Things to Do in Dubai with Family
Dubai offers a wide variety of family-friendly attractions that cater to different age groups and interests. Families can explore theme parks, desert adventures, beaches, aquariums, and cultural experiences within a short drive of each other. From thrill rides at IMG Worlds of Adventure to peaceful desert safaris in Lahbab, Dubai ensures every family member enjoys a fulfilling holiday.
Key experiences include:
Desert Safari with Kids (includes camel rides, henna, sandboarding, safe dune bashing options)
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at Dubai Mall
Global Village for cultural pavilions, food, and kids’ carnival
Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark for all-age water activities
Kite Beach with food trucks and kids’ play zones
Are Desert Safari Tours Safe for Families with Children?
Desert safaris in Dubai are safe for families when booked with licensed operators. Tour companies follow strict RTA and DTCM safety standards, and provide child-friendly alternatives to dune bashing.
Most family packages include:
Soft dune driving or no dune bashing for young kids or pregnant women
Private 4x4 vehicles with safety belts and air conditioning
Cultural entertainment like tanoura dance, fire shows, and falcon interaction
Optional sandboarding and camel rides suitable for children 4+
Child Safety Rules During Desert Safari
| Age Group | Activity Allowed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Under 3 years | Camel farm, camp area | No dune bashing, supervised only |
| 4–9 years | Sandboarding, camel rides | Light dune driving optional |
| 10–16 years | Full safari activities | Must wear seatbelts & helmets |
Which Theme Parks Are Best for a Family Day in Dubai?
Dubai’s indoor and outdoor theme parks offer year-round entertainment for families. IMG Worlds of Adventure and Motiongate Dubai are top-rated for families with kids between 4 to 14 years old.
| Theme Park | Highlights | Ticket Range (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| IMG Worlds of Adventure | Marvel, Cartoon Network zones, indoor AC | 345 per person |
| Motiongate Dubai | DreamWorks & Lionsgate rides, shows | 330 per person |
| Legoland Dubai | Perfect for 2–12 yrs, water park combo | 295–355 per person |
| VR Park Dubai | Indoor virtual games at Dubai Mall | 200+ for packages |
What’s Included in Theme Park Tickets?
Full-day access to rides and zones
Free entry for toddlers under 3
On-site food courts, strollers, lockers (extra charges apply)
What Free or Low-Cost Activities Can Families Enjoy?
Dubai offers several low-cost family attractions without compromising the experience. Beaches, parks, and cultural landmarks provide wholesome options for budget-conscious visitors.
Top free/low-cost family spots:
Dubai Fountain Show – every 30 mins in the evening (Free)
Al Fahidi Historical District – walk-through museums and alleys (Free)
Dubai Frame – city views and immersive museum (AED 50 adults / AED 20 kids)
Zabeel Park & Creek Park – picnic areas, boating, children's city (AED 5 entry)
Kite Beach – jogging tracks, water play areas (Free entry)
Is Quad Biking or Dune Buggy Suitable for Kids?
Quad biking and dune buggies are generally reserved for older children and teens due to safety regulations. The minimum age varies by activity and vehicle type.
Age Limits for Desert Rides
| Activity | Minimum Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Quad Biking | 12 years | Must ride solo with helmet |
| Dune Buggy (2-seater) | 14–16 years | Passenger allowed with adult driver |
| Camel Ride | 3 years | Always with adult supervision |
Operators often provide guided dune rides with instructors in Polaris RZR or Can-Am Maverick vehicles for teens and families. These rides include helmets, safety briefings, and insurance.
How Much Does a Family Desert Safari Cost in Dubai?
Desert safari prices for families vary based on private vs shared vehicles, time of day, and included activities.
Cost Breakdown for Family Desert Safari (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Package Type | Price Range (AED) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Evening Safari | 500–700 total | Pickup, dune bashing, BBQ, shows, camel ride |
| Private 4x4 Safari | 900–1,400 total | All-inclusive with private guide, no sharing |
| Premium Safari | 1,500+ | Includes Can-Am buggy, falcon show, VIP seating |
| Morning Safari | 400–600 total | Camel ride, sandboarding, soft drinks |
What’s Included in the Family Safari?
Hotel pickup & drop-off in 4x4 vehicle
Camel ride, sandboarding, henna for kids
BBQ dinner with vegetarian options
Cultural shows (belly dance may be skipped for family-friendly settings)
Optional quad biking or buggy upgrade (extra)
Where Can Families Enjoy Nature and Wildlife in Dubai?
Dubai hosts several wildlife and natural attractions suitable for families looking for a calmer, educational experience.
Recommended spots:
Dubai Safari Park – over 2,500 animals (AED 50–85)
The Green Planet – indoor rainforest with birds and reptiles (AED 140+)
Al Qudra Lakes – picnic, biking, birdwatching (Free)
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary – flamingos, observation decks (Free)
These places focus on sustainability, wildlife education, and interactive exhibits, making them perfect for kids and nature-loving parents.
What Should Families Pack or Prepare Before Exploring Dubai?
Families visiting Dubai should prepare for the climate, cultural expectations, and safety regulations, especially for outdoor and desert activities.
Packing Checklist:
Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses
Comfortable walking shoes for parks and malls
Lightweight clothes; modest attire for mosques
Refillable water bottles
Wet wipes, tissues, snacks for kids
Power bank and Google Maps offline mode
Cultural Tips:
No public displays of affection in parks
Children should dress modestly when entering mosques
Fridays are weekend prayer days — some attractions open after 1 PM
FAQs: Family-Friendly Dubai
Can kids go to the top of Burj Khalifa?
Yes. Children are welcome on all observation decks (124/125/148 floors). Kids under 4 enter free.
Is Dubai stroller-friendly?
Yes. Most malls, parks, and tourist spots are stroller-accessible. Stroller rentals available at many attractions.
What’s the best time of year for a family trip?
November to March offers pleasant weather for outdoor safaris and theme parks.
Local Tour Operator NAP Citation
Name: Dubai Desert Safari
Address: BOULEVARD PLAZA TOWERS - BOULEVARD PLAZA 1 - Dubai
Phone: 056 663 2965
Website: https://dubaidesert.ae
Google Maps: https://share.google/hjdVKHIYaVjM2UuXx
