Planning a family holiday in Dubai for 2026? You are in for an exceptional experience! This remarkable city has established itself as the premier family destination, where cutting-edge attractions seamlessly blend with traditional Middle Eastern heritage. From world-class theme parks to enriching cultural experiences, Dubai with kids offers truly unforgettable memories.
What makes this city particularly appealing is how it accommodates everyone - from toddlers requiring constant stimulation to teenagers seeking unique adventures. Many families find themselves booking return visits and some enhance their experience by combining their Dubai holidays with Abu Dhabi holidays for the complete Middle East experience.
If you’re looking for things to do in Dubai with family or are wondering what to do in Dubai with kids, we’ve pulled together ten ideas to inspire you!
1. Burj Khalifa - At the top experience
Observing children attempt to locate the summit of the world's tallest building from street level remains endlessly entertaining! The true magic unfolds at the observation decks, where your little ones will press their faces against the expansive windows, marvelling at the spectacular views below.
Booking sunset time slots is highly recommended - the city transforms into a glittering tapestry of lights that will captivate even the most discerning teenagers. The high-speed elevators create an exhilarating experience that children particularly enjoy too! This represents one of those great places that successfully combines educational value with pure wonder.
2. Dubai Ice Rink
Ice skating in the desert presents a fascinating contrast! Here you can glide on genuine ice whilst temperatures soar to 40°C outside. The evening disco sessions prove particularly entertaining, especially when the coloured lighting creates an atmospheric experience.
Whether you are finding your balance or your children are confidently skating past, the experience remains enjoyable for the whole family. Located within Dubai Mall, this fun activity is one of the best things to do in Dubai with kids.
3. Dubai Parks and Resorts
Wondering what to do in Dubai with kids who love adventure? This expansive entertainment complex features three major theme parks plus a water park concentrated in one location! LEGOLAND Dubai caters perfectly to younger kids who can construct, create and enjoy attractions specifically designed for their age group.
Motiongate brings Hollywood productions to life with impressive authenticity, whilst Bollywood Parks introduces an unexpected cultural dimension. Please note that you will require at least two days to properly explore this vast complex. Many families arrive expecting to experience everything in a single day, only to discover they have significantly underestimated the scale of this destination.
4. Dubai Miracle Garden
Entering this botanical wonderland feels like stepping into an enchanted realm. Over 150 million flowers are artistically arranged into Disney characters, elaborate hearts and magnificent castles that seem almost impossible to create. Children will enthusiastically explore, discovering intricate details throughout the gardens.
The garden operates exclusively during cooler months (October-April), which provides ideal visiting conditions. You can explore comfortably without concern about excessive temperatures! Professional tip: bring your camera - the photographic opportunities are exceptional.
5. The Green Planet
Step inside and you will find yourself transported to an Amazon rainforest environment in the heart of Dubai! This sophisticated indoor ecosystem houses thousands of plant species and animals allowing you to see Dubai’s wildlife. Your children will embrace their roles as explorers, observing leisurely sloths and interactive parrots.
The educational aspect is particularly well-designed, delivering conservation messages naturally as you navigate different levels of this vertical jungle. Children depart with genuine enthusiasm for environmental protection.
6. Kite Beach
Occasionally, the most rewarding experiences require no admission fees! If you’re looking for free attractions in Dubai, Kite Beach provides pristine sand, gentle waves and the iconic Burj Al Arab as a stunning backdrop for family photographs. Well-maintained playgrounds and food vendors enhance the experience, making it one of the best things to do in Dubai with kids.
This represents Dubai at its most relaxed. Build sandcastles, enjoy the warm Gulf waters or simply unwind without pressure to maximise expensive attraction tickets. Many parents report this as their preferred location for genuine relaxation.
7. Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark
Aquaventure demonstrates exceptional understanding of family requirements. Secure areas cater to toddlers, thrilling slides challenge the adventurous and the lazy river provides opportunities for leisurely conversation without time constraints.
The impressive collection of over 105 rides and attractions ensures something exciting for everyone - from the world-famous Leap of Faith that plunges through shark-filled waters to the record-breaking Aquaconda slide. What distinguishes this waterpark is its recognition that families seek variety throughout their visit.
8. Dubai Frame
This golden architectural marvel chronicles Dubai's remarkable transformation story. Interactive displays illustrate how the city evolved from a modest fishing village to this global metropolis, whilst glass floors add appropriate excitement for younger visitors.
The elevated views provide perfect perspective on Dubai's development. Even children who typically find historical content unengaging become genuinely curious about how this extraordinary city achieved such rapid transformation.
9. IMG Worlds of Adventure
As the world's largest indoor theme park, weather conditions never compromise your plans. Marvel superheroes and Cartoon Network characters are brought to life through attractions suitable for every thrill preference.
The comprehensive air conditioning proves invaluable during Dubai's intense summer months when outdoor activities become challenging. You can comfortably spend entire days here without concerns about heat or sun exposure.
10. Ski Dubai
Last on our list of the best things to do in Dubai with kids is Ski Dubai. This extraordinary indoor snow park maintains constant sub-zero temperatures where children can build snowmen, enjoy toboggan runs and take skiing or snowboarding lessons with professional instructors.
The Snow Park offers endless entertainment through chairlift rides, zorb ball adventures and the thrilling Snow Bullet zipline. Located within Mall of the Emirates, this unique attraction provides the perfect escape from Dubai's heat whilst delivering unforgettable snow sports memories.
Making your Dubai adventure count
Feeling inspired by our guide on things to do with kids in Dubai? It’s time to get planning your dream family trip. Dubai's reputation as a premier family destination is thoroughly justified. The infrastructure genuinely supports families through efficient transportation, well-maintained facilities and attractions that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.
For those seeking the complete Middle Eastern experience, extending your journey with a family holiday in Abu Dhabi perfectly complements Dubai's excitement with the region's remarkable diversity and renowned hospitality.
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