Have you considered Dubai as a family holiday destination? Don’t be fooled into thinking Dubai is only about shopping, skyscrapers, heat and luxury hotels. For families craving adventure, these ideas for extreme family entertainment in Dubai will help you create plenty of memories.
From souks to safaris, water parks to amusement parks, a Miracle Garden to an underwater zoo or an indoor snow park, there’s something here for every member of the family.
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Thrilling Family Entertainment in Dubai
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Dubai is one of seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The city has grown out of the desert into an ultra-modern metropolis that combines the old with the new and offers adventure around every corner.
Attractions and amenities are spread out across the city, so many families find it easiest to hire a car for the trip. Travelling in your own air-conditioned car is often the most comfortable way to get between adventures, especially with kids in tow.
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#1. Visit the World’s Largest Indoor Amusement Park
IMG Worlds of Adventure is the largest indoor amusement park in the world, and you’ll find extreme and not-so-extreme entertainment for every member of the family here — from fast, thrilling roller coasters to a state-of-the-art multi-screen cinema.
There are several adventure zones to discover, with rides ranging from the downright terrifying Haunted Hotel to the much gentler Dino Carousel and everything in between.
#2. Thrills in the Desert
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A trip to the Al Marmoom Desert is a must for thrill seekers. Here you can enjoy a jeep safari, dune bashing, sand boarding, camel rides and much more. Afterwards, enjoy a magnificent sunset and immerse yourself in local culture with an evening spent dining under the stars at a Bedouin encampment. Several operators offer trips to the desert, so pick the one that best suits your family.
For those wanting a more independent family adventure, pack a picnic and drive out to Al Qudra Lake, where you can watch birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
#3. Get a Bird’s Eye View of Dubai
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How about a skydive? You’ll certainly get a bird’s-eye view of Dubai — that is, if you can bear to look! Several companies offer everything from tandem skydives to individual dives for experienced skydivers.
Alternatively, try indoor skydiving in a purpose-built wind tunnel, or take a gyrocopter flight around the city with an experienced pilot. Whichever option you choose, it’s sure to get the adrenaline pumping.
#4. Experience the World’s Longest Urban Zipline
Fancy riding at car-like speed while dangling from a high wire? At XLine Dubai you can reach speeds of up to 80km/h along a 1km urban zipline. Suspended up to 170m high, you’ll take off from the Amwaj Tower and fly over land and water before landing on the roof of the Dubai Marina Mall.
Best of all, you can ride in tandem with friends and family, as there are two lines running side by side. Participants need to be aged 12 and up and in good general health, so it’s worth checking current requirements before you book.
#5. Adventures on Water
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Your accommodation will probably come with a beautiful pool or beach access, but for those wanting more excitement on the water, Dubai has plenty of action-packed options.
From wakeboarding to hydro-scooter tours, sailing to flyboarding, donut and banana boat rides, jet-skiing and parasailing to diving, cruising and kitesurfing, families are spoiled for choice.
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#6. Experience the Thrill of the Track
Kids from around age 7 up can experience the thrill of the race at Dubai Autodrome. With both indoor and outdoor tracks, this fast-paced adventure will test the skills of even the most experienced driver — and give younger racers their own taste of the thrill.
#7. Adventures in the Air
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For early risers, how about a hot-air balloon ride with the family? Travel at a relaxed pace high above the Arabian desert and take in breathtaking views of Dubai and the surrounding area.
Hot-air balloon rides can often be combined with other experiences, including quad biking, a desert safari, and the chance to meet and hold a falcon.
#8. Discover Outdoor Adventure in Hatta
For something completely different, head to Hatta, where visitors can enjoy lakes, mountains and wildlife. Adventure is right on the doorstep, with opportunities to explore on horseback, by mountain bike, or from a paraglider.
Water-loving families can go kayaking on the Hatta Dam or head to the Hatta Water Hub for thrilling water slides. Land lovers can try zorbing, tube sliding, or pit their skills against each other in zorb football or gel ball (similar to paintballing).
Visitors can also learn about local culture at the Hatta Heritage Village or get up close to honey bees at the Hatta Honey Bee Discovery Centre.
As you can see, Dubai has a breathtaking range of activities and family entertainment to choose from — and this is just the start.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best time of year for these adventures in Dubai?
Many families find the cooler months more comfortable for outdoor adventures like desert safaris, zip-lining and hot-air ballooning, while indoor attractions such as IMG Worlds of Adventure or the indoor skydiving centre are enjoyable whatever the season.
Are these activities suitable for young children?
It varies by activity. Some, like the XLine zipline, have a minimum age requirement, while others, such as karting at Dubai Autodrome, welcome younger children from around age 7. Because age, height and health requirements can change, it’s best to check directly with each operator before you book.
Do I need to book these activities in advance?
Popular experiences such as desert safaris, skydiving and the zipline can get busy, so booking ahead is generally a good idea, particularly during peak travel periods.
Is it worth renting a car to get around Dubai for these activities?
Many of Dubai’s adventure attractions are spread out across the city and surrounding desert, so having your own car can make getting between them easier and more comfortable, especially when travelling with kids.
Related Articles
- A Parents Guide to the Best Family Holiday in Dubai
- Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Dubai
- 17 Sanity-Saving Family Travel Tips for Your Next Family Trip
- Tips for Passing Time in Airports with Kids
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