Dubai · United Arab Emirates · Things to do
5 things to do in Dubai with kids
The five best family things to do in Dubai are going up the Burj Khalifa, taking a desert safari with dune driving and sandboarding, walking Dubai Marina, crossing Dubai Creek by abra boat to the old souks, and spending a day on a Jumeirah beach. They work best from November to March, when the weather is mild enough to be outdoors.
What to do, in order
- 1
Go up the Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, rising above eight hundred metres, and visitors ride a fast lift to observation decks high above the city. Children enjoy the speed of the lift and the view over the desert and the sea. Book timed tickets online in advance, since walk-up slots sell out and prices are higher. Sunset slots are the most popular, so book those early. Visit in the evening to see the city turn from day to night, and combine it with the fountain show at the base of the tower.
- 2
Dune-bash the desert
A desert safari drives you out of the city in a four-wheel-drive vehicle for a ride over the sand dunes, followed by a camp with sandboarding, camel rides, henna painting and a barbecue dinner under the stars. It suits children who like adventure, though dune driving is bumpy, and young children or anyone prone to motion sickness may prefer a gentler option. Choose a sunset trip in cooler months, check age limits, and ask about seat belts and car seats when booking. Wear closed shoes and bring a light layer for after dark.
- 3
Walk Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is a man-made waterfront district of high-rise towers around a canal, with a long promenade beside restaurants and yachts. The walk is flat and shaded in parts, and in the evening it is lively with families. Jumeirah Beach Residence, next door, has a beach with shops, a playground and fountains. Go in the late afternoon in the cooler months, and have dinner on the promenade. Boat tours of the marina and a nearby coast are available, and a tram connects parts of the area with the metro.
- 4
Cross the creek by abra
Dubai Creek separates the old districts of Bur Dubai and Deira, and the traditional way to cross it is on an abra, a small wooden boat that carries passengers for a very small fare. The ride takes a few minutes and children enjoy it. On either side you can visit the souks: the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk in Deira, and the textile market on the Bur Dubai side. The Al Fahidi district nearby has narrow lanes and museums. Visit in the morning or evening, and carry some small change for the boat.
- 5
Beach day at Jumeirah
Jumeirah has a long strip of public beaches with soft sand, lifeguards, showers and a calm Gulf, and the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel stands in the background. Children can paddle and swim in shallow water most of the year. Public beaches are free, and some are managed with a small charge for facilities. Bring shade, since the sun is strong, and swim only where lifeguards are on duty. Visit early or late in the day. Between June and September it is very hot, so beach days are best from November to April.
Plan it
- Best time
- November to March is warm and dry, with pleasant days and mild evenings, and is the busiest period. April and October are hotter but manageable. June to September is extremely hot and humid, so most activities move indoors.
- How long
- Four to five days is a comfortable plan for these five, with a spare day for a theme park or an indoor aquarium, and some pool time between outings.
- Getting around
- Dubai Metro and trams are clean and straightforward, and use a rechargeable Nol card. Taxis and ride-hailing are plentiful. The city is spread out, so plan one area a day rather than trying to cross it repeatedly.
Good to know
- Dress modestly outside beaches and pools, with covered shoulders and knees in malls and old districts.
- During Ramadan, avoid eating and drinking in public during the day, and expect changed opening hours.
- Book the Burj Khalifa and desert safari ahead, and check age limits for each.
Frequently asked
Is Dubai good for kids? +
Yes. It is safe, clean and has many attractions designed for families, including beaches, theme parks, aquariums and desert trips. The main challenge is heat, so plan outdoor activities for the cooler months.
What is the best time to visit Dubai with children? +
November to March. Days are warm and dry, evenings are mild, and beaches and outdoor sights are comfortable. Summer is too hot for most outdoor activities, though hotels and malls stay cool.
How many days do you need in Dubai with kids? +
Four to five days is enough to cover the main sights at a relaxed pace, with time at a beach or pool. Add more if you want to include theme parks or a trip to Abu Dhabi.
Is a desert safari safe for young children? +
Reputable operators run them daily, but dune driving is bumpy and some trips are not suited to babies or small children. Ask about age limits, seat belts and car seats, and choose a calmer option if needed.