25 Best Family Activities in the UAE (2025 Guide for All Ages)

🌍 Introduction

The UAE is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the world, offering a wide variety of fun, educational, and exciting activities for all ages. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, discovering the top family activities in the UAE ensures every member of your family has an unforgettable experience.

From outdoor adventures in the desert to interactive museums and water parks, this guide highlights 25 top-rated family activities in the UAE for 2025. Perfect for school holidays, weekend plans, or long vacations, these experiences combine learning, fun, and bonding moments for the entire family.

There are so many family activities in the UAE that cater to all interests, including indoor adventures, outdoor exploration, historical education, and nature discovery. Families looking for meaningful moments will find the family activities in the UAE an endless source of joy and engagement. Whether you’re after excitement, relaxation, or learning, you will find a wide variety of family activities in the UAE to suit your family’s needs.

Let’s explore the best that the Emirates has to offer for families seeking memorable outings.

1️⃣ 🎡 Visit Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Located in the Dubai Mall, this massive aquarium is home to thousands of aquatic animals and offers experiences like glass-bottom boat rides and cage snorkeling.

Highlights:

Over 140 species of sea life
Interactive exhibits for kids
Walk-through tunnel for up-close views

One of the most interactive family activities in the UAE, especially if your kids love marine life.

2️⃣ 💫 Explore IMG Worlds of Adventure

As the world’s largest indoor theme park, IMG Worlds is packed with thrills for every age group.

Features:

Cartoon Network zone for younger kids
Marvel zone for superhero lovers
Dinosaur-themed rides and roller coasters

Among the most thrilling family activities in the UAE for kids and adults alike.

3️⃣ 🚀 Discover Space at Sharjah Planetarium

A unique blend of science and entertainment, this planetarium makes learning about astronomy exciting.

Why Visit:

Immersive star shows
Space exploration exhibits
Educational fun for curious minds

This attraction offers one of the most enriching family activities in the UAE for knowledge-seeking families.

4️⃣ 🌺 Visit Dubai Miracle Garden

A seasonal floral wonderland with over 150 million blooming flowers in incredible designs.

Fun For:

Nature photography
Disney character displays
Butterfly Garden nearby

It’s one of the most visually delightful family activities in the UAE.

5️⃣ 🌄 Picnic at Al Barsha Pond Park

A calm, family-friendly park with tracks for cycling, play areas, and paddle boating.

Ideal for:

Weekend picnics
Outdoor games
Family fitness

A classic choice for relaxed family activities in the UAE.

6️⃣ 🎮 Challenge Each Other at VR Park Dubai

This futuristic attraction inside Dubai Mall offers the latest virtual reality games.

Family Highlights:

Multiplayer VR games
Augmented reality experiences
Adrenaline-filled fun indoors

Great for tech-loving kids and one of the coolest family activities in the UAE.

7️⃣ ⛺ Spend a Day at Yas Waterworld

Located in Abu Dhabi, this waterpark is perfect for cooling off with kids of all ages.

Attractions Include:

Water slides and wave pools
Family-friendly rides
Toddlers’ splash zone

This ranks high among splashy and energetic family activities in the UAE.

8️⃣ 🚗 Explore Al Ain Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in the region, Al Ain Zoo combines fun with wildlife education.

Highlights:

Safari-style tours
Endangered species
Kids’ discovery garden

Animal lovers will find this one of the best family activities in the UAE.

9️⃣ 📅 Go Camping in Hatta

Nestled in the Hajar Mountains, Hatta offers the perfect outdoor adventure for families.

Activities:

Kayaking and hiking
Family glamping sites
Mountain biking trails

An adventurous entry in the list of family activities in the UAE.

♻️ 10. Eco-Explore at Jubail Mangrove Park

This serene eco-destination in Abu Dhabi is ideal for teaching kids about conservation.

Why Go:

Elevated walkways
Birdwatching
Kayaking and nature walks

A peaceful and eco-conscious choice for family activities in the UAE.

🏛️ 11. Learn History at Etihad Museum

Located in Dubai, this museum brings UAE history to life in an engaging way.

Educational Perks:

Interactive displays
Multimedia timelines
Founding fathers’ pavilion

Perfect for historical family activities in the UAE.

🌟 12. Stroll the Global Village

A multicultural entertainment destination that combines shopping, food, and fun.

