Things for kids to do in Dubai
Ski Dubai
As bizarre as it may sound, this desert city does indeed have a ski slope. Located in the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai boasts a massive 22,500m2 indoor skiing area, including the first indoor black ski run in the world. As well as the serious skiing facilities, the slope offers a range of activities for children, including toboggan slides, a dual-track bobsled course, and even a chance to meet Ski Dubai’s resident penguins, which come out to play at regular intervals.
Wild Wadi Water Park
Dubai’s original waterpark remains ever popular with families, with enough thrills to keep the whole clan happy. Older children and adults can still get their adrenaline pumping on the range of waterslides including Jumeirah Sceirah, while younger children will love splashing about the wave pool and exploring the family play area.
KidZania
With a name like KidZania, it’s no surprise that this theme park is one of Dubai’s most popular hangouts for children. The Dubai Mall-based venue is an interactive entertainment centre where kids can act out one of more than 80 role-playing experiences – from chef, to firefighter, to pilot – in a real city environment, offering an education and entertaining experience.
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
The next child-centric attraction isn’t far from KidZania. Down a few escalators in The Dubai Mall lies the impressive Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Home to all manner of beautiful creatures including sharks, stingrays and a colossal king crocodile, it’s hard to believe such an extensive menagerie is contained inside a shopping mall. For those who want to get a bit closer to the action, the aquarium gives divers the chance to come face to face with fearsome sand tiger sharks. If that’s one step too far, cage snorkeling can also be arranged.