Dubai is one of the easiest and most rewarding cities in the world for a family holiday. It is safe and spotlessly clean, getting around is simple, and the range of attractions is enormous, from the world's tallest building and giant aquariums to theme parks, water parks and a real indoor ski slope. Just as importantly, so many of the best things to do are indoors and air conditioned, which means the fierce summer heat never has to spoil the fun.
This guide covers the best things to do in Dubai with kids of every age, the top theme parks and water parks, where families should stay, how to beat the heat, and a simple day by day plan. It is written with travellers from Nepal and the Nepali diaspora in mind, but the practical advice works for any family.
Is Dubai a good destination for a family holiday?
Yes. Dubai is consistently rated one of the safest big cities in the world, with very low crime, excellent healthcare and a culture that genuinely welcomes children. Public transport is modern and stroller friendly, malls have dedicated family and baby facilities, and almost every major attraction is designed with families in mind.
The biggest advantage is choice. On a single trip you can take children up the Burj Khalifa, walk through a shark tunnel, ride roller coasters, play in a water park, sandboard in the desert and build a city of LEGO, all within a short taxi or Metro ride. Because a huge share of these are indoors, Dubai works as a family destination in any season.
What are the best things to do in Dubai with kids?
Start with the attractions that suit the widest range of ages and interests.
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Inside The Dubai Mall, this is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world. Children can walk through a 48 metre tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays, and the Underwater Zoo upstairs adds penguins, otters and crocodiles. It is a reliable favourite even for toddlers.
The Green Planet
A biodome in City Walk recreating a tropical rainforest, home to sloths, birds, reptiles and thousands of plants across four levels. It is compact, fully indoor and ideal for younger children and a hot afternoon.
KidZania
Also in The Dubai Mall, KidZania is a child sized city where kids role play real jobs, from pilot and doctor to firefighter, earning play money as they go. It keeps school age children happily busy for hours.
Dubai Frame and Museum of the Future
The 150 metre golden Dubai Frame in Zabeel Park has a glass floored sky bridge with old Dubai on one side and the modern skyline on the other. The striking Museum of the Future nearby is more interactive than a traditional museum and appeals to curious older children and teens.
At the Top, Burj Khalifa
Taking the high speed lift up the world's tallest building to the observation decks is a thrill for the whole family, and the views over the coast and desert are unforgettable, especially near sunset.
Which theme parks and water parks are best for families in Dubai?
Dubai is a theme park capital, with something for thrill seekers and little ones alike. Most sit a short drive from the city or out at Dubai Parks and Resorts on the road towards Abu Dhabi.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
One of the largest indoor theme parks on the planet, fully air conditioned, with zones themed around Marvel super heroes, Cartoon Network characters and dinosaurs. It mixes big roller coasters for teens with gentle rides for young children, making it a strong all weather choice.
Motiongate and Legoland at Dubai Parks and Resorts
Motiongate is a Hollywood themed park with rides based on popular animated and action films, while the neighbouring Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park are built specifically for children aged roughly two to twelve. The three sit side by side, so families can combine them over a day or two.
Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis
On Palm Jumeirah, Aquaventure is one of the biggest water parks in the world, with record breaking slides, a lazy river, a children's play area and the chance to see marine life. Older children and teenagers love the tallest slides, while toddlers have their own splash zones.
Wild Wadi and Legoland Water Park
Wild Wadi, beside the Burj Al Arab in Jumeirah, is a classic, well run water park with rides for all ages and a wave pool. Legoland Water Park is the gentlest option, purpose built for younger children.
| Park | Type | Best for ages | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMG Worlds of Adventure | Indoor theme park | 4 and up | City of Arabia |
| Motiongate | Theme park | 6 and up | Dubai Parks and Resorts |
| Legoland Dubai | Theme park | 2 to 12 | Dubai Parks and Resorts |
| Aquaventure | Water park | All ages | Palm Jumeirah |
| Wild Wadi | Water park | All ages | Jumeirah |
| Legoland Water Park | Water park | 2 to 12 | Dubai Parks and Resorts |
What are the best outdoor and seasonal attractions for families?
When the weather is pleasant, Dubai's outdoor attractions are just as memorable, and several are seasonal, so check the dates before you plan.
- Dubai Miracle Garden: a vast display of millions of flowers arranged into sculptures and arches, usually open from around November to May.
