Lifestyle & Family Guide Independent — No paid placement

The Ultimate Things to Do With Kids in the UAE 2026/27

One-line promise: give us your situation and we give you a plan — free, indoor, under AED 100 or built for mixed ages, drawn from 35 checked listings across all seven emirates.

Our honesty line: nothing is shown as fact without a source, every uncertainty is labelled, and no price older than 45 days stays on the page.

Last full check: 23 September 2026. Every listing shows the date our team last checked it with the operator or an official source.

35

Listings

7

Emirates

25

Candidates pending

0

Paid placements

Most family activity lists are written for tourists and ranked by who pays. This one is written for families who live here: people who have done the big theme parks, know what 44°C feels like at 3pm, and need a plan that works for a toddler and a twelve-year-old at the same time. Tell us your situation and the page does the rest.

We never call anything free unless the operator or a government source says so, and we never print a price we have not checked. Where sources disagree, we say so rather than guess.

This week — dated notices, auto-expiring

1 notice 2 more expiring Expires 30 Sep 2026

Dubai is observing an official mourning period until 30 September 2026, so Dubai Fountain shows are paused and some live events may change. The Museum of the Future is closed until early 2027. Etihad Rail’s Dubai station is due to open on 30 September. Over the October half-term (12 to 18 October), Dubai Safari Park reopens on the 12th and Global Village on the 14th.

Also worth knowing this month
  • Al Ain Zoo reopened on 5 September 2026 after its annual summer closure (29 June to 4 September).
  • UAE residents get 30% off adult tickets at Louvre Abu Dhabi until 30 September 2026.
  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque introduced visitor fees in September 2026 — several live guides still list it as free.
  • Dubai Miracle Garden Season 15 is expected in October 2026; the exact date is not yet announced.

Notices carry an expiry date and disappear on their own. We do not reuse last year’s dates for recurring events.

Start here

Find a plan in under a minute

Pick the situation that sounds like your day. Each answer is a filtered view of the full list below, so it stays up to date when we re-check a listing.

Filters — one list, many views

35 activities

Cost

Ages — choose every age in your family

Indoor or outdoor

Emirate

When

Cost and emirate combine with OR. Ages and When combine with AND, so choosing 3 and 13 shows only places that work for both children.

Reopenings & closures

Opening and dated this season

Seasonal venues that close, reopen or pause. Each row carries its source, so you can see whether a date comes from the operator or a news report.

Etihad Rail family day trip
Abu Dhabi to Fujairah running since 30 Jun 2026. Dubai’s Al Yalayis station scheduled to open 30 Sep 2026 Khaleej Times
Open
Dubai Safari Park
Reopens 12 Oct 2026 Khaleej Times, Gulf News, 14 Sep 2026. Season 8 prices not published at last check.
Seasonal: opening
Global Village (Season 31)
Season 31 opens 14 Oct 2026 at 6pm and runs to May 2027 Khaleej Times, Gulf News. Tuesdays are for families and ladies only, except public holidays official.
Seasonal: opening
Dubai Miracle Garden (Season 15)
Season 15 expected October 2026; exact date not announced at last check.
Date to be announced
Dubai Fitness Challenge 2026
31 Oct to 29 Nov 2026 Dubai Media Office. Dubai Ride Sun 1 Nov and Dubai Run Sun 22 Nov The National.
Seasonal: dated
Al Ain Zoo
Reported reopened 5 Sep 2026 after the annual summer closure (29 Jun to 4 Sep 2026) reported.
Open
Dubai Fountain
Shows suspended until 30 Sep 2026 for the Dubai mourning period The National, 22 Sep 2026.
Paused
Museum of the Future (closed until early 2027)
Temporarily closed since 1 Sep 2026; reopening planned for the first quarter of 2027 official.
Closed

Recurring events with no confirmed 2027 date (for example the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival and the Al Hosn Festival) are listed on our UAE Events Calendar once dates are announced. We do not reuse last year’s dates.

Sharjah

4 listings

Sharjah Aquarium and Maritime Museum

Al Khan, Sharjah

Open

Two floors of Gulf sea life, from reef sharks to seahorses, with a joint ticket to the museum next door about pearling, fishing and boat-building. One of the UAE’s best-value family mornings.

