Summer is fast approaching, and the annual summer holidays for kids are just around the corner. Amidst the scorching heat, it can get tricky for parents to find places to keep their children entertained.
Fortunately, Dubai offers a diverse list of summer-friendly things to do, including many child-friendly activities that are perfect for keeping the little ones happy and excited. Whether your kids love a little adventure, like to explore their artistic side or enjoy learning more about nature, there is something to keep every kid busy in Dubai.
To help you plan your summer holiday with your kids, we have curated a comprehensive list of the best things to do with kids in Dubai.
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Best Summer Activities For Kids In Dubai
Aquaventure Waterpark Dubai
There’s no better way to beat the heat than visiting a waterpark. Fortunately, Dubai is home to some of the best waterparks in the world, including Aquaventure, the largest waterpark in the world. It’s the perfect place to take your kids on a hot summer day, featuring a range of thrilling rides and slides, including the Tower of Poseidon, that are sure to get your kids’ adrenaline pumping.
The waterpark also has a dedicated play area for kids called Splashers, which includes smaller slides, water guns, and climbing frames. With many dining options, the park ensures you won’t go hungry during your day out.
- Suitable for kids of all ages.
- Timing: 9:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Find everything you need to know about Dubai’s best waterparks with our full guide.
Museum of Illusions
Located in the heart of Al Seef, the Museum of Illusions is a fascinating attraction that will captivate children’s and adults’ minds. The museum is home to a range of optical illusions, holograms, and interactive exhibits.
This museum offers the perfect opportunity for kids to explore and learn more about the science of illusions. It’s a great place to take pictures and have fun with the family, and with many interactive exhibits, the kids will surely have a blast.
- Suitable for kids of all ages.
- Timing: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Learn more about the best museums in Dubai with our full guide.
Oli Oli
Oli Oli is a children’s museum in Dubai that offers various interactive exhibits designed to inspire and educate children. The museum features eight interactive galleries covering various topics, such as science, art, and technology.
Kids can explore exhibits such as Toshi’s Net, a giant climbing structure, and the Air Works exhibit, where they can learn about the principles of flight.
Oli Oli aims to foster creativity, curiosity, and imagination in kids by providing hands-on activities that stimulate learning. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon with the family, and with its diverse range of activities, the museum is sure to keep the kids entertained and engaged.
- Suitable for kids of all ages.
- Timing: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world’s largest indoor theme park, featuring a range of rides and attractions that are sure to thrill the whole family. The park features five themed zones, including Marvel, Cartoon Network, and Lost Valley, each with its own unique attractions. Kids can ride roller coasters, enjoy 3D cinema experiences, and meet their favorite cartoon characters.
With over 20 rides and attractions, the park has something for everyone. The younger kids can enjoy the Cartoon Network zone, while older kids and adults can experience the thrills of rides like The Velociraptor and the haunted house.
- Suitable for kids of all ages.
- Timing:
- Sunday – Friday, noon to 10 p.m.
- Saturday, noon to 11 p.m.
Learn more about IMG Worlds of Adventure with our full guide.
Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai is a 22,500-square-meter ski resort located in the Mall of the Emirates that gives both grown-ups and children the opportunity to experience skiing on snowy slopes in chilling temperatures. This one-of-a-kind resort gives you the opportunity to experience snow in the midst of a desert. It makes you feel like you’re on a European vacation, making it one of the best indoor activities in Dubai during summer.
With its fun-filled activities, including building a snowman, sliding on the zip line, and riding the chairlift, kids will surely have a great time at Ski Dubai. They can also have an exciting meet and greet with Ski Dubai’s resident King and Gentoo penguins and learn all about them from expert trainers.
- Suitable for kids ages 2 and above.
- Timing: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The Green Planet
If your kids love nature, The Green Planet is a must-visit place in Dubai. This one-of-a-kind indoor rainforest offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of nature. It features over 3,000 plants and animals, including a variety of exotic birds, reptiles, and insects.
The Green Planet allows visitors to take a walk through the lush greenery and experience the tropical rainforest environment, complete with cascading waterfalls, canopies, and a treetop canopy walk. The bio-dome has a host of interactive exhibits and experiences, including the chance to touch and interact with some of the animals.
