Dubai Weather in August

In the hottest month of the year, daily maximums in Dubai can reach 48.8°C (120°F), averaging around 41.5°C (106.7°F). Overnight, temperatures only drop to an average low of 30.6°C (87°F), so there cn be limited relief from the heat, even at night.

Humidity starts to pick up in August, making it feel even hotter and muggier than in July (NB, look for the “feels like” temperature in your weather app to gauge how hot it is outside better).

Sea temperatures are not particularly refreshing in August either, at a balmy 33.1°C (91.6°F); even temperatures over 34°c in the water can be experienced in Dubai in August.

You can read our complete guide to August Weather in Dubai here and our suggested ideas on what to pack for Dubai in August.

Dubai Special Events in August 2026

August is a quiet month for special events in Dubai. There are ongoing summer-long events to enjoy, such as Dubai Summer Surprises, a shopping-related event with venues all over the city, and Dubai Sports World, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, keeping kids and adults alike active in Dubai over the hottest month.

We are currently updating this page. Events below pertain to 2025. An updated listing will be provided once new information is available.

• Dubai Sports World – usually held all summer, this year sees a condensed version held from 3 August through until 2 September 2025. From Ninja Warrior courses to basketball, indoor football, and parkour, there’s something to keep all age groups active over the summer – Dubai World Trade Centre.
• Kingdom Festival will bring a line up of Afrobeats and Amapiano artists on 9 August 2025 – Dubai World Trade Center
• Indoor summer fitness events continue with the Wafi City Summer Run on 10 August 2025
• Aussie singer/songwriter Natalie Imbruglia will be live on stage 23 August 2025 – Dubai Opera
• Red Carpet – An Arabic Play can be seen on stage 29 & 30 August 2025 – Dubai Opera
• Soul powerhouse Macy Gray will be performing live on 29 August 2025 – Coca-Cola Arena

Suggested Dubai Activities in August 2026

We’re keeping it all indoors still in August, with some favourite suggestions to try in the city:

• Catch La Perle by Dragon – the stunning stage show at Al Habtoor. It runs throughout the year, but August is the perfect time to catch the show in air-conditioned comfort and with special offers such as kids go free. Stick around for dinner and drinks in Al Habtoor City.

• Get out on the water in air-conditioned style, enjoy a night cruise with dinner from Dubai Marina, or even catch the Dubai Ferry for a spectacular view of many of the city’s highlights in air-conditioned comfort.

• Ski Dubai – hit the slopes indoors at the Mall of the Emirates, keeping you active during the hottest months.

• Visit AYA – Immersive Experience – at Wafi Mall; this cutting-edge VR tech experience is a truly incredible (and airconditioned!) way to stay in touch with nature in a futuristic manner.

• Try afternoon tea at the famous Burj al Arab – it may be too hot for the stunning infinity pool, but pull up a chair inside for a special treat on the 27th floor of Dubai’s “7-star” luxury jewel.

If you’d still like to enjoy the heat and get out in the sun, we suggest cooling off at one of the city’s many beach clubs. Head out in the late afternoon and stay hydrated to make the most of Dubai’s beaches in summer – or seek out some of the newer night beaches in Jumeirah.

With the Kids – August in Dubai 2026

There’s still plenty going on indoors for the little ones in August. Why not try:

• Motiongate Dubai, part of the Dubai Parks and Resorts complex, offers most of its family-friendly rides and attractions indoors + complimentary daytime shuttles from the car park, making it bearable still in the summer months.

• Oli Oli – the indoor children’s museum has plenty to keep the younger kids active in a wonderfully chilled and safe environment, Toshi’s net is a real hit.

• Dubai Mall is home to many family attractions indoors, from KidZania to the VR Park, even ice skating! Or try the new Dubai Hills Mall, which is home to a brand new Adventure Park and an indoor roller coaster, The Storm Coaster!

• Take a walk in a tropical rainforest in the centre of Dubai! The Green Planet biodome brings an incredible nature experience to the heart of the city.

You will find a detailed indoor summer guide for families here. Check out this family guide if you’re travelling with teens or especially for the little ones we have this detailed guide to Dubai with Toddlers

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Major Tourist Attractions in Dubai That Are Indoors

These are our top pick of tourist attractions and indoor places to visit in Dubai that you can still visit even at the peak of summer (do be mindful that there may still be short walks from the car park to the entrance).

• The Dubai Frame* – superb views as well as interactive displays around Dubai’s past and present in Zabeel Park.

• Dubai Opera – not only has a sensational show lineup covering everything from musical classics to comedies and kids’ stage shows, but you can also take an architectural tour.

• Etihad Museum* – learn more about the country’s recent history and journey to unification.

• Museum of the Future – the latest incredible Museum to open in Dubai, focusing on technology and the future.

• The View at the Palm – indoor 360-degree observatory in the centre of Palm Jumeirah for epic offshore city views.

• La Perle * – evening extravaganza by Dragone is one of the city’s most highly acclaimed stage shows in Al Habtoor City.

Dealing with the heat in Dubai

Dealing with the summer heat in Dubai is not nearly as difficult for most tourists as it might seem. First, nearly everything is airconditioned to the max—even too cold. You will arrive in an airconditioned airport, transfer to an airconditioned car or Metro train, and arrive at an air-conditioned accommodation. Even bus stops are air-conditioned in many locations!

Whilst the outside air temperature is extreme, most hotels will chill their pools in the summer months to make them a refreshing retreat. Swimming is still best tackled in the early morning and late afternoon/evenings (or look for a hotel with an indoor pool if you’d still like to get your laps in!).

The same cannot be said for the ocean, however!  You must be mindful that the salty waters of the Gulf can be too hot for swimming in over the summer (32-35°C/90-95°F); it will feel more like spa water than a refreshing break.

And if it isn’t obvious, the sand becomes excruciatingly hot in the summer. It only takes burning sand to become trapped in your sandals or flip-flops once to work this out, let alone if you dare walk on it barefoot!

Dressing for the heat in Dubai

You should always dress sensibly for the heat.  However, please don’t have any misconceptions that ladies need to be wearing a full head covering or burka! This means, ideally, wearing loose cotton clothing that is still respectable.

• We have a full guide on what you should expect to wear in Dubai here.

A couple of important summer clothing observations:

• Tourists must note the difference between “resort wear” and what you wear publicly.  Although this seems to have relaxed over the years (maybe too much?), as a sign of respect, keep the skimpy clothing and bathers only to the pool & beach.
• When walking through hotel public areas, on public transport, in malls and restaurants, you should ALWAYS dress respectfully for the Muslim country you are in. At a minimum, think covered knees and shoulders for both sexes and nothing too clingy and revealing – yep, you will see many people flaunting this “rule”.
• Stick with cotton/rayon and breathable materials. Man-made materials will make you even hotter and sweatier.
• Temperature drops between outside and indoor air conditioning can be extreme. Make no mistake, you will still want to pack a wrap or cardigan for those indoor blasts of cold!

Keep our Dubai Packing List saved somewhere handy.

Dubai Summer Attractions to Try in 2026

Whilst many seasonal favourites may be closed, there’s still plenty happening indoors to enjoy in Dubai over the summer months (we will be adding to this list as we approach summer 2026 and more events are announced!)

If you are looking especially for family activities in Dubai head over to this post to learn about 90+ indoor activities for kids.

Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa & Downtown Dubai

One of the world’s largest malls still has a huge amount going on over the summer. You could spend a few days here and not run out of things to do!

