Dubai is a city that perfectly blends modern attractions with cultural heritage. From soaring skyscrapers to beautiful beaches and adventurous theme parks, there is something for everyone in the family. Whether you are visiting with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, Dubai offers safe and fun experiences for all ages. In this guide, we explore the 20 best things to do in Dubai with family, covering attractions, activities, and essential tips.
1. Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, standing at 828 meters. Families love visiting for its breathtaking views of Dubai from the observation deck. Children enjoy spotting landmarks from above, and it is also a great place for photography.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 08:30 to 23:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 169–359
Children (4–12 years): AED 129–329
Things to Do:
- Visit the observation deck on the 124th floor
- Capture panoramic photos of Dubai skyline
- Watch the Dubai Fountain show from the base
2. Dubai Fountain Show
Located at the base of Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain Show is a spectacular water display synchronized with music and lights. It is a free attraction and perfect for families to enjoy in the evenings.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 18:00 to 23:00 (every 30 minutes)
Entrance Fee:
Free
Things to Do:
- Watch the dancing fountains
- Evening photography and videos
- Enjoy nearby cafés and restaurants
3. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Housed inside Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is home to thousands of marine creatures, including sharks and rays. Kids love walking through the underwater tunnel and seeing marine life up close.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 10:00 to 22:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 120
Children: AED 95
Things to Do:
- Walk through the 48-meter aquarium tunnel
- Feed and interact with selected marine species
- Learn about marine life conservation
4. KidZania Dubai
KidZania Dubai is an indoor edutainment city where children can role-play real-life professions such as pilots, doctors, or chefs. It is perfect for children aged 4 to 16.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 10:00 to 22:00
Entrance Fee:
Children: AED 185
Adults: AED 70
Things to Do:
- Participate in role-playing activities
- Learn about various professions
- Earn KidZos (KidZania currency) while playing
5. The Green Planet
The Green Planet is an indoor tropical rainforest offering a unique opportunity for children and adults to learn about biodiversity. It houses over 3,000 plants and animals.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 10:00 to 18:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 120
Children: AED 95
Things to Do:
- Walk through the rainforest bio-dome
- Observe sloths, birds, reptiles, and fish
- Interactive learning sessions about ecosystem and climate
6. Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark
Located on Palm Jumeirah, Aquaventure Waterpark is a massive water park with slides, river rides, and private beaches. It’s suitable for children, teens, and adults.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 10:00 to 18:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 335
Children (under 1.2m): AED 275
Things to Do:
- Ride the thrilling water slides
- Relax on private beaches
- Enjoy family-friendly pools and play areas
7. Wild Wadi Waterpark
Wild Wadi Waterpark is located in Jumeirah and is themed around the tale of Juha, a character from Arabian folklore. It has rides for toddlers and adrenaline rides for teenagers.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 10:00 to 18:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 336
Children: AED 276
Things to Do:
- Enjoy water slides and wave pools
- Try family rides like Juha’s Journey
- Relax in shaded picnic areas
8. Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai is an indoor snow park inside Mall of the Emirates, offering skiing, snowboarding, and penguin encounters. It’s perfect for families who want to experience snow in the desert.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 10:00 to 22:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 200–300
Children: AED 160–250
Things to Do:
- Skiing and snowboarding lessons
- Interact with penguins
- Snowball fights and tobogganing
9. Desert Safari & Camel Ride
A desert safari is one of Dubai’s most famous family experiences. Families can enjoy dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional entertainment in the desert.
Operating Hours:
Afternoon/Evening Tours: 15:00 to 21:00
Entrance Fee:
AED 150–350 per person (depending on package)
Things to Do:
- Dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle
- Camel rides and sandboarding
- Enjoy BBQ dinners and traditional shows
10. LEGOLAND Dubai & LEGOLAND Water Park
Perfect for kids aged 2–12, LEGOLAND Dubai offers rides, building workshops, and water attractions.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 10:00 to 18:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 245
Children: AED 210
Things to Do:
- Interactive LEGO building workshops
- Theme rides suitable for children
- Water slides in LEGOLAND Water Park
11. Dubai Miracle Garden
The Dubai Miracle Garden is a massive floral park featuring over 150 million flowers. It’s a colorful experience for all ages.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 09:00 to 21:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 55
Children: AED 40
Things to Do:
- Explore flower sculptures and designs
- Take family photos in themed sections
- Walk through butterfly installations
12. Dubai Butterfly Garden
Adjacent to the Miracle Garden, the Butterfly Garden is home to over 15,000 butterflies.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 09:00 to 21:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 55
Children: AED 40
Things to Do:
- Observe rare butterfly species
- Interactive learning for children
- Photography opportunities
13. Dubai Dolphinarium
The Dubai Dolphinarium offers live dolphin and seal shows in a family-friendly environment.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 10:00 to 18:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 120
Children: AED 100
Things to Do:
- Watch dolphin and seal performances
- Interactive shows for children
- Learn about marine life conservation
14. Dubai Parks and Resorts
Dubai Parks and Resorts hosts Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and Riverland Dubai, offering both indoor and outdoor attractions.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 10:00 to 22:00
Entrance Fee:
Varies by park; packages start from AED 275
Things to Do:
- Theme rides and roller coasters
- Interactive shows and attractions
- Food courts and souvenir shopping
15. JBR Beach & Kite Beach
JBR Beach and Kite Beach are ideal for families looking to relax by the sea. Both beaches are safe, clean, and have playgrounds and eateries. You can check the best beaches for family in Dubai.
