Places to Visit in Dubai with Kids: Family Favourites, Free Spots and Indoor Activities

Places to Visit in Dubai with Kids: Looking for places to visit in Dubai with kids? From interactive museums and wildlife safaris to free public parks and exciting indoor attractions, Dubai offers family activities for different ages and budgets. The challenge is choosing places that children will genuinely enjoy without spending too much on tickets, food and transport.

Whether you are visiting Dubai with toddlers, school-age children or teenagers, these family-friendly attractions offer different experiences, from hands-on play and animal encounters to outdoor adventures.

Best Places to Visit in Dubai with Kids

1. Global Village Dubai

Global Village is a popular seasonal destination for families who want to combine entertainment, food and cultural experiences in one evening. Children can explore international pavilions, watch live performances and enjoy carnival rides, while parents can discover food and shopping from different countries.

The 2026–27 season opened on 14 October 2026, making it a timely option for families planning an autumn or winter outing.

Best for: Families with children of different ages.

Things to know: Carnival rides and some activities cost extra. Weekends can be busy, so arriving earlier may help families explore more comfortably. Set a separate budget for food, games and rides before visiting.

2. Dubai Safari Park

For children who love animals, Dubai Safari Park offers an opportunity to see wildlife across themed areas, including African, Asian and other animal habitats. Families can explore different zones, visit the Kids Farm and choose safari experiences depending on their ticket.

The park reopened for its eighth season on 12 October 2026.

Best for: Animal lovers and families planning a half-day outing.

Things to know: The park is extensive, so comfortable footwear and advance planning are important. Check the activities included in your ticket, presentation schedules and seasonal opening hours before travelling.

3. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Located inside Dubai Mall, Dubai Aquarium is convenient for families combining sightseeing, shopping and dining. Children can watch sharks, rays and other aquatic animals through the enormous aquarium viewing panel. The paid experience offers additional access, including the underwater tunnel and other exhibits.

Best for: First-time visitors and families with children of different ages.

Things to know: You can see part of the main aquarium from the mall without purchasing the full attraction ticket. Compare the free viewing experience with the paid options before deciding whether an upgrade is worthwhile.

4. OliOli Children's Museum

OliOli is an interactive children's museum designed around play, exploration and hands-on learning. Its themed galleries include creative activities and exhibits that encourage children to experiment rather than simply observe.

It can be an appealing alternative to conventional sightseeing, particularly when younger children want an activity where they can participate directly.

Best for: Toddlers, preschoolers and younger school-age children, depending on the activity.

Things to know: Check age recommendations, session duration, ticket prices and any booking requirements. Allow enough time for children to explore without rushing between galleries.

5. KidZania Dubai

KidZania, located in Dubai Mall, gives children the opportunity to experience different jobs through role-play activities in a miniature city. Depending on the activities available, they can explore professions and practise everyday skills in an entertaining environment.

Unlike a traditional amusement park, the main attraction is participation rather than rides.

Best for: School-age children who enjoy imaginative play and trying new activities.

Things to know: Check the minimum and recommended ages for individual activities, along with session length and admission prices. It is worth planning which experiences your children would most like to try.

6. Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden is known for its large floral displays, colourful installations and themed garden areas. It offers a different type of family outing, particularly for children who enjoy exploring outdoor spaces and discovering unusual shapes made from flowers.

The garden is seasonal, so families should confirm its current opening dates before planning a visit.

Best for: Families who enjoy outdoor walks, photography and colourful attractions.

Things to know: Expect considerable walking and limited shade in some areas. Visiting earlier in the day can make an outdoor trip more comfortable, particularly with younger children.

7. LEGOLAND Dubai

LEGOLAND Dubai is designed around LEGO-themed entertainment, with rides, building activities and attractions aimed primarily at younger visitors. It can be a good option for children who enjoy constructing things, imaginative play and family-friendly rides.

Best for: Families with children who enjoy LEGO and themed attractions.

Things to know: Check ride height requirements and the operating status of individual attractions. If you are considering the water park as well, confirm whether it requires a separate ticket and whether it is operating on your chosen date.

8. The Green Planet Dubai

The Green Planet offers an indoor tropical rainforest experience, with a range of plants and animals in a controlled environment. Children can discover different rainforest habitats and learn about wildlife without travelling outside Dubai.

Best for: Nature-loving children and families interested in educational attractions.

Things to know: Compare the admission price with the expected visit duration. Check current animal experiences and visitor rules before booking.

9. Loco Bear

Loco Bear in Al Quoz offers a mix of indoor entertainment activities, making it an option for families who want several experiences in one venue. Depending on age and availability, activities can include soft play, arcade games, bowling and other games.

Best for: Families with children of different ages who prefer active indoor entertainment.

Things to know: Individual activities may have separate charges, age restrictions or height requirements. Check the available packages and calculate the total cost before visiting.