Status: Sat–Thu 8am–8pm (reported); Friday afternoon opening only, with published times differing.

Price: Joint ticket AED 25 (13+), AED 15 (ages 2 to 12), under-2s free; over-60s with one companion free (Sharjah Museums Authority).

Booking: Walk in.

Heat: Indoor, with a small shaded play area outside.

Mixed ages: Strong. Aquarium for little ones, maritime history for older ones.

Allow: 1.5 to 2 hours

Accessibility: Reported lifts, ramps and elevating ramps throughout; People of Determination free.

Family admission AED 80 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Indoor
sharjahmuseums.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Al Noor Island and Butterfly House

Khalid Lagoon, Sharjah

Open

A landscaped island of sculpture, shaded paths and night-time light installations, with a butterfly house for younger children.

Status: Reported Sat–Wed 9am–11pm, Thu–Fri 9am–midnight; Butterfly House 9am–6pm.

Price: Island entry reported at AED 35 adults and AED 20 for ages 3 to 12. Some ticket types add the Butterfly House.

Booking: Walk in or buy online.

Heat: Mainly outdoor. Evenings May–September; the Butterfly House closes at 6pm.

Mixed ages: Good. Butterflies for small children, art and lights for older ones.

Allow: 1.5 to 2 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

About AED 110 for the family reported 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 Outdoor
alnoorisland.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Mleiha Archaeological Centre and fossil hunting

Mleiha, central Sharjah

Open

Desert archaeology with real finds on display, fossil-hunting sessions near Fossil Rock, cave walks and stargazing. The outing for children who have done every mall.

Status: Centre reported open Sat–Wed 9am–7pm; check weekend hours. Outdoor tours run best in cooler months.

Price: Centre entry AED 25 (12+), AED 15 (ages 3 to 12), under-3s free; family ticket for two adults and three children AED 55 (UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment). Tours extra; dune buggy reported 8+.

Booking: Required for tours.

Heat: Desert location. October to April for outdoor tours.

Mixed ages: Good. Best for 6 and over.

Allow: Half day

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Family admission AED 55 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
discovermleiha.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Ajman

2 listings

Ajman Museum

Ajman city, Ajman

Open

An 18th-century fort turned museum, with wind towers and coral-stone rooms showing how the emirate lived before oil.

Status: Daily 8am–8pm (Visit Ajman).

Price: Reported at AED 5 per adult, with a family ticket of about AED 15.

Booking: Buy on arrival.

Heat: Mostly indoor with a courtyard.

Mixed ages: Good. Short enough for any age.

Allow: 1 hour

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

About AED 15 for the family reported 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Indoor
visit-ajman.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Al Zorah Nature Reserve kayaking

Al Zorah, Ajman

Open

Guided kayak trips through mangrove channels with flamingos and herons. Younger children share a double kayak with a parent.

Status: Open. Daytime tours are reported to be cut back in peak summer.

Price: Older sources list about AED 95 per adult and AED 65 per child per hour. Check the live booking page.

Booking: Required.

Heat: Outdoor on water. October to April, early or late.

Mixed ages: Good. Doubles for younger children.

Allow: 1 to 2 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Price unverified 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
alzorah.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Umm Al Quwain

3 listings

Umm Al Quwain Museum (Al Ali Fort)

Old town, Umm Al Quwain

Open

A compact, mostly indoor museum inside the emirate’s historic fort, covering pearl diving, archaeology and traditional life. Forty-five minutes well spent.

Status: Reported daily 7am–8pm; Fridays 8am–12pm and 2pm–8pm.

Price: Reported at AED 5 for adults; children free.

Booking: Walk in.

Heat: Mostly indoor.

Mixed ages: Good. Short visit for any age.

Allow: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

About AED 10 for the family reported 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Indoor
visitumalquwain.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Umm Al Quwain Mangrove Beach

Khor Al Beidah, Umm Al Quwain

Open

Calm, shallow mangrove channels you can paddle straight into, with herons, kingfishers, crabs and fish. Kayaks and camping on site.

