Family Fun in the UAE

Discover amazing family activities, world-class theme parks, beautiful beaches, and exciting adventures across the United Arab Emirates. From Ferrari World to desert safaris, create unforgettable memories with your family.

World-Class Theme Parks

Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

World's largest indoor theme park featuring Formula Rossa - the world's fastest roller coaster reaching 240 km/h. Perfect for thrill-seekers and car enthusiasts.

AED 395 adults, AED 310 children
10 AM - 6 PM daily
Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Book Tickets →
Abu Dhabi

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

Indoor theme park with six immersive lands featuring DC superheroes, Looney Tunes, and Hanna-Barbera characters. Great for all ages with mild to thrilling rides.

AED 395 adults, AED 320 children
10 AM - 8 PM daily
Fully air-conditioned
Book Tickets →
Dubai

Dubai Parks & Resorts

Four theme parks in one destination: Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, Legoland Dubai, and Legoland Water Park. Perfect for families with young children.

From AED 345 per park
Multi-park passes available
Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
Book Tickets →
Abu Dhabi

Yas Waterworld

Emirati-themed water park with over 40 rides and attractions. Features the world's largest hydromagnetic tornado and traditional pearl diving experiences.

AED 295 adults, AED 230 children
Perfect for UAE weather
Lifeguards on duty
Book Tickets →
Dubai

IMG Worlds of Adventure

World's largest indoor theme park featuring Marvel superheroes, Cartoon Network characters, and prehistoric dinosaur encounters across four adventure zones.

AED 385 adults, AED 310 children
City of Arabia, Dubai
Marvel & Cartoon Network
Book Tickets →
Seasonal

Global Village Dubai

Seasonal cultural and entertainment destination open November to April. Features pavilions from 90 countries, rides, shows, and international cuisine.

AED 25 entry, rides extra
November to April only
90 countries represented
Visit Website →

Annual Pass Savings

Theme Park Single Visit Annual Pass Break-even
Ferrari World AED 395 AED 1,195 3 visits
Warner Bros World AED 395 AED 1,195 3 visits
Yas Theme Parks AED 790 (both) AED 1,995 3 visits
Dubai Parks AED 345-445 AED 999 3 visits

*Annual passes often include parking, discounts on food/merchandise, and friend & family discounts.

Why UAE is Perfect for Growing Families

From world-class education to year-round sunshine and endless family adventures, discover why thousands of families choose the UAE as their new home

World-Class Education

International curricula, top-tier facilities, and multicultural learning environments

  • British, American, IB curricula
  • State-of-the-art facilities
  • Small class sizes

Ultimate Safety

One of the world's safest countries with excellent healthcare and security

  • Low crime rates
  • World-class healthcare
  • Family-friendly communities

Year-Round Sunshine

Perfect weather for outdoor activities and a healthy, active lifestyle

  • 350+ days of sunshine
  • Beach lifestyle
  • Outdoor adventures

Multicultural Hub

Diverse international community where children learn global perspectives

  • 200+ nationalities
  • Cultural tolerance
  • Global friendships
"Moving to the UAE was the best decision we made for our family. Our kids are thriving in international schools, we feel incredibly safe, and there's always something amazing to do together. The quality of life here is unmatched."
Sarah Johnson
British family, moved to Dubai in 2023

Must-Visit Family Attractions

From record-breaking adventures to magical experiences, these attractions will create memories to last a lifetime

Dubai Highlights

Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall

World's tallest building with breathtaking views, plus the world's largest shopping mall with aquarium and ice rink

Observation Deck Dubai Aquarium Ice Skating

Atlantis The Palm

Underwater suites, dolphin encounters, massive waterpark, and world-class dining experiences

Aquaventure Dolphin Bay Lost Chambers

IMG Worlds of Adventure

World's largest indoor theme park with Marvel, Cartoon Network, and IMG Boulevard zones

Marvel Zone Cartoon Network Indoor Fun

Abu Dhabi Highlights

Ferrari World

World's fastest roller coaster and ultimate Ferrari experience under one massive roof

Formula Rossa Flying Aces Speed Thrills

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Stunning architectural masterpiece and cultural landmark perfect for family photos and learning

Architecture Culture Free Entry

Yas Island

Entertainment island with multiple theme parks, beaches, golf, and F1 racing excitement

Yas Waterworld Warner Bros SeaWorld
50+
Theme Parks & Attractions
25+
World-Class Beaches
100+
Family Restaurants
365
Days of Family Fun

Beautiful Beaches & Water Activities

Jumeirah Beach

Dubai's most famous beach with pristine white sand, crystal clear waters, and stunning views of Burj Al Arab. Perfect for families with children.

  • Safe swimming areas
  • Beach volleyball courts
  • Beachside restaurants

Abu Dhabi Corniche

8km stretch of manicured waterfront with blue flag beach status. Family-friendly with playgrounds, cycling paths, and picnic areas.

