08/04/2025

Family Friendly Activities To Do in Dubai

Dubai is world-famous for its thrilling attractions and fast-paced lifestyle, and for good reason! It offers incredible thrills and family fun. But what about the weekends when you're looking for something different or a bit slower paced? Whether you're new to the city or a long-time resident, you'll discover that Dubai offers a surprisingly diverse range of activities perfect for creating lasting family memories, often just a short drive from home.

Forget the queues for a weekend and dive into these alternative adventures that showcase the rich lifestyle Dubai offers families:

Embrace nature's wonders

Explore lush parks: Swap concrete jungles for green ones! Safa Park, a long-standing favourite, offers boating lakes, play areas, and ample space for picnics. Zabeel Park is enormous, featuring themed gardens, playgrounds, the Dubai Frame nearby, and even barbecue spots. It’s proof that green spaces are cherished in the heart of the city.

Marvel at wildlife: Visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected wetland reserve surprisingly close to the city buzz. Witness thousands of birds, especially the stunning flamingos during winter months. It’s a free, educational, and serene escape.

Desert adventures: Experience the magic of the Arabian desert without extreme dune bashing. Opt for a family-friendly desert safari package offering camel rides, cultural entertainment, and a traditional BBQ dinner under the stars. It's a unique experience connecting you to the region's heritage.

Dive into culture & learning (That’s actually fun!)

Wander through history: Step back in time at the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (formerly Bastakiya). Explore its charming narrow alleyways, traditional wind-tower houses (many now hosting cafes and art galleries), and soak in the atmosphere of Old Dubai. Don't forget a cheap and cheerful abra ride across Dubai Creek!

Interactive museums: Go beyond static displays. OliOli is an experiential children's museum designed to spark creativity and curiosity through hands-on galleries. For a dose of national history presented engagingly, visit the Etihad Museum.

Understand local traditions: Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) for breakfast or lunch. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy Emirati cuisine while learning about local culture and Islam in an open, friendly Q&A format.

Get active together

Cycle scenic routes: Head to the Al Qudra Cycle Track, a dedicated paved path stretching into the desert. Rent bikes for the whole family (various sizes available) and enjoy a safe, scenic ride spotting wildlife like oryx and gazelles. It’s invigorating!

Beach days with a twist: While Dubai has many beaches, Kite Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with kite surfers to watch, plus cafes and playgrounds. The Beach at JBR also has splash pads and often hosts family-friendly events and outdoor movie nights.

Indoor fun: When the temperatures soar, Dubai excels at indoor entertainment. Trampoline parks like Bounce or inflatable parks like Air Maniax offer hours of energetic fun for various ages.

Experience Dubai's unique charm

A spectrum of colour: Seasonally, the Dubai Miracle Garden is a breathtaking floral wonderland that feels truly magical. Right next door, the Dubai Butterfly Garden offers an enchanting indoor experience walking amongst thousands of free-flying butterflies.

Global Village fun: (Seasonal) More than just shopping, Global Village is a cultural extravaganza. Explore pavilions representing different countries, taste global street food, enjoy live performances, and soak in the carnival atmosphere.

Dubai truly offers a world of experiences for families, far beyond the most popular attractions. From serene nature spots and cultural explorations to active fun, there's always something new to discover together, creating a rich and fulfilling lifestyle. Finding the right neighbourhood that puts these activities within easy reach is key to enjoying all that Dubai has to offer.