United Arab Emirates Family Travel Guide 2025
Everything families need to know for a successful trip to United Arab Emirates with kids.
The United Arab Emirates combines futuristic cities with ancient desert traditions, offering world-class luxury, innovative architecture, and rich cultural heritage. From Dubai's soaring Burj Khalifa to Abu Dhabi's stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the UAE delivers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Top Family Activities
The best experiences for families in United Arab Emirates.
Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark
The Middle East's most complete waterpark on Palm Jumeirah with 79 slides, a lazy river, and private beach access. The Leap of Faith slide and Shark Attack tunnel are highlights that older children and adults love.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
The world's largest indoor theme park in Dubai with Marvel, Cartoon Network, and Jurassic Park zones. The indoor air conditioning makes it perfect for summer visits when outdoor parks are too hot.
KidZania Dubai
An educational city where children aged 4-16 try real adult professions - pilot, doctor, firefighter, journalist - in a miniature city at Dubai Mall. An outstanding learning experience.
Ski Dubai (Mall of the Emirates)
Real snow and ski slopes inside a mall in the desert, with penguin encounters and snow play areas for younger children. The novelty factor is extraordinary and it provides welcome cool air in summer.
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
One of the world's largest suspended aquariums visible from the Dubai Mall for free, or pay to walk through the tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays. Cage snorkeling available for older children.
Al Mamzar Beach Park
Dubai's best family beach park with four clean beaches, outdoor pools, BBQ areas, chalets, and extensive grass lawns. Far less crowded than Jumeirah Beach with excellent facilities for young children.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
The world's fastest roller coaster (Formula Rossa at 240 km/h) alongside gentler family rides in an immersive Ferrari theme park. The Junior Grand Prix track for young children is a highlight.
Green Planet Dubai
An indoor tropical rainforest biodome in City Walk housing over 3,000 species including sloths, birds, reptiles, and tropical fish. Extraordinary educational experience in an otherworldly indoor environment.
Activities by Age Group
Find activities suited to your children's ages.
👶 Toddlers (0-3)
- Parks with shaded play areas
- Short, stroller-friendly walks
- Swimming pools at family hotels
- Animal encounters
🧒 Young Kids (4-7)
- Interactive museums
- Easy outdoor adventures
- Cultural shows and performances
- Market explorations
🧑 Older Kids (8-12)
- Historical site tours
- Adventure activities
- Cooking classes for kids
- Nature excursions
👦 Teens (13+)
- Adventure sports
- Photography walks
- Cultural immersion experiences
- Food tours
Complete Family Travel Guide
Family itineraries, packing checklists, and activity planning tips.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Where to stay with kids.
Atlantis The Palm
The ultimate family resort with Aquaventure Waterpark access included, Lost Chambers Aquarium, kids club, and 18 restaurants. Children's programs run daily and the beach is stunning.
Lapita Hotel (Dubai Parks)
Polynesian-themed hotel adjacent to Dubai Parks and Resorts theme parks offering family suites and included Riverland Dubai access. Shuttle to parks makes logistics effortless.
Rixos The Palm Dubai
All-inclusive ultra luxury resort on Palm Jumeirah with private beach, waterpark on property, extensive kids programming, and all-day dining included. Removes all planning stress for families.
Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai
A family-focused resort with a large waterpark on property including waterslides, lazy river, and beach access. One of Dubai's best value family resorts with themed design children love.
What to Look For
- Family rooms or connecting rooms
- Swimming pool (supervised)
- Restaurant with kids' menu
- Babysitting/kids' club services
- Safe, enclosed outdoor spaces
- Proximity to attractions
Kid-Friendly Dining
Where to eat with children.
Most malls and attractions have excellent nursing rooms and baby changing facilities - Dubai Mall's family facilities are exceptional
Strollers can be rented at major malls (AED 15-25) or larger attractions - bringing your own is not necessary
Children under specific heights often ride Dubai Metro for free - check RTA website for current thresholds
Many hotel restaurants offer early bird family dinner menus from 6PM-7PM with kids menu pricing
Logma (Box Park), Zaroob (Sheikh Zayed Road), and Operation Falafel offer kid-friendly Arabic food children often enjoy
Food courts at Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates have extensive international options children can choose from
Family Travel Tips
Make traveling with kids easier.
Plan indoor activities during summer (June-September) - outdoor heat can be dangerous for young children
Multi-day theme park passes offer significant savings if visiting Dubai Parks or multiple Yas Island parks
Download attraction apps before visiting - many UAE parks have virtual queuing to reduce waiting
Most UAE attractions are very stroller accessible with ramps and elevators throughout
Health & Safety
- Check recommended vaccinations for children
- Pack enough prescription medications
- Bring sun protection and stay hydrated
- Research nearest hospitals/clinics
- Get travel insurance covering the whole family
Plan Your Family Adventure
Get our complete family travel guide with kid-friendly itineraries, packing lists, and activity recommendations.
Download Family Guide