Kids Entertainment in Dubai – What to Do With the Little Ones
Dubai isn’t just about skyscrapers and shopping; it’s a playground for kids of every age. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a long holiday, the city offers dozens of spots that keep the whole family smiling. Below you’ll find practical advice on the best indoor and outdoor activities, how to save money, and the right time to visit each place.
Indoor Favorites for Hot Days
When the desert sun peaks, head to the cool zones inside Dubai Mall. The Dubai Mall Ice Rink lets children glide on real ice without leaving the city. Ticket prices start at AED 55 for adults and AED 45 for kids, and you can book a time slot online to avoid queues. First‑timers should wear socks and consider a brief lesson – it makes the experience smoother for little beginners.
Just a few steps away, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo offers a marine adventure that feels like walking through a giant fish tank. Family tickets include access to the main tunnel and a quick‑view of the shark gallery. For extra excitement, the Behind‑the‑Scenes tour adds a short animal‑care briefing that kids love. Plan your visit early in the morning to beat the crowd and enjoy clearer viewing.
If you need a break from crowds, the VR Park inside the mall provides age‑graded virtual reality games. Sessions are short, so you can try several attractions in one visit. Prices range from AED 30 to AED 70 per game, and many arenas have family packages that cut the cost by 20%.
Outdoor Adventures for the Whole Family
Dubai’s desert isn’t just for thrill‑seekers; many operators offer family‑friendly desert safaris with gentle dune bashing, camel rides, and sunset campfires. Look for tours that include a child‑safety harness and a short, easy ride rather than the extreme routes. A typical half‑day safari runs AED 180 per person, and kids under six often ride for free.
The iconic Dubai Fountain is free entertainment that amazes kids every evening. Shows start at 6 pm and repeat every 30 minutes until 11 pm. Grab a spot by the Burj Khalifa lake for the best view, and bring a light snack – the fountain’s mist can be cool on a warm night.
For a mix of learning and fun, head to Zabeel Park’s Dubai Frame. The Frame’s glass walkway offers panoramic city views, and the park underneath has playgrounds, mini‑train rides, and a science museum. Admission is AED 50 for adults and AED 30 for children, and you can combine it with a park pass for unlimited rides.
Finally, consider the Dubai Parks and Resorts complex if you have a full day. Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and Legoland all sit side by side, giving you choice without extra travel. Buy a multi‑park ticket to save up to 25% and check the park’s app for fast‑track entry times.
With these options in mind, planning a kid‑centric itinerary becomes simple: mix a cool indoor spot for the heat, add a splash of water or wildlife, and finish the day with a desert sunset or fountain show. Your family will leave Dubai with smiles, photos, and stories that last long after the trip ends.
