and honest guide.

Celebrated hotels

Finally, we cross-referenced all of the above information to find the best things to do in Dubai with kids that had won the most awards and recommendations across the board. We feel there’s something here for everyone, to suit every budget.

Why should you trust us?

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.