- Global Village: a huge open air culture and entertainment park with pavilions from dozens of countries, fairground rides and street food, running roughly October to April.
- Dubai Safari Park: a modern, well spaced wildlife park where families can see African and Asian animals in large enclosures, best in the cooler months.
- Beaches: JBR beach and Kite Beach have shallow, gently shelving water, splash areas, playgrounds and easy food, perfect for a relaxed family morning.
- Desert safari: most operators offer family friendly afternoon safaris with gentle dune drives, camel rides, sandboarding and a barbecue dinner with shows under the stars.
How do you handle the Dubai heat with children?
From June to September, daytime temperatures often reach 40 to 45 degrees Celsius, so the golden rule is to plan mornings and evenings outdoors and the hottest hours indoors. Malls, aquariums, indoor theme parks and the Green Planet are lifesavers in summer, and every taxi, bus and Metro carriage is strongly air conditioned.
Whatever the season, carry water, use high factor sunscreen and hats, and schedule a midday break. Water parks are a smart way to stay cool and active at once. In the cooler months from November to March the whole city opens up, and outdoor attractions, beaches and desert trips are at their best.
Where should families stay in Dubai?
The best family bases put the beach, safe walkways and food close together. Dubai Marina and JBR lead the list, with a free public beach, a traffic free promenade, splash parks and dozens of casual restaurants, all linked by the tram. Al Barsha is a practical, good value choice beside the Mall of the Emirates and Ski Dubai. For a resort holiday, the Palm Jumeirah hotels often bundle in water park and aquarium access, keeping children entertained without leaving the property.
For families and groups, a serviced apartment can be more comfortable and economical than two hotel rooms, giving you a kitchen, a washing machine and more space. Look in Dubai Marina, Business Bay and Jumeirah Village Circle for the widest choice.
How do you get around Dubai with kids?
Dubai is very easy to navigate with children. The driverless Dubai Metro is clean, cheap and stroller friendly, with a dedicated Women and Children carriage on every train. Fares run roughly AED 3 to AED 7.50 with a rechargeable Nol card, and the Red Line links the airport, Downtown and the Marina. The Dubai Tram and Palm Monorail cover the coast, and the wooden abra boats across Dubai Creek cost just AED 1 and double as a fun mini cruise.
Taxis are metered, plentiful and air conditioned, and family sized options are available through the Careem and Uber apps. If you are hiring a car, note that child seats are required for young children, so book them in advance.
What is the best time to visit Dubai with family?
The most comfortable months are November to March, when the weather is warm and pleasant, beaches and outdoor parks are at their best, and the seasonal attractions like Global Village and the Miracle Garden are open. Summer, from June to August, is very hot but comes with lower hotel rates and quieter attractions, and works well if you focus on indoor parks, aquariums and water parks. School holiday periods are busier and pricier, so book popular parks ahead.
Where can families eat in Dubai?
Eating out with children is effortless in Dubai. Malls have enormous food courts with every cuisine, most restaurants offer high chairs and children's menus, and halal food is the norm rather than the exception. Familiar South Asian food is everywhere, and Nepali and Indian restaurants cluster in Bur Dubai, Deira and Karama, which is reassuring for younger or fussier eaters. Fresh juices and mocktails are available everywhere, and tap water is safe desalinated water, though most families drink bottled.
A simple four to five day Dubai family itinerary
This flexible plan balances big sights, water fun and rest without rushing:
- Day 1: The Dubai Mall, Dubai Aquarium and the evening Dubai Fountain show, with dinner at Souk Al Bahar.
- Day 2: At the Top of the Burj Khalifa in the morning, then the Green Planet or KidZania in the afternoon to escape the heat.
- Day 3: A full day at a theme or water park such as IMG Worlds of Adventure or Aquaventure.
- Day 4: A relaxed beach morning at JBR or Kite Beach, then a family friendly desert safari in the late afternoon.
- Day 5: Global Village or the Dubai Miracle Garden in season, or the Dubai Frame and a final shopping stop.
Practical tips for families from Nepal and the diaspora
Direct flights from Kathmandu to Dubai take about four and a half hours, a manageable journey with children. The currency is the UAE dirham, cards are accepted everywhere, and a large, friendly Nepali community means home comforts are never far away. Pack light layers for the strong indoor air conditioning, keep everyone hydrated, and build in downtime between big days so the trip stays fun rather than exhausting. Whether you travel on a Nepali passport or another passport as part of the diaspora, only the visa step differs; families are welcomed just the same.