Why Families Love It:

Pavilions from 90+ countries
Street performances
International cuisines

Ideal for cultural exposure and one of the busiest family activities in the UAE.

🌧️ 13. Beach Day at Kite Beach, Dubai

A family-favorite location for beach games, food trucks, and water sports.

Family Fun Includes:

Trampoline park
Ice cream trucks
Outdoor gym and playground

Enjoy sun, sea, and sand during your family activities in the UAE.

💼 14. KidZania at The Dubai Mall

A real-world roleplay experience for kids aged 4 to 16.

Popular Roles:

Doctor, pilot, firefighter
Chef and news reporter
Over 60 professions

This interactive city is among the most imaginative family activities in the UAE.

🌟 15. Experience the Dubai Fountain Show

Watch the world’s largest choreographed fountain dance to music at Burj Khalifa Lake.

Tips:

Shows every 30 minutes in the evening
Best viewed from waterfront restaurants

A spectacular show that fits any list of family activities in the UAE.

🎓 16. Take a Heritage Walk in Al Fahidi District

An immersive cultural experience with wind towers, museums, and art galleries.

Ideal For:

Cultural education
Emirati architecture
Al Seef shopping nearby

Great for educational and enriching family activities in the UAE.

🌴 17. Desert Safari Experience

Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

What’s Included:

Dune bashing and camel rides
Henna painting and BBQ
Stargazing under the desert sky

A classic Emirati option for family activities in the UAE.

🚊 18. Ride the Dubai Metro for Fun

Explore the city via the metro while introducing young ones to public transport.

Why It’s Fun:

Clean, efficient, and scenic
Connects major landmarks
Budget-friendly city tour

A different but exciting option for family activities in the UAE.

🌊 19. Enjoy Aquaventure Waterpark

Located at Atlantis The Palm, this is one of the most thrilling waterparks globally.

Must-Try Rides:

Leap of Faith
Rapids River
Splashers Kids’ Play Area

An all-day splash fest for your list of family activities in the UAE.

🌇 20. Watch Sunset at Jebel Hafeet

Take a scenic drive up Al Ain’s tallest peak and enjoy incredible views.

Family Highlights:

Hot springs at the base
Picnic areas at the summit
Adventure park nearby

One of the most picturesque family activities in the UAE.

🌈 21. Explore The Green Planet

An indoor tropical rainforest in Dubai houses over 3,000 plants and animals.

Perfect For:

Animal encounters
Educational talks
Eco-education

This immersive experience tops the list of eco-friendly family activities in the UAE.

📅 22. Day Trip to Louvre Abu Dhabi

A cultural experience that mixes ancient artifacts with modern art.

Why Visit:

Kid-friendly galleries
Family-focused workshops
Stunning waterfront architecture

Educational and artistic family activities in the UAE.

🌴 23. Try Indoor Skiing at Ski Dubai

A winter experience in the middle of the desert.

Family Activities:

Skiing and snowboarding
Meet the penguins
Snow cinema

It stands out among indoor family activities in the UAE.

🌯 24. Adventure in Dubai Parks and Resorts

Home to Motiongate, LEGOLAND, and Bollywood Parks.

What to Expect:

Movie-themed rides
Interactive LEGO zones
Dining and shopping

A theme park lover’s dream for fun-filled family activities in the UAE.

🏜️ 25. Stroll at Corniche Beach, Abu Dhabi

A family-friendly beach with cycling paths, shaded areas, and playgrounds.

Why It’s Great:

Free access
Great views of the skyline
Safe and clean

Perfect for relaxing and simple family activities in the UAE.

🌟 Conclusion

From theme parks and zoos to serene beaches and cultural treasures, the UAE is bursting with family activities in the UAE that promise joy and learning. These 25 suggestions are ideal for residents and tourists looking to spend quality time together.

Whether you’re planning a day out in Dubai, a weekend in Abu Dhabi, or a nature retreat in the mountains, there’s no shortage of exciting family activities in the UAE. With its modern amenities and deep cultural roots, the Emirates caters perfectly to families from all walks of life.

Make your 2025 unforgettable by exploring these handpicked family activities in the UAE, tailored for fun, discovery, and lasting memories. Take advantage of every opportunity to bond and enjoy all the incredible family activities in the UAE.

🌐 External Links

Also Read: Top 5 Unforgettable Scenic Road Trips in the UAE You Must Experience in 2025