Dubai isn’t just about luxury shopping and towering skyscrapers—it’s a city full of family-friendly adventures that can keep kids entertained for days. From magical theme parks to interactive museums, Dubai offers something for every age group. If you’re planning a trip with your little ones, you might be wondering: where should I start? That’s exactly why we’ve put together this guide to the top 10 places to visit in Dubai with kids. Each spot combines fun, learning, and a chance for the whole family to make lasting memories.
1. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
If your kids are fascinated by marine life, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a must-visit. Located inside the Dubai Mall, this gigantic aquarium holds thousands of aquatic animals, including sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish. Walking through the 48-meter-long tunnel feels like stepping into an underwater world.
Why kids love it: Children can see marine animals up close, and the tunnel creates a 360-degree view of the underwater world. There’s also a touch pool where they can safely interact with starfish and other small creatures.
Tips for parents: Try visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds. The ticket also includes access to the underwater zoo above, where kids can enjoy seeing penguins, crocodiles, and otters.
2. LEGOLAND Dubai
For kids who love building and creativity, LEGOLAND Dubai is a dream come true. Located in Dubai Parks and Resorts, it’s specifically designed for children aged 2–12. From LEGO-themed rides to interactive play areas, this park sparks imagination and keeps young minds engaged.
Why kids love it: The rides are kid-friendly but exciting, and there’s a mini city built entirely from LEGO bricks where they can create their own masterpieces. The water park section is perfect for cooling off during hot days.
Tips for parents: Bring swimwear if you plan to enjoy the water park. Booking tickets online can save you time, especially on weekends when the park gets busy.
3. KidZania Dubai
KidZania Dubai is a unique indoor edutainment center located in the Dubai Mall. It’s like a mini-city where kids can role-play as doctors, firefighters, chefs, pilots, and more. The experience is designed to teach children about different professions while having fun.
Why kids love it: They get to “earn” KidZania currency for completing jobs, which makes learning exciting. The realistic setups, from a mini hospital to a fully functional fire station, let kids immerse themselves in imaginative play.
Tips for parents: Children aged 4–16 can participate, and younger siblings can explore a toddler zone. Allow at least 3–4 hours to truly enjoy all the activities.
4. Dubai Miracle Garden
If your kids enjoy bright colors and nature, the Dubai Miracle Garden is a must-see. This outdoor attraction features over 50 million blooming flowers arranged in creative designs, including giant structures shaped like Disney characters, airplanes, and even castles.
Why kids love it: The garden is like stepping into a fairy tale. They can wander through flower tunnels, spot familiar characters made of flowers, and take tons of fun photos.
Tips for parents: Visit in the cooler months (November to March) to fully enjoy walking around. Early mornings are the best time to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
5. Dubai Parks and Resorts
Beyond LEGOLAND, Dubai Parks and Resorts has multiple themed parks in one location: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Riverland Dubai. It’s perfect if your kids enjoy rides, shows, and themed attractions.
Why kids love it: Each park has unique experiences—from movie-themed rides to live entertainment inspired by Bollywood films. There’s something for all ages, so even siblings with different interests will have fun.
Tips for parents: Consider purchasing a multi-park pass if you plan to spend more than one day here. Comfortable shoes are a must because the parks are large, and you’ll be walking a lot.
6. Dubai Ice Rink
If you want a fun break from the heat, the Dubai Ice Rink at Dubai Mall is a cool escape—literally. This Olympic-sized ice rink offers public skating sessions suitable for beginners and experienced skaters alike.
Why kids love it: Gliding on ice is an exciting experience for children, and the rink often hosts themed skating sessions and parties. There are also penguin-shaped skating aids for younger kids to help them balance.
Tips for parents: Wear warm clothing since it’s cold inside the rink. Booking your slot online can save waiting time, especially during weekends or holidays.
7. OliOli Children’s Museum
OliOli is an interactive children’s museum designed to stimulate curiosity and creativity. With galleries focusing on science, art, and problem-solving, kids can explore at their own pace.