If you would like the hotels, tickets and transfers organised into one smooth trip, browse our Dubai holiday packages and choose the plan that suits your family.
What are the best things to do in Dubai with teenagers?
Teenagers are often the hardest to please, but Dubai delivers. The big roller coasters at IMG Worlds of Adventure and Motiongate, the tallest slides at Aquaventure, and the giant Ain Dubai observation wheel on Bluewaters Island all appeal to older kids. Adventurous teens enjoy skydiving simulators, indoor skiing and snowboarding at Ski Dubai, and dune bashing on a desert safari. For screen loving teenagers, the interactive Museum of the Future and virtual reality parks give them plenty to photograph and share. A sunset trip up the Burj Khalifa and an evening at Global Village round out a teen friendly trip.
What are the best free and low cost things to do with kids in Dubai?
Dubai has a reputation for being expensive, but many family highlights cost little or nothing:
- The Dubai Fountain: free water and light shows every evening on the lake by the Burj Khalifa.
- JBR and Kite Beach: free public beaches with playgrounds, splash areas and gentle water.
- Abra creek crossing: a mini boat ride across Dubai Creek for just AED 1 per person.
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: free to wander among restored wind tower houses and art cafes.
- Window shopping and play areas: the malls are free to explore and full of fountains, aquarium views and seasonal displays.
- City Walk and The Beach promenades: free to stroll, with street performers and open spaces to run around.
Mixing these free experiences with one or two paid attractions each day keeps a family trip affordable without cutting the fun.
Which Dubai attractions suit which age group?
Matching attractions to your children's ages makes planning simpler. Use this quick guide:
| Age group | Best suited attractions |
|---|---|
| Toddlers (0 to 4) | Green Planet, Dubai Aquarium, Legoland Water Park, JBR beach, abra rides |
| Young children (5 to 9) | KidZania, Legoland Dubai, Wild Wadi, Dubai Safari Park, Miracle Garden |
| Older children (10 to 12) | IMG Worlds of Adventure, Aquaventure, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, desert safari |
| Teenagers (13 and up) | Motiongate, Ain Dubai, Ski Dubai, Museum of the Future, VR parks |
Where else can families cool off and relax?
Beyond the big water parks, Dubai has plenty of gentle ways to keep children happy and cool. Hotel and resort pools are excellent, and many day passes let non guests use them. Ski Dubai inside the Mall of the Emirates offers snow play, tobogganing and even a chance to meet penguins, a novelty in the desert. Indoor play centres and trampoline parks are dotted across the malls, and the Dubai Ice Rink in The Dubai Mall is a fun break from the heat. For a calmer afternoon, the Dubai Garden Glow and the aquariums give tired families a shaded, air conditioned reset.
What should families pack for Dubai?
A little preparation makes the trip smoother:
- Light, breathable clothing plus one warmer layer for strong indoor air conditioning.
- High factor sunscreen, hats and sunglasses for everyone.
- Swimwear and water shoes for the beaches and water parks.
- A refillable water bottle per person to stay hydrated in the heat.
- Modest outfits with covered shoulders and knees for mosques and some cultural sites.
- Any regular medicines, as well as basic first aid for small scrapes.
With sensible packing and a relaxed pace, families of all ages find Dubai one of the smoothest and most exciting trips they can take.
How can you make Dubai theme park days go smoothly with kids?
A few simple habits turn a park day from exhausting to easy. Arrive at opening time, when queues are shortest and the weather is coolest, and head to the most popular rides first. Check height and age requirements before you travel so no child is disappointed at a barrier. Many parks sell fast track or combo tickets that cover several attractions, which can save both money and queuing if you plan two or more parks. Pack a small bag with water, snacks, sunscreen and a change of clothes for water rides, and agree a meeting point in case anyone gets separated. Building in a mid afternoon rest, either back at the hotel or in a shaded cafe, keeps younger children cheerful into the evening.
Should you visit Dubai with family in summer or winter?
Both seasons work, but they offer very different trips. Winter, from November to March, brings warm, pleasant days ideal for beaches, desert safaris and outdoor parks like Global Village and the Miracle Garden, though hotels are busier and dearer. Summer, from June to August, is very hot but noticeably cheaper, and the city is built for it, with indoor theme parks, aquariums, water parks and malls that stay comfortable all day. Families who prioritise the beach and outdoor adventure should aim for winter, while those focused on rides and water parks can enjoy summer for less.