  • Bike rental stations
  • Children's playgrounds
  • Blue Flag certified

La Mer Beach

Trendy beachfront destination with water sports, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Great for teenagers and active families.

  • Water sports center
  • Boutique shopping
  • Artisan ice cream shops

Desert & Adventure Experiences

Desert Safari

Traditional Emirati experience

Experience dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and traditional Bedouin camps with BBQ dinner, henna painting, and falconry shows.

4-6hrs
Duration
AED 150-400
Per person
  • Hotel pickup & drop-off
  • BBQ dinner included
  • Cultural shows & activities

Hot Air Balloon

Sunrise desert views

Soar above the Hajar Mountains and desert landscape at sunrise. Includes gourmet breakfast, falconry demonstration, and wildlife spotting.

5-6hrs
Total experience
AED 1,200+
Per person
  • Early morning flights
  • Gourmet breakfast
  • Flight certificate

Cultural & Educational Experiences

Dubai Museum

Historic Al Fahidi Fort showcasing UAE's transformation from fishing village to modern metropolis.

AED 3 adults, AED 1 children
8:30 AM - 8:30 PM

Cultural Understanding

Sheikh Mohammed Centre offers cultural meals and discussions to help families understand Emirati culture.

Family-friendly programs
Traditional meals included

Al Ain Oasis

UNESCO World Heritage Site with traditional irrigation system and over 147,000 date palms. Great for nature walks.

UNESCO Heritage Site
Walking trails available

Family Shopping & Entertainment Centers

Dubai

Dubai Mall

World's largest shopping mall with Dubai Aquarium, ice skating rink, cinema, and over 1,200 stores. Perfect for family entertainment.

  • Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
  • Olympic-size ice rink
  • 26-screen cinema complex
Family Tip: Download the Dubai Mall app for interactive maps and special offers. Visit during weekdays for smaller crowds.
Dubai

Mall of the Emirates

Home to Ski Dubai - indoor skiing in the desert! Also features Magic Planet, cinema, and 700+ international brands.

  • Ski Dubai - indoor snow park
  • Magic Planet gaming center
  • Meet real penguins
Family Tip: Book Ski Dubai sessions in advance. Bring warm clothes or rent equipment there.
Abu Dhabi

Yas Mall

Located on Yas Island near theme parks. Features unique attractions like the world's first indoor skydiving simulator and adventure zone.

  • iFLY indoor skydiving
  • Adventure sports zone
  • Close to theme parks
Family Tip: Perfect for combining with Yas Island theme park visits. Try the food court with international cuisines.

Parks & Outdoor Activities

Dubai Miracle Garden

World's largest natural flower garden with over 150 million flowers arranged in stunning displays.

Nov - May only
AED 75 adults, AED 60 children

Dubai Creek Park

Large urban park perfect for picnics, cycling, and children's play areas with beautiful Creek views.

Bike rentals available
AED 5 entry fee

Al Barsha Pond Park

Beautiful park with three interconnected ponds, walking trails, and separate play areas for different age groups.

2.5km walking track
Free entry

Hatta Dam

Scenic mountain reservoir perfect for kayaking, hiking, and family picnics in the Hajar Mountains.

90 min drive from Dubai
Free access

Activities by Age Group

Ages 0-4

  • Dubai Aquarium (stroller-friendly)
  • Beach play areas at Jumeirah Beach
  • Mall play areas (MOE, Dubai Mall)
  • Dubai Creek Park playgrounds
  • Gentle camel rides (with supervision)

Ages 5-12

  • LEGOLAND Dubai & Water Park
  • Dubai Miracle Garden
  • Desert safari (family-friendly)
  • Ice skating at Dubai Mall
  • Cultural experiences & museums

Ages 13+

  • Ferrari World & Formula Rossa
  • Ski Dubai & indoor skydiving
  • Water sports at La Mer Beach
  • Hot air balloon rides
  • Shopping & cinema experiences

A Day in the Life: The Johnson Family, Dubai Marina

Follow Sarah, Mark, and their two kids Emma (8) and Oliver (5) through a typical Thursday in their UAE life

6:30 AM

Morning Sunshine & School Prep

Sarah enjoys coffee on their Marina balcony while the kids have breakfast. Emma packs her swimming gear for after-school activities, Oliver gets excited about show-and-tell at his British curriculum nursery.

  • Marina views & perfect 25°C weather
  • School bus picks up from building entrance
  • International breakfast options nearby
2:30 PM

Pool Time & Mom Friends

Kids swim at the community pool while Sarah catches up with her British, Australian, and South African mom friends. They discuss weekend plans and share babysitting duties.