Why kids love it: The museum offers hands-on activities like building structures, experimenting with water, and exploring interactive exhibits. Each gallery encourages learning through play, making education feel like a game.
Tips for parents: OliOli is best suited for children aged 2–12. Plan for 2–3 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits, and check their website for workshops or special events happening during your visit.
8. The Green Planet
Step into a rainforest adventure at The Green Planet, an indoor tropical rainforest in City Walk. It’s home to over 3,000 plants and animals, including exotic birds, reptiles, and sloths.
Why kids love it: Walking through the four-story bio-dome feels like stepping into another world. Kids can see creatures up close and learn about ecosystems, conservation, and biodiversity in a fun, interactive way.
Tips for parents: Comfortable shoes are recommended as the space involves some walking. Guided tours are available and can make the experience even more engaging for children.
9. IMG Worlds of Adventure
For thrill-seeking families, IMG Worlds of Adventure is a must-visit. It’s one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world, featuring zones like Marvel, Cartoon Network, and the Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure.
Why kids love it: From roller coasters to interactive rides, there’s excitement around every corner. Younger children can enjoy gentler rides while older kids and teens can try thrilling attractions like the Velociraptor ride.
Tips for parents: Arrive early to avoid long queues, and plan your day around the park’s show timings for the best experience. Comfortable shoes are a must—there’s a lot of walking involved.
10. Dubai Dolphinarium
End your Dubai family adventure with a visit to the Dubai Dolphinarium. Here, kids can watch dolphins and seals perform in entertaining and educational shows. Some packages even allow kids to interact directly with the dolphins under supervision.
Why kids love it: The shows are fun, lively, and full of surprises. Kids get to learn about marine life while cheering on their favorite dolphins performing flips and tricks.
Tips for parents: Check show timings before your visit, and consider the interactive packages if your kids want a more hands-on experience. Booking in advance is recommended, especially on weekends.
Wrapping Up Your Dubai Family Adventure
Dubai offers an incredible variety of activities for families with kids. From the thrilling rides of IMG Worlds of Adventure to the serene beauty of Dubai Miracle Garden, there’s truly something for every child’s interest. Planning your trip around these top 10 places to visit in Dubai with kids ensures that your family experiences a balance of adventure, learning, and relaxation.
Insider Tips for Visiting Dubai with Kids
Traveling with children can be a challenge, but with a little planning, your Dubai trip can be smooth and enjoyable. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to the top 10 places to visit in Dubai with kids:
- Plan Around the Weather: Dubai can get extremely hot, especially during summer. Schedule outdoor attractions like Dubai Miracle Garden and The Green Planet in the morning or late afternoon. Indoor options such as LEGOLAND, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and Dubai Ice Rink are perfect for midday breaks.
- Book Tickets in Advance: Popular attractions like Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, KidZania, and Dolphinarium can get crowded. Booking online not only saves time but often comes with discounts.
- Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, hats, water bottles, and comfortable shoes are must-haves for outdoor activities. For water parks, don’t forget swimwear and towels.
- Use Public Transport or Ride-Sharing: Dubai’s metro and taxis make it easy to travel between attractions. Some theme parks provide shuttle services, so check in advance.
- Balance Activities: Mix high-energy days with more relaxed ones. For example, follow an action-packed day at IMG Worlds with a calmer visit to Dubai Aquarium or The Green Planet.
Final Thoughts
Dubai is more than just a city of skyscrapers and luxury—it’s a playground for families. Each of the top 10 places to visit in Dubai with kids offers unique experiences that combine fun, education, and unforgettable memories. Whether your children are tiny tots or energetic preteens, Dubai provides a wide range of activities that will keep them engaged and excited.
Planning ahead, pacing your days, and including a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions ensures that both kids and adults have a fantastic experience. From watching dolphins perform amazing tricks to exploring the creative world of LEGOLAND, Dubai is truly a city where family adventures come alive.
So pack your bags, grab your kids’ favorite snacks, and get ready for a journey filled with laughter, learning, and magical moments in the dazzling city of Dubai.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Dubai