The Green Planet also has a dedicated area for kids to participate in workshops, explore different ecosystems, and learn about conservation and the importance of protecting our planet’s biodiversity, making it one of the best summer activities in Dubai.
- Suitable for kids of all ages.
- Timing: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Storm Coaster
For kids that love a little bit of adventure, the Storm Coaster is an experience that should not be missed. Located in the Dubai Hills Mall, Storm Coaster is the fastest indoor roller coaster in the world, featuring an exhilarating vertical drop that will satisfy the biggest thrill seekers.
The coaster will take riders on a journey with speed changes, sharp drops, and an adventure that they will not forget anytime soon.
- Suitable for kids over 130 cm in height
- Timing:
- Sunday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Little Explorers Dubai
Take the kids out for a fun day of learning and play at Little Explorers, an interactive and dynamic play area with many exciting activities, workshops, and much more for the kids to explore, making it one of the best summer activities for kids in Dubai.
Located in Mirdif City Center, Little Explorers features three interactive zones: Space Zone, Play Zone, and Water Zone, with many interactive and playful activities that allow little ones to have fun while improving their skills.
The venue also hosts various workshops like culinary and arts and crafts sessions that enable kids to participate and learn along the way.
- Suitable for kids of all ages.
- Timing:
- Sunday to Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Thursday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Play DXB
Play DXB is an indoor entertainment center and VR Park located in The Dubai Mall. The park is perfect for kids who enjoy gaming and trying out new arcade features with their friends. The center features a variety of attractions and activities that are sure to keep your kids entertained for hours.
Little ones can go on a carousel ride and play in the inflatable playground, while older kids can battle it out with their friends on one of the many VR activities and games spread across the park, making it the perfect location for kids of all ages.
- Suitable for kids of all ages.
- Timing: 10 a.m. to midnight.
Ekart Zabeel
For thrill-seekers, Ekart Zabeel in Dubai Mall is the perfect place to go. The indoor go-karting track is one of the largest in the city, covering an area of 60,000 square feet, and provides an adrenaline-fueled experience that kids will love. The karts come in different sizes to cater to various age groups, and the track is designed to suit both beginners and experienced drivers.
Ekart Zabeel is a perfect activity for families looking for an exciting and memorable day out, and it’s an excellent opportunity to foster a competitive spirit in kids.
- Suitable for kids aged 14 and above.
- Timing: 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Located in Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is a must-visit for all animal lovers. It is home to over 140 species of sea creatures, including sharks, rays, and exotic fish. The aquarium also has a 48-meter-long tunnel that offers a unique underwater experience and a chance to get up close and personal with marine life.
For those who want to take their experience to the next level, the Underwater Zoo offers a range of interactive experiences like feeding sharks and rays and taking a glass-bottom boat ride over the aquarium’s largest tank.
- Suitable for kids of all ages.
- Timing: 10 a.m. to 10:15 p.m.
Dubai Dolphinarium
The Dubai Dolphinarium is an indoor dolphinarium located in Creek Park that offers a fun and interactive experience for the whole family. The Dolphin shows, which take place several times a day, feature bottlenose dolphins, seals, and exotic birds.
Apart from the shows, the dolphinarium offers a range of other activities like swimming with dolphins, meeting the seals, and learning more about these intelligent creatures. It’s the perfect way to introduce kids to these magnificent mammals and help them learn more about the creatures of the sea.
- Suitable for kids of all ages.
- Timing: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Events Happening During Summer For Kids In Dubai
Masha & The Bear
Join the beloved characters Masha, the Bear, the Panda, the Tiger, and the Penguin in Masha and The Bear live show from the #1 viewed preschool series. Join a journey that will take you into the magical world of the forest and its amazing inhabitants, with many enjoyable surprises along the way.
As they travel the world by train together, they discover the power of hopes and dreams and the value of true friendship. This spectacular musical adventure live stage show will take place at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, in Abu Dhabi, on April 29th and 30th, 2023.
