50 cool things to do in Dubai for less than Dhs50

Who said Dubai has to be expensive?
There's plenty of things to do in the city that won't break the bank, you just need to know where to find them.
Whether it's seeing the sights, making the most of some great dining deals or getting active, being frugal can actually be pretty fun.
If you're searching for a day out on a budget, here are our top for things to do for under Dhs50 .
Attractions
Admire Burj Khalifa
Credit: Burj Khalifa
It's the tallest building in the world with a staggering 160 floors and looms at 828 metres high. The observation deck – At The Top – and restaurant, At.mosphere, are a little out of our Dhs50 budget for this one, but a pint of the 'tap of the month' at Tap House is only Dhs35, and the terrace comes with incredible views looking up at the Burj.
Cost: Dhs38.
Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, burjkhalifa.ae. The Tap House, Mon-Thu noon-midnight; Fri-Sat noon-1am. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, thetaphouse.ae (04 425 0009).
Bike around Dubai Marina
There are 7km of pathways to explore around Dubai Marina, and if you hire a Careem bike for Dhs29 a day, you can whizz around that pretty rapidly.
It's an ideal place to people watch and the views are super by day or night. A top way to get some exercise, and you'll get a bit of a breeze as you cycle too – it's a win win.
Cost: Dhs29 (day pass).
Dubai Marina.
Explore Waterfront Market
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If you're into cooking, shopping or just the whiff of fresh fish, Waterfront Market is a top spot to take a mosey along to. We could spend hours admiring the various catches.
Plus it's free to browse around even if you're not shopping (and there's no charge for dinner inspiration, though you'll get that for sure).
Cost: Free. Or market price for your catch.
Open daily 24/7, Al Khaleej Road, waterfrontmarket.ae (800 627 538).
See the city from The Dubai Frame
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This cool vantage point at Zabeel Park allows visitors with a head for heights to see the city's past, present and future in a one-hour tour, with unique views of 'old' and 'new' Dubai from a 150-metre-high sky glass bridge.
Don't forget your camera phone as you'll want to capture the super views. And, our cover star comes in exactly on budget at Dhs50. Ta da.
Cost: Dhs50.
Open daily 9am-9pm, Zabeel Park, thedubaiframe.com (800900).
Stroll around Palm Jumeirah
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Lace up the trainers, pack your water bottle and take a stroll around the boardwalk to enjoy the sights. Be a tourist and take a snap of Atlantis while you're there, too.
Why not hop on the monorail and leave the car at home, too? It's Dhs30 for a round-trip and you'll get pretty views while you enjoy the ride.
Cost: Dhs30.
Palm Jumeirah, palmmonorail.com.
Stand under the Al Wasl Plaza projection show at Expo City
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You'll have surely seen this incredible dome on Instagram, but if you haven't witnessed it in person yet, the light show is a spectacular sight.
The huge steel structure has the largest 360-degree projection surface in the world, and runs a light show every day from sunset until midnight.
One of the most magical things to do for under Dhs50, take a stroll underneath swirling shapes and lights, take a few photos and enjoy the magic.
Open daily, show runs from 5pm-midnight. Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai, expocitydubai.com (04 555 2030).
Stroll along The Beach
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The Walk and neighbouring al fresco district The Beach at Dubai's JBR were designed to make the most of strolls.
Offering some gorgeous views of Ain Dubai and Bluewaters, there's some great spots to take a seat and chill out.
People watching is prime here, plus there are loads of things to eat from ice cream to pizzas.
Cost: Free.
The Beach, JBR, thebeach.ae (04 3173999).
Take a snap of Dubai Opera
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Since opening in 2016 this stunning dhow-shaped building has been a hub for theatre, musicals, operas, ballet and comedians.
Tickets fall out of budget, but it's worth heading along to admire the building, and having a wander around Burj Park while you're there.
Cost: Free.
Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, dubaiopera.com (04 440 8888).
Try Topgolf
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The entertainment venue at Emirates Golf Club is home to 90 climate-controlled hitting bays in a huge three-storey site. General play starts at Dhs140 per hour, per bay and you can have up to six in a bay – meaning that's around Dhs22 each.
Your bay hire will include unlimited balls and the use of clubs, so you can have as many goes as you like to get it right, which is lucky if you have our skill level.
Cost: Dhs24 (based on six splitting a Dhs140 bay).
Open Mon-Fri 10am-2am, Sat-Sun 9am-2am. Emirates Golf Club, Emirates Hills 2. topgolfdubai.ae (04 371 9999).
Walk across the bridge to Bluewaters
This is a super stroll, and there's a top observation spot mid-way around too for that perfect shot of JBR, the Palm and Ain Dubai. Keep on going until you reach the other side and take a pic under the shadow of the world's largest ferris wheel, too.
Cost: Free.
Bluewaters Island, JBR.
Watch the skiers at Ski Dubai
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Granted a lesson at Ski Dubai won't fall into this category, and nor will a trip to the Alps. However, you can head to the mall and take a seat at the Cheesecake Factory, as its windows look right out onto the slopes.
Grab a slice of the Godiva chocolate cheesecake and cosy up in one of the window booths to get that wintery feeling for just over Dhs30.
Cost: Dhs32.50
Open Mon-Thurs 10am-11pm, Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha 1, thecheesecakefactoryme.com (04 419 0497).
Window shop at Dubai Mall
The world's largest mall is housed in Dubai, and if you're yet to visit, well, get ready to get lost, but also to marvel at the sheer size of everything. You're on a budget, so avoid Dior, Chanel et al, but there's no harm in window shopping, right?
Plus while you're there, you can take in the sights of Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, as one side of it is free to view. Stop off at one of the coffee shops while you're there and make sure you bag a place to see the free Fountain show.
Cost: Free.
Open Mon-Fri 10am-midnight, Fri-Sun 10am-1am, Downtown Dubai, thedubaimall.com (800 382246255).
Arts and culture
Explore art at XVA Gallery
Credit: XVA Gallery
Specialising in contemporary art from the Arab world, Iran and the Subcontinent, XVA has done more to champion both established and up-and-coming talent from the UAE and beyond than most galleries could even dream of.
Exhibitions are on regular rotation so you're bound to find something new. Head over at breakfast time and treat yourself to a paratha omelette with tomato, feta and parsley for Dhs40, too.
Cost: Dhs37.
Open daily 7am-10pm, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Bur Dubai, xvagallery.com (04 353 5383).
Grab a bargain at the Textile Souk
Credit: Supplied
Across the Dubai Creek from its Gold and Spice sisters is the Textile Souk in Bur Dubai, home to a myriad of traders selling wonderfully colourful fabrics along with all the accessories a fashion designer could want.
There are plenty of trinkets too, so get ready to browse and find something cool to take home.
Cost: Free .
Open Mon-Sat 6am-2pm & 4pm-9pm,57 Ali Bin Abi Taleb St, Al Fahidi (050 768 8512).
Go on a road trip to Sharjah
Credit: Supplied
Just down the road in the neighbouring Emirate there's absolutely heaps to explore when it comes to culture. Sharjah Art Foundation has loads of exhibitions and programmes to discover, most of which are free.
And if you want to try something totally different visit the Rain Room, where you can splash around, without getting wet. It's just Dhs25 to visit, so you can treat a mate, too.
Cost: Dhs25.
Rain Room, open Sat-Thurs 9am-9pm, Fri 4pm-9pm, Sharjah, rainroom.sharjahart.org. (06 561 0095).
Hop on an abra across the Creek
You might think a boat ride is out of your budget, and you'd be right. Partying on a yacht is going to set you back a bit, but not this one.