Status: Reported open 24 hours; go at high tide.

Price: Reported AED 40 per car (waived with AED 60 spend at the on-site cafe). Kayaks reported at AED 75 an hour single, AED 100 double.

Booking: Walk in.

Heat: Outdoor and humid. Early morning or late afternoon, November to March best.

Mixed ages: Strong. Paddling in the shallows for little ones, kayaks for older ones.

Allow: 1.5 to 3 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

About AED 40 for the family reported 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
visitumalquwain.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Dreamland Aqua Park

Umm Al Quwain coast, Umm Al Quwain

Open

One of the UAE’s oldest water parks: slides, wave pool and lazy river at a fraction of the big-brand prices. A good choice for families who have done Aquaventure and Yas Waterworld.

Status: Reported operating in summer 2026 with sunset entry sessions.

Price: Summer 2026 offers were reported from AED 89 online per person. Autumn prices not yet checked.

Booking: Book online for the lower price.

Heat: Water-based; summer sunset sessions reported.

Mixed ages: Strong. Kids’ pools and big slides in one place.

Allow: 3 to 5 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Check the live price 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
dreamlanduae.com

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Ras Al Khaimah

2 listings

Jais Viewing Deck Park

Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah

Open

Viewing decks near the top of the UAE’s highest peak, with cafes and the start of short marked walking trails. The drive up is half the adventure.

Status: Sun–Thu 8am–8pm; Fri–Sat 8am–11pm; last entry 8pm (official).

Price: AED 10 per person including VAT (official). Articles describing it as free are out of date.

Booking: Buy entry online or on arrival.

Heat: High altitude, but still exposed. Bring layers from November to March.

Mixed ages: Strong. Easy trails from 0.7 km for small legs; longer trails for teenagers.

Allow: 1 to 3 hours on site, plus the drive

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Family admission AED 40 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
visitjebeljais.com

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Jais Sledder mountain toboggan

Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah

Open

An eight-minute, 1.8 km toboggan run down the mountainside. Younger children ride with an adult; older children can drive their own sled once they meet the height rules.

Status: Open. Weather can close rides.

Price: Reported at about AED 40 to AED 45 per ride. Ticket platforms state children under 12 can share a sled free with a paying adult.

Booking: Recommended at weekends.

Heat: Outdoor. Cooler months are far more comfortable.

Mixed ages: Good. Two-person sleds let adults ride with younger children.

Allow: 1 hour on site

Accessibility: Rider rules (ticket platform, to confirm): minimum age 3 and height 1.05 m; under 1.38 m ride as a passenger with a driver at least 1.5 m tall and aged 12+.

About AED 90 for the family reported 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
visitjebeljais.com

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Fujairah

3 listings

Al Bidyah Mosque

Al Bidyah, east coast, Fujairah

Open

A small mud-and-stone mosque often described as the oldest in the UAE, with a watchtower on the hill behind. A short, memorable stop on an east coast day.

Status: Visiting hours differ between sources, and one reports no visits on Thursday and Friday mornings. Avoid prayer times.

Price: Reported as no entry fee. Not yet confirmed with Fujairah authorities.

Booking: Walk in.

Heat: Mostly outdoor and exposed. Cooler months.

Mixed ages: Good. Short visit; pair with the beach.

Allow: 30 to 45 minutes

Accessibility: Hillside site; not step-free.

No fee reported 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
tourism.fujairah.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Fujairah Fort and Heritage Village

Fujairah city, Fujairah

Open

A restored hilltop fort with a heritage village below. Good for a quick history stop on the way to the coast.

Status: Open. Visitors report occasional closures; daytime visits recommended.

Price: Older sources list AED 5; not confirmed for 2026. Check on arrival.

Booking: Walk in.

Heat: Exposed. Cooler months.

Mixed ages: Good. Short visit for any age.

Allow: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Check the live price 5–8 · 9–12 Outdoor
tourism.fujairah.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

The big theme and water parks

Yas Island's parks, Dubai Parks and Resorts, IMG Worlds, Ski Dubai and Aquaventure use date-based pricing, so any figure we print would be wrong within days. Use their live booking pages and check our UAE Discounts and Savings Guide for resident offers before you buy.