  • Resort-style pools in every community
  • International playdate network
  • Swimming year-round (never rains!)
6:00 PM

Mall Dinner & Kid Zone Fun

Family dinner at Marina Mall food court (kids love the Japanese place), then Oliver plays in the indoor playground while Emma tries the climbing wall. All air-conditioned and spotlessly clean.

  • Every cuisine imaginable in one place
  • Free supervised play areas
  • Safe to walk at night anywhere
This Weekend

Beach Day & Culture Trip

Saturday: Family beach day at JBR with jet skiing (dad) and sandcastle building (kids). Sunday: Dubai Museum & traditional souk experience - the kids love bargaining for souvenirs!

  • World's best beaches 10 minutes away
  • Rich culture mixed with modern fun
  • Quick flight to anywhere in the world
"Our kids have never been happier. Emma's confidence has soared at her international school, Oliver speaks three languages now, and we've made lifelong friends from every continent. Plus, we save more money here than we ever did back home, despite the amazing lifestyle!"
— Sarah Johnson, Marketing Director from Manchester, UK
Living in Dubai Marina for 3 years

Why Families Love UAE Living

Premium Lifestyle

Luxury amenities, world-class infrastructure, and high standard of living at accessible prices

Global Community

Connect with families from around the world in a welcoming, multicultural environment

Future-Ready

Cutting-edge technology, innovation focus, and opportunities for the next generation

World-Class Education System

The UAE offers exceptional educational opportunities with international curricula, outstanding facilities, and diverse learning environments that prepare children for global success

650+
Private Schools
15
Curricula Types
200+
Nationalities
18:1
Student-Teacher Ratio

International Curricula Available

British Curriculum

Following UK National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels

  • Strong academic foundation
  • University preparation focus
  • Global recognition
150+ Schools Available

American Curriculum

US-based education system with High School Diploma and AP courses

  • Flexible course selection
  • Advanced Placement options
  • US university pathway
80+ Schools Available

IB Programme

International Baccalaureate with holistic, inquiry-based learning

  • Critical thinking focus
  • Global perspective
  • University recognition worldwide
45+ Schools Available

French Curriculum

French education system leading to Baccalauréat qualification

  • Bilingual education
  • Strong literary tradition
  • European university access
15+ Schools Available

German Curriculum

German education system with Abitur and strong STEM focus

  • Engineering excellence
  • Technical education
  • German university pathway
8+ Schools Available

Other Curricula

Canadian, Australian, Indian, Japanese, and Arabic curricula available

  • Cultural preservation
  • Native language support
  • Diverse community
100+ Schools Available

School Fees Guide (Annual)

School Category Fee Range (AED) Examples
Premium International 80,000 - 120,000 Repton, GEMS Wellington
High-Quality International 50,000 - 80,000 JESS, Dubai College
Good International 30,000 - 50,000 GEMS Modern Academy
Affordable International 15,000 - 30,000 GEMS FirstPoint, Horizon
Budget International 8,000 - 15,000 GEMS Our Own, Al Noor

Note: Fees vary by grade level, with higher fees for secondary years. Additional costs include registration fees (AED 500-2,000), security deposits, uniforms, books, and transportation.

World-Class Healthcare System

The UAE provides exceptional healthcare with modern facilities, international standards, and comprehensive coverage for families living in the Emirates

98%
Healthcare Satisfaction
24/7
Emergency Services
200+
Private Hospitals
15 min
Average Wait Time

Insurance & Coverage

Mandatory Health Insurance

All UAE residents must have health insurance coverage as per federal law

  • Employer-provided coverage (most common)
  • Family coverage available
  • Comprehensive medical benefits
  • Dental and vision options

Insurance Categories

Basic Coverage AED 600-1,500/year
Enhanced Coverage AED 2,000-5,000/year
Premium Coverage AED 6,000-15,000/year

Healthcare Quality

International Standards

UAE healthcare meets and exceeds international quality benchmarks

  • JCI accredited hospitals
  • Board-certified doctors
  • Latest medical technology
  • Multilingual staff

Specialized Care

Cardiology
Pediatrics
Ophthalmology
Orthopedics
Neurology
Maternity

Top Family Hospitals by Emirate

Dubai

American Hospital Dubai

Premier private hospital with comprehensive services

JCI Accredited Maternity Pediatrics
Emirates Hospital

Modern facility with international standards

Emergency 24/7 Specialist Care
Mediclinic Dubai Mall

Convenient location with family-focused care

Family Medicine Walk-in Clinics

Abu Dhabi

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

World-renowned medical center with US standards

US Partnership Heart Center
Burjeel Hospital

Advanced medical care with family services

Women & Children NICU
NMC Royal Hospital

Comprehensive healthcare with multiple specialties

Multi-specialty Insurance Friendly

Healthcare Tips for Expat Families

Medical Records

Bring medical histories, vaccination records, and prescription details from home country

Vaccinations

Ensure children's vaccinations are up-to-date and recognized by UAE health authorities