One of the best things to do for under Dhs50, hop aboard an abra across Dubai Creek and not only will you get to take in the sights, smells and sounds of Old Dubai, it's pocket-friendly too. For just Dhs2 you can cross the Creek and explore both sides of the water, from the souks to the museums.
Cost: Dhs2.
Deira / Bur Dubai, rta.ae.
Learn something new at Jameel Arts Centre
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This thoroughly funky building on the Jaddaf Waterfront is original in its programming and forward-thinking in its research. Fiercely independent, it supports artists from the MENA region like few other establishments. And you can too by popping along and immersing yourself in this cracking creative centre.
Cost: Free.
Open Mon 10am-8pm, Wed-Thurs 10am-8pm, Fri noon-8pm, Sat-Sun 10am-8pm, Jaddaf Waterfront , jameelartscentre.org (04 873 9800).
Get thinking at the Foundry Art Space
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The art space offers you an entire evening of activities that you don't need to spend a penny on. From thought-provoking open exhibitions to talks and film screenings, there are even cool elevated pods to curl up in with a good book.
The displays change on a monthly rotation, so you can head along every few weeks if you want to see something different.
Open daily, 10am-10pm. Boulevard Crescent, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, foundry-downtowndubai.ae (04 367 3696).
Turn some pages at Mohammed bin Rashid Library
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Sometimes it's a treat to have a quieter day, but you don't have to be at home to do it. If you want to slow down the pace, why not spend a few hours browsing the books at Mohammed bin Rashid Library. Spread over seven floors, there's over 1 million books waiting to be read, from atlases and religious manuscripts to poetry and literature.
Once you're done exploring, sit down, flick through a few pages and watch the evening disappear as you get lost in a story.
While entry is free, you do have to book a timed entry slot before your visit.
Free. Mon-Thurs, 9am-9pm, Fri, 2pm-9pm, Sat, 9am-9pm, Sun, closed. Al Jaddaf, mbrl.ae (04 222 2025).
See some art at Alserkal Avenue
Arguably the hippest and artiest part of town, Alserkal Avenue in Dubai's Al Quoz is abundant with art galleries, performance spaces and some rather wonderful culinary delights. This former industrial estate has swapped engine oil for oil on canvas and is a permanent hive of artistic activity.
There are loads of free things to do in this area of Dubai, from gallery exhibitions to browsing through shops. Why not treat yourself to breakfast while you're there at Nightjar? A stack of blueberry and ricotta pancakes will set you back Dhs48 and your stomach will thank you.
Cost: Dhs48.
Al Quoz, alserkalavenue.ae (04 333 3464). Nightjar, open daily 9am-10pm, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, nightjar.coffee (050 365 1120).
Sightsee at Souk Madinat Jumeirah
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This modern souk is as tricky to find your way around as any old-school one, and it's a top place to take tourists. It's free to wander around and you'll be treated to super views of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and the sparkling Madinat Waterways.
There are some perfect photo opps, plus in winter there are plenty of places to stop and grab a coffee or snack.
Cost: Free.
Open daily 10am-11pm, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, jumeirah.com (04 366 8888).
Soak in the smells at the Spice Souk
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We love this Old Dubai souk. It smells fantastic, the colours are phenomenal, and there are few places in Dubai that will make you feel quite like you're in the Middle East as much as this.
You'll find the full gamut of Arabic spices for sale here, along with oils, nuts and a tasty selection of sweet treats. It's fun to wander, and you have Dhs50 to burn.
Cost: Free.
Al Ras, Deira.
Snap a pic of street art
Credit: ITP images
Art doesn't have to cost a fortune, you're not investing in a masterpiece for your mantelpiece, and when the city is a huge canvas you're in luck as there is vibrant art all over.
From JBR to Karama, City Walk to Satwa, and La Mer to Jumeirah Beach Road, the city is awash with colourful creations from some truly great artists. Head to City Walk to see creations from famed artists like Bleck Le Rat.
Cost: Free.
Various locations across Dubai.
Step into the past at Al Fahidi historical Neighbourhood
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Take a wander round the historic neighbourhood to get an idea of what the city was like when it first set up. Right next to the Creek it used to be the city's commercial hub, and you'll feel a world away from the skyscrapers.
Cost: Free.
Bur Dubai, .dubaiculture.gov.ae.
Stroll around Al Seef
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This might be one of the newer 'historical' areas, but it has cracking views of the Creek and is just up the road from Al Fahidi. Some of it is super-modern, some of it is built to look old, but it's an interesting place to have a stroll around, and there are loads of coffee shops for a pit stop, too.
Cost: Free.
Al Seef, Bur Dubai, alseef.ae.
Take a trip around Hatta Heritage Village
Hatta (Credit: Supplied)
You'll have heard about the kayaking, but Hatta is a top place to visit if you're looking to escape the city. It's just 130km from town, but when you're breathing in that mountain air your 41st floor apartment or shiny office block will feel a world away.
Amid all the lush scenery (those mountain views) and the Insta-worthy dam, there's also Hatta Heritage Village where you can explore watchtowers and more.
Cost: Free.
Hatta (04 852 1374).
Take a tour around Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque is one of the few mosques in town open to non-Muslims, and it's well worth immersing yourself in the city's culture and learning about Islam.
You can join a tour with the Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding every day at 10am bar Friday, and you can get a full mosque visit, where a guide will explain the wudu – cleansing process before prayers – with a tour of the mosque and Arabic coffee afterwards. There's a Q&A too.
Cost: Dhs25.
Open Sat-Thurs, tours at 10am & 2pm, Jumeirah, jumeirahmosque.ae (04 353 6666).
Wander around the Gold Souk
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Whether you have visitors in town or simply fancy being a tourist yourself, a wander around the gold souk is a top way to spend an afternoon. Unless you have turbo-charged haggling skills you're unlikely to get much for under Dhs50, but window shopping is all the range this year.
Cost: Free.
Open daily 9am-9pm. Deira.
Be bowled over by bargain arcade games
Credit: Dubai Bowling Centre
An old-school activity at an old-school price. That's right, every Monday at the Dubai Bowling Centre arcade games and rides cost you only Dhs1 per turn.
So if you've got one game you're incredible at, that could be hours and hours of fun for the change weighing you down in your pocket.
Cost: From Dhs1
Dhs1 per turn. Every Monday, 10am-1am Dubai Bowling Centre, Al Quoz, bowlingdubai.com (04 339 1010).
Visit Etihad Museum
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Learn about the history of the UAE at this museum in Jumeirah. Covering 25,000 sqm it's located in the same spot as Union House, where the constitution was signed in 1971, so it's steeped in history.
Inside you can watch a documentary about the history of the UAE, see an interactive map and learn more about the founding fathers of the UAE.
Cost: Dhs25.
Open daily 10am-8pm, Jumeirah, etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.gov.ae (800 33222).
Nature and outdoors
Camp in the desert
Should you struggle going really wild, a night camping at Al Qudra Lakes could be just the ticket. Clean and calm but chilly at night, make sure you build a camp fire before sundown and bring plenty of marshmallows to keep those energy levels up.
Cost: Free.
Open daily 24/7. Al Qudra.
Cycle Al Qudra Cycle Track
Drive out past Dubai's Arabian Ranches and you'll see a cycling path running alongside the road to your left. Al Qudra cycling track is 86km with a 50km loop, that will put your biking (and endurance) skills to the test.
You can rent a bike, helmet and lights at Trek UAE, and there's a Last Exit food truck park for a pit stop. Access to the bike track is free, and you'll enjoy views of the desert dunes (watch out for gazelles). All levels are welcome, but expect to spend up to three hours completing the track, which is popular on weekends.
Cost: Free.
Al Qudra Road (no number).
Go bird watching at Ras Al Khor
For those of you who know twitching doesn't only involve involuntary spasms, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is the place to be.