How we check every listing

  • Prices, opening status, age rules and booking requirements come from the operator or a government tourism body wherever possible. News reports are labelled reported.

  • Where sources disagree, we say so and use the higher figure in any budget calculation. Right now that applies to Umm Al Emarat Park (AED 5 or AED 10 per person).

  • Several places often described as free are not: the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque introduced visitor fees in September 2026, the Jais Viewing Deck Park charges AED 10 per person, and the Jubail Mangrove Park boardwalk is ticketed.

  • Every listing carries the date of its last check. Prices older than 45 days are hidden automatically on the live page until re-checked.

  • No listing is paid for. Relocate2UAE partners are never placed in this guide unless they genuinely fit, and none do today.

What the filters mean

Reference family for all cost figures: 2 adults + 2 children aged 7 and 10, standard admission, no parking, food or add-ons.

Free

No admission charge for anyone in the reference family, confirmed by the operator or a government source. Parking, food and optional extras are excluded but noted. If only children go free, the listing gets the 'Kids go free' label instead. Reported or conflicting prices never qualify.

Under AED 100

Total admission for the reference family is AED 100 or less, from a confirmed or reported price. Reported prices are labelled 'reported' on the card. Listings with no checked price are excluded.

Indoor

The main experience is air-conditioned and fully usable on a 45 degree day. A mosque or fort with open courtyards does not qualify.

Outdoor

The main experience takes place outside. An activity can be both — for example a fort that mixes indoor rooms with courtyards.

Toddlers (0 to 4)

The operator admits under-4s and there is something meaningful for them to do, not merely permission to enter.

Ages 5 to 8 · 9 to 12

Editorially judged engaging for the age band, with no age or height rule that blocks the main experience.

Teenagers (13 to 17)

As above for teenagers; the test is whether a 14-year-old would willingly go twice.

Emirate

Where the venue is. Multi-emirate listings such as Etihad Rail appear under every emirate they serve.

Summer

Open June to September and comfortable then: indoor, or outdoor only in the evening with confirmed evening hours. Seasonal venues that close are excluded.

School holidays

Open during UAE school breaks and worth at least half a day. Cards flag venues that get very busy.

Weekend

Open on Saturday and Sunday with normal hours. Cards note where weekend slots sell out.

On the live page

Choose every age in your family: we only show places that work for all of them. This is the single most useful filter decision for mixed-age families.

Frequently asked questions

The questions parents actually ask

All activities by emirate

35 listings, every emirate, every price dated

Each listing gives the checked price for our reference family (2 adults + 2 children aged 7 and 10, standard admission, no parking, food or add-ons), the ages it suits, how long to allow, whether to book, how it copes with the heat and whether it works for siblings of different ages.

Abu Dhabi Dubai Sharjah Ajman Umm Al Quwain Ras Al Khaimah Fujairah

Abu Dhabi

11 listings

Louvre Abu Dhabi and Children’s Museum

Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi

Open

Art from every era under the lattice dome, plus a hands-on Children’s Museum whose current exhibition turns art into a board game. The building itself, with light falling through the roof onto the water, keeps even museum-weary teenagers interested.

Status: Galleries Tue–Thu 10am–6.30pm, Fri–Sun 10am–8.30pm; closed Mondays (official FAQ).

Price: Adults AED 70. Under-18s free. UAE residents 30% off adult tickets until 30 Sep 2026.

Booking: Recommended. Children’s free tickets collected at the counter.

Heat: Indoor galleries. The dome promenade is hot May–September.

Mixed ages: Strong. Children’s Museum for younger ones, galleries and dome for older ones.

Allow: 1.5 to 3 hours

Accessibility: Confirmed by Visit Abu Dhabi: step-free throughout, complimentary wheelchair loan, free entry for People of Determination and one companion.

Kids go free — family AED 140 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Indoor
louvreabudhabi.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Louvre Abu Dhabi dome after dark

Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi

Open

Once the galleries close, the plaza under the dome opens to everyone without a ticket until midnight. Children love the rain of light through the roof and the water lapping at the edges. A beautiful, free way to end a Saadiyat day.