10. IMG Worlds of Adventure

IMG Worlds of Adventure is an indoor theme park featuring themed zones, rides and family entertainment. It is worth considering when children want a more immersive attraction and families prefer an indoor setting.

Best for: Children who enjoy themed adventures and rides, including older children who meet the relevant ride requirements.

Things to know: Not every ride is suitable for every age or height. Review restrictions in advance so younger children are not disappointed after arrival.

Free Places to Visit in Dubai with Kids

Not every enjoyable family outing needs a theme-park ticket. Dubai also has public spaces where children can play, walk, enjoy the beach or spend time outdoors.

Dubai Hills Park

Dubai Hills Park offers green space, playgrounds and areas for outdoor recreation. It is a practical option for residents looking for a relaxed family outing without committing to a full day at a paid attraction.

Why families may like it: Children can play while adults enjoy the open space. Entry to the park is generally free, although selected attractions or activities may have separate charges.

JLT Park

JLT Park is a neighbourhood option for families who want a playground and outdoor space rather than a major tourist attraction. It can suit shorter visits with toddlers and younger children.

Why families may like it: It is useful for everyday play and can be easier to fit into a regular family routine than a ticketed destination.

Al Mamzar Beach Park

Al Mamzar combines beach areas with landscaped parkland and picnic opportunities. Families can plan a beach visit, enjoy the outdoor setting or spend time together away from busy shopping centres.

Why families may like it: It offers several ways to spend time outdoors in one location.

Things to know: Check current entry charges, beach conditions, swimming rules and opening hours. Bring suitable sun protection, drinking water and any essentials needed by young children.

Kite Beach

Kite Beach is another option for families who enjoy the seaside. Children can enjoy the beach and open spaces, while parents can explore nearby food options and recreational facilities.

Why families may like it: It provides a more relaxed alternative to a full-day attraction.

Things to know: Public beach access does not mean all activities are free. Check current facilities and swimming conditions before visiting.

Best Places to Visit in Dubai with Toddlers

Travelling with a toddler requires a different approach from visiting Dubai with older children. Long queues, excessive walking and tightly packed schedules can make an otherwise exciting day tiring.

Consider these options:

• OliOli: Interactive play for curious young children.

• Dubai Aquarium: Marine life and an indoor environment.

• Dubai Hills Park: Outdoor play and open space.

• JLT Park: A neighbourhood playground for a shorter outing.

• The Green Planet: A nature-focused experience for children who enjoy animals.

Before booking, check age suitability, stroller access, changing facilities, food availability and opportunities for breaks. A single well-planned attraction may be more enjoyable than trying to visit several places in one day.

Places to Visit in Dubai with Kids:Best Indoor Activities for Kids in Dubai During Summer

Dubai's summer heat can make prolonged outdoor activities uncomfortable, particularly for young children. Indoor attractions offer an alternative when temperatures are high.

Check operating hours, admission prices and activity availability before travelling. Indoor venues can also become busy during weekends and school holidays.

How to Choose the Right Dubai Attraction for Your Family

The best attraction depends on your children's interests, ages and your available budget.

• For animals: Compare Dubai Safari Park, Dubai Aquarium and The Green Planet.

• For creative learning: Consider OliOli and KidZania.

• For rides and adventure: Explore LEGOLAND Dubai and IMG Worlds of Adventure.

• For outdoor family time: Consider Dubai Hills Park, JLT Park and Al Mamzar Beach Park.

• For an evening outing: Explore Global Village during its operating season.

• For a budget-friendly day: Start with public parks and beaches, then add one paid attraction if needed.

Check the official attraction website for current prices and operating details. Also account for transport, food, parking and additional activity charges rather than comparing admission prices alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to visit in Dubai with kids?

Global Village, Dubai Safari Park, Dubai Aquarium, OliOli, KidZania and LEGOLAND Dubai offer different experiences for families. The most suitable choice depends on the child's age, interests and budget.

Where can I take kids in Dubai for free?

Dubai Hills Park, JLT Park and public beach areas such as Kite Beach can provide outdoor family activities. Entry conditions and charges vary by venue, so verify current information before visiting.

Which places in Dubai are suitable for toddlers?

OliOli, Dubai Aquarium and selected community parks are worth considering. Check age recommendations, accessibility and facilities before planning your visit.

What can families do in Dubai during summer?

Indoor options include Dubai Aquarium, OliOli, KidZania, The Green Planet, Loco Bear and IMG Worlds of Adventure. Confirm current operating hours and ticket availability.

Is Global Village worth visiting with children?

It can be a rewarding family outing for children who enjoy cultural pavilions, food, entertainment and rides. The total cost depends on the activities you choose, so plan a budget beyond admission.

How many days are enough to explore Dubai with kids?

Two or three days can cover several major attractions, while a longer stay allows more time for beaches, parks and relaxed outings. Avoid scheduling too many large attractions in one day, especially when travelling with toddlers.