This avian haven is home to many a feathered friend, and while the flamboyant flamingos top the bill you can also spot herons, cormorants and ospreys from the free-to-use hides.
Cost: Free.
Ras Al Khor, rasalkhorwildlife.ae (04 606 6822).
Have a romantic stroll at The Love Lakes
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Looking for the ultimate romantic spot? The 'Love Lakes' – two intertwined heart-shaped lakes set up near Al Qudra Lakes – is one for you. It can even be seen on Google Maps with the shape of the two hearts, right next to The Last Lake of Al Qudra.
The best way of getting there is heading along the D63 route, past Last Exit and by turning right on the road that also leads to Al Qudra Lakes. Take a picnic and enjoy a quiet stroll at this serene spot.
Cost: Free.
Al Qudra.
Go night swimming
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Kite Beach beach is open after dark, and is completely free if you want to head down and take a dip. Floodlit by large lamps letting swimmers head out safely, you float underneath the moon and enjoy the warm waters for the evening.
If you want to make a night of it, why not head down before sunset bringing a picnic from home, then watch sun dip behind Burj Al Arab before having a star-lit swim.
Daily, from sunset-sunrise. Jumeirah 2, Jumeirah 3 and Umm Suqeim 1.
You might also like: The best (and most luxe) night swim spots in Dubai to try this summer
Have a picnic at Al Barsha Pond Park
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For Dhs50 we reckon you can stump up a pretty good picnic. Bread, cheese, hummus, load your basket with as much as Dhs50 can afford you and head down to this chilled out park area to while away the afternoon.
Cost: Free.
Al Barsha (800 900).
Hike Hatta
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New Year's resolution to up your step count? Hatta has five routes of varying difficulty, all set among the Hajar Mountains that you can do for free.
This is Dubai's largest national park so go and explore. You might need that Dhs50 for blister pads, though.
Cost: Free.
Hatta, visithatta.com.
Jog along Kite Beach
As much as we adore flying a kite (up to the highest height), when we're in the mood for something less leisurely then we can't resist the stretch of running track that snakes back and forth past this beautiful beach.
The run's superb sights will send you soaring, too, on a trip to Dubai's Kite Beach. The best news? You don't have to pay for the pleasure. You can enjoy a pitstop at SALT and grab a slider for Dhs40 though, you earnt it after all that.
Cost: Dhs40.
SALT Burger, open 24/7, Kite Beach, Umm Suqeim, (600 555551).
See sunset at Al Sufouh Beach
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Dubai Al Sufouh Beach is one of those unmissable experiences that money simply can't buy. And you don't need it either. Head along to this peaceful beach to watch the sunset with your gang. Take a blanket and some snacks and you'll be happy.
Cost: Free.
Open daily 24/7. King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St, Al Sufouh.
Take a snap of the Expo Lake
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While Expo 2020 Dubai has long-finished, you can still drive into the desert and see the incredible man-made lake that popped up was created by Dubai Municipality, forged using a lake, trees and sand to resemble the Expo 2020 logo.
Cost: Free.
Al Qudra
Take a desert drive
So this one will cost you petrol, but aside from that it's free. You'll need some decent driving skills and a 4×4, but with that in the bag it's time to check out the dunes.
Cost: Free.
Various locations on the outskirts of Dubai.
Entertainment
Dig into a proper Middle Eastern shawarma
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We recently revealed that you voted shawarma as the most iconic dish in Dubai. And the best news about the popular street snack? It's pocket-friendly. Visit Allo Beirut for a top one, where a small chicken version will set you back just Dhs13. Which leaves you enough for a side of chip. Pass the garlic sauce.
Cost: Dhs13.
Various locations including Hessa Street, allobeirutstreetfood.com.
Discover Indian street food in Karama
This bustling area of the city is a haven for authentic street eats. One of the top picks is O'Pao for its innovative sliders – don't miss the O'Pao cheese burst version.
Cost: Dhs17.
Karama, opaodxb.com.
Have an all-you-can-eat breakfast
Hyperama's South African diner offers a special deal every Saturday morning. Order whatever you want as many times as you want from the breakfast menu for just Dhs45 per person. From eggs and sausages to much more. Be careful not to over-order, as they will charge you for any food left behind.
Cost: Dhs45
Sat 8am-12.30pm. Al Quoz, hyperama.ae (058 108 8786).
Get cheap drinks at McGettigan's
Credit: McGettigan's JLT
In the mood for a bit of Irish craic and a tipple or two? From Sunday to Friday head down to Jumeirah Lake Towers to enjoy the venue's happy hour menu, with mixed drinks available for as little as Dhs35.
Cost: Dhs35
Tue 6pm-9pm. JLT mcgettigans.com (04 346 0470).
Have a pint of the black stuff at The Irish Village
Credit: The Irish Village, Garhoud
A Dubai institution, going strong for more than two decades, The Irish Village and its enduring presence continues to charm hordes of expats every week. The Irish Village's large garden and homely feel make it a wonderfully low-key favourite among residents. With live music, good food and a great vibe, don't miss it.
Cost: Dhs44.
Open Sun-Thurs 11am-1am, Fri-Sat 11am-2am. Garhoud, theirishvillage.com (04 282 4750).
Listen to amazing talent at Time Out Market Dubai
If you didn't already know, Time Out Market Dubai is the place to go for the best bites and beats. And almost every day of the week a raft of incredible live acts take to the stage to serenade you as you gorge on the Market's rockstar plates.
Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am, Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-midnight. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, timeoutmarket.com (054 375 2421).
Visit The Ripe Market
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The outdoor market runs throughout the cooler months, so get ready to shop, eat and support some homegrown businesses.
From train rides road safety lessons, trinkets and even a zipline, the Academy Park venue is gearing up for a great season, so don't miss out.
Cost: Dhs5 (entry).
Sat 9am-9pm, Sun 9am-7pm. Academy Park. Ripeevents.com (04 315 7000).