Status: Free access from 6.30pm Tue–Thu and 8.30pm Fri–Sun; dome open to midnight, last entry 11pm; closed Mondays (official FAQ).

Price: Free. No ticket needed after the galleries close (official FAQ).

Booking: Not needed.

Heat: Shaded but open to the air; comfortable in the evening October–April.

Mixed ages: Strong. Short, free and works for any age.

Allow: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours

Accessibility: Step-free (Visit Abu Dhabi).

Free 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Indoor
Official FAQ

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi

Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi

Open

A walk through 13.8 billion years, from the formation of the universe to the future of the planet. Stan the T. rex is the headline act and there is a dedicated dinosaur play area for small children.

Status: Reported Mon–Thu 10am–6.30pm, Fri–Sun 10am–8.30pm. Timed arrival slots.

Price: Adults AED 70. Under-18s free.

Booking: Recommended, especially at weekends.

Heat: Indoor.

Mixed ages: Strong. Dino play area for under-5s; fossils and the T. rex for everyone else.

Allow: 1.5 to 3 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed with the museum.

Kids go free — family AED 140 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Indoor
nhmad.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Zayed National Museum

Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi

Open

The story of the land that became the UAE, from stone tools to the founding of the nation. An 18-metre reconstructed Bronze Age boat fills the atrium, and a 600-metre outdoor garden gallery leads you in.

Status: Visit Abu Dhabi lists daily 10am–8pm.

Price: Adults AED 70. Under-18s free.

Booking: Recommended. Check whether free under-18 tickets must be booked ahead.

Heat: Indoor galleries. Al Masar garden is best before 10am or after 4pm May–September.

Mixed ages: Good. Best for 7 and over; younger children enjoy the boat and garden more than the galleries.

Allow: 1.5 to 3 hours

Accessibility: Official site says inclusive facilities are provided; detail not yet confirmed.

Kids go free — family AED 140 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Indoor
zayednationalmuseum.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Cultural Foundation and Abu Dhabi Children’s Library

Al Hosn, city centre, Abu Dhabi

Open

A calm, free indoor stop in central Abu Dhabi. The Children’s Library has soft reading dunes and a programme of story and craft sessions, and the House of Artisans next door shows Emirati weaving and embroidery being made by hand.

Status: Al Hosn site Sat–Thu 9am–8pm, Fri 2pm–8pm (official). Library hours may differ.

Price: Free entry to the Cultural Foundation, House of Artisans and grounds (official). Some workshops are paid.

Booking: Walk in. Book ahead for workshops.

Heat: Indoor.

Mixed ages: Good. Library suits under-10s best; older children can pair it with Qasr Al Hosn.

Allow: 1 to 2 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Free 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 Indoor
qasralhosn.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Qasr Al Hosn

Al Hosn, city centre, Abu Dhabi

Open

Abu Dhabi’s oldest standing building, restored as a museum of the city’s story from pearling settlement to capital. Best for children who are learning UAE history at school.

Status: Sat–Thu 9am–8pm, Fri 2pm–8pm (official).

Price: Under-18s free with a ticket issued on site (official). Adults reported at AED 30.

Booking: Online or on site. Each guest needs an individual QR code.

Heat: Mixed indoor rooms and open courtyards; courtyards are hot in summer.

Mixed ages: Good. Combine with the free Children’s Library across the plaza.

Allow: 1 to 2 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

About AED 60 for the family reported 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Indoor Outdoor
qasralhosn.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Al Rawdah, Abu Dhabi

Open

One of the world’s great buildings, and a good first lesson for children in how to behave in a place of worship. Free guided walk-in tours run daily.

Status: Visitors Sat–Thu 9am–8.30pm; Fri 9am–11.30am and 2.30pm–8.30pm (official FAQ).

Price: Visitor fees now apply: AED 5 for Emirates ID holders, AED 10 for visitors from outside the UAE. Over-60s and People of Determination free; under-3s reported free.

Booking: Required. Pre-book an online access pass, up to one month ahead.

Heat: Much of the visit is on open marble courtyards. Evenings are more comfortable May–September.