Operating Hours:
Daily: Open 24 hours, public access
Entrance Fee:
Free
Things to Do:
- Swimming and sunbathing
- Water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking
- Beachside cafes and family picnics
16. Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is a landmark offering views of old and new Dubai. It is a great educational experience for children to understand Dubai’s transformation.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 09:00 to 21:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 50
Children (3–12 years): AED 20
Things to Do:
- Panoramic views from 150 meters above
- Interactive exhibits about Dubai’s history
- Family photography
17. Global Village Dubai
Global Village offers a mix of shopping, entertainment, and cultural experiences. Families can explore pavilions from different countries.
Operating Hours:
Saturday to Wednesday: 16:00 to 24:00
Thursday & Friday: 16:00 to 01:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 15
Children (3–12 years): AED 15
Things to Do:
- Cultural shows and performances
- Shopping from international pavilions
- Food tasting from different countries
18. The Green Planet Indoor Rainforest
A tropical indoor rainforest, The Green Planet allows children to explore ecosystems safely.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 10:00 to 18:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 120
Children: AED 95
Things to Do:
- Walk among exotic plants and animals
- Educational tours for children
- Photography and family exploration
19. Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina
A Dhow Cruise offers scenic evening experiences on the Marina with dinner and entertainment.
Operating Hours:
Evening: 19:00 to 22:00
Entrance Fee:
Adults: AED 150–250
Children: AED 100–150
Things to Do:
- Evening sightseeing along Dubai Marina
- Enjoy traditional dinner on board
- Family-friendly entertainment
20. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood & Abra Ride
The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood offers a glimpse of old Dubai. Families can enjoy traditional architecture and a boat ride across the creek.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 09:00 to 18:00
Entrance Fee:
Free
Things to Do:
- Explore traditional Dubai architecture
- Take an Abra ride across Dubai Creek
- Visit museums and art galleries
FAQs
Which are the best family attractions in Dubai?
Burj Khalifa, Dubai Aquarium, Atlantis Aquaventure, Wild Wadi, Ski Dubai, and KidZania are top choices.
Are there free things to do in Dubai with family?
Yes. Dubai Fountain Show, JBR Beach, Kite Beach, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, and Zabeel Park are free.
What is the best time to visit Dubai with family?
October to April is ideal. Summer months can be very hot for outdoor activities.
Are Dubai attractions suitable for toddlers?
Yes. KidZania, The Green Planet, Dubai Dolphinarium, Miracle Garden, and beaches are toddler-friendly.
Which attractions are educational for kids?
The Green Planet, KidZania, Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Frame, and museums offer learning opportunities while being fun.
Final Thoughts
Dubai is a perfect destination for family holidays, offering a mix of adventure, culture, relaxation, and education. This list of 20 best things to do in Dubai with family will help you plan a memorable trip, ensuring there’s something fun for every member of your family.
Useful resources:
Best Free Beaches in Dubai You Must Visit This Year
Night Beaches in Dubai: Best Spots for Evening Walks & Night Swimming
Family Beaches in Dubai – A Complete Guide for Every Parent and Kid
15 Best Beaches in Dubai for Couples
7 Cleanest Beaches in Dubai for Safe Swimming & Relaxation
10 Hidden & Secret Beaches in Dubai Locals Don’t Talk About
Top 10 Best Beaches in Abu Dhabi You Must Visit
10 Best Free Beaches in Abu Dhabi You Must Visit
12 Quiet & Less Crowded Beaches in Abu Dhabi for Peaceful Escapes
15 Best Parks in Dubai for Families, Fun & Outdoor Time
20 Best Picnic Spots in Dubai for Family, Friends & Couples
10 Best Parks in Abu Dhabi for Families, Kids & Nature Lovers
10 Best Parks in Sharjah for Family Fun & Nature
Hi, I’m Haseeb Ahmed, the founder of KhaleejBlog.com — a premier travel platform dedicated to providing practical and up-to-date travel tips across Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar. My mission is to help travelers explore the Gulf region with ease, discover hidden gems, and make the most of every journey.