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6 days ago

• Time Out Dubai

14 best beaches for families in the UAE

There's close to 1,300km of soft, sandy shoreline in the UAE, which means plenty of opportunity (and space) for some seriously good beaches for families. Whether you prefer to curl up with a book and let the kids entertain themselves building sandcastles (good luck with that) or prefer to join the little ones for a splash in the sea (while trying to avoid getting your hair wet of course) the UAE's plentiful beaches are the perfect place to do it. If you like reading this: 44 brilliant family-friendly days out in the UAE From Dubai to Fujairah, these spots are either free, or accessed for a minimal amount. So, enjoy those sandy toes and sun-kissed noses. Dubai: best family beaches Al Mamzar Beach Park It might be a bit of a drive (family road trip, yay), but if you can tune out the backseat (heated) discussions then this park on the Sharjah border is worth it. With a choice of four beaches, along with a large lawn, sports pitches and a small skate park, there's something to keep the whole tribe happy. Pack a picnic, claim a barbecue spot for a budget lunch or pick something up from one of the many outlets. The park has toilets and changing rooms, or you can even rent a chalet for the day if you want to make yourself at home. There are plenty of facilities and spots to eat at on this beach – though it will cost you, but what's a day out at the beach without an ice cream? There's free parking on site, too. Dhs5 per person, Dhs30 per car. Open daily 8am-10pm. Near Century Mall, Al Mamzar. (04 296 6201). JBR Beach Finding your own private patch of sand on this beach is possible all day, but be warned it won't be massive. This is easily Dubai's busiest beach – with hordes of residents and tourists heading down in droves every day. However, it is a huge stretch of coastline starting from Zero Gravity and extending all the way to the breakwaters near the Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort without interruption. Little adrenaline-junkies can have some fun taking on the inflatable Aqua Park. There's an abundance of restaurants, breakfast spots, cafés and entertainment areas including a cinema, fairground arcades and playgrounds. Facilities include beach bed rental, showers and changing rooms. Plus, there's plenty of activities to entertain the whole family, including Splash Pad, a fun wet play area for little water babies. The Beach, opposite JBR. Jumeirah Open Beach This is one of Dubai's quieter stretches of sand. Make sure you take plenty of water and all the snacks that your tribe will want to eat, because while there are several cafés and restaurants, they are few and far between. There are however bathrooms and showers for cleaning off your sandy little people before you load them back into the car, while lifeguards oversee the water for peace of mind. Oh, and if the kids actually give you five minutes to read a book, but you've left your Kindle in your bedside table drawer, worry not, there's a library unit on the beach where books can be borrowed for free. Near Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, Jumeirah Beach Road. Kite Beach This is one of the best beaches for families and a great spot for all your friends to gather on. Teeming with activities including everything from skateparks to mini bungee jumping, high-rope courses and even a running track, there's never a dull moment at this beach (which should prevent whining). Watersports are also popular and include kayaking, paddleboarding and water-skiing to turn a lazy day into something much more adventurous. Not only is the beach packed with activities, it's also home to plenty of cafés for a break before the kids' next round of adventure. Want to walk or jog along the coastline? Kite Beach's 14km track is the perfect spot. Free. Off Street 5a, behind Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqeim, (800 637 227). Mercato Beach This charming and peaceful beach is one to head to when you fancy escaping the crowds. There's always a cool breeze sweeping along the shore and, while it's not the prettiest, it has everything you could want for a quiet day out: sun, sea and sand. Plus, there are some pretty special views of the Burj Khalifa to soak up. There are no facilities so bring everything you need, or head to the Mercato Mall opposite to stock up before you find a place to call your own on the sand. Nearby Jumeirah Fishing Harbour has some nice cafés and restaurants, and is worth exploring when the temperatures start to dip in the late afetrnoon. 13a Street, Jumeirah 2. Nessnass Beach Another of Dubai's popular kiteboarding spots (signposts read Kitesurfing Beach), this stretch has the perfect conditions for catching some serious air thanks to consistent cross-onshore winds. And if the thought of packing a picnic or a cool box on top of all the other seaside paraphernalia sends chills down your spine, never fear because you can grab a bite, (or a smoothie or ice latte) at Feels, the beachfront café that serves up healthy, home-made food. Prevent sandy sandwiches by sitting the tribe down at one of the numerous tables outside the little eatery. Nessnass Street, behind Sunset Mall. Umm Suqeim Beach (Credit: Supplied) Tucked behind Umm Suqeim park, you can have a day on the grass and on the sand at Sunset/Umm Suqeim Beach. Offering up some lovely vistas all the way down the coast towards Burj Al Arab, there's even a built-in running track, and an adorable Arabian Tea House if you want to grab some lunch. There are changing rooms and public toilets nearby too for when you need them. If you want to dip out of the sun, check out the quirky Book Hero Café, pick up a fresh brew and browse the second-hand novels. 2C Street, Umm Suqeim. Abu Dhabi: best family beaches A'l Bahar Technically, this stretch of sand belongs to the Corniche, but this area with its outdoor gym, basketball and volleyball courts, shops, restaurants and gaming area deserves a bit of special attention. A great place to stroll along and relax with the entire gang, it's open every day from 7am. Free. Daily 7am-sunset. Corniche. Al Bateen Beach Brilliantly family-friendly, Al Bateen Beach is hugely popular with tourists, expats and locals. And not just for building sandcastles, but for swimming and fishing too, due to its beautifully calm waters and properly relaxed atmosphere. This 800m stretch also features a children's playground, 100 parking spaces, lifeguards aplenty, a handful of eateries and also watersports like kayaking and – if you're game enough to give it a go – stand-up paddleboards. Basically, it's got everything you and the family could possibly need. Pack the car, the kids and the sun cream and head on down for an immaculate weekend chill-out session with the whole gang. Free. Open daily 8am-sunset. Al Bateen, Khalifa Al Mubarak Street, off Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street. Hudayriat Island This huge island opened its beach back in 2018, and while the rest of the island remains untouched, the space just over the hulking Hudayriat Bridge is a popular spot. There are food trucks and sports facilities from the island and the 600 metre-long beach is open daily from 8am to 7pm and is free to use for the public. There are also three new slipways for boats and jet-skis, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers in the capital. Free. Open daily 8am to 7pm. Hudayriat Island. The Corniche The jewel in Abu Dhabi's beachy crown, especially when it comes to families, the Corniche is a pristine beachfront divided into three handy sections, so everyone gets maximum enjoyment from its golden joys. There are children's play areas, restaurants and lots of free sports on offer, like volleyball (there are five courts) and football. Best of all, floating fences keep you within 40 metres of the beach at all times, which makes this, along with all the lifeguards, a beach where you always feel 100 percent safe. Little wonder 50,000 people come here every month, to soak up the rays and the stunning views of the Abu Dhabi skyline. Dhs10 per adult and Dhs5 per child under 12. Kids under five go free. Dhs25 per lounger. Public beaches are free and open daily 8am-8pm. Fujairah This is the perfect stretch of shoreline to settle down with a picnic and the family for the day, and you're spoilt for choice when it comes for spots to spend the day. But if you're bringing the whole brood, there's you'll find a great day out on Umbrella Beach. The mountains provide a pretty impressive backdrop to your beach day out on the Fujairah Corniche with beautiful sparkly waters and plenty of other things to do close by. Grab your beach