Mixed ages: Good. Works for all ages if children can stay quiet for 45 minutes.

Allow: 1 to 1.5 hours

Accessibility: Confirmed by SZGMC: wheelchairs on request and club cars between the car parks and tour start.

Family admission AED 20 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Indoor Outdoor
szgmc.gov.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Jubail Mangrove Park boardwalk

Al Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi

Open

Raised boardwalks over the mangroves, with crabs, fish and wading birds visible at high tide. Guided kayak and electric boat trips are available for older children.

Status: Reported daily 7am–9pm, last entry 8pm. Visit at high tide; at low tide some sections cross dry ground.

Price: Adults AED 15 (Visit Abu Dhabi). Children reported at AED 10 for ages 7 to 17, under-7s free. Not free.

Booking: Recommended; tickets on arrival are not guaranteed at weekends.

Heat: Little shade on the boardwalk. Best October to April, early morning or late afternoon.

Mixed ages: Strong. Toddlers walk the short loop; older children kayak.

Allow: 1 to 2 hours (longer with kayaking)

Accessibility: Reported step-free and stroller-friendly. No scooters, bikes or toys; no food on the boardwalk; under-18s with an adult.

About AED 50 for the family reported 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
jubailisland.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Umm Al Emarat Park

Al Mushrif, Abu Dhabi

Price under review

The capital’s classic family park: a big central lawn, shaded gardens, an animal barn, play areas and food trucks. An easy evening outing from October onwards.

Status: Reported daily 8am–11pm or midnight.

Price: AED 10 per person in most current sources (Visit Abu Dhabi still lists AED 5). Under-3s free.

Conflict: Sources disagree on AED 5 or AED 10. We use the higher figure in budget maths and link you to the operator.

Heat: Outdoor. From May to September, go after sunset.

Mixed ages: Strong. Open lawn and animal barn work for any age mix.

Allow: 1 to 3 hours

Accessibility: Reported: smooth paths and ramps throughout.

About AED 40 for the family reported · AED 5 or 10 each 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 Outdoor
ummalemaratpark.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Al Ain Zoo

Al Ain, Abu Dhabi

Open

A large, well-kept wildlife park with more than 4,000 animals, giraffe feeding, a children’s farm and optional safari tours. A proper day trip, and one of the best-value big outings in the country.

Status: Reported reopened 5 Sep 2026 after the annual summer closure (29 Jun to 4 Sep 2026).

Price: From AED 31.5 for adults and AED 10.5 for children (Visit Abu Dhabi). Safari tours and feeding experiences cost extra.

Booking: Walk in or book online.

Heat: Mostly outdoor with long walks. Arrive at opening. A free train loops the park.

Mixed ages: Strong. Children’s farm for little ones, safari and big cats for older ones.

Allow: 4 to 6 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed. No outside food or drink allowed (Visit Abu Dhabi).

Family admission AED 84 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
alainzoo.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Etihad Rail family day trip

Abu Dhabi · Dubai · Sharjah · Fujairah

Open

The new national railway turns an ordinary day out into an adventure. Take the train from Abu Dhabi across the desert and mountains to Fujairah, or from Dubai to Abu Dhabi in about an hour, and plan the day around the other end.

Status: Abu Dhabi to Fujairah running since 30 Jun 2026. Dubai’s Al Yalayis station scheduled to open 30 Sep 2026 (Khaleej Times).

Price: Children 2 to 17 pay half fare; under-2s free on a lap; under-14s must travel with an adult. Launch fares reported from AED 55 adult (Abu Dhabi–Fujairah, Comfort) and from AED 39 adult (Dubai–Abu Dhabi).

Booking: Required via the Etihad Rail app or website. Saver fares cannot be changed or refunded.

Heat: Air-conditioned train. Stations sit outside city centres, so plan an indoor destination and onward taxi in summer.

Mixed ages: Strong. The train itself is the treat for every age.

Allow: Full day including the destination

Accessibility: Reported wheelchair spaces and priority seating; wheelchair users pay standard fares.

