Dubai with Kids Travel Guide

The Ultimate Family Travel Guide to Dubai

Dubai is a dazzling playground that seamlessly blends modern marvels with traditional charm, making it an extraordinary destination for families. From thrilling attractions to comfortable accommodations and kid-friendly dining options, Dubai caters to every need a traveling family might have. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate Dubai with children, ensuring a memorable and stress-free experience.

Kid-Friendly Attractions

For Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 0-5)

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Located in Dubai Mall, this massive aquarium is home to thousands of marine animals. The underwater tunnel offers a mesmerizing view that will captivate young children. Entrance fees start at around AED 100 for adults and AED 70 for kids.
KidZania: Also in Dubai Mall, this interactive indoor theme park allows kids to role-play various professions. Tickets cost approximately AED 170 for children aged 4-16 and AED 63 for toddlers under 4.
Dubai Dolphinarium: This indoor facility in Creek Park offers daily dolphin and seal shows that are entertaining and educational. Tickets start around AED 120 for adults and AED 60 for children.

For School Age Kids (Ages 6-12)

Legoland Dubai: Located in Dubai Parks and Resorts, Legoland offers over 40 rides and attractions designed for families. A two-day ticket costs around AED 295 for adults and AED 265 for children.
IMG Worlds of Adventure: This indoor theme park features attractions themed around popular cartoons and characters, including Marvel and Cartoon Network. Admission is approximately AED 299 for adults and AED 249 for children.

For Teens (Ages 13-18)

Burj Khalifa: No trip to Dubai is complete without visiting the world’s tallest building. The observation deck on the 148th floor offers breathtaking views. Tickets range from AED 160 to AED 380 depending on the time of day and type of experience.
Desert Safari: An exhilarating adventure that includes dune bashing, camel riding, and cultural experiences. Prices start at AED 150 per person.

Family Hotels and Their Facilities

Top Family-Friendly Hotels

Atlantis, The Palm: This luxury hotel features a water park and an aquarium. Kids’ clubs and babysitting services are available. Room rates start around AED 1,200 per night.
Rove Downtown Dubai: A budget-friendly option with spacious family rooms and close proximity to attractions like Dubai Mall. Rates start at AED 500 per night.
Jumeirah Beach Hotel: This hotel offers a private beach, multiple pools, and a kids’ club. Family rooms start at AED 1,500 per night.

Facilities

Kids’ Clubs: Most family-friendly hotels have kids’ clubs with supervised activities.
High Chairs & Kids’ Menus: Many restaurants in these hotels offer high chairs and children’s menus, catering to younger guests’ tastes.

Dining with Kids

Kid-Friendly Restaurants

The Cheesecake Factory (Dubai Mall): Offers a diverse menu with a dedicated kids’ menu featuring pasta, chicken fingers, and more.
P.F. Chang’s: Known for its Asian cuisine, it provides high chairs and a kids’ menu that includes favorites like chicken lo mein.
Rainforest Cafe: An immersive jungle-themed dining experience, perfect for kids, featuring a fun atmosphere and a kids’ menu.

Restroom Locations

Dubai is well-equipped with facilities. Most malls and attractions have family restrooms equipped with changing tables. Always look for signs indicating “Family Restrooms” in areas like Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and public parks.

Pediatricians and Hospitals

In case of medical emergencies or routine checkups, Dubai has numerous hospitals and clinics:

American Hospital Dubai: Offers comprehensive pediatric services.
Mediclinic City Hospital: Well-equipped for emergencies and routine care.
Dubai Health Authority: Various clinics across the city for minor ailments.

Childproofing Tips

Keep an Eye on Children: Public areas can be crowded, so always keep your kids within sight.
Avoid Hot Surfaces: Dubai can be scorching. Ensure children wear appropriate clothing and avoid sitting on hot surfaces.
Sunscreen and Hats: Apply sunscreen regularly and ensure your kids wear a hat to stay protected from the sun.

Managing Kids in Crowds

Set Meeting Points: In crowded places, agree on meeting points in case you get separated.
Use Child Safety Harnesses: For younger kids, consider using a safety harness to keep them close in busy areas.
Wear Identifying Gear: Consider using wristbands with your contact information for younger children.

Activity Suggestions and Rest Time Strategies

Rest Time Strategies

Schedule Downtime: Plan for mid-day breaks, such as returning to the hotel for naps or relaxing by the pool.
Flexible Itinerary: Prepare a flexible schedule that includes buffer times for unexpected delays.

Packing Essentials

Travel Documents: Ensure you have passports, visas (if required), and travel insurance.
Snacks and Water: Carry healthy snacks and refillable water bottles to keep kids hydrated.
Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.
Toys and Entertainment: Pack travel games, coloring books, or tablets loaded with movies to keep kids entertained during downtime.

Safety and Hydration Tips

Stay Hydrated: Dubai’s climate can be very dry. Encourage your children to drink plenty of water, especially during outdoor activities.
Watch for Heat Exhaustion: Be aware of signs of heat exhaustion like excessive sweating, fatigue, or dizziness.
Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts and hotel information handy.

Handling Jet Lag

Adjust Sleep Schedule: Gradually adjust your child’s sleep schedule a few days before departure to minimize jet lag.
Stay Active Upon Arrival: Once you arrive, try to keep them awake until a reasonable bedtime in local time.
Hydrate: Encourage drinking plenty of fluids on the flight.

School Holiday Periods and Family Travel Seasons

The best times to visit Dubai with children are during school holidays, which typically fall during:

Winter (December to February): Mild weather attracts families.
Summer (June to August): Although hot, many indoor attractions offer deals and activities.

Conclusion

Traveling to Dubai with children can be a delightful adventure filled with learning, excitement, and bonding moments. By planning ahead and considering the needs of your family, you can create lasting memories in this vibrant city. With its rich culture, fantastic attractions, and family-friendly amenities, Dubai is truly a destination that caters to all ages. Happy travels!