Dubai With Kids: Your Complete Family Holiday Guide

Dubai with kids transforms into a magical playground where fantasy becomes reality. This ultra-modern city offers families everything from indoor snow parks to underwater zoos, creating experiences that will leave your children wide-eyed with wonder. 

Whether splashing in water parks, meeting dolphins, or exploring indoor theme parks, Dubai provides a perfect blend of adventure and comfort that makes family travel truly exceptional.

Dubai Family Travel Guide

Dubai offers families an incredible mix of modern attractions and cultural experiences, from world-class theme parks to educational adventures. When planning your trip, choose family-friendly accommodations like Atlantis The Palm or Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which offer excellent facilities for children. 

The Best Season for Dubai Family Vacations

The most comfortable time to visit Dubai with children is during the cooler months from November to March, when temperatures range from a pleasant 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). These months provide ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s numerous attractions. 

It’s best to avoid the summer months of June to August, when temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), making outdoor activities challenging for families. For daily planning, schedule outdoor activities during morning hours and save indoor attractions for the afternoon heat.

Planning Your Dubai Family Trip Length

A 6 to 8-day trip offers the perfect duration to explore Dubai with children. This timeframe allows families to experience the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. A typical itinerary might include:

• A day to settle in after arrival
• Two days exploring theme parks like LEGOLAND and Motiongate
• A day for city sightseeing and beach time
• A desert safari adventure
• Time at Dubai Mall, including Kidzania and Burj Khalifa
• A visit to Dubai Miracle Garden and other family attractions
• A final day for last-minute shopping and departure.

Dubai Family Transport and Travel Tips

Dubai offers several convenient transportation options for families. The metro system stands out as a clean, efficient choice with dedicated family cabins and air-conditioning throughout. It connects major attractions and shopping areas, making it ideal for city exploration. Taxis are readily available and can be booked with child seats upon request.

For sightseeing, the hop-on hop-off bus provides a convenient way to visit major attractions while avoiding the heat. If you’re planning trips outside the city, consider renting a car, but make sure to arrange proper car seats. 

Suggested Read: Dubai Visa Photo Requirements for Indians

Understanding Dubai Tourist Visa Requirements

For Indian families planning a Dubai trip, here’s what you need to know about visas:

Requirements for Adults:

• Passport with a minimum 6 months’ validity
• A recent passport-sized photograph
• Return flight ticket
• Hotel booking confirmation
• Proof of sufficient funds (AED 5,000 for a two-month visa)
• Processing time: typically 48 hours

Special Requirements for Children:

• Valid visa required for minors under 18
• Parental authorization form
• NOC from parents if traveling with a guardian
• Both parents’ passport copies

Note: Indians with valid US, UK, or EU visas/residence permits can get a 14-day visa on arrival.

Must Read: Dubai Visa for Indians

Luxury Family Stays in Dubai

Here are some of the best family hotels to stay in Dubai with kids:

1. Atlantis, The Palm

An underwater wonderland where every day brings new adventures for families.

Kid-friendly amenities:

• Complimentary access to Aquaventure Waterpark
• The Lost Chambers Aquarium
• Kids Club for ages 3-12
• Teens Club for ages 13-17
• Family-friendly restaurants
• Dolphin encounters
• Babysitting services
• Kids’ pools

2. Jumeirah Beach Hotel

A wave-shaped icon offering endless entertainment for families.

Kid-friendly amenities:

• Complimentary access to Wild Wadi Waterpark
• Kids Club for ages 3-12
• Teens Club for ages 13-17
• Family-friendly beaches and pools
• Kids’ menus in restaurants
• Babysitting services
• Family rooms and suites
• Kids’ playground

3. Fairmont The Palm

A luxurious family retreat on the Palm Jumeirah’s trunk.

Kid-friendly amenities:

• Fairmont Falcons Kids’ Club
• Family-friendly pools
• Kids’ menus in restaurants
• Babysitting services
• Family rooms and suites
• Kids’ beach activities
• Kids’ spa treatments
• Teen programs

4. JA Beach Hotel

A beachfront haven for active families seeking adventure.

Kid-friendly amenities:

• CoolZone Kids Club
• ChillZone Teens Club
• Family-friendly pools and beach
• Kids’ playground
• Mini-golf course
• Equestrian center
• Water sports activities
• Family rooms and suites

5. Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts

A Polynesian paradise next to Dubai’s biggest theme parks.

Kid-friendly amenities:

• Direct access to Dubai Parks and Resorts
• Luna & Nova Kids and Teens Club
• Family-friendly pools with slides
• Kids’ splash pad
• Family rooms and suites
• Kids’ menus in restaurants
• Babysitting services
• Movie nights for kids

Dubai Adventures for Young Explorers

Dubai excels in providing some of the finest attractions for kids, from record-breaking theme parks to educational adventures that spark young imaginations.

1. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Located in The Dubai Mall, this magnificent facility houses over 33,000 aquatic animals representing more than 140 species. The 10-million-liter tank features a 48-meter walk-through tunnel with the world’s biggest acrylic viewing panel. 

Why kids will love this: Walking through the underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays creates unforgettable moments, while interactive touch tanks allow children to connect with marine life safely.

2. Legoland Dubai

Located within Dubai Parks and Resorts, this colorful paradise spans 15 million square feet and features over 40 rides and attractions spread across six themed lands – Factory, Imagination, Kingdoms, Adventure, Miniland, and Lego City. 

Why kids will love this: From building their own Lego creations to riding child-sized roller coasters, every experience here is tailored for young adventurers.

3. Kidzania

This 7,000-square-meter mini-city at The Dubai Mall lets children step into adult shoes through over 60 real-world role-playing activities. Complete with its own economy and currency (KidZos), children can work to earn money and then spend it on activities or at the department store. 

Why kids will love this: Playing grown-up roles like doctor, pilot, or chef in a realistic mini-city helps children learn while having endless fun.

4. Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden Spanning over 72,000 square meters, this botanical wonder showcases over 50 million flowers arranged in breathtaking designs. The garden features a 15-meter-tall floral clock, a life-sized Emirates A380 aircraft covered in living plants, and an entire Disney Avenue. 

Why kids will love this: Exploring whimsical displays like flower castles and cartoon character sculptures makes this one of the most unique outdoor adventures for kids in Dubai.

5. IMG Worlds of Adventure

This massive climate-controlled entertainment destination spans 1.5 million square feet with five epic adventure zones. The park features state-of-the-art rides and attractions, including the Velociraptor launch coaster, spine-tingling Haunted Hotel, and numerous 3D and 4D experiences. 

Why kids will love this: Meeting Marvel superheroes and Cartoon Network characters while experiencing thrilling rides makes this an unforgettable adventure.

6. Dubai Safari Park

This 119-hectare wildlife park houses over 2,500 animals from around the world. The park is divided into distinct zones representing different geographic regions – Arabian Desert, Asian Village, African Village, and Explorer Village. 

Why kids will love this: Getting close to exotic animals and learning about wildlife conservation creates meaningful family memories.

7. OliOli

This cutting-edge facility spans 45,000 square feet across two floors, featuring over 40 exhibits designed in collaboration with artists, educators, and developmental psychologists. Each gallery focuses on different aspects of learning – from physics and engineering to art and music. 

Why kids will love this: Eight galleries of hands-on exhibits encourage children to explore, create, and discover through play.

Suggested Read: Top 24 Beaches in Dubai for You To Explore!

Dining in Dubai with Kids

Dining out with children in Dubai is a delight, with many restaurants catering to families.

1. Rainforest Cafe

A jungle-themed restaurant with animatronic animals and regular thunder shows adds excitement to family meals. The extensive kids’ menu and interactive environment make dining an adventure, while parents enjoy international cuisine.

2. Reem Al Bawadi

Traditional Middle Eastern restaurant offering spacious family seating and dedicated play areas in select locations. Kids can enjoy mini versions of Arabic favourites while parents savour authentic local cuisine.

3. Carluccio’s

Family-friendly Italian restaurant providing colouring activities and a specially designed children’s menu. The casual atmosphere welcomes families, and high chairs are readily available.

4. The Cheesecake Factory

Spacious American restaurant with booster seats and a comprehensive kids’ menu. The lively atmosphere means children can be themselves while everyone enjoys generous portions.

5. Sumo Sushi & Bento

Casual Japanese dining with kid-friendly bento boxes and dedicated children’s options. Some locations feature small play areas, making sushi accessible for young diners.

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FAQs

How to plan Dubai with kids?

Start by choosing the right season (November to March) for comfortable temperatures and researching hotels near your preferred activities. In Dubai, create a mix of indoor and outdoor kids’ activities, and consider purchasing combination tickets for multiple attractions to save money.

What are the best seasonal fun for kids in Dubai?

Winter brings perfect weather for outdoor adventures for kids in Dubai, including beach activities and desert safaris. Summer is ideal for exploring indoor theme parks, aquariums, and Dubai’s many indoor play areas.

Which month is best for kids in Dubai?

January and February offer ideal temperatures for enjoying both indoor and outdoor activities. These months allow families to experience Dubai’s parks and playgrounds in Dubai comfortably while still enjoying air-conditioned indoor attractions.

How many days in Dubai are enough?

A 5-7 day trip allows families to experience the best cultural experiences for kids in Dubai and major attractions. This duration provides enough time to enjoy both theme parks and cultural activities while maintaining a relaxed pace suitable for children.

Is it worth it to go to Dubai with kids?

Dubai offers an incredible array of fun things to do with kids in Dubai that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. The city’s safety, cleanliness, and focus on family entertainment make it an outstanding destination for families.