About AED 166 for the family reported 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Indoor
etihadrail.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Dubai

13 listings

Museum of the Future (closed until early 2027)

Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

Closed

Closed for a complete reinvention. The museum shut on 1 September 2026 and plans to reopen in the first quarter of 2027 with all-new exhibitions. We will re-list it with prices and age guidance when tickets go on sale. Many live guides still show it as open.

Status: Temporarily closed since 1 Sep 2026; reopening planned for Q1 2027 (official).

Price: Not on sale. Tickets will be released closer to reopening.

Booking: Not available.

Heat: Indoor.

Mixed ages: Good. Re-assess when the new exhibitions open.

Allow: Not applicable while closed

Accessibility: Not applicable while closed.

Excluded from every filter Indoor
Official page

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Dubai Safari Park

Al Warqa, Dubai

Opens 12 Oct

A large open-habitat wildlife park arranged in themed villages, explored on foot and by safari bus. Season 8 starts during the October school half-term.

Status: Reopens 12 Oct 2026 (Khaleej Times, Gulf News, 14 Sep 2026). Season 8 prices not published at last check.

Price: Season 8 prices not yet published.

Booking: Book online once Season 8 tickets are released.

Heat: Mostly outdoor. Go at opening time.

Mixed ages: Strong. Something for every age.

Allow: 3 to 5 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Check the live price 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
dubaisafari.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Global Village (Season 31)

Dubailand, Dubai

Opens 14 Oct

Pavilions from around the world, street food, rides and nightly shows. Busy and loud in the best way, and one of the few outings that genuinely works for toddlers and teenagers at once.

Status: Season 31 opens 14 Oct 2026 at 6pm, runs to May 2027 (Khaleej Times, Gulf News). Tuesdays are for families and ladies only, except public holidays.

Price: Not yet on sale. Last season: AED 25 weekday, AED 30 any day; under-3s, over-65s and People of Determination free. Rides and food extra.

Booking: Buy entry online to skip queues once tickets are released.

Heat: Evening-only outdoor venue; comfortable from late October.

Mixed ages: Strong. Rides split by age; food and shows for everyone.

Allow: 3 to 4 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Check the live price 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
globalvillage.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Dubai Miracle Garden (Season 15)

Al Barsha South, Dubai

Date to be announced

Huge floral sculptures and walkways built from millions of flowers. Short, colourful and very photogenic.

Status: Season 15 expected October 2026; exact date not announced at last check.

Price: Season 15 prices not yet published.

Booking: Online booking advised at weekends.

Heat: Outdoor with limited shade. Late afternoon is best.

Mixed ages: Good. Teenagers may find it short.

Allow: 1 to 2 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Check the live price 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 Outdoor
dubaimiraclegarden.com

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Dubai Butterfly Garden

Al Barsha South, Dubai

Open

Ten climate-controlled domes full of free-flying butterflies, next to the Miracle Garden. Stays open through summer.

Status: Open year-round (reported); published closing times differ, so check before an evening visit.

Price: Adults from AED 55 (Visit Dubai). Children reported at AED 45 for ages 3 to 12; under-3s free.

Booking: Walk in or book online.

Heat: Indoor, warm and humid by design.

Mixed ages: Limited. Best under 9. Short for older children unless paired with the Miracle Garden.

Allow: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours

Accessibility: Reported wheelchair and stroller accessible.

About AED 200 for the family reported 0–4 · 5–8 Indoor
visitdubai.com

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Al Mamzar Beach Park

Al Mamzar, Dubai

Open

Sheltered beaches, lawns, pools and barbecue areas in one gated park on the Sharjah border. Day chalets can be booked for a family base.

Status: Ladies-and-children-only arrangements apply on set days; sources differ on which, so check before a family visit with older boys.

Price: AED 5 per person (Dubai Public Parks portal); car entry reported at AED 30; under-2s free.

Booking: Walk in or buy on dubaipublicparks.ae; book chalets ahead.

Heat: Outdoor. May–September, go early morning or after 4pm.

Mixed ages: Strong. Calm water for small children, space for older ones.

Allow: 1.5 hours to a full afternoon

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Family admission AED 20 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
dubaipublicparks.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Mushrif National Park

Mushrif, Dubai

Open

Dubai’s shady woodland park, with long walking and cycling paths, play areas, horse riding and a treetop adventure course for older children (paid separately). The easiest place in the city to feel you have left it.

