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Dubai with kids: what to do with children in 2026
Dubai is an easy, safe and child-friendly family destination, as long as you plan your days well. Here is our selection, grouped by type of activity, with the ages and free-entry rules our travelers ask about most.
Theme parks and water parks
This is the number-one draw for kids. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have parks of every kind: theme parks (Legoland, Motiongate, Ferrari World…), water parks (Aquaventure, Wild Wadi, Yas Waterworld) and indoor activities. Compare them in our article Water parks in Dubai.
- Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park: ideal for ages 3 to 12.
- KidZania: children play at grown-up jobs in a mini city.
- Ski Dubai: snow in the middle of the desert, for kids who have never seen snow.
Aquarium and animals
The Dubai Mall aquarium is a classic, especially combined with the Burj Khalifa visit: our Burj Khalifa + Aquarium combo is 315 AED per person, with the child rate from age 4. You can also discover the Dubai Aquarium and Penguin Cove, or watch a dolphin show.
Gardens and gentle outings
For little ones, the Miracle Garden and the Butterfly Garden are lovely strolls among flowers and butterflies, with very little walking. Global Village is a seasonal park with pavilions, shows and rides.
The desert with kids
A Discovery safari (190 AED adult, 150 AED child aged 4 to 10) or Premium (220 AED adult, 180 AED child) is many families' favorite memory. For children under 4, we arrange a private 4x4. More information in our safari comparison.
Views and observation decks
The Burj Khalifa is free under 3, with a child rate for ages 3 to 7 on the 124/125 option (145 AED). The SkyViews Observatory costs 85 AED for adults and 69 AED for children. To choose your floors, read our Burj Khalifa guide.
At sea: cruises and boats
A dhow cruise or a yacht tour makes for calm moments, perfect for unwinding between two busy days and enjoying the skyline from the water.
How to pace your day
- Morning: outdoor activities, while it is still mild.
- Noon to 4pm: break at the hotel or an air-conditioned indoor activity.
- Late afternoon and evening: observation deck, fountains, safari, cruise.
- One rest day every 3 days: pool, beach, shopping malls.
Our practical tips
- Cap, high-SPF sunscreen and a reusable water bottle: essential all year round.
- Bring light, covering clothes for religious sites and shopping malls, which are often heavily air-conditioned.
- Book the most popular activities (safari, Burj Khalifa) in advance, especially during the French school holidays.
Plan your family trip
Activities for kids, tickets sent within a few hours, advice from our French-speaking guides.
See activities for kidsAsk a question on WhatsAppFrequently asked questions
Is Dubai suitable for children?
Yes, very. Parks, aquariums, beaches, water parks and shopping malls are designed for families, safety is excellent and most activities are air-conditioned. Just adapt the program to the heat and to your children's ages.
From what age does a child pay?
It depends on the activity. At the Burj Khalifa it is free under 3; for the Burj Khalifa + Aquarium combo, the child rate starts at 4; for the safari, the child rate applies from 4 to 10. Always check the activity page.
Which activities suit children under 5?
The Dubai Mall aquarium, the gardens (Miracle Garden, Butterfly Garden), the Jumeirah beaches and water parks with toddler areas work very well. Avoid long sightseeing days in full sun.
Can children go on the desert safari?
Yes, from age 4 at the child rate. For under-4s we arrange a private 4x4: write to us on WhatsApp. Dune bashing is not recommended for babies or pregnant women.