Much More to Dubai than Shopping: Start Planning Your Family Adventure

There is more than one reason to head to Dubai. It’s a great place for lovers and shoppers, but it’s also a go-to spot for family vacations. Find out why more families are scheduling trips to Dubai and what they do once there. 

Get Over the Wall

Jumeirah’s Galleria hosts Adventure HQ’s climbing walls. Kids don’t see the benefit of getting exercise by walking through the mall, but they are tempted to burn energy climbing walls that look like gigantic dinosaurs. Moms and dads don’t have to worry about safety, for the facility has trained staff. The walls are fun enough for kids and large enough for adults too!

Have a Picnic

Some conjure images of forests and lakes when thinking of picnics, but when you’re in Dubai, you’ll head for the desert. Drive towards Hatta and find somewhere to pull off the road to spend quality time with family. If you’re the adventurous kind of family that likes to sleep out in the wild, it’s best to camp somewhere close to a town in case the little ones change their minds.

Go for the Gold

Dubai is definitely a place for those who love to shop. The Deira gold souk, near your Marriott, is filled with glittering pieces of gold pieces. Even if you don’t plan on buying, there’s enough gold for kids to think they are in a fairy tale and have discovered hidden treasure in another land.

Look at Flamingos

Ras Al Khor has sites, including a flamingo roost. Kids love the viewing stations fixed with binoculars that bring the parade of flamingos closer to life. Here’s a tip – go during high tide so the pink wonders are even closer.

Get In a Kayak or On a SUP

Set your coordinates for Kite Beach. The calm waters make it great to paddle a kayak or stand on a paddleboard. (SUP is short for stand-up paddleboard.) Don’t go without seeking the counsel of local watermen, for you want to be safe in the water and serve as a good example for the kids.

Ride a Pony

What kid doesn’t want to see or ride a pony? The Desert Palm Riding School makes either happen. The facilities are open in the mornings and afternoons and the cost depends on riding periods and number of riders.

Splash Around at the Fountain

The Marina Walk hosts dancing fountains that tantalize and saturate little ones and adults alike. Plan your visit for the early time of day, for the afternoon heat makes it less pleasurable. Make sure your children are wearing water shoes.

Feed the Ducks

If your kids like the sound of seeing flamingos, they will love the thought of feeding ducks at the lake in Media City. After they’ve had their fun feeding the ducks, you can head to the Circle Cafe to feed the entire family.

Ride a Scooter

JBR Beach has a running and cycle path. It affords the opportunity to ride bikes, scooters, or jog along with the kids. Once you’ve had your fill of exercise, the family can take part in the regular late morning or early afternoon festivities.