The United Arab Emirates is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the Middle East. From world-class theme parks and fascinating cultural experiences to stunning beaches and hands-on museums, the UAE has enough fun activities to keep kids of all ages amused (some of them are even free).
Family is at the heart of the UAE’s culture, and this is reflected in how warm and welcoming locals are to children, as well as the sheer amount of entertainment options and facilities available for little ones. Whether you’re pushing a buggy through a mall in Dubai or taking the whole family to the beach in Abu Dhabi, you’ll usually find clean baby-changing facilities, nursing rooms and family-priority queues.
The UAE’s desert climate does mean that planning ahead is essential, especially if your kids aren’t used to hot weather. Temperatures can soar during the day, especially in the summer, so schedule outdoor activities accordingly. The UAE also has a very family-friendly late-night culture, and it’s common to see kids out late with their parents, enjoying the cooler night air. The great news is there’s no shortage of indoor activities either, and the country’s excellent infrastructure means air conditioning is everywhere.
Why is the UAE a great place for family travel?
Public spaces in the UAE are generally designed with families in mind. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s airports you’ll find family lanes at immigration, dedicated kids’ play areas and stroller rentals. The country’s public transport network, particularly the Dubai Metro, is clean, affordable, and buggy-friendly. It’s also easy to hire taxis with built-in car seats, or more space for big families – download the Careem app before you arrive.
For families with small children or older relatives, most tourist attractions offer ramps, elevators and priority access. If you’re travelling with a baby, it’s wise to bring a baby carrier for less developed areas like the wadis and mountains of the northern emirates.
Restaurants, malls and hotels often offer kids’ menus, family restrooms and activities for little ones. Many luxury hotels also include kids' clubs or babysitting services, so parents can sneak in a bit of downtime. For extra convenience, look out for family passes to major attractions and combo tickets for parks and museums.
Best things to do in the UAE with kids
1. Dubai Parks and Resorts, Dubai
Home to three theme parks (Motiongate, Legoland Dubai, and Real Madrid World) plus a waterpark, this 25 million square feet entertainment complex is a dream for children of all ages. Think rollercoasters, interactive rides, LEGO-building zones and splash areas. The Riverland dining and retail area has endless options for refueling: ice cream parlours, fast food joints and a wide range of international chain restaurants. Three of the UAE’s best resorts for kids are on-site too – Polynesia-themed Lapita Hotel, Legoland Hotel and Rove at The Park.
2. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
It might sound grown-up, but a visit to Abu Dhabi’s Louvre can be a full-family pleaser. This outpost of Paris’ famed gallery has an entire Children’s Museum dedicated to bringing the world of art to 6-12 year olds. There are regularly changing exhibitions exploring everything from emotions in art to space, costumes and animals, which are bound to spark the imaginations of mini culture vultures. The family tours, activity trails, screenings and live performances also make for a lively day out here. And as a bonus, admission is free (for both the Children’s Museum and the main Louvre) for under-18s.
3. Jebel Jais Flight Zipline, Ras Al Khaimah
For families with older kids and teens craving a thrill, the Jebel Jais Flight Zipline in Ras Al Khaimah is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The world’s longest zipline, it stretches over 2.8km across the dramatic Hajar Mountains, offering jaw-dropping views and a serious adrenaline rush. There’s also a nearby viewing deck park and café, so the whole family can take in the mountain scenery. Bear in mind that kids need to meet the minimum height and weight requirements and must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
4. Desert Safaris, Sharjah and other emirates
A desert safari is a classic thing to do in the UAE, with a variety of experiences for families with younger and older kids. Operators in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah offer packages that include everything from dune bashing in a 4x4, camel rides and sandboarding. For full cultural immersion, many tours include a stop at a traditional Bedouin-style camp where families can enjoy henna painting, falcon photo ops and Arabic dance performances, finishing up with a BBQ dinner under the stars. Check in advance if the safari is suitable for your kids’ age group – many can offer gentler dune rides or other modified experiences if needed.
5. The Dubai Mall & Dubai Aquarium, Dubai
The UAE’s malls are more than just shopping centres, they’re giant entertainment complexes. With world-class amusements, restaurants and that all-important air-con, a visit can be a super day out. Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest malls, contains a giant indoor aquarium, an ice rink, KidZania (a role-playing city for children), and VR Park. Plus, there’s a huge food court for snacks, meals, coffees and treats throughout the day. During the extra-hot season, it’s one of the best places to visit in the UAE with kids.
6. Hatta Wadi Hub, Hatta
If your family enjoys the outdoors, take a trip into the Hajar Mountains to visit Hatta. From mountain biking and kayaking to zorbing and ziplining, there are endless adventures to be had out in the fresh air at this scenic activity centre. Need to cool off? Don’t miss the Hatta Drop-In, where giant slides shoot riders into the water pool at top speeds. This is an easy day trip from Dubai, but glamping options are also available if you want to extend your stay.
7. Kite Beach, Dubai
Families are spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches in the UAE, as there are clean, beautiful sandy stretches to be found in most of the emirates. Based solely on the sheer number of things to do, Dubai’s Kite Beach in Jumeirah is a top pick for those looking for a kid-friendly beach. There’s kite surfing, jet skiing, paddle boarding, wakeboarding, banana boat rides and beach volleyball for all ages. Nearby, XPark Jr, a natural forest-style adventure park, is great for the younger ones with its wooden play structures and petting zoo. Kite Beach itself has lifeguards on duty, clean restrooms and showers. Entrance is free.
8. IMG Worlds of Adventure, Dubai
IMG Worlds of Adventure is split into four themed zones (Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure, and IMG Boulevard), all indoors and under one roof, making it a great option for hot or rainy days. Teens and older kids will love the Avengers and Spider-Man rides, while younger children can meet their favorite Cartoon Network characters or enjoy gentler rides in the LazyTown area. There are plenty of dining spots, stroller access, and family-friendly facilities throughout.
