Looking for fresh ways to keep the family entertained in Dubai this summer? Before school starts, there is still time to dive into Dubai's best summer experiences.
Summer in Dubai offers an incredible lineup of indoor adventures, thrilling water parks, and unique nature encounters for all ages. To help you plan a memorable itinerary with your loved ones and little ones, here are six incredible, family-friendly activities to experience with the kids this season, focused on nature, entertainment, and coastal fun.
Explore the Indoor Rainforest at The Green Planet
Step straight into a lush, climate-controlled tropical ecosystem at The Green Planet. Rising four stories high in the heart of the city, this magnificent bio-dome is home to over 3,000 exotic plants and animals, offering an immersive journey through the world's dense rainforests. Families can wander along winding canopy walkways as free-roaming sloths lounge overhead, vibrant toucans flutter between trees, and curious primates swing through the branches. Seamlessly blending wonder with education, interactive touchpoints throughout the dome bring global conservation and fragile ecosystems vividly to life, making it as inspiring as it is cool.
Splash and Play at the Grand Hyatt Dubai Waterpark
What sounds better than splashing your way through the city’s newest aquatic playground? Spanning an impressive 20,000 square meters, this brand-new water destination at the Grand Hyatt Dubai, packs 16 thrill-filled attractions designed to deliver non-stop summer fun for every age group. For the big kids and grown-ups, the heart-pumping slides like the high-speed Drop Loop and twisting Aqua Twist will satisfy the adrenaline rush, while those looking for a more relaxed rhythm can coast effortlessly down the winding lazy river or catch gentle waves in the expansive wave pool. Surfing enthusiasts can test their balance on the high-tech FlowRider surf simulator, and dedicated shallow splash zones ensure even the smallest toddlers are safely entertained. Seamlessly combining high-octane water adventures with relaxing, family-friendly amenities, it stands out as the ultimate urban oasis for toddlers, teens, and adults looking to stay cool all season long.
Explore the underwater realm of The Lost World Aquarium
Submerge yourself in an extraordinary underwater realm at The Lost World Aquarium, the newly transformed attraction at the iconic Atlantis, The Palm. Taking families on a breathtaking journey through 14 reimagined chambers, this marine sanctuary is home to more than 65,000 fascinating sea creatures; from sharks and rays to vibrant tropical fish. The redesigned experience seamlessly blends ancient mythical themes with cutting-edge technology, using massive state-of-the-art LED displays, dramatic soundscapes, and vivid projections to bring the deep ocean to life like never before. Beyond the stunning aquatic displays, visitors of all ages will be enchanted by the daily live mermaid performances gliding through the majestic Ambassador Lagoon, making it an unmissable, air-conditioned escape for the entire family this summer.
Experience Evening Strolls & Swims at Khor Al Mamzar Beach
A day (or evening) at the beach is a much-loved and wholesome family summer experience. Following a major modern overhaul, Khor Al Mamzar Beach features the region's first floating walkway, dedicated 24/7 night-swimming zones, and 5.5 kilometres of walking, running, and cycling tracks. Visit in the early morning or after dusk to enjoy pleasant sea breezes, tranquil views, and safe family beach trips under the stars. Don’t forget your SPF!
Dive into Black Bunny Dubai's Indoor Thrills
Located in Dubai’s Al Quoz district, Black Bunny Dubai is Dubai’s neon-lit indoor playground. A bold addition to Dubai’s indoor play scene, Black Bunny blends nostalgic arcade culture with cutting-edge attractions. Defined by its cheeky tuxedo-clad mascot and neon murals, this expansive entertainment venue caters to all ages. Highlights include virtual reality rollercoasters, go-karting, bowling, and dedicated active play zones with trampolines. For the even littler ones, there is also a soft play to enjoy. The ideal destination – all year round - for weekend playdates, group outings, and birthday celebrations.
Treat the Family at HARIBO Happy World
Step into a world of pure imagination at HARIBO Happy World, located at Dubai Festival City Mall. A colourful, multi-sensory destination designed to charm both young children and nostalgic adults, this is the UAE's first HARIBO Happy World. Bringing the world’s favourite gummy bear to life, this vibrant permanent attraction has immersive play zones, hands-on interactive exhibits, and massive Pick&Mix wall. Perfect for families looking to add a little sweetness to their day, it offers an engaging, sugar-coated adventure for kids and sweet tooths of all ages. Finish your visit with gummy-inspired treats at the on-site café before catching the evening light and water show out on Festival Bay.