Emergency Numbers

Know key numbers: 999 (Emergency), 998 (Ambulance), and your insurance helpline

Best Family Communities in UAE

Discover the most family-friendly neighborhoods with excellent schools, parks, amenities, and communities perfect for raising children in the UAE

Dubai Family Communities

Premium Communities

Emirates Hills

Ultra-luxury gated community

Villa rent: AED 300K-800K
Top-tier schools nearby
Golf course community
24/7 security

Perfect for: Executive families seeking ultimate luxury and privacy

Palm Jumeirah

Iconic man-made island

Apartment: AED 150K-400K
Beach access
World-class dining
Monorail transport

Perfect for: Families wanting beachfront luxury lifestyle

Popular Family Areas

Arabian Ranches

Family-focused villa community

Villa rent: AED 130K-280K
JESS Arabian Ranches
Golf & Country Club
Town Center shopping

Perfect for: Families seeking suburban lifestyle with amenities

The Springs/Meadows

Mature, established community

Villa rent: AED 100K-200K
Multiple school options
Community pools
Strong expat community

Perfect for: Mid-budget families wanting established neighborhood

Abu Dhabi Family Communities

Saadiyat Island

Cultural district with beaches

Villa: AED 200K-500K
Apartment: AED 80K-200K
Cranleigh School
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Private beaches
Saadiyat Beach Golf Club

A premium cultural destination perfect for families who appreciate arts, education, and beachfront living.

Al Reef

Modern family-oriented development

Villa: AED 90K-180K
Apartment: AED 50K-100K
Raha International
Al Reef Mall
Multiple pools
Easy highway access

Affordable family living with modern amenities, good schools, and strong community feel.

Family Community Comparison

Community Housing Type Budget Range School Access Family Features
Arabian Ranches Villas AED 130K-280K ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Golf, pools, parks, town center
The Springs Villas AED 100K-200K ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mature community, pools, parks
Dubai Marina Apartments AED 80K-250K ⭐⭐⭐ Beach, dining, metro access
Saadiyat Island Villas/Apts AED 80K-500K ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beach, culture, premium schools
Al Reef Villas/Apts AED 50K-180K ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Affordable, family-friendly, pools

Note: Rental prices vary by property size, condition, and exact location within communities. Additional costs include DEWA (utilities), internet, and community service charges.

Seasonal Family Activities

Winter Season

November - March (Perfect Weather)

18-28°C
Temperature
Peak
Tourist Season

Best Activities:

  • Beach activities & water sports
  • Desert safaris & camping
  • Dubai Miracle Garden (open)
  • Global Village Dubai
  • Outdoor festivals & events

Summer Season

June - August (Indoor Activities)

30-45°C
Temperature
Low
Tourist Season

Best Activities:

  • Indoor theme parks (cooler)
  • Shopping mall activities
  • Ski Dubai & ice skating
  • Dubai Summer Surprises
  • Indoor water parks

Family-Friendly Dining

Rainforest Cafe

Dubai Mall

Jungle-themed restaurant with animatronic animals, thunderstorms, and kid-friendly menu.

AED 80-150/person
4.2/5

Cheesecake Factory

Dubai Mall

American casual dining with extensive menu, huge portions, and famous cheesecakes.

AED 100-200/person
4.4/5

Pizza Express

Multiple locations

Kid-friendly pizza chain with activity sheets, kids' menu, and casual atmosphere.

AED 60-120/person
4.0/5

Family Safety & Practical Tips

Sun Safety

  • • High SPF sunscreen essential
  • • Seek shade 11 AM - 4 PM
  • • Lightweight, long sleeves
  • • Wide-brimmed hats
  • • Sunglasses for all ages

Stay Hydrated

  • • Carry water bottles always
  • • Drink before feeling thirsty
  • • Avoid sugary drinks in heat
  • • Take frequent water breaks
  • • Recognize dehydration signs

Cultural Respect

  • • Modest dress in public areas
  • • Respect during prayer times
  • • No PDA in public spaces
  • • Learn basic Arabic greetings
  • • Respect local customs

Emergency

  • • Emergency: 999
  • • Police: 901
  • • Tourist Police: 800 888
  • • Keep embassy contacts
  • • Carry ID at all times

Family Budget Planning

Budget Family Day

AED 200-400
  • • Public beaches (free)
  • • Dubai Creek Park (AED 5)
  • • Local restaurant meals
  • • Public transport
  • • Free mall play areas

Moderate Family Day

AED 800-1,200
  • • One theme park visit
  • • Family restaurant dinner
  • • Taxi/Uber transport
  • • Dubai Aquarium visit
  • • Souvenir shopping

Premium Family Day

AED 2,000+
  • • Multiple theme parks
  • • Fine dining experiences
  • • Private transport/tours
  • • VIP experiences
  • • Premium hotel amenities