Status: Open.

Price: AED 3 per person (Dubai Public Parks portal); under-2s free. Adventure course and riding extra.

Booking: Walk in or buy on dubaipublicparks.ae.

Heat: More tree shade than most UAE parks, but still outdoor. Mornings and evenings May–September.

Mixed ages: Strong. Play areas for small children, bikes and the adventure course for older ones.

Allow: 1.5 to 4 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Family admission AED 12 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
dubaipublicparks.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Dubai Creek Park

Umm Hurair, Dubai

Open

A long green park beside the Creek with play areas, a cable car over the water and space for bikes. Children’s City, a hands-on science centre, sits inside the park.

Status: Open. Children’s City operating status to be confirmed.

Price: Park entry reported at AED 5 per person; under-2s free. Children’s City and cable car charged separately.

Booking: Walk in or buy on the Dubai Public Parks portal.

Heat: Outdoor. Evenings May–September.

Mixed ages: Good. Better for under-12s.

Allow: 1 to 3 hours

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

About AED 20 for the family reported 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 Outdoor
dubaipublicparks.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Dubai Fitness Challenge 2026 (Dubai Ride and Dubai Run)

Citywide, Dubai

31 Oct – 29 Nov

A month of free community sport. The headline days close Sheikh Zayed Road to traffic so families can cycle or walk it together, and fitness villages run free sessions across the city.

Status: 31 Oct to 29 Nov 2026 (Dubai Media Office). Dubai Ride Sun 1 Nov and Dubai Run Sun 22 Nov (The National).

Price: Free to take part (Dubai Media Office). Register in advance for each flagship event.

Booking: Required. Free registration for each flagship event.

Heat: Early-morning starts in November.

Mixed ages: Strong. Buggies on the walk route, bikes for older children.

Allow: 2 to 3 hours on event mornings

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed for 2026.

Free 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
dubaifitnesschallenge.com

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Dubai Fountain

Downtown Dubai, Dubai

Paused to 30 Sep

Short evening water-and-music shows on the lake below Burj Khalifa. A good way to end a Downtown evening.

Status: Shows suspended until 30 Sep 2026 for the Dubai mourning period (The National, 22 Sep 2026).

Price: Watching from the public promenade does not require a ticket; confirm current show times.

Booking: Not needed for promenade viewing.

Heat: Evening only. Crowded at weekends.

Mixed ages: Strong. Short enough for toddlers.

Allow: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Accessibility: Not yet confirmed.

Check the live price 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
thedubaimall.com

Checked 23 Sep 2026

OliOli children’s play museum

Al Quoz, Dubai

Open

A hands-on play museum with galleries built around air, water, cars and climbing nets, plus a dedicated gallery for under-2s. Sock-only zones; bring a change of clothes for the water gallery.

Status: Open.

Price: AED 129 online for one child plus one adult (official). Family passes from AED 249 for two children and two adults. Babies under 11 months free.

Booking: Book online in advance for the online price.

Heat: Indoor.

Mixed ages: Limited. Galleries best for ages 2 to 11 (official). Not for teenagers.

Allow: 2 to 3 hours (timed sessions)

Accessibility: Reported by an authorised ticket seller: lifts and wheelchair-accessible facilities, baby-changing and nursing rooms.

Family admission AED 258 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 Indoor
olioli.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026

Abra ride across Dubai Creek

Bur Dubai and Deira, Dubai

Open

A few minutes on a wooden water taxi between the old souks. Cheap, quick, and memorable for small children who have only known the new city.

Status: Open.

Price: Reported at AED 1 per person for the standard crossing. Confirm with RTA.

Booking: Walk up.

Heat: Outdoor. Evenings May–September.

Mixed ages: Strong. Short and novel for every age.

Allow: 1 to 2 hours with the souks

Accessibility: Boarding involves a step down into the boat; not step-free.

About AED 4 for the family reported 0–4 · 5–8 · 9–12 · 13+ Outdoor
rta.ae

Checked 23 Sep 2026