towel and loads of SPF and get ready to blow off some steam. Afterwards? There are plenty of cafés and a walk along the Corniche waiting. Free Al Faseel, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah RAK is full of luxurious private beaches, but if you're looking for something a little more rustic, but equally as beautiful, try Al Jazeerah public beach near Jazirat Al Hamra. Offering a pristine stretch of unobstructed golden sandy shore, kids can run around safely while you unpack the picnic hamper. Send the little ones off on a mission to load up their buckets with colourful seashells (there are loads to be discovered). Free. Jazirat Al Hamra, Ras Al Kaimah. Umm Al Quwain Make a beeline to Kite Surf Beach Centre in Umm Al Quwain, which is not only child-friendly, but dog-friendly too. The cute eatery, which wouldn't look out of place on Phuket's Patong Beach, welcomes the whole family from the tiniest of tots to the furriest of friends – it's pawfect for the whole gang. You can grab a lounger and umbrella on the sand and then let your four-legged friends off the lead to explore the fenced in beach and to swim in the you manage to get your other half to look after the little ones, there's a jungle gym and frequent yoga classes if you want to switch off. Dhs75 (adult), Dhs45 (child), weekdays, Dhs100 (adult), Dhs75 (child), weekends. Open daily 6am-10pm. Shaik Saud bin Rachid Al Mualla Road, Umm Al Quwain, (055 507 3060). Looking for things to do in the UAE? Outdoor workouts: The coolest classes in Dubai for a summer sweat Get fit with these al fresco workouts 31 incredible UAE hotel deals to book right now Enjoy a brilliant staycation without breaking the bank These are Dubai's best restaurants: 85 incredible places to dine in 2024 We know where you should book into this week

Time Out Dubai

6 days ago

• Time Out Dubai

The best family days out in the UAE 2025

Looking for fun things to do with kids in Dubai? From splashy water parks and neon-bright gaming zones to scenic walks and exciting kids' activities, there's no shortage of places to visit in Dubai with families. To make life easier, we've pulled together some of the best family days out 2025, perfect for your next adventure with the little ones in tow. Whether you're planning a weekend packed with thrills or just want a cheap family day out, this list has you covered — theme parks, nature trails, indoor fun and even great spots to eat with the whole crew. P.S. If you're loving this, you should check out the best family restaurants and indoor play zones that'll keep the kids entertained whatever the weather. Here are some of the best family days out in Dubai and beyond. JUMP TO: Best family days out in the UAE 2025 Al Barari Playground For a fun family morning, pitch up early at Al Barari Playground. From there the kids can enjoy splashing about in the shallows, clambering up cargo nets and across rope bridges, navigating stepping stones and exploring pirate ships. Mon-Thurs: Dhs45 for 2 hours. Fri-Sun: Dhs65 for 2 hours. Open daily 8pm-8pm, Al Barari. (056 686 7439). Aventura Parks Let the little ones run wile at Aventura. Thanks to the outdoor zipline and so many more activities are on offer, they'll be occupied for hours. Prices start from Dhs35. Wed-Thu, midday-6pm, Fri-Sat, 9am-9pm, Sun, 9am-6pm. Mushrif Park, Gate 1, Dubai, (052 178 7616). Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo An underwater, ocean-life-filled wonderland awaits at the Dubai Aquarium. It is a 10-million-litre aquarium tank boasting a spectacular tunnel before heading for the impressive underwater zoo to get up close to hundreds of sea creatures. Prices start at Dhs199. Open Mon-Fri 10am-10.15pm, Sat-Sun 10am – 11.15pm. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Jubail Mangroves Park The one-of-a-kind family-friendly park is perfect to keep the little ones entertained but also a great chance to get in on the topic of biodiversity. Mangroves are carbon sinks and one of nature's best ways to tackle climate change. Open daily from 7am to 9pm, this park is perfect for a stroll. It's a 1 to 2km boardwalk that winds through clear turquoise waterways, lush greenery and plenty of aquatic life along the way. Open daily 7am-9pm. Al Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi. (02 546 8341) Dubai Garden Glow Back for a 10th season, Dubai Garden Glow is one of the most visually striking attractions in the city. It is a stunning place to explore filled with vibrant light installations, 3D artwork and even a dinosaur park. The world's largest glow-in-the-dark garden is a great place to explore for kids (and adults) of all ages. Make sure you've got a nice camera. From Dhs78.75 (Garden Glow and Dinosaur Park). Mon-Fri, 5pm-11pm, Sat, 5pm-midnight, Sun, 5pm-11pm. Zabeel Park, Gate No 6 & 7, Area B, (055 918 8126). Dubai Miracle Garden (Credit: Supplied) The 72,000 sq m flower park is located in Dubailand. Boasting more than 150 million flowers – and more than 120 different varieties – Dubai Miracle Garden is the largest natural flower garden in the world, and 2024 is season 13. From Dhs95. Mon-Fri, 9am-9pm, Sat-Sun, 9am-11pm. Dubailand, (04 422 8902). Jebel Jais Adventure Park Credit: Jebel Jais Adventure Park If you're keen on a properly thrill-filled, outdoorsy family day out, RAK is where it's at. At Jebel Jais Adventure Park you can't help but have yourself a super-fun, adrenalin-charged time, thanks to an array of attractions including the likes of the Jebel Jais Flight (the world's longest zipline), the Jais Ropes Course and self-guided Sky Maze or the Jais Sledder. From Dhs50. Tue-Sun, 10am-5pm. Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah. Mleiha National Park Mleiha National Park Glamping Experience Drive up to Mleiha National Park, tucked away in Sharjah's quiet desert just an hour from the city. The park includes an Archaeological Centre, under-the-stars glamping and stargazing. It's a breathtaking destination where you can go on a historical adventure and be one with nature. Open Sun-Wed 9am-7pm, Thu-Sat 9am-9pm. Al Khatim, Sharjah. (06 802 1111) Let the kids eat free at Radisson hotels (Credit: Certo) Running until Thursday February 13, families can enjoy the ultimate dining experience across Radisson hotels and restaurants in Dubai with the Family Foodcation offer. The offer? Kids aged 12 and under get to eat and drink for free from a special kids' menu when you dine at participating restaurants. With every main course an adult orders, up to two kids get to enjoy a delicious meal on the house if you've signed up for Radisson Rewards. Whether you head to Certo in Media City or the Live Inn restaurant in Motor City, you're in for a great (and cheap) time. (04 249 4100). The Byron Bathers Beach Club & Bar Haul the entire family out to Palm Jumeirah for a stand up paddle session and then enjoy a well-earned breakfast. That'll be 40 minutes of paddle boarding along with breakfast and coffee by the beach for Dhs139, available from Wednesday to Sunday. For kiddos who haven't got the hang of a paddle board yet, they can join the fun on a kayak, which is available for rent. Dhs139. Wed-Sun, 8am-11.30am. Al Manhal Building, Palm Jumeirah. (04 323 7378) You might also like: The best Omani Chips dishes in Dubai (and where to find them) Louvre Abu Dhabi One of the most beautiful, architecturally awe-inspiring buildings in the region also happens to be home to one of the coolest attractions for kids, too. The Louvre Abu Dhabi Children's Museum is a space entirely dedicated to youngsters. Not only is all artwork displayed at the child's eye level, the family days out UAE but there are also loads of interactive exhibits and immersive mini-experiences, as well as hands-on activities, educational workshops and changing exhibits throughout the year. Dhs63, free for under 18s and over 60s. Open Tues-Thu 10am-6.30pm. Fri-Sun, 10am-8.30pm (varied timings for different exhibitions). Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, (600 565 566). Ribambelle (Credit: Supplied) Head over to Bluewaters with the little ones this weekend and get a table at Ribambelle, the restaurant that comes complete with an in-house slide and ball pit. Designed to give the kiddos a magical experience while you finally get to enjoy that coffee (or glass of grape), the play zones include candle-making and even t-shirt painting. Daily 9am-11pm. the Wharf, Bluewaters Island. (04 572 2296). Ripe Market This seasonal al fresco market celebrates all things local and homegrown (both food and small businesses). See a brilliant array of stalls and stands selling everything from fresh out-the-ground fruit to homeware and handmade jewellery, there are plenty of activities aimed at kids too, think pony rides and animal petting, storytelling sessions and live music on the grass. You might also like: 6 outdoor markets in Dubai to discover The market has now moved inside for summer, so you can catch them at The Roast by Bubbalicious every Sunday. Indoor market open Sat 10am-10pm, Springs Souk, Topgolf Whether you're a golf enthusiast or just looking for a fun new activity, Topgolf has something exciting for everyone to enjoy. It's the perfect place to stay cool, with air-conditioned bays allowing you to practice your swing all day without breaking a sweat. Open Mon-Fri, 10am-2am, Sat-Sun, 9am-2am. Emirates Golf Club, (04 371 9999). Wavehouse Wavehouse brings together live music, gaming, bowling, dining and a wave machine all in one place, giving you more options for those day-to-night outings with the brood. Located in The Avenues and overlooking Aquaventure Waterpark, it blends grown-up time with family activities so that you can spend the day with the kiddies without jumping into a ball pit. For youngsters and adults seeking a good strike, a ten-pin bowling alley awaits complete with visual 3D mapping projections (and super plush couches). Open daily noon-11pm. The Avenues, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, (04 426 2000). Global Village Global Village (Credit: Global Village) One of Dubai's most popular and super affordable family-friendly attractions, Global Village is known for its numerous pavilions, array of international cuisines, market stalls, rides and shows. Global Village is currently closed for the summer months and is predicted to reopen in October. Opening Oct 16. 38C5+F57, (04 362 4114). Family-friendly theme/adventure parks Action Park This indoor and outdoor adventure park opened at the end of 2019, bringing with it the city's second Smash Room and a super cool paintballing arena. The high-octane destination, which can be found at The Last Exit on the way to Abu Dhabi from Dubai, also features a converted, open-top London-style bus that serves up refreshing drinks and snacks. Prices start from Dhs59. Open Mon-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri- Sat 10am-1am. The Last Exit, Sheikh Zayed Road, (04 235 8893). Air Maniax Air Maniax's inflatable zones are loved by kids of all ages – and adults too. Older children will love the challenging obstacle courses, zip lines and laser tag games, while the littlest bouncers have their own dedicated toddler area to go crazy in. Prices start at Dhs85. Opening times Abu Dhabi: Sun-Thu 10pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 10pm-midnight. Opening times Dubai: Mon-Thu noon-8pm, Fri noon-10pm, Sat-Sun 9am-9pm. Al Quoz 1 (04 348 8981). Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Home to the world's fastest rollercoaster, this huge theme park is a big hit with fans of fast cars or thrill-seekers in general. The major attraction is Formula Rossa, which reaches speeds of 240km an hour and heights of 52 metres, so you'll certainly get a great view of the island while you're up there too. There are other adrenaline-fuelled rides, but if being twisted upside down and thrown along at high speeds isn't really your thing, there are also loads of gentler rides, plus big displays showcasing Ferrari cars and explaining the history of the company. Dhs345 (park entry). Sun-Wed, 10pm-8pm, Thu-Fri, 11am-8pm. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Island (02 496 8000). Hatta Wadi Hub Credit: Hatta Wadi Hub If you're after an action-packed trip, then Hatta Wadi Hub will impress. It's known for offering a whole host of exciting activities such as kayaking, hiking, ziplining, mountain biking and the iconic Hatta Drop-in water slide. Hatta Wadi Hub, Hatta. IMG World of Adventures One of the biggest indoor theme parks on the planet features three zones – The Marvel Zone for diddy superhero fans, The Lost Valley where you can spot a dinosaur or two and The Cartoon Network Zone where favourite, colourful characters like the Powerpuff Girls and Ben 10 are hanging out. Dhs365 (general admission), free (kids under 1.05m in height). Mon, midday-midnight, Tue-Thu, midday-10pm, Fri-Sun midday-midnight. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Dubai, (600 500 962). LEGOLAND The Legoland extravaganza at Dubai Parks and Resorts has successfully brought Lego to life with more than 40 rides, shows and attractions on six themed lands crammed with 15,000 Lego models and more than 60,000 Lego bricks. Start off at the factory where you'll get a guided tour and find out how Lego bricks are made, before moving onto Lego City where you can learn to drive an electric car and fly a Lego plane. If you want to extend the fun (and really impress the kids), book into the LEGOLAND Hotel for the night. From Dhs295 (online booking), Dhs330 (on the door), free (kids under three). Open daily 11am-8pm. Dubai Parks And Resorts, Jebel Ali, Dubai, (04 820 0000). Motiongate With two of the fastest rides in Dubai – The Madagascar Mad Pursuit and The Bullet Train – as well as plenty of tamer rides and an entire indoor area housing four themed zones – Kung Fu Panda, How to Train your Dragon, Shrek and Madagascar – there is something for everyone, all year-round at this cool theme park. From Dhs295 (day ticket). Open Sun-Thu,11am-8pm, Fri-Sat, 11am-9pm. Dubai Parks and Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai, (04 820 0000). Sky Zone is an indoor trampoline park where little adrenaline junkies can work their way around the various areas which include a foam zone, dodgeball arena and zip line. From Dhs150 Mon-Thurs, noon-10pm, Fri-Sat, 10am-11pm, Sun-10am-10pm. Persia Court, Ibn Battuta Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, (800 759 9663). The Arcade by Hubzero This fully immersive, virtual reality gaming park is located at Al Khawaneej. It offers more than 50 cool video games including artificial intelligence, virtual reality and motion capture options, all housed in a funky space where graffiti adorns the brick walls. Free entry. Sun-Thu, 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat, 10am-11.30pm, Al Khawaneej Walk, Dubai, (800 7699). VR Park VR Park is home to a host of virtual reality games for kids of all ages, meaning they can challenge reality and learn at the same time. Among the 18 separate attractions (within which there can be multiple games) found inside VR Park, you'll be taken to distant planets and visit both the far-flung future and the not-so-distant world of a fully virtualised Dubai, thanks to a series of games specially designed with some of the world's top VR production houses. Free entry, pay per attraction. Open Sun-Wed 10am – 10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-midnight. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 382246255). Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi This immersive indoor theme park has 29 rides all based around the most popular Warner Bros. stories. Kids will be in their element, and they'll even be able to meet some of their favourite characters. This theme park is 1.53 million square feet and some of the highlights include getting to chomp down on a Bronto burger in Fred Flintstone's favourite diner, and exploring Gotham City with Batman in the Knight Flight ride. From Dhs345. Sun-Mon, 10am-8pm, Tue-Thu, 11am-7pm, Fri, 11am-8pm, Sat, 10am-8pm. Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, (600 511115). Family-friendly waterparks Aquaventure Waterpark This huge waterpark is splashing fun for all the family, from the tiniest tots up to the biggest kids. There are loads of cool rides offering varying levels of terror. The younger kids' area allows little ones to roam around, as they make their way up, over and through the giant wet pirate ship and try to avoid the enormous bucket that dumps out water periodically. Older kids and adults meanwhile can tackle those 28-record-breaking waterslides. Sun-Fri, 9am-5.30pm, Sat, 9am-9pm. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 2000). LEGOLAND Water Park Dubai You'll find aqua fun for the whole family at this water park. The Joker Soaker kids' area has the perfect mix of tumbling buckets of water, water shooters and slides and the lazy river is a great way to chill out and stay cool. From Dhs295 (online booking), Dhs330 (on the door), Free (kids under three). Open daily 11am-8pm. Dubai Parks and Resorts, Jebel Ali, Dubai, (04 820 3123). Wild Wadi With more than 30 rides, a wave simulator and a lazy river, Dubai's original waterpark has a lot going for it. The park's main attraction is the Jumeirah Sceirah, which has two 32-metre-high tandem slides and whizzes you downwards a speed of 80kph. General admission from Dhs295 (adult over 1.1m), Dhs245 (child under 1.1m). UAE residents' rates from Dhs215 (adult over 1.1m), Dhs195 (child under 1.1m). Open daily 10am-6pm. Umm Suqeim, (04 348 4444). Yas Waterworld Yas Waterworld boasts more than 40 slides, rides and attractions. A day here will have you sliding through a giant snake, plunging from the top of a mountain and screaming yourself hoarse on the Bandit Bomber rollercoaster. You can recover afterwards on one of the poolside sun loungers, have a go at surfing on the world's largest sheet wave and watch a film in a 5D cinema. From Dhs295 (adults), Dhs225 (junior), free (children under the age of three). Open daily Island, Abu Dhabi, (02 414 2000). Kid-friendly encounters Aquaventure Swim (and interact) with the fishes at Aquaventure's Dolphin Bay Lagoon. Kids can learn how the professionals take care of the marine mammals and get a close-up look at them too. The experience is open to anyone eight and up. From Dhs575. Sun-Fri, 9am-5.30pm, Sat, 9am-9pm. Atlantis The Palm. (04 426 0000). The Camel Farm If you want to get the kiddos run around and be wild, this is the place for it. Let them run free while getting up close with desert animals – from camels to tortoises, lambs, cows and a whole flock of birds. There are even rabbits hopping around waiting for a cuddle. Best part? You can feed many of them and go on camel rides. Dhs50 (guided tour and feeding). Dhs15 (camel ride). Open Tue-Fri 8am-noon, 3pm-7pm, Sat-Sun 9am-7pm. Dubai Butterfly Garden (Credit: Instagram/dubaibutterflygarden) Arguably the world's largest covered butterfly garden, this must-visit animal encounter has more than 15,000 butterflies of 50 different varieties flitting about the place. Kids can learn all about the different stages of a butterfly's life and how they evolve. And they can experiment with their photo-taking skills; with such pretty subjects the result is bound to be winning. From Dhs55. Open daily 9am-6pm. Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand Area, (04 422 8902). Green Planet (Instagram/thegreenplanetdubai) Give your child the gift of being a zookeeper for a day – the experience at Green Planet will get them up close and personal with the many denizens of the bio-dome and they'll get to shadow a biologist for the day. (There's no cap on age when it comes to the experience. We are just saying.) Take on the Jungle Quest adventure in the biodome where families can get up-close animal interactions and kids can take part in loads of fun activities. From Dhs155. Open daily 10am-6pm. City Walk, Al Wasl, (800 7699). JA Hatta Fort Hotel Credit: JA Hatta Fort Hotel Introduce your kids to animals in a safe and secure space at JA Hatta Fort Hotel, which allows dogs as guests, has deer in an enclosure and peacocks running free. There are also horses (they can ride) and rabbits (they can feed). Free for hotel guests. Hatta Oman Road Hatta Roundabout 9277. (04 809 9333) Sustainable City Equestrian Club (Credit: Instagram/Sustainable City Equestrian Club) Has your teen been pestering you for a pony? How about teaching them about the four-legged beauties by first learning to ride. Get them to saddle up or the 30 minute lessons for beginners and canter their way to the 45-minute sessions for intermediates. There are also grooming and stable management classes. From Dhs1,700 (ten 30-minute classes). Sun-Fri, 8am-midday, 3.30pm-7.30pm, Sat, 8am-11am. Dubai Sustainable City. (04 557 6611). Dubai Safari Park (Credit: Instagram/dubaisafari) The sixth season of safari is here on Tuesday October 1 following extensive enhancements to the park. Home to more than 3,000 animals representing 78 mammal species, 50 types of reptiles and 111 kinds of birds, it's one of the top destinations in the country to see wildlife from across the world. From Dhs50 (adult), from Dhs20 (kids aged three-12). Open daily 9am-6pm. Dubai Safari Park, Al Warqa 5. Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary (Credit: CanvaPro) Turtles may have thick shells but they are still vulnerable creatures. The Hawksbill turtle, native to the Middle East, is critically endangered. Kids can see the recovery process and even help feed these amphibians on the daily at 11am at Jumeirah Al Naseem's Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary. Free. Jumeirah Al Naseem's Turtle Rehabilitation Sanctuary. (04 3665 000). Cheap family-friendly days out Abu Dhabi Corniche Sometimes we forget the joys of what we have on our doorstep. How long is it, for example, since you and the family spent the day wandering Abu Dhabi corniche? This beautiful waterfront has family-friendly things to do such as barbecue pits, badminton courts and a concrete maze. Lake Park has plenty of fountains, bridges and walkways for exploring, the giant sundial in Recreation Park always proves popular and at Family Park you can explore and hire bikes. Free. Off Corniche Road. The Desert Lakes Pack up a picnic, throw some outdoorsy games in the back of the car, make sure your phone is fully charged (these pools of water look great on the 'gram) and ponder what you and the family want from your lake day out. Free. Al Qudra, Dubai. Have a beach day (Credit:Supplied) Whether your idea of the perfect family beach day involves surfing, swimming and stand-up paddle boarding or centres firmly around sandcastle building and ice cream slurping, you'll have no trouble finding a sandy strand to fit your needs in the UAE. From serene spots such as Dubai's Al Sufouh Beach (the vibe is calm and the Burj Al Arab views excellent) and Mirfa Beach in Abu Dhabi to large sandy enclaves jam-packed with things to do, see and eat (JBR Beach in Dubai and Al Hudayriat Island in the capital spring to mind), the country we're lucky enough to call home has a string of magnificent beaches that are either free to enter or cost mere dirhams to do so. Various locations, Dubai. Town Square Park (Credit: Supplied) Nothing beats a family park day and there are masses of brilliant parks in the UAE, but if you're after somewhere to spend a good few hours, Town Square Park is a top pick. The massive playfield makes for an ideal base from which to set up camp, there's a decent-sized playground with enough apparatus to appeal to all ages and a fun splash zone for cooling off. Free entry. Open Sun-Thu, 11am-9pm. Al Quadra Road, Kids attractions that families love Adventure Island (Credit:Supplied) The attraction has now opened in JBR, offering you and the little ones hours of fun. Start off with some games of Pixl which can involve the whole family, followed up by a game or two of laser tag. Chase each other around the course as you duck and dive to avoid being hit by your opponents. Open Mon-Thu, noon-10pm, Fri noon-11.30pm, Sat-Sun noon-midnight. Bahar Plaza, Jumeirah Beach Residence, (058 833 9204). AYA Universe (Credit: Supplied) The interactive exhibition is a tour through 12 different zones, all of which invite you to open your eyes to the cosmos. The only one of its kind in Dubai, you can enjoy each room as you experience the wonders of the universe. Think giant galaxy ball pit, running through the rain, and a spot to lie down and look up at the stars. You might have only gone to Wafi City, but you'll feel in a whole other world at AYA. Dhs135. Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. AYA, Wafi City, Oud Metha, (04 542 0300). BOUNCE X Park is a brilliant way to find your inner Spider-Man and jump around its many obstacles and pipes will certainly work up a sweat. Kids meanwhile can unleash all their pent-up energy in the parkour zone. From Dhs55. Mon-Sat, 10am-9pm, Sun, 10am-8pm. Al Quoz, (04 304 9333). Chaos Karts If the love for Mario Kart runs in your family, Chaos Karts is the perfect place to take the family. Guests can get behind the wheel of karts, and enjoy several races– which lasts about 20 minutes – all varying in design, complete with music and kart powers to help racers battle it to the finish line. The Dubai branch in Al Quoz will be the second in the world, with the original based in Manchester, England. Riders need to be aged nine and above or be at least 1.30m tall to get stuck in. From Dhs140. Mon-Thu, 1pm-11pm, Fri-Sat, 11am-midnight, Sun, 11am-11pm. 6A St – Al Quoz.