Looking to make the most of the Islamic New Year long weekend with your little ones? Dubai has lined up a delightful mix of kid-friendly adventures guaranteed to keep boredom at bay. From whimsical stage performances to adrenaline-pumping outdoor fun, here are the top picks for a memorable family weekend:
1. Magical Stage Shows at Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA) – Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Treat your kids to a multisensory spectacle combining 3D visuals, music, and storytelling. This weekend, ToDA is hosting “The Little Prince”—a dreamy show packed with life lessons and fantasy visuals perfect for all ages.
2. Motiongate Dubai: Parks and Resorts in Dubai
Bring out your child’s inner movie buff at Motiongate, where Hollywood comes to life. It offers an exciting mix of rides and entertainment for all ages, whether you want to dance with the Smurfs, ride the Hunger Games coaster, or meet Shrek.
3. Mall of the Emirates’ Penguin Encounter at Ski Dubai
Enjoy the winter instead of the scorching desert! Kids can go tobogganing, construct snowmen, and interact with actual penguins. Due to its popularity during holidays, reservations should be made well in advance.
4. Times Square Centre, Adventure Headquarters
In a secure indoor environment, let your children zip, climb, and crawl over obstacle courses. Excellent for building physical abilities and self-confidence in a fun, air-conditioned environment.
5. Al Safa’s Splash ‘n’ Party
This vibrant aqua park is the ideal size for young water enthusiasts. For children to tweens, it offers safe and supervised splash pads, water slides, and even a foam party.
6. Al Quoz’s OliOli® Interactive Children’s Museum
This interactive museum encourages play-based learning. Your children will be entertained, educated, and involved for hours at the themed galleries including Toshi’s Netts, Future Park, and Air Gallery.
7. Al Warqa’s Dubai Safari Park
The park, which has 3,000 animals spread across several zones, has reopened for the season. Children can see lions, giraffes, elephants, and other animals up close during safari drives and feeding sessions.
Bonus Tip: KidZania + Ice Rink Combo at Dubai Mall
At KidZania, where children act out real-life occupations like pilots and physicians, you can have fun while learning. Pair that with a family skating session at the Dubai Ice Rink for a perfect city-day-out.
💡 Pro Tip: Most venues offer family packages and discounts over public holidays—so plan ahead and book online to avoid queues.