Sitting in the heart of “Downtown Dubai”, some of our favourites at Dubai Mall include:

• Burj Khalifa Observation Deck – (Levels 124 & 125 “At The Top” advance booking essential). The entrance is through the Dubai Mall basement level.
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo – you can view the world’s largest suspended tank from within the Mall for free or come in for plenty of interactive water life experiences.
• Kidzania Dubai – a real-to-life town where kids “work” to earn Kidzos to spend on fun activities.
• Play DXB (Formerly VR Park) – a virtual reality theme park.
• Dubai Ice Rink – indoor ice skating fun on a full-sized Olympic rink.
• ARTE Museum – interactive gallery experience
• House of Hype – interactive art experience
• Dubai Opera – offering a year-round program of incredible entertainment from traditional opera to the best of Westend theatre and internationally acclaimed acts.
• Evening fountain show of Burj Lake, plus LED light show on the Burj Khalifa (NB – the fountains have been temporarily closed in 2025 for extensive renovations; reopening date still TBC)
• With the kids, don’t forget the giant Hamleys store, plus The Toy Store in the basement – plenty of FREE fun entertainment!

Dubai Mall is certainly not the only shopping mall with a lot going on.  In fact, malls are where most summer life circulates during the day in Dubai. 

You can also try a few more novel indoor ideas in Dubai, such as:

Mall of the Emirates

It is easy to reach on the Metro (the stop is aptly named Mall of the Emirates), about 30 minutes away from Dubai Mall. The Mall of the Emirates is fairly close to those staying at any of the Jumeirah Hotels and is only about 10 minutes from the Dubai Marina/JBR area.

• Ski Dubai & penguin encounters – sub-zero temperatures in the peak of summer, yes please!!
• Magic Planet – an extensive family entertainment complex including Yalla! Bowling, Highway66 mini bowling, and Gravity Air Park – think trampolines!
• Catch the latest flix at the huge Vox Cinema complex

City Centre Mirdif

Situated south of Dubai city, this great suburban mall has entertainment and dining options. It’s not on the Metro, so you’d need a taxi/Uber. Why not try

• ifly indoor flying simulator gravity-defying indoor fun!
• Sky Trails and Climbing Wall – part of the Magic Planet kids entertainment centre.
• Massive 20-screen Vox Cinema offers every type of movie screening you can imagine!

Times Square

A smaller community Mall that’s got a few key fun entertainment attractions for summer! You’ll find it on the Red Metro line (Rostamani Tower is 300m away, a 4 min walk or Financial Centre Metro is about 350m away 5 min walk)

• Adventure Zone by Adventure HQ – offering indoor climbing walls, obstacle courses and more
• Chillout Ice Lounge – enjoy a desert drink in sub-zero temperatures!

Dubai Hills Mall

One of the city’s newest mega malls has loads of fun new indoor instalments, including:

• Storm Coaster – the world’s largest indoor rollercoaster.
• Adventure Park – climbing walls to rope courses keeping kids active indoors, designed for kids 4+.
• Hamleys Play – an extension to the toy store with rides and games
• Play DXB – another instalment of the highly popular VR Park as found in Dubai Mall (but with fewer queues for attractions!)

Top Dubai tourist attractions to visit in the summer

These are the best options for staying cool inside, although you may still need to step outside briefly to access them.

• The Dubai Frame – superb views as well as interactive displays around Dubai’s past and present in Zabeel Park.
• Museum of the Future – journey 50 years ahead in this landmark Dubai building
• Etihad Museum – learn more about the country’s recent history and journey to unification.
• The Green Planet Dubai – an entirely indoor biodome experience that transports you to a tropical rainforest (warm but much cooler than outside!!) at City Walk.
• La Perle evening extravaganza by Dragone is one of the city’s most highly acclaimed stage shows, and it has a permanent home in Al Habtoor City.
• The View at The Palm – offers sensational sky-high views over Palm Jumeirah

Theme Parks

• IMG Worlds of Adventure is the only entirely indoor theme park in Dubai.
• Dubai Parks and Resorts is another favourite family offering, including Legoland Dubai, Motiongate, and the newly opened Real Madrid World (in place of Bollywood). As it’s partly outdoors, it may not suit everyone, though you can also retreat inside to the expansive indoor play space, Neon Galaxy.

There’s a good detailed review here what you should expect at Dubai Parks and Resorts in the summer so you are fully prepared for just how hot it can be and what remains open.

• If time permits and you have access to a transfer, our favourite indoor theme park is actually Warner Bros World in Abu Dhabi – you can easily access Warner Bros on a day trip from Dubai. We’d add to this list SeaWorld Yas Island, too, which is entirely indoors and includes the frosty-cold Antarctica realm, kept at 1°C!

There are a tonne more fun indoor activities, from rock climbing to escape rooms, that can all be enjoyed entirely indoors over the summer in Dubai – check out our complete Dubai indoor entertainment guide here.

Outdoor Activities in Dubai over Summer

The water parks in Dubai are the main outdoor attractions that remain in full operation during Dubai’s hottest summer months.

Dubai Waterparks

• Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park (entry included if you stay at Atlantis the Palm).
• Wild Wadi Water Park (Entry included if you stay at one of the Jumeirah hotels)
• Legoland Water Park – best for your smaller kids, based out in Jebel Ali, attached to the Dubai Parks & Resorts complex. Note, they are running Splash Fest this summer from 28 June to 24 August, which includes Kids Go Free and an exclusive after-party for guests staying at Legoland Dubai resort.

• Yas Waterworld (ok, this one is actually on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, but it is definitely worth considering as a day trip from Dubai, alongside the entirely indoors Warner Bros World) With the addition of 20 new rides and attractions this summer, it’s a serious contender for the best waterpark in the UAE.

REMEMBER: Even if you hire a cabana, wear sunscreen and stay in the shade, it can still be excruciatingly hot outside even at a water park. Be mindful of hot surfaces (wear flip-flops or non-slip pool shoes everywhere and be VERY careful of touching surfaces).

Outdoor evening activities to try in Dubai in Summer:

As long as you are prepared for it to still be quite sweaty, even after dark, you could try these evening activities in Dubai once the sun goes down.

• Walk around the Al Fahidi neighbourhood, taking in many of the city’s museums and galleries and along the creekfront at Al Seef before catching a traditional abra across the gold and spice souks in Deira.
• The Walk in JBR, a popular outdoor dining district alongside the beach, still has a vibrant nightlife, although outdoor dining is mostly removed in the peak of summer.
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah – a much more modern souk experience. From here, you get the spectacular views back to Burj Al Arab. Mostly indoor and air-conditioned, lots of dining options, and picturesque waterways.
• A traditional dhow boat around Dubai Fountain Lake – see the Dubai fountains up close in this spectacular evening sound and light show (NB the Burj Lake is closed during summer 2025; an alternative is to cruise along the Dubai Canal)

You can find our complete guide to the best night time activities in Dubai here.

Should I do a Dubai desert safari in Summer?

Many desert safari companies do continue to run over the summer, albeit on a reduced program.

We think this depends on how you cope with the heat, but from many years of experience, it starts to get really sticky outside from late May to early October.

If you love heat, you may still enjoy it, but with young kids, I would be extremely cautious about recommending a desert safari in the summer. An option might be to take an early morning desert safari instead to beat the worst heat of the day.

What will be closed in Dubai over the Summer in Dubai?