@chaoskartsuae. Cheeky Monkeys A world of colour and fun awaits little explorers at the Cheeky Monkeys soft play centres. Innovative neon-lit slides, mini zip lines, brilliant dressing-up areas and enormous ball pits provide endless entertainment that energetic tots love. Plus, there's a café serving hot kid-friendly meals and Starbucks coffee for the mums and dads. Dhs63 (first hour), Dhs35 (subsequent hours). Times vary. Various locations including J3 Mall and Arabian Ranches 2 in Dubai and Al Forsan Village, Abu Dhabi, (04 276 0011). KidZania There's just something fun about pretending to be a doctor, a fireman, a chef or a builder. KidZania is a magical world of make-believe where children can role-play more than 40 professions and earn their own KidZania money, which they can then spend in the on-site shop. From Dhs80. Sun-Mon, 10am-11pm, Tue-Thu, Fri-Sat, 10am-11pm. Dubai Mall, (04 448 5222). Oli Oli With eight galleries and more than 40 exhibits inspired by the work of leading educators, artists and development psychologists, this fabulous indoor space is all about positive play and the power of imagination. From Dhs69 (standard visit, 1 toddler aged 12 months – 23 months and 1 adult). Sun-Mon, 10am-9pm, Tue, 1pm-6pm, Wed-Thu, 9am-6pm, Fri-Sat, 10am-9pm. Al Quoz 1, Dubai, (04 702 7300). Orange Wheels The largest indoor play area in the UAE can be found in locations across Dubai, including Nad Al Sheba Mall and Dubai Mall – Zabeel Extension. Promising an environment designed to foster creativity, learning and social development, Orange Wheels helps families support every stage of a child's growth. Oh, and it's a whole lot of fun too. Check out Tinker Tots for kids between six months and three years old from 11am during the week. Tuesday outings are half price. Opening times vary. Circle Mall, JVC and Palm Jumeirah Mall and Town Centre Jumeirah and Nad Al Sheba Mall and Dubai Mall – Zabeel Extension. Woo-hoo This centre aimed at kids up to the age of 12 is a blend of education, discovery, development and play across 10 themed galleries. Each gallery hosts cool interactive exhibits designed to spark children's curiosity, imagination and innovation whilst delivering clear learning objectives. Dhs110 (1 child and 1 adult), Dhs60 (1 toddler aged 12 months- 24 months), Dhs30 (1 infant aged 0-11 months and 1 adult). Open daily 10am-7pm. Al Quoz, (800 966 466). Other things to do in Dubai 13 brilliant things to do in Dubai after sunset It's a late-night city, so make the most of it 14 best beaches for families in the UAE Sandy fun with the kids 19 top family brunches in Dubai to bookmark Mega brunches designed for every family occasion

Time Out Dubai

08-06-2025

• Time Out Dubai

Eid Al Adha: What team Time Out Dubai is doing

The long weekend is finally here – hurrah! Just like you, us here at Time Out Dubai are also looking forward to the Eid Al Adha break. The weather might be a bit hotter than we'd like, but it's not stopping us from making the most of what the city has to offer. If you like reading this, then you'll love: The best things to do over Eid Al Adha in Dubai So hear it from the horse's mouth. We're giving you an inside look into the diaries of team Time Out Dubai, to find out what we've got in store for the next few days. Emilie Hill: Editor Credit: Eugène Eugène I can't wait to tuck into: a steak dinner at Eugène Eugène I am already thinking about the bavette steak at Eugène Eugène, a stunning restaurant tucked away at Kempinski Mall of the Emirates. I have been known to pull up a chair here for the bread basket alone and coupled with Eugene's greenhouse vibe, this is one of those places to hunker down any evening of the week. Just be sure to book ahead as chances are other diners are dreaming of being here this weekend too. Open daily noon-11.30pm. Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, 04 379 8963 ( You'll see me at: La Cantine Beach (Credit: La Cantine Beach) Ooh, this is a beautiful spot. You'll definitely get a good Insta down here while and whether you choose a beachy spot or a lounger by the pool, you'll see what I mean in no time. Be to try something fresh from the grill and perhaps a wagyu beef carpaccio before you head home. Although not redeemable with your pool pass, the menu is too good to pass up on. Dhs200 (weekdays), Dhs250 (weekends). Open daily 10am-midnight, Delano, Bluewaters Island, (04 556 6622). There's no way I'm missing: a yoga class at Delano Dubai You'll find me bright and early at Delano Dubai resort over on Bluewaters (I know, there's a theme) as HWH Pilates Studio is hosting a morning yoga class. As part of your ticket, you'll also find a goodie bag from Shiseido waiting for you on your yoga mat. Dhs250. Sat Jun 7, 10.30am. Delano Dubai, Bluewaters @hwhstudiodubai Aimee Jakes: Digital Editor You'll see me at: a dreamy beach-club pop-up The 305 has teamed up with Benefit this summer to give us the beach club takeover of dreams. Honestly? There's nowhere else I'd rather spend the bumper long weekend. For Dhs200, you get pool and beach access, two drinks and a dish, two Benefit goodies and a brow service thrown in. For an extra Dhs50, you can also bag a sunbed. Count me in. From Dhs200. Open Sun-Thu 9am-10pm; Fri-Sat 9am-midnight. The Club, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, (04 423 8322). I can't wait to tuck into: an Acai Bowl and an iced blueberry matcha Hot weather calls for cool snacks, and I'll be grabbing both of these at Joe and the Juice, which has just opened a brand-new branch at Dubai Marina Mall. Prices vary. Open Mon-Fri 7.30am-11pm; Sat-Sun 7.30am-midnight. Dubai Marina Mall, @joeandthejuiceuae There's no way I'm missing: a sweaty workout at Dryp It may be hot in Dubai, but there is still nowhere else I'd rather spend my free time than sweating in an extra-hot studio doing a Pilates sculpt class. Dryp utilises infrared technology, giving you plenty of incredible health benefits as well as those lovely post-sweat endorphins. Prices vary. Open Mon-Wed 6am-10pm,Thu 7.30pm-10pm, Fri 7.30am-7pm, Sat 8am-6.30pm, Sun 8am-8pm. Dryp, Oraa Marina Tower, Dubai Marina, Dubai, (04 220 5330). Findlay Mair: News Editor (Credit: Kokoro Handroll Bar) You'll see me: exploring a busy food hall I'm heading to Market Island at Dubai Festival City Mall to film a vlog for our TikTok page. It's one of the largest food halls in the region, so there's plenty of choice. While I'm there, I'll pick up a new speaker for the office since our current one has, sadly, seen better days. As a reward, I expect there to be strictly no Taylor Swift played when we get back (sorry, Swifties). And, since I'm a sucker for a trend, I might actually pick up one of those Lababus that everyone keeps talking about. I can't wait to tuck into: some of the city's top Asian dishes This one is a real toss-up between two of our favourite anti-tourist trap restaurants. It's been a minute since I visited the rubber ducks at Kokoro Handroll Bar and tucked into a crab handroll, so I need to go back to see if it's as good as I remember. The same goes for the ketoprak at Harummanis. You know what? Since we've got four days off, I don't have to choose. I'll go to both. Kokoro Handroll Bar: Open Mon-Sun from noon. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Harummanis: Open Mon 6pm-11pm, Tue-Sun noon -11pm. Al Wasl 51, Jumeirah 1, (056 536 1674). There's no way I'm missing: The chance to take it easy In a city as wild as Dubai, it's rare that you get a moment to yourself to switch off. From historical exhibits to a quiet pint to yourself, our introvert's guide to Dubai is calling my name. Sian Traynor: Features Editor You'll see me: Trundling along Sheikh Zayed Road on the way to my Eid staycation. After spending the last few weeks sharing all of the best hotel deals, it would be rude not to make the most of one for myself. I've got my eye on a night or two in a lush room at Banyan Tree, which is offering 20 percent off rates, a daily brekkie and 20 percent off in dining and spa treatments for UAE residents. Paired with a sea view to wake up to every morning, I'll be in my element. Bluewaters Island, (04 556 6666). I can't wait to tuck into: Blueprint cookies Usually I'm a savoury girl, but for some reason cookies don't seem to apply to this rule. So when I heard Floridian favourite Blueprint was opening its first Dubai store, a visit to try the Mom's Apple Pie flavour was immediately scheduled in my diary. Can't get to the new branch? Try one of our other top cookie picks here. Opening Fri Jun 6. Mall of the Emirates, There's no way I'm missing: A Dhs1 car rental Yes, you heard correctly. SelfDrive mobility are offering daily car rentals for Dhs1, as a special deal for Eid Al Adha, meaning you can hit the road for almost nothing. I'll be rolling up to my staycay in a brand-new whip and might even swing round on one of these two-hour road trip routes on the way home. From Dhs1. Jun 5-8, (600 567564). Looking for things to do for Eid Al Adha? Eid Al Adha itinerary: All the fun things to do during the long weekend Where to go and what to see over the break 12 top GCC road trips to consider for your Eid Al Adha break Upgrade your bucket list 5 family-friendly spots where kids go free this Eid Al Adha Cost-free fun for the little ones