KidZania
Situated inside Dubai Mall, this award-winning concept has been designed as an ‘adult experience’ scaled down in size. KidZania comes complete with paved streets, buildings and a functioning economy. Watch the kids play grown-up, taking on jobs that range from firefighters, chefs and doctors to radio jockeys, pilots or even perfumers creating their very own scents. The KidZania Space Centre is another highlight here. Designed to resemble a real-life space centre, children can learn more about astronauts and the universe with the help of virtual reality and simulated attractions.
Address: Dubai Mall, Financial Center Rd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 448 5222
Dubai Parks and Resorts
Dubai Parks and Resorts offers children – and the young at heart – theme park thrills galore at Motiongate and Legoland. Take a break from roller coasters and waterslides at Riverland, an entertainment and dining boulevard, with food options to suit every taste. While here, don’t miss the chance to bounce into some lively activities at JumpX, the world’s largest inflatable park, while kids will also love the space-themed indoor playworld Neon Galaxy. To make this your most fun-filled family holiday yet, stay inside the parks at either Lapita Hotel, a Polynesian-themed luxury resort, or at the Legoland Dubai Resort – both are situated right in the heart of the action.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 800 2629464
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Go under the sea with your children at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, located at Dubai Mall. With more than 33,000 aquatic animals including sand tiger sharks, there is plenty to keep the little ones entertained. It’s an all-encompassing experience as you walk through a tunnel between the aquarium. Or if you want to get up close and personal with the fish, try the glass-bottom boat ride.
Address: Dubai Mall, Financial Center Rd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 800 382246255
IMG Worlds of Adventure
A day at IMG Worlds of Adventure, one of Dubai’s most exciting theme parks, is sure to make the kids smile. Comfy footwear is a good idea – there’s 28 football fields worth of space filled with attractions for the whole family to try. Thrilling rides here bring your favourite characters to life, from familiar friends like The Powerpuff Girls to the heroes of Marvel, making it a must-visit stop.
Address: City of Arabia, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 403 8888
Play DXB
Play DXB, an indoor amusement park in Dubai Mall, combines augmented and virtual reality to stunning effect. Try the fantastic Burj Drop experience, where you’ll propel down the side of the record-breaking Burj Khalifa. If that’s too tame for teens, try and survive a zombie attack at The Walking Dead Outbreak VR game, or navigate a spaceship to safety. Younger children and families also have plenty to enjoy. Best of all, entry is free, with prices for each experience starting from just AED 15.
Address: Dubai Mall, Financial Center Rd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 800 382246255
Aquaventure Waterpark
Kids and adults alike are guaranteed an adrenaline rush at Aquaventure Waterpark in Atlantis, The Palm. Brave vacationers should check out the park’s thrill rides, one of which plummets you into a tube that twists through a shark lagoon, while another allows you to experience the thrills of cliff jumping. Little ones can keep cool at the tamer rides and Splashers Children’s Play Area. And when it’s time for a break from all the action, meander along the Palm’s calm waterways or catch a spot of sun on the private beach.
Address: Atlantis The Palm, Crescent Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 426 0000
GLITCH
An entertainment destination in Al Ghurair Centre, GLITCH features over 30 different indoor games for all ages. Take on a ninja warrior-style course, zoom down a 10m-high slide or defy gravity on their climbing walls, there’s something for everyone. Gather the family for a round of bowling or buckle up for SkySurf, the city’s first roller glider experience where you can ‘float’ around the venue.
Address: Level 2, Al Ghurair Centre, Deira, Dubai
Phone: +971 50 6953797
Bounce Dubai
Kids (and adults) are in store for some challenging fun on over 100 interconnected trampolines at Bounce Dubai, one of the most-visited attractions in Al Quoz. Little ones can somersault their heart out at Mini Bounce while older children bounce off The Wall. The Slam Dunk gives everyone the chance to practise their basketball skills while getting some air, and the dodgeball court sets the stage for a thrilling, high-octane game. As an added bonus, everyone is guaranteed to sleep well afterwards.
Address: Building #32, 4B Street, Al Quoz 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +97143049333
Air Maniax
Energetic tots will fall in love with Air Maniax – a huge indoor inflatable adventure park in Al Quoz. With over 15 activities that the whole family can get involved in, you’ll never be bored. The park features a dedicated inflatable arena, a ‘Warrior Assault’ obstacle course, zip line and even laser tag. Toddlers have their own dedicated play zone. Serious about fun and games? The park uses high-tech wristbands so scores are recorded automatically, and pictures and videos can be instantly uploaded to social media for bragging rights.
Address: 16/Street 1, Al Quoz Ind, Area 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 348 8981
Dolphin Bay
Splash alongside one of nature’s friendliest mammals at Dolphin Bay in Atlantis, The Palm. Swimmers of all ages and capabilities are encouraged to connect with the sociable sea dwellers. It’s one of the most sophisticated dolphin habitats in the world, aimed at educating visitors about the wild population and the importance of preserving their natural environment. At the end of the day, don’t be surprised if the kids claim they’ve made a new best friend.
Address: Atlantis, The Palm, Crescent Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 426 1030