Our favourite attractions in Dubai that are NOT operational in summer (see links to find out when they will re-open, it’s variably around the end of October/early November) include:

• Dubai Miracle Garden
• Global Village Dubai
• Ripe outdoor markets
• Many day safari and beach sporting operators

Many restaurants and attractions remain open throughout summer, albeit with significantly reduced programs or only opening in the evenings. Outdoor brunches stop in the summer, and rooftop decks will only open in the evenings, if at all.

It’s always best to check opening hours for anything with an outdoor element from Ramadan (March) through summer.

Where to Stay in Dubai Over the Summer

The good news is that the answer is almost anywhere. All Dubai hotels will be airconditioned, and it’s very uncommon to come across a hotel that does not chill their pool in summer.

If you stay in a hotel directly attached to one of the malls or souqs, you will have excellent access to leisure and dining facilities without having to put a foot outside. Why not try;

Dubai hotels attached to shopping malls

• Sheraton at Mall of the Emirates, or top-end hotel, even with a ski lodge suite, try the Kempinski
• Address Dubai Mall and Address Downtown – attached to Dubai Mall
• Armani Hotel Dubai in Burj Khalifa, attached to Dubai Mall
• Address Dubai Marina attached to Dubai Marina Mall
• Jumeirah Al Naseem attached to Souk Madinat Jumeirah
• InterContinental at Dubai Festival City – very close to DXB airport too

Best Dubai hotels attached to waterparks

• Jumeirah Beach Hotel attached to Wild Wadi Water Park
• Atlantis the Palm attached to Aquaventure
• Lapita at Dubai Parks & Resorts and Legoland Water Park

See some of our favourite Dubai hotels that INCLUDE a waterpark or slides!

Dubai hotels with good summer facilities

Many hotel resorts also include mini water parks, lazy rivers, and kids’ clubs. The choices are almost endless, and the summer value can be fantastic. A few suggestions to try:

• Dukes the Palm – lazy river & Duksey kids club (and stunning infinity pool)
• Le Meridien Mina Seyahi – kids pool & kids club, playground, extensive dining options
• Habtoor Grand Resort – slides, kids pool & infinity pool, indoor playground

For a truly unique experience during your Dubai stopover – and if the budget will stretch – why not stay in a hotel with a private pool?

If you are only in Dubai for a very short stopover, you may opt to simply stay in the airport over the hottest time of the year. We have a complete guide to things to do in DXB Airport here.

Summer travellers may also be able to take advantage of the My Emirates Pass, which provides discounts on scores of restaurants, retail stores and attractions, simply by showing you have an Emirates boarding pass (we await details of the 2026 program).

The Ultimate Relaxation Experience

A Moroccan Bath, or Moroccan Hammam, is not your average spa treatment. It’s a traditional bathing ritual passed down for centuries in the Middle East. This luxurious bath involves a staged process of exfoliating, steaming, and scrubbing with a kessa (mitt) to leave your skin soft and supple. 

An essential element of the Moroccan Hammam is using black soap (also called Beldi soap or sabon bildi) – a high-alkaline soap made from olive oil and macerated olives.

But there’s more: almost all Moroccan baths offer a complimentary massage that leaves you feeling like you’re walking on clouds. No tensed muscles, no wired nerves, just pure bliss.  Some spas may even add on a hair treatment with argan oil, a Ghassoul clay mask, and refreshments like tea and dates.

How Does a Moroccan Bath or Moroccan Hammam Differ from a Turkish Hamman?

Two relatively similar cleansing experiences steeped in tradition exist, but there are some subtle differences. This is mainly in the way the room is heated. Both encourage the body to produce sweat, relax muscles for effective massage, and open pores for deep cleanings.

The Turkish Hammam is generally a more leisurely process. Guests move through progressively warmer rooms before vigorous scrubbing, followed by a gentle and relaxing massage with a cloth bag filled with soapy froth. Once cleansed and massaged, patrons move to a cooler room for relaxation and refreshments.

Now that you know what to expect, let’s dive into the best Moroccan Hammam experiences in Dubai (with a couple of our favourite Turkish Hammams thrown in, too!)

You May Also Like: Our Favourite Spas in Dubai For a Relaxing Treat

Bvlgari Spa

Do you dream of relaxing in a private Moroccan hammam in Dubai? If so, Bvlgari Spa is your place. This 1700 square meter spa oozes the same exquisite luxury that the famous Italian brand is known for. It features seven treatment rooms, a luxurious hammam, and a private couples suite. 

The highlight is their signature Majestic Hammam journey. This is a 5-hour treatment that’ll melt away your stress and transport you to another world. During the treatment, the experts pull out all the stops, using top-notch ingredients like natural black soap and a fancy body balm with sesame oil and honey extracts.

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In this experience, you’ll also get a soothing scalp massage, a pampering hair-washing ritual, and the indulgence of a nourishing hair mask. To top it off, it’s all wrapped up with a specialized skincare facial treatment.

It doesn’t end there; the spot also features an indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna rooms, and a beauty salon for all your pampering needs.

Want to learn more? Here’s where you’ll get all the details: www.bulgarihotels.com. We are sure you’ll love your experience at the Bulgari Spa.

Location: Bulgari Resort Dubai

One&Only Spa

Dubai is where luxury knows no bounds, which is evident at the One&Only Spa. This luxurious spot features some of the best Moroccan bath treatments in Dubai. The highlight is their traditional Arabian Hammam, which will transport you back in time.

One & Only Spa boasts 12 treatment suites, steam rooms, saunas, and plunge pools. And the interiors? Oh, they’re absolutely stunning! Moroccan tiled walls, artistically lit pools, and comfortable heated marble slabs. 

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They also feature a couple’s room with two heated marble treatment beds and a private sauna. The spa provides you with towels, robes, and slippers. All you have to do is arrive on time and enjoy your experience. 

Their Signature One&Only Moroccan Hammam starts with a steam session followed by a scrubbing ritual that’ll leave your skin feeling baby-soft. The rose-scented moisturizer in the massage will leave you smelling like a garden of roses.

Discover more about One & Only’s oriental hammam experience at their website. Here’s where you’ll get more details: www.oneandonlyresorts.com.

Location: One&Only Royal Mirage Resort

The SPA

Don’t fall for the short and sweet name; this spa is everything but simple. This spa is opulent and grand with 1000 square meters of wellness and relaxation. The SPA features seven luxe treatment rooms and an exclusive suite with a private Jacuzzi and monsoon rain shower. If you want to get your nails done, their nail studio is the bomb, too!

If you’re looking for a place offering Moroccan baths for men in Dubai, end your search here. This place has the best Moroccan massage Dubai offers for both men and women. In fact, you can also check out their website for deals as good as 50% off. 

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Their Moroccan Hammam experience is known to be one of the most authentic in Dubai, thanks to their skilled therapists who use traditional techniques and products imported from Morocco. Whether you get their Traditional, Signature, or Ceremonial Hammam package, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.

For those who want to dedicate an entire day to self-care and wellness, the SPA offers a 7-hour-long package called The Ultimate. It includes chauffeur services, breakfast, lunch, Signature Hammam, and Ceremonial Massage services. You’ll also get a nice blow dry, an amazing manicure and pedicure, and a rejuvenating rose facial. It really doesn’t get better than this!

If this place seems like a treat, check out more details at www.palazzoversace.ae. Remember to check out their discounted packages page!

Location: Palazzo Versace Dubai

Anjana Spa

Prepare for an elevated spa journey at Anjana in Dubai, where you’ll discover many lavish amenities. We’re talking saunas, ice fountains, and pools that await to enhance your spa experience. 

