Fun Parks in Dubai – What to See, How Much to Pay, and Insider Tips
Looking for a place where kids can run wild and adults can still have a blast? Dubai’s fun parks deliver exactly that. From world‑class theme parks to indoor ice rinks, the city has something for every age and budget. Below you’ll find the must‑visit spots, the best times to go, and practical advice so you can skip the lines and enjoy the rides.
Top Theme Parks You Can’t Miss
Dubai Parks and Resorts is the crown jewel of the city’s amusement scene. It bundles three parks—Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and Legoland—plus the Riverland shopping and dining district. Motiongate brings Hollywood blockbusters to life with rides based on “Shrek,” “Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad Mad …”. Legoland is perfect for kids under 12, featuring Lego‑themed coasters, a water park, and a miniature Dubai skyline made entirely of bricks. Bollywood Parks adds a splash of Indian cinema with colorful shows and thrill rides that blend music and motion.
Tickets vary: a single‑park day pass starts at around AED 250, while a multi‑park pass drops the price per park to roughly AED 180. Buying online before you arrive usually saves you 10‑15% and guarantees entry during peak weekends.
Another fan‑favorite is Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates. It’s not a roller‑coaster, but sliding down a 85‑meter hill inside a desert is a memory you’ll brag about forever. The ski slope offers beginner bundles, snowboarding lessons, and even a penguin encounter. Prices start at AED 200 for a basic session, with discounts for families of four or more.
Indoor Fun When the Weather Gets Hot
Dubai’s summer can hit 45 °C, so indoor attractions are a lifesaver. The Dubai Mall Ice Rink lets you glide in a climate‑controlled arena right next to the world‑famous aquarium. Sessions run in 30‑minute slots, and a family package (two adults, two kids) is about AED 250. For a more active day, try IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world’s largest indoor theme park. It’s split into zones like Marvel, Cartoon Network, and The Lost Valley, each with rides that range from gentle carousel spins to high‑speed roller‑coasters. Tickets start at AED 275 for a single‑day pass.
Don’t forget Dubai Garden Glow during the cooler months (November‑March). This outdoor light festival includes a neon jungle, a glowing dinosaur park, and a spooky Halloween zone. Entry is cheap—around AED 45 per person—making it a perfect evening outing after a day of sightseeing.
When you plan your visit, aim for weekdays if possible. Schools are out on Fridays, so parks fill up fast. Arriving early (right when gates open) lets you hit the most popular rides before the crowds build. Most parks also offer “fast‑track” passes that let you skip the regular queue for an extra AED 100‑150, a worthwhile upgrade if you’re on a tight schedule.
Finally, pack a refillable water bottle, wear comfy shoes, and bring sunscreen for outdoor lines. Most parks have locker facilities, so you can store bags and stay hands‑free. With these tips in hand, you’re ready to make the most of Dubai’s fun parks and create memories that last longer than the ride’s drop.