Discover world-class theme parks, family attractions, and endless entertainment options that make the UAE one of the most family-friendly destinations in the world
Everything you need to know to make the most of your family time in the UAE
Perfect weather for outdoor activities and theme parks. Expect higher prices and crowds.
Indoor attractions, water parks, and malls. Great deals and fewer crowds, but very hot outdoors.
Weekdays for smaller crowds. Friday mornings before prayer time. Avoid Thursday evenings and weekends.
Annual passes save 30-50% if you visit 3+ times per year
Find the perfect activities for your children's ages
Toddlers & Infants
Preschool & Early Primary
Primary School
Teenagers
From record-breaking roller coasters to immersive themed experiences, the UAE offers some of the world's most exciting theme parks for families
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.
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.
Four theme parks in one destination: Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, Legoland Dubai, and Legoland Water Park. Perfect for families with young children.
Emirati-themed water park with over 40 rides and attractions. Features the world's largest hydromagnetic tornado and traditional pearl diving experiences.
World's largest indoor theme park featuring Marvel superheroes, Cartoon Network characters, and prehistoric dinosaur encounters across four adventure zones.
Seasonal cultural and entertainment destination open November to April. Features pavilions from 90 countries, rides, shows, and international cuisine.
| 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.
The UAE offers exceptional quality of life, world-class facilities, and a safe, welcoming environment for families from around the world
International curricula, top-tier facilities, and multicultural learning environments
One of the world's safest countries with excellent healthcare and security
Perfect weather for outdoor activities and a healthy, active lifestyle
Diverse international community where children learn global perspectives
From pristine beaches to desert adventures and cultural experiences, discover unforgettable outdoor activities for every season
Dubai's most famous beach with pristine white sand, crystal clear waters, and stunning views of Burj Al Arab. Perfect for families with children.
8km stretch of manicured waterfront with blue flag beach status. Family-friendly with playgrounds, cycling paths, and picnic areas.
Trendy beachfront destination with water sports, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Great for teenagers and active families.
Traditional Emirati experience
Experience dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and traditional Bedouin camps with BBQ dinner, henna painting, and falconry shows.
Sunrise desert views
Soar above the Hajar Mountains and desert landscape at sunrise. Includes gourmet breakfast, falconry demonstration, and wildlife spotting.
Historic Al Fahidi Fort showcasing UAE's transformation from fishing village to modern metropolis.
Sheikh Mohammed Centre offers cultural meals and discussions to help families understand Emirati culture.
UNESCO World Heritage Site with traditional irrigation system and over 147,000 date palms. Great for nature walks.
World's largest shopping mall with Dubai Aquarium, ice skating rink, cinema, and over 1,200 stores. Perfect for family entertainment.
Home to Ski Dubai - indoor skiing in the desert! Also features Magic Planet, cinema, and 700+ international brands.
Located on Yas Island near theme parks. Features unique attractions like the world's first indoor skydiving simulator and adventure zone.
World's largest natural flower garden with over 150 million flowers arranged in stunning displays.
Large urban park perfect for picnics, cycling, and children's play areas with beautiful Creek views.
Beautiful park with three interconnected ponds, walking trails, and separate play areas for different age groups.
Scenic mountain reservoir perfect for kayaking, hiking, and family picnics in the Hajar Mountains.
Follow Sarah, Mark, and their two kids Emma (8) and Oliver (5) through a typical Thursday in their UAE life
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.
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.
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.
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!
"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
Luxury amenities, world-class infrastructure, and high standard of living at accessible prices
Connect with families from around the world in a welcoming, multicultural environment
Cutting-edge technology, innovation focus, and opportunities for the next generation
The UAE offers exceptional educational opportunities with international curricula, outstanding facilities, and diverse learning environments that prepare children for global success
Following UK National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels
US-based education system with High School Diploma and AP courses
International Baccalaureate with holistic, inquiry-based learning
French education system leading to Baccalauréat qualification
German education system with Abitur and strong STEM focus
Canadian, Australian, Indian, Japanese, and Arabic curricula available
| 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.
The UAE provides exceptional healthcare with modern facilities, international standards, and comprehensive coverage for families living in the Emirates
All UAE residents must have health insurance coverage as per federal law
UAE healthcare meets and exceeds international quality benchmarks
Premier private hospital with comprehensive services
Modern facility with international standards
Convenient location with family-focused care
World-renowned medical center with US standards
Advanced medical care with family services
Comprehensive healthcare with multiple specialties
Bring medical histories, vaccination records, and prescription details from home country
Ensure children's vaccinations are up-to-date and recognized by UAE health authorities
Know key numbers: 999 (Emergency), 998 (Ambulance), and your insurance helpline
Discover the most family-friendly neighborhoods with excellent schools, parks, amenities, and communities perfect for raising children in the UAE
Ultra-luxury gated community
Perfect for: Executive families seeking ultimate luxury and privacy
Iconic man-made island
Perfect for: Families wanting beachfront luxury lifestyle
Family-focused villa community
Perfect for: Families seeking suburban lifestyle with amenities
Mature, established community
Perfect for: Mid-budget families wanting established neighborhood
Cultural district with beaches
A premium cultural destination perfect for families who appreciate arts, education, and beachfront living.
Modern family-oriented development
Affordable family living with modern amenities, good schools, and strong community feel.
| 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.
Discover the best activities for each season in the UAE
November - March (Perfect Weather)
June - August (Indoor Activities)
Dubai Mall
Jungle-themed restaurant with animatronic animals, thunderstorms, and kid-friendly menu.
Dubai Mall
American casual dining with extensive menu, huge portions, and famous cheesecakes.
Multiple locations
Kid-friendly pizza chain with activity sheets, kids' menu, and casual atmosphere.
Direct links to book tickets, check schedules, and plan your visits
Check venue websites for parking details and valet options
Many Dubai attractions are near metro stations. Download the RTA app for routes
Uber, Careem, and Dubai Taxi available across UAE
Save 10-20% on tickets vs. gate prices
Show Emirates ID for special resident rates
Check your credit card for 2-for-1 deals and discounts
Some venues offer lower weekday rates
Common questions about family activities and entertainment in the UAE