Anjana Spa offers many services, including massages, healing therapies, facial treatments, and more. The best part about this spa is that it has something for the little ones, too. Their foam rainbow for kids will truly amaze you! 

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Now, moving on to their Moroccan bath wonders. Whether you want to invest 20 or 70 minutes, Anjana Spa has something for everyone. You can choose from their Moroccan bath treatments, which include the traditional black soap experience or the rose-infused milk bath. 

For a sultan-level pampering, go for their Hammam Hurrem Sultan experience. This 70-minute treatment uses gold-infused oils and a luxurious body balm to leave your skin feeling nothing short of silky smooth.

Go through Anjana’s packages at their website. Click here for more: www.rixos.com

Location: Rixos, The Palm

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The Talise Ottoman Spa offers various hammam services, each lasting 45 to 60 minutes. We recommend trying their Arabian Rose or Gold Mask Hammam and Green Tea Revival Hammam. 

If you’re interested in other services like facials, massage, and wellness therapies, they offer those services, too. To truly enjoy this sensory adventure, set aside at least half a day for your visit. Rest assured, every moment spent here will be totally worth it for your well-being!

Check what Talise Ottoman Spa has in store for you at www.jumeirah.com.

Location: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

More Indulgent Dubai Activities

If you’re looking for more fun and luxurious ways to fill your days and enjoy a little pampering in Dubai, you may also want to check out:

• The best afternoon tea experiences in Dubai
• Where to dine with a view in Dubai
• Dubai’s most extreme adventure activities
• Feel like a celeb – here’s how to hire a luxury sports car for your trip to Dubai

The number of world-class theme parks you will find in Dubai and the UAE may take you by surprise!

Currently, three are in line for “best in class” for families living in and visiting Dubai, and another three are just over the border in Abu Dhabi. You could easily take a “theme park only” short break in Dubai and not leave disappointed (but take the time to stop and see the amazing beaches and the desert as well!)

Understandably, if you are entirely new to the Dubai theme park scene, there’s a lot to learn! Not all theme parks have instantly recognisable names (i.e., there’s no Disney or Universal!), and they are not in the easiest-to-access locations, but they are packed full of the kids’ favourite characters, shows and thrilling rides – and frequently without the queues you might expect.

Helping you sort out where your Dubai theme park time and money is best spent, this post gives a detailed review of the three largest ones:

• Legoland Dubai
• Motiongate Dubai
• IMG Worlds of Adventure

Where Can You Find Dubai’s Best Theme Parks?

Two of the parks mentioned above, Legoland Dubai and Motiongate Dubai, are located in the Dubai Parks & Resorts complex (DPR), situated in Jebel Ali, 50 km southwest of Dubai Downtown (and only one hour’s drive from Abu Dhabi).  

The site currently houses three theme parks (four if you count Legoland’s waterpark as a separate park), two hotel resorts (one of which is Lego-themed) and an entertainment district known as Riverland. There’s also Neon Galaxy, a space-themed indoor play area featuring a variety of activities (including ninja courses and parkour) for all ages.

The other theme park on the Dubai Parks and Resorts site is Real Madrid World (formerly the site of Bollywood Dubai). Whilst this may be popular with football fans, it’s not quite as big a player as the other two parks, and frankly still feels a little lost in the whole set up; we’re focusing on the other two big parks for this review.

Next, we will examine IMG Worlds of Adventure, an entirely indoor theme park, in detail before deciding which park you should spend your precious holiday time at!

Our review is NOT on Dubai water parks – you can pop over to this post if you’d like to learn more about the mega water parks in Dubai

Legoland® Dubai

A park made especially for the junior audience! The target market here is your Lego-loving 2- to 12-year-olds ready for moderate thrills.

Joining the Legoland® family of worldwide theme parks, the indoor Miniland is the centrepiece and most unique part of Legoland Dubai. Housed in a vast dome, it houses a full-size replica of Dubai city and many famous Middle East landmarks, from Petra to Abraj al-Bait Towers in Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi’s Grand Mosque.

The park is then split into four ‘lands’—City, Kingdoms, Imagination, and Adventure. Each has rides ranging from sedate to somewhat thrilling, as well as character meet-and-greet opportunities and a 4-D Cinema with rotating shows throughout the day.

The park has plenty of opportunities to build, dine, and shop. However, it’s important to note that most rides are outdoors, while the shows and building areas are indoors and air-conditioned.   

Is Legoland Dubai suitable for toddlers?

While the park is aimed at 2-12-year-olds, children under 1.05 meters will sadly find their choice of rides very limited.

Duplo Valley is great for younger kids, but older children may find it too babyish, which, in our experience, makes it a challenging park to visit when you have children in different age groups/heights.

There are just two rides with an 80cm restriction, which fits most toddlers – Duplo Valley Express (pictured) and Submarine Adventure. At 90cm they can join in Lost Kingdom Adventure (a shooting game).

95cm is a big breakthrough point, though, opening up the following options:

• Junior Driving School (City)
• City Airport (City)
• Rescue Academy (City)

The next big jump up is 1.05m, where they can start to enjoy:

• Lego Technic Twister (Imagination)
• Dragon’s Apprentice (Kingdoms)
• Merlin’s Challenge (Kingdoms)
• Merlin’s Flying Machines (Kingdoms)
• Wave Racers (Adventure)
• Beetle Bounce (Adventure)

One thing Legoland does really well is family bathrooms. These are large enough to fit a stroller and have good changing facilities.

They also have a dedicated mothers’ lounge where you can privately feed your baby. The room includes a full kitchenette for warming bottles, baby food, and a play area to keep your little ones entertained while you feed the baby. This feature alone is a real winner for young families, especially in the Dubai heat.

Will older kids still enjoy Legoland Dubai? 

Now, this is a tricky one! Young and young at heart, right?  No one likes to admit when they are ‘over’ something, but we know plenty of adults who still just adore Legoland Dubai. 

Sure, your tweens and teens might think it’s just not quite cool enough, and there are indeed more thrilling rides elsewhere in Dubai, but Legoland is a great place to spend a nostalgic family today. With peer pressure, though, you’ll have a hard time getting your 10 to 15-year-olds to admit they actually really love it! It wouldn’t be our first choice from ages 10+.

Can you visit Legoland Dubai & Legoland Waterpark on the same day? 

A 2-park pass for DPR is a great idea in the heat. During the cooler months, if you only have one day, you could easily spend 6-8 hours alone at Legoland if you try all the experiences. 

However, you would benefit greatly from combining the two in summer and the warmer months. Note that Legoland Water Park has a slightly altered opening schedule in off-peak months; if you plan to combine both, do check their opening schedule.

Note that the Waterpark will close for a couple of weeks every January/February for annual maintenance during the coldest part of the year.

Can you visit Legoland Dubai in the Summer? 

Despite the desert weather, Dubai’s theme parks remain open in the hotter summer months. 

Of the three theme parks reviewed here, Legoland has the most outdoor areas. These are well-shaded, but in temperatures of more than 45c, visiting during the summer may not be desirable for young children. That said, if you and your little ones are determined to visit, it is manageable, especially if you team up your visit to Legoland with a trip to the Legoland Waterpark.

You can read a detailed guide here to visiting Dubai Parks & Resorts in the Summer

The parks are immediately adjacent, and after visiting Legoland, you can combine the shaded and indoor parts with the refreshing chill of the waterpark.