Disney Princess – The Concert at Coca-Cola Arena
Celebrate Disney’s 100 Years of Wonder with a spectacular Disney Princess Concert featuring the renowned Firdaus Orchestra and an exceptional West End and Broadway star cast. Get ready to be enchanted by the captivating performances of Hiba Elchikhe (Disney’s Aladdin’s ‘Princess Jasmine’), Steffanie Leigh (Mary Poppins in ‘Mary Poppins’), and Syndee Winters (Disney’s The Lion King’s ‘Nala’).
The audience is encouraged to dress up in their best ‘royal’ attire to make this evening more special. Prepare to be dazzled as the celebrated cast performs more than 30 favorite Disney Princess songs, including timeless classics like “Let It Go,” “A Whole New World,” “Reflection,” and “How Far I’ll Go.” It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
The Snail & The Whale Live on Stage! at The Theatre – Mall of the Emirates
Be transported into a world of wonder and adventure with a magical play that draws inspiration from a book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Join the brave young girl and her seafaring father as they reimagine the remarkable journey of a tiny snail around the world.
The story follows the journey of a small sea snail who yearns to see the world and hitches a ride on the tail of a magnificent humpback whale. The captivating adventure is brought to life through live music, storytelling, and a lot of humor. But when the whale gets stranded, it’s up to the little snail to save him.
A heartwarming journey for all ages, from Tall Stories, the Olivier Award-nominated company that delighted audiences with ‘The Gruffalo’ and ‘Room on the Broom’ live on stage.
Peter Pan On Ice at The Theatre – Mall of the Emirates, Dubai
Step into the magical world of Neverland and join Peter Pan, Wendy, Tinkerbell, and the Lost Boys on a breathtaking journey on real ice. This beloved tale by J.M. Barrie is brought to life in a spectacular production by the globally renowned Imperial Ice Stars.
Experience the thrill of flying, skating, and special effects as the story of Peter Pan unfolds. Follow Peter as he takes Wendy and her brothers from their London home to Neverland, where they embark on thrilling adventures with the Lost Boys. But watch out for the evil Captain Hook and his menacing pirates, not to mention the hungry crocodile lurking in the waters!
Narrated for all to enjoy, Peter Pan on Ice is a family-friendly show that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss out on this thrilling adventure brought to you by some of the best ice skaters in the world.
Paw Patrol Live! Race to The Rescue at Etihad Arena Abu Dhabi
Get ready for a thrilling family weekend as the heroic pups of PAW Patrol hit the stage at the Etihad Arena from June 8th to 11th, 2023!
Join Ryder and his beloved squad of popular pups in an action-packed, Broadway-style performance – PAW Patrol Live! Race To The Rescue. Experience an unforgettable adventure as the pups embark on a mission to rescue Mayor Goodway, packed with exciting storylines and catchy music that will have you dancing the Pup Pup Boogie!
Be part of the fun as you interact with the lovable characters and immerse yourself in the thrilling journey. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to join the PAW Patrol team in their quest to save the day!
Matilda The Musical at Dubai Opera
Prepare to be enchanted by the multi-award-winning musical Matilda The Musical, from the esteemed Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) and based on the beloved book by the legendary Roald Dahl. This extraordinary production will grace the Dubai Opera stage from October 3rd to 12th, 2023.
Featuring a captivating script by Dennis Kelly and original songs by the talented Tim Minchin, the magical story of Matilda is a treat for children and adults alike. Follow the adventures of this extraordinary little girl as she harnesses her vivid imagination and sharp mind to overcome the obstacles in her path.
Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to witness the magic of this award-winning show live in Dubai. Get ready to be swept away by the heartwarming tale of Matilda and her incredible journey.
Disney on Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder 2023 in Abu Dhabi
Get ready to witness the enchantment of your beloved Disney characters like never before with the special 100-Year Anniversary edition of Disney On Ice in Abu Dhabi in October 2023.
Experience the magic of Encanto, Aladdin, Tangled, Moana, The Little Mermaid, Beauty, and the Beast, and more as these iconic stories are brought to life in a mesmerizing ice-skating spectacle. This award-winning show will transport you to a world of fantasy and wonder as you embark on a musical journey with your favorite Disney characters.
Be amazed as the talented cast glides across the ice, delivering a stunning performance that will leave you spellbound.
