Excursion

Family Fun in Dubai: Indoor Skiing, Aquariums, and Kid-Friendly Attractions

Discover family fun in Dubai: ski indoors at Ski Dubai, explore marine life at Dubai Aquarium, enjoy IMG Worlds of Adventure, and relax at Dubai Miracle Garden.

1 min 14 sec

Dubai isn’t just about skyscrapers and luxury shopping—it’s also a paradise for families. With world-class indoor experiences, mega-aquariums, interactive edutainment parks, and adrenaline-packed attractions tailored for all ages, Dubai transforms ordinary family vacations into unforgettable adventures.

Whether you're traveling with toddlers, tweens, or teens, here’s a fun-packed guide to Dubai’s best family-friendly experiences—from snowy slopes to underwater tunnels.

Ski Dubai – Snowy Escapades in the Desert

Location: Mall of the Emirates
Cost: From AED 220 (~$60) per person for Snow Park access

Who says you need winter for a ski holiday? At Ski Dubai, you can toboggan, snowboard, and build snowmen inside a gigantic indoor snow park—all while it’s 40°C outside.

Must-Do Activities:

  • Skiing & Snowboarding: For kids aged 3 and up, with beginner slopes and instructors
  • Penguin Encounters: Meet real Gentoo and King penguins
  • Chairlift Rides & Zorbing Balls: Safe and fun thrills for younger kids

Ideal for: Families looking for a full-day indoor adventure that combines learning, fun, and winter magic.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo – Deep Sea Discovery

Location: The Dubai Mall
Cost: AED 120 (~$33) per adult; combo passes available

Walk through one of the world’s largest indoor aquariums, where your kids will be wide-eyed at the sight of sharks, rays, crocodiles, and hundreds of exotic fish.

Family Highlights:

  • Tunnel Walk: Stroll through a 48-meter glass tunnel with 270° views
  • Underwater Zoo: Features King Croc, penguins, and otters
  • Glass Bottom Boat Ride or Shark Dives: Optional add-ons for more adventure

Ideal for: Curious young minds and parents who want a fun educational twist.

Kidzania – Learn & Play in a Miniature City

Location: The Dubai Mall
Cost: AED 195 ($53) per child (ages 4–16); parents AED 75 ($20)

This is no ordinary play zone—Kidzania is an award-winning “mini city” where kids take on real-life roles like pilot, doctor, chef, or firefighter.

Why It’s Amazing:

  • Teaches responsibility, independence, and teamwork
  • 40+ role-playing activities in a secure, monitored space
  • Parents can relax in a lounge while kids explore independently

Ideal for: Kids who love pretend play and hands-on learning.

IMG Worlds of Adventure – Indoor Theme Park Extravaganza

Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
Cost: AED 335 (~$91) per adult; kids under 105 cm enter free

A fully air-conditioned indoor theme park, IMG Worlds of Adventure combines thrill rides, character zones, and kid-safe fun—all under one roof.

Family-Friendly Zones:

  • Cartoon Network Zone: Rides and meet-and-greets with Ben 10, Powerpuff Girls
  • Lost Valley: Animatronic dinosaurs and kid-friendly dino rides
  • LazyTown Play Area: Ideal for toddlers and younger kids

Ideal for: Families wanting a full day of entertainment regardless of Dubai’s outdoor heat.

OliOli – Interactive Play Museum for Young Explorers

Location: Al Quoz
Cost: AED 139 (~$38) per child (includes one adult)

OliOli blends science, art, and active play in one highly interactive indoor space. Designed for kids aged 2–10, it features immersive zones like the Air Gallery, Water Zone, and Future Park.

Why Parents Love It:

  • Screen-free, creative playtime
  • Educational concepts presented in fun, physical ways
  • Friendly staff and curated play areas for different age groups

Ideal for: Creative kids and parents seeking something different from traditional theme parks.

The Green Planet – A Rainforest in the City

Location: City Walk
Cost: AED 140 (~$38) per person

Step into a lush indoor bio-dome with over 3,000 species of plants and animals, including sloths, toucans, reptiles, and butterflies.

Don’t Miss:

  • The Bat Cave
  • Sloth Encounters
  • Thunderstorm Simulations

Ideal for: Animal lovers and nature-curious kids, ages 4 and up.

LEGOLAND Dubai & LEGOLAND Water Park

Location: Dubai Parks and Resorts
Cost: AED 295 (~$80) per person (combo tickets available)

Perfect for kids aged 2–12, LEGOLAND Dubai and its waterpark counterpart offer 40+ rides, shows, and attractions built entirely around LEGO bricks.

Family Favorites:

  • Driving School: Kids earn their own LEGOLAND license
  • Build & Test Zones
  • Water Slides and LEGO River Raft Building

Ideal for: Younger kids and LEGO fans of all ages.

Tips for Family Travel in Dubai

  • Stroller-friendly: Most malls and attractions are easily accessible
  • Beat the heat: Indoor attractions are best during summer (May–September)
  • Combo passes: Save money with bundled tickets like Go City Dubai or Dubai Parks pass
  • Dining: Nearly every venue has kid-friendly restaurants or food courts
  • Transport: Taxis are affordable and child seats can be requested in advance

Dubai makes family travel magical with its world-class attractions, comfort-focused infrastructure, and safety-first experiences. Whether your little ones want to ski in the desert, dive into the ocean, or build their own LEGO city, Dubai has it all—wrapped in luxury, excitement, and unforgettable memories. Planning a family trip to Dubai? Hi DMC offers custom family packages including hotel stays, park tickets, airport transfers, and guided excursions—designed to keep every member of your family smiling.