How do you keep a Dubai family trip relaxed and enjoyable?
The most common mistake families make in Dubai is trying to do everything. With so many attractions, it is tempting to cram in three or four a day, which quickly tires out children and adults alike. A better approach is one big attraction plus one relaxed activity each day, with a pool or beach break in between. Group attractions by area to cut travel time, so a Dubai Mall day covers the aquarium, KidZania and the fountain in one place, while a Palm Jumeirah day pairs a beach morning with Aquaventure. Leave a little unplanned time for the things children unexpectedly love, whether that is feeding the fish, riding the abra again or simply splashing in the hotel pool. A slower, well chosen itinerary almost always makes for happier memories than a packed one.
With its safety, easy transport, endless indoor options and warm welcome, Dubai remains one of the best value big adventures a family can share, and a firm favourite for travellers from Nepal looking for their first big international trip together.
What are the must see attractions for a first family visit to Dubai?
If it is your family's first trip and time is limited, focus on the icons that appeal across all ages. The Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall combine sightseeing, the aquarium and the evening fountain in one easy area. One theme or water park, chosen to match your children's ages, gives you a full day of excitement. A desert safari offers a taste of the landscape beyond the skyscrapers, with camel rides and sandboarding that children remember for years. Finally, a beach morning at JBR provides the relaxed downtime every family needs. Together these four give a first visit variety, wonder and rest without overwhelming anyone.
What makes Dubai easier than other big cities for families?
Several things set Dubai apart for family travel. English is widely spoken, so signage, menus and staff are easy to deal with. The city is compact enough that most attractions are within 30 to 45 minutes of each other, and the roads and Metro are modern and reliable. Public toilets, baby changing rooms and nursing areas are clean and common, especially in malls. Standards of safety and hygiene are high, medical care is excellent if anyone falls ill, and the strong Nepali and South Asian community means familiar food and a friendly face are never far away. For parents used to juggling logistics on holiday, Dubai simply removes a lot of the usual stress, which is a big part of why it has become such a popular family destination from Nepal.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Dubai with family
Is Dubai suitable for a family holiday with young children?
Yes. Dubai is very safe and clean, transport is stroller friendly, and there is a huge range of attractions for young children, from aquariums and the Green Planet to Legoland and gentle water parks. Many are indoors, so the heat is easy to manage.
What are the best things to do in Dubai with kids?
Top picks include the Dubai Aquarium, KidZania, the Green Planet, the Burj Khalifa observation decks, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Aquaventure Waterpark, a family desert safari and the beaches at JBR and Kite Beach.
Which is the best water park in Dubai for families?
Aquaventure at Atlantis is the biggest and most varied, with slides for teens and splash zones for toddlers. Wild Wadi in Jumeirah is another excellent all ages choice, and Legoland Water Park is best for young children.
How can we cope with the heat when visiting Dubai with children?
Plan outdoor activities for early morning and evening and keep the hottest hours for indoor attractions, malls and water parks. Carry water, use sunscreen and hats, and visit in the cooler months of November to March if you can.
Is the Dubai Metro good for families?
Yes. It is clean, cheap, air conditioned and stroller friendly, with a dedicated Women and Children carriage. The Red Line connects the airport, Downtown and the Marina, and a Nol card makes fares simple.
What is the best time of year to visit Dubai with family?
November to March offers the most comfortable weather for beaches and outdoor parks, and the seasonal attractions are open. Summer is hot but cheaper and works well for indoor and water parks.
How many days do you need in Dubai with kids?
Four to five days is ideal, allowing time for the main sights, a theme or water park, a beach day and a desert safari without overloading the schedule.
Is it easy to find halal and familiar food for children in Dubai?
Very easy. Halal food is standard, malls have vast food courts, and Nepali and Indian restaurants are common in Bur Dubai, Deira and Karama, so familiar meals are always close by.
Are there family friendly desert safaris in Dubai?
Yes. Most operators run afternoon and evening safaris designed for families, with gentle dune drives, camel rides, sandboarding, henna and a barbecue dinner with live shows. You can request a milder drive for young children.
Do children need visas and what documents should we carry?
Visa rules depend on your nationality, so check the requirement for each family member before you travel. Carry passports, return tickets, hotel details and any child seat or medication you need. Whatever passport you hold, families are welcomed the same way once you arrive.
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