You can read a more detailed family review of Legoland Waterpark here

What are the queues like at Legoland Dubai? 

If you visit early in the day (the normal opening time is 10 a.m.), you shouldn’t need to queue for anything. On weekdays, there are no crowds whatsoever unless it’s a local school holiday.

On weekends (remember that schools and many offices finish early on Fridays) and public holidays, the popular rides can be crowded by early afternoon. Only visit on these days in the winter if you have no other choice!

What does Legoland Dubai cost?

Legoland Dubai 1-Day Ticket

A day pass to Legoland Dubai OR Legoland Dubai Water Park costs AED 295 per person if purchased online in advance or AED 330 if purchased at the gate on the day of your visit. Certain discounts apply to residents with the Fazaa card.

If you’d like to visit BOTH Legoland Dubai and Legoland Dubai Water Park on the same day, tickets cost AED 355 per person if purchased online in advance or AED 395 per person if purchased at the gate on the day of your visit.

Children under three years of age enter for free. Children over 3 pay the standard adult rate.

Check out some third-party deals that may work out cheaper:

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Annual Passes to Legoland Dubai

For both Legoland and the Legoland Water Park, you can buy annual passes that allow unlimited visits for 12 months. The passes are categorised as silver, gold, and bronze and come with varying benefits, which may include discounts on food, beverages, and merchandise.

• Annual passes for Legoland (only) start at 495 AED per person for the silver package and rise to 795 AED per person for the VIP Platinum package.

• Annual passes combining Legoland Water Park start at 695 AED per person and rise to 995 AED for the VIP Platinum package.

You can find out more about annual passes for Legoland and the Legoland Water Park here.

Special Offers & Discounts

Always check the Legoland Website for special offers and discounts. These are often available during the Summer months as well as during public holidays. You can find out more here.

Motiongate Dubai

So, what exactly is Motiongate? This UAE concept park is based on a sample of favourite Hollywood movies and characters. But don’t be fooled by a less recognisable name; this is as good as any US movie-based theme park!

There are five main sections to Motiongate:

• Columbia Pictures – a real mixed bag of movie favourites, including Ghostbusters, the Green Hornet, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, and Hotel Transylvania.
• The Smurfs Village – as you’d expect, all things Smurfie
• Lionsgate – more thrilling rides and simulator based on Hunger Games and other action thriller movies
• Dreamworks – indoor theme park set around favourite characters from Shrek, Dragons, Madagascar and Kung Fu Panda.
• Studio Central – interconnects of the parts of the park with plenty of retail opportunities

The rides here really vary from slow and easy, movie adventure stories (Shrek, Hotel Transylvania, Smurfs Studio Tour) to rollercoasters, rapid rivers and 4D simulators.  There’s a lot of variety, depending on your desired thrill level! There are also lots of shows and character meet-and-greet opportunities.

Is Motiongate suitable for toddlers?

Younger children can enjoy a surprisingly good mix of rides here. Children under 1.00m can enjoy:

• Hotel Transylvania – ride through the hotel set (90cm)
• Ghost Busters Battle for New York – shooting game (92cm)
• Mr Pings Noodle Fling – spinning cups (90cm)
• Melman go-round – merry-go-round (95cm)
• Shrek’s Merry Fairy Tale – interactive story ride (92cm)
• Smurfs Studio Tour – behind-the-scenes ride (90cm)

There are several play and climbing spaces for kids, the largest being the Woodland Play Park. Indoors, Flint’s Imagination Lab and the Smurfberry Factory provide great play opportunities. In the Dreamwork’s Dragon zone, you’ll also find Camp Viking, where little ones can explore splashy water features on Viking long boats.

Of course, there will be some waiting around for them if they have older siblings, but there seems to be a good balance of rides for different age groups in each section except Lionsgate, which is really geared to tweens+.

Are there long ride queues at Motiongate?

You will need to queue for the popular rides on weekends and holidays. On the busiest days, the queues can be over one hour long -but this is the exception, not the general rule. Just like Legoland, if you visit midweek in the hottest months, you could get around the parks almost queue-free.

Is it worth getting a Q-Fast?

If you have no choice but to visit during the busy winter holidays or weekends, yes, you will benefit from a Q-Fast, but still, expect to queue! Some people mistake these for meaning no queue, but all the Q-Fast does is put you into a shorter queue; ride operators will fill rides from the regular and Q-Fast lines.

You can upgrade to a Q-Fast at customer service on the day to test how busy things are. They are a pricey addition, though (variably priced based on demand, so expect AED 150-300), so we’d only recommend this approach if you’re really short on time and want to pack a lot in.

NB – VIP Annual Pass holders already have QFast included

Are there single-rider options at Motiongate?

Sadly, no. For the unfamiliar, the single-rider concept is that if you don’t want to ride in a group, the spare seats in a row/ride are filled by people from the single-rider queue. This usually results in a much quicker queue and stops the frustration of rides being sent around half-empty.

Is Motiongate open in the summer?

Yes, the park is open 365 days a year. Getting between the different parts can be hard in the heat, but many—in fact, most—of the rides are indoors, so your queue is, at least, in air conditioning.

The whole of Dreamworks is indoors and airconditioned and can help you occupy several hours out of the heat.

The good thing is that Motiongate is open until late in the evening. If visiting in the summer, we would suggest waiting for the sun to go down to miss the worst of the heat. 

What does Motiongate Dubai Cost?

Motiongate Dubai 1-day ticket

Like Legoland, a day pass to Motiongate will set you back AED 295 if you book online at least one day in advance. Alternatively, you pay AED 330 per person if you buy your ticket at the gate.

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Better yet, buy a combined 2-Parks Pass and enjoy either Legoland, Legoland Water Park, or Real Madrid World on the same day. Motiongate opens at 11 a.m. and stays open until 8 p.m. during the week and 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, so it’s a great combo for the Lego parks that close early (6 p.m.). 

As we mentioned at the outset, if you plan to visit 3 theme parks in Dubai, the iVenture Dubai Theme Park Pass is the best value we’ve found; you can choose any combination including the top Dubai water parks.

The parks take about 10 minutes to walk between but enjoy the stroll through Riverland, there’s always street entertainment and special events going on.

Motiongate Dubai Annual Pass

Annual passes start at AED 495 for the silver pass, rising to AED 795 for the Platinum Pass. Here is a breakdown of the benefits included with each:

• Silver – unlimited access to the park (except on blackout days where a AED 50 charge is applicable), 10% discount on food and beverages within the park and 20% off in-park photos – AED 495 per person.
• Gold – unlimited access to the park, free popcorn (up to 6 visits). 15% discount on food and beverages and retail, 20% discount on in-park photos, nanny pass for an additional AED 50 – AED 595 per person.
• Platinum – unlimited access to the park, up to 6 free meals, six free drinks and six free popcorns, free Q-fast, 20% discount on food and beverages and retail and 30% discount on additional admission tickets – AED 795 per person.

You can find out more about ticket pricing, annual passes and special offers here.

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IMG Worlds of Adventure

Our final contender for Dubai’s best theme park is a real mixed bag. Again, it isn’t easy to sell to overseas visitors as it doesn’t have an instantly recognisable international name. When we start saying Marvel Comics, Cartoon Network, and Lost Valley, you start to get the gist of what to expect!

At 1.5 million square feet, a lot is going on here! It’s the best of the Dubai parks to visit if you are a bit of a thrill seeker – and tall! The six main zones to explore are:

• Marvel – rides based on the Hulk, Avengers, Spiderman and Thor
• Lost Valley – Dinosaur-based rides and adventures
• Cartoon Network –  a live show plus Ben 10 and Powder Puff Girl rides
• IMG Boulevard – retail and dining zone & Boulevard Express train for littles
• The Haunted Town – includes the very popular “Haunted House” (for 15 years+ only, they will check ID!)
• IMG Kids Zone – made specially for your littlest ones

The park is based in an outer area of Dubai on the E311, near to Global Village and Arabian Ranches.  There is a hotel shuttle service, but be warned it makes a lot of stops.  You may be best paying for a taxi to take you door to door.

Is IMG Worlds of Adventure suitable for toddlers?

Some parts are suitable, but overall, this is not the best theme park for younger children. Entry is only charged once children are 1.05m, though even then, they can enjoy very few rides.

There are play areas in LazyTown Robbie’s Liar, the Dinosaur Adventure Zone, and the Adventure Fortress. A new kids’ zone has also been developed with younger guests in mind. The zone includes an inflatable playground, climbing walls, a football pitch, slides, and a sweeper game.

Access to this area is subject to an additional fee of AED 50 for an hour or AED 100 for all day (but remember, if they’re under 1.05m entry to the park is free. Where it gets awkward is for your taller preschoolers.

Whilst IMG Kids Zone is a great addition to the theme park, it does mean that you need somebody happy to supervise the little ones whilst older group members enjoy the more thrilling rides in the other areas of the park.

All in all, kids will enjoy IMG Worlds of Adventure a lot more once they are over 1.2 m, and almost unrestricted above 1.3 m.

Are there long queues at IMG Worlds of Adventure?

You will need to be patient at weekends and public holidays. Arrive early and go straight to the rides that you really want to experience to avoid any queuing.

Weekdays are usually no problem except during school holidays. If visiting on a weekend, we’d recommend you upgrade to include an Ultimate Fast Pass to get the most out of your day.

Can you do a “family rider swap” at IMG Worlds of Adventure?

Yes! We’re pleased to report that if you have a little one with you who’s too short for the ride, your group can line up together, and parents can switch riders after their turn without needing to line up again.

Can you visit IMG Worlds of Adventure in the summer?

Absolutely. This is an entirely indoor theme park, so it’s your best bet for beating the summer heat.

What does IMG stand for?

Good question! It is named after its owners and operators in the UAE, Ilyas and Mustafa Galadari (IMG).

What does IMG Worlds of Adventure Cost?

A day pass is AED 365- you can advance book a discounted ticket through Get Your Guide. Annual passes can be purchased for AED 765. Children under 1.05m do not need to pay. 

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Accommodation near Dubai’s Theme Parks

Dubai Parks and Resorts includes Lapita, Dubai Parks & Resort, which is conveniently located next to Riverland and within easy walking distance of all the parks. When booking directly, you can get an inclusive ticket and hotel package.

For Lego fans, there’s also the 4-star Legoland Dubai Hotel. Everything here is wonderfully themed around the Lego concept, and you can choose from Kingdom, Ninjago, Pirates, Adventure, and Friends-themed rooms. Oh, and you get a complimentary theme park ticket for every night you stay! Learn more here.

On a budget, we’d also suggest looking at Rove at The Park. Located near the Dubai Outlet Mall in Jebel Ali, this value hotel chain offers a shuttle service to take you to and from the parks, and usually, a night here is substantially cheaper than the two resort hotels on site.

IMG Worlds of Adventure is in quite an isolated part of Dubai as far as accommodation goes.  You are just as well off staying in popular areas such as Downtown or Jumeirah Beach and getting a taxi or the shuttle bus. You can locate nearby accommodation options here:

Want to stay at another Dubai Resort? Check out our guide to the best family hotels and resorts in Dubai, plus we share all the best hotels that throw in extras like water parks and slides!

Other UAE Theme Parks

As we mentioned at the outset, we have only included the biggest new theme parks in Dubai and excluded the water parks.

We have also excluded the theme parks on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Here, you will find Ferrari World, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, and the new Seaworld Abu Dhabi. All of these are located just a 45-minute drive further west of Dubai Parks and Resorts (or about 1 hour 10 minutes without traffic from Downtown Dubai).

We discuss each of these theme parks in much greater depth on our partner site, Abu Dhabi Travel Planner.

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They are very easy to access from Dubai. You can find out more about how to get between Dubai and the Yas Island theme parks here.

Are there better places to take your toddler in Dubai?

Frankly, yes! Sure, there are elements toddlers can participate in at each theme park, but they are not ideally designed for this age group. If you are visiting Dubai with an under-four only (i.e., no older siblings to keep happy too!), there are better-themed entertainment options than the big theme parks. 

OliOli experiential play museum and Woohoo! are two much better hands-on options for toddlers in Dubai. There are also dozens of choices of soft play centres across the city! Some of the bigger Edutainment chains include Caboodle, Fabyland, KidsHQ.

• You can find a complete guide to Dubai with Toddlers here
• You will find more ideas for indoor entertainment here

Our Verdict: Is There a “Best” Theme Park in Dubai for Families?

‘Best’ can be too subjective to call. However, from our experience, families with younger children tend to enjoy Legoland and the Legoland Water Park the most. Anyone with older children may get more from Motiongate. It has a surprisingly good mix of indoor airconditioned rides and thrilling rides.

However, for the real thrill seekers and those wanting to beat the peak heat of the UAE, it has to be IMG.

We are happy to help with your Dubai theme park-related questions! With many years of experience taking our own kids to all of these parks, we can help you narrow down which park might best suit your needs.

Top 10 Dubai Mall Kids Activities

Here’s our pick of the top 10 activities families will love to experience in Dubai Mall.

1. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo sits bang-smack in the middle of Dubai Mall and is truly unmissable. Whether you plan actually to go inside or not, it will be an utterly mesmerising experience for kids who love marine animals.

Famous for having the largest acrylic viewing panel on a suspended aquarium in the world, the giant screen measures 8.3m high by 32.88m wide and 75cm thick. From the Ground Floor through to Level 2, it can be easily viewed for free, giving a superb preview of the aquatic life inside.

Inside the aquarium, you can expect to experience hundreds of sharks and stingrays among the 140+ species on display. Within the zoo, there are plenty of add-on experiences to be enjoyed, from the glass-bottomed boat to caged shark walks, King Croc encounters, shark dives, ray encounter experiences, and feeding presentations.

Recommend for all age groups, but some hands-on activities have lower age limits, under 3’s go free.

Cost: Basic entry (1-years-old to adult) starts from 150 AED

• Check pricing and packages for Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo here
• We’d suggest bundling the aquarium with Burj Khalifa (more below!)

2. KidZania Dubai Mall

In a similar model to KidZania branches that you’ll find worldwide, this is an incredible 7,000 m² real-to-life city built just for kids!

The KidZania Dubai edutainment centre at the Cinema end of the mall, Level 2, incorporates over 40 real-life activities for kids to enjoy, from role-playing to critical thinking to crafts and sports. Kids work to earn their own KidZoos (money!) that can then be spent on leisure activities within the city.

One of the best Dubai Mall activities for kids, we recommend it is the perfect place for children 4 to 11 years old – they need to be independent of a parent/carer to join in, so it’s not the best for toddlers).

Cost: Starts from 195 AED for an Economy ticket or Premium 260 AED. Accompanying parents are 80 AED and toddlers (2 to 3 years old) 110 AED; Under 3 Free.

• You can advance purchase your discounted Kidzania tickets here

3. Play DXB (formerly VR Park)

A dedicated virtual reality theme park—the largest of its type in the world—lets players enjoy dozens of virtual reality experiences, from motion rides such as the popular Dubai Drone, in which a simulated roller coaster flies you past Dubai’s landmarks, to popular video game classics.

Height restrictions and age recommendations apply per ride. There are some activities for little ones, but we’d recommend that they be at least 8 years old to enjoy them properly.

(NB this park used to be called SEGA Republic when the Mall first opened, then renamed to VR Park, and most recently to Play DXB; you may still find older Dubai guides referring to SEGA or VR Park – it’s all the same place in the mall!)

Cost: Entry just to walk around the park is free. You can enjoy the Soft Park Soft Play for 120 AED or buy Pay & Play Credits with bonuses from 200 AED.

• You can pick up your park pass in advance here

5. EKart Zabeel

In a new extension to Dubai Mall – Dubai Mall Zabeel, head to the 9th-floor rooftop for go-karting! There are standard track sessions available through to race events that can be organized in groups of up to 8

Drivers must be at least 14 years of age and 140cm.

Cost: Standard tickets start from 95 AED, race events 200 AED

• Learn more about EKart Zabeel and book your tickets here

6. Emirates A380 simulator

Fancy yourself piloting an Emirates A380 aircraft? A cutting-edge simulator can be found on the 2nd floor of the Dubai Mall where you can enjoy a 15, 30, or 60-minute instructed lesson on how to land this megalithic aeroplane at 12 of the world’s busiest airports. Recommended from 10 years+ (9 to 12-year-olds must be accompanied)

Cost: Varies by time peak/off-peak and if you have an Emirates Skywards card. Starting from 15 minutes off-peak AED 160. A full hour in peak time AED 650.

• Learn more about the Emirates A380 Experience here

8. Trampo Extreme

Time for the kids to burn some energy? A new branch of Trampo Extreme indoor trampoline park has opened within the Dubai Mall (2nd-floor Cinema end)

With eight different play attractions, from jumping to ball pools and challenging mazes, this is a great spot to come on a Dubai rainy day or when the days are too hot to keep them moving.

Bouncers should be 3 years+, three to 6 years olds need a guardian with them; Older kids, you can use their ‘shop and drop service’.

Cost: From AED 90/hour or a full day pass AED 240

• Learn more about Trampo Extreme here

9. The Burj Khalifa

The world’s tallest building is conveniently attached to the world’s largest shopping mall.

If you want to go all the way to “At The Top” Observation deck on level 124/125, we’d strongly suggest you pre-book your trip to Dubai Mall around this time slot.

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Buying on the day costs exceptionally more, and tickets can sell out.

Do be warned, if you’re visiting at peak times such as over winter school holidays, even with a timed slot ticket, you should expect queuing through the Lower Ground Floor level of the Mall before you even get to the lift. (Bring your arsenal of kiddy queuing entertainment and anticipate you could be there for one hour+; strollers need to be checked).

Once you get to the top, you are obviously spoiled with spectacular city views as far as the eye can see over the thriving inner city and outward to the Arabian Gulf and the desert. It’s undoubtedly a kiddy winner, but do consider the cost when working out your Dubai budget.

Open to all ages, under 3’s are free.

Cost: Standard adult tickets start from 129 AED, and children (4 to 12 years) from 87 AED. Prices increase at peak times and if you add extra observation decks or experiences.

We have a detailed guide on how to visit the Burj Khalifa here – as well as other ticketing options and special treats you might want to consider visiting the world’s tallest tower or the benefits of seeing the Burj Khalifa at Night.

** Save with a Dubai Aquarium and Burj Khalifa combined ticket. This is one of the most popular combo tickets in town, and visiting both, plus stopping for a meal in the mall will take up the best part of a day on a Dubai stopover.

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10. Dubai Fountain Show & Burj Khalifa Light Show

Please note that the Dubai Fountains were temporarily closed in May 2025 for extensive renovations; an official reopening date is yet to be announced

Watching the Dubai Fountains dancing show and seeing the Burj Khalifa light up at night is one of the best free activities with kids in Dubai. No matter how often we’ve seen this spectacular light and sound show, our kids are still mesmerised.

A big warning, though, if you are visiting with kids, especially on weekends (Friday to Sunday evenings), it can be exceptionally busy, to the point we wouldn’t recommend trying to get out to see it with small kids in strollers.

• We have a complete guide to the Dubai Fountain timings and what to expect here.

If you are smart and plan ahead though, you can beat the crowds. Don’t try to watch the show from the main mall entrance opposite Souk al Bahar (under the Apple store). This is the most congested and scarily crowded area with kids. You should aim to head outside about ten past and twenty to the hour, this gives you a good 20 minutes to find a comfortable position.

Another way to enjoy the fountains is to take an abra (traditional boat) ride on to Burj Lake and experience them up close or take a further walk around the lake to the 272m long Dubai Fountain Boardwalk (a small charge of 20AED), which lets you stand as close as you can among the fountains!

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Alternatively—and this is our preferred option with children—time it with your dinner so you have seating and little mouths fed while enjoying several rounds of the fountain show. You can see our full guide to the best Dubai Fountain restaurants here.

There are also daytime shows that are much less crowded – though admittedly not AS spectacular as seeing the fountains at night – keep an eye out at 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM Monday to Thursday and 1:30 PM and 2:00 PM Fridays to Sundays.

Dining Time! Family-Friendly Dining In Dubai Mall

One thing Dubai Mall isn’t short on is family dining options. Undoubtedly this is the easiest place to get a feed with fussy kids in the city as there is just so much choice.

Many will understandably head straight to the giant food court on Level 2, which offers a huge range of international cuisines at very reasonable prices. There is a further food court on the lower ground floor to consider, too, which is an excellent option if you are combining your trip to Dubai Mall with visiting the Burj Khalifa.

As well as the restaurant guide above with fountain views, some favourite family sit-down restaurants within Dubai Mall include:

• Tribes found on Level 2 inside the Mall, you not only get a great fountain show but tastes from all over Africa.
• Social House is a great choice if you need to cater to a range of tastes in your group; it’s very centrally placed within the mall, so easy to find.
• Five Guys – a burger joint with the best views in the house, a super choice for casual dining overlooking the fountains, though due to its prime location, it can be exceptionally busy.
• The Cheesecake Factory of international fame, you know what you’re getting and great menu choice to suit everyone.
• Black Tap is a burger and shakes favourite on the Lower Ground Floor.
• Hurricane’s Grill for an Australian-style steakhouse with South African and Portuguese influence, including a separate kids menu – find them in Fashion Avenue with Burj Lake views.

Special Treats For Kids in Dubai Mall

Sweet Treats in Dubai Mall

Oh wow, where do you start?! If you’re not quite ready to fork out the cash on the kids trying Patchi chocolates, our next best recommendation would be to sniff out Candylicious or Candy Hearts. You may also want to time in a special stop at:

Bubbles& Booba – Taiwanese Bubble Teas have hit Dubai! Lots of fun. Lots of fun milk teas, shakes, and juices to choose from (second floor)

Toy Shops Galore in Dubai Mall!

Of the non-sweet variety, there is an absolute goldmine of kids’ toy shops in Dubai Mall to explore. The largest is the giant Hamleys on level 2, and The Toy Store on the Lower Ground Floor – and the ever-favourite Lego Shop, now found on the Lower Ground Floor as well.

Others not to miss on your circuit around the mall include Mothercare, Early Learning Centre and Virgin Megastore for your gadget-loving geeks! Those into gaming will want to catch Geekay Games.

And bookworms rejoice! You could seriously get lost for hours in Kinokuniya Bookstore.

Kids’ Fashion in Dubai Mall

If your kids are little fashionistas, this is arguably one of the best shopping spots you’ll find in the world, with a huge selection of children-only luxury boutiques from Diesel Kids to Fendi Kids or Gucci.

There are plenty of budget-friendly options, too, though remembering where you are, it will not be the cheapest clothing shop you’ll do in Dubai, but it is certainly amongst the best selections.

Learn more about the Dubai Mall dress code and what is appropraite for tourists to wear

Dubai Pass for Families

Let’s be honest; costs in Dubai can seriously add up for a family if you attempt to do everything on offer.

One way to keep costs under control is to look into a Dubai Pass by iVenture. There are several different categories on offer to suit the type of trip you are planning.

We have a complete run-through here on the different types of Dubai Pass available.

Depending on which Dubai Pass you invest in, you can get the following Dubai Mall attractions included:

• Play DXB (Pool 1)
• At The Top Burj Khalifa (Pool 2)
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo (Pool 2)
• Reel Dine-in Cinema (Pool 2)
• Dubai Fountain Boardwalk (Pool 3)
• Dubai Fountain Lake Ride (Pool 3)
• Dubai Ice Rink (Pool 3)
• Hysteria Haunted Attraction (Pool 3)
• Kidzania (Pool 3)

A Dubai Select Pass lets you choose one attraction from each “pool”, whilst a Dubai Unlimited allows you to visit them all -amazing value if you want to squeeze a lot into 3 or 5 days!!

Conveniently, the City Sightseeing counter within Dubai Mall is one of the pickup points for the Dubai Pass, so it can be a great starting point for families on their Dubai adventure.

We’d also suggest looking at the Go City Dubai Pass if you are interested in the Dubai Ice Rink and the Dubai Aquarium, both of which are included activities.

Things Families Should Know Before Visiting the Dubai Mall With Kids

Remember, like all things Dubai, things are much quieter in the mornings than in the evenings. You will find this very true, especially on weekends; it gets much busier after Ṣalāt al-Jumuʿah prayers on a Friday.

The evenings on weekends at Dubai Mall on weekends can be crazy busy. We do not recommend this as the best time to visit with kids. Have a plan of attack and what they should do if you become lost or separated. Dubai is very safe, but those few moments you can become separated from a child are terrifying.

You will definitely want the option of a stroller or pushchair (there are points where these can be hired if you did not bring one with you from Guest Services). We have easily clocked up days of 10,000+ steps in half a day just walking around Dubai Mall.

There are family-friendly facilities throughout Dubai Mall, including feeding rooms for mums and family-sized change rooms if you’re visiting Dubai with a baby or toddler. – though they’re normally attached to the female bathrooms still.

If you are coming from the Metro station, yes, it’s connected by a covered, air-conditioned walkway and travellator the whole way, but it still takes a good 15 minutes to get to the mall – Fashion Avenue end. It’s about a further 10-minute walk to get to the Cinema End of the Mall where you’ll find most of the kid-friendly attractions.

• Check out these convenient hotels if you’d prefer to stay near Dubai Mall

Make no mistake, it’s a huge building, and even on a full-day excursion, you will not cover it all. Pick and choose which activities you’d like to do in advance to save queuing and give yourself a bit of leeway for the amount of walking and queuing that may be required.

Top Things to Do in Dubai Mall

If you were to attempt everything at Dubai Mall, you could easily pack several days in. We know most visitors simply don’t have the time to see it all, so we’ll help you narrow it down based on your interests and time. Let’s go!

Burj Khalifa – At The Top

Let’s start with a biggie (although technically its own building), the Burj Khalifa, which is entered through the Lower Ground Floor of the Dubai Mall. The main attraction for visitors is At The Top observation deck.

• We have a complete guide here to help you plan your trip and the best times to visit Burj Khalifa

This is one part of your trip to Dubai that you really want to plan in advance. The ticket prices are exponentially more at the door vs paying online and guarantee you the slot you want, particularly if you are keen on the popular sunrise or sunset times (though bear in mind they cost more)

Time Needed: 2 hours

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is famous for having the largest suspended aquarium tank in the world – holding 10 million litres (2.64 million gallons) of water. It has the largest acrylic viewing panel in the world measuring 8.3m high by 32.88m wide and is 75cm thick.

Inside the aquarium – in the centre of Dubai Mall – you can expect to experience hundreds of sharks and stingrays among the 140+ species on display. Within the zoo, plenty of add-on experiences are to be enjoyed, from caged shark walks to Kind Croc encounters, shark dives, ray encounter experiences and feeding presentations.

• Check pricing and packages for Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo here

If you don’t want to splash the cash, it’s still possible to see the giant suspended tank of the aquarium without actually going inside.

Time needed: 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on what activities you undertake

The Human Waterfall (free!)

This stunning sculpture is beautifully iconic and utterly instagrammable. Spread over two large cylindrical walls 30 metres in diameter and 24 meters high – spanning the three floors of the Dubai Mall – it is one of the Mall’s most eye-catching features.

• You can learn more about the Dubai Waterfall here.

Time needed: 15 minutes

Glide Your Way Around the Ice Skating Rink

It’s hard to believe an entire Olympic-sized rink sits within the heart of the Dubai Mall. Open to all ages and abilities, you can learn to skate through to advanced skaters showing off their moves to the crowd. All your ice skating gear is there to rent.

Prices are variable depending on the time of day you visit. Adds and safety add-ons cost extra. We’ve found it cheaper to pre-book your time slot using Platinumlist.

• You can learn more about the Dubai Mall Ice Rink here

Time needed: 1 hour

Get the Kids Working at KidZania Dubai

One of the best Dubai Mall activities for kids, this real-to-life city is a 7,000 m2 edutainment centre, incorporating over 60 real-life activities for kids to enjoy, from role-playing to critical thinking to crafts and sports and fun ways to spend the KidZoos (money!) that they earn for working.

Ideal for your kids aged 4 to 12 years old (they need to be independent of a parent/carer to join in).

• There’s a good detailed review here of exactly what to expect at Kidzania Dubai or purchase your tickets here.

Time needed: 3 to 4 hours

Land an Aircraft with the Emirates A380 Simulator

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to sit at the helm of the world’s largest commercial aircraft?

This cutting-edge simulator can be found on the 2nd floor of the Dubai Mall (opposite the Aquarium entrance). You can enjoy a 15, 30 or 60-minute lesson on landing this megalithic aeroplane at 12 of the world’s busiest airports.

Platinum and Gold Emirates Skywards members and Emirates Group staff are entitled to a 20% discount (proof of membership/employment is required).

• Learn more about the Emirates A380 Experience here.

Step into the Future at Play DXB

In the space that was formerly known as VR Park (and before that, Sega Republic!), you will find the world’s largest virtual and augmented reality park—Play DXB. Rides vary from the popular Dubai Drone, which takes you on a simulated roller coaster ride through Dubai’s landmarks, to popular video game classics.

There’s something here for everyone, from an inflatable playpark for tots to grown-up-themed simulators and shooting games for teens and adults. Entry is free; you only pay for the games and activities inside, so grab a Pay & Play pass and take your pick.

• Pre-purchase your Pay & Play Pass to enjoy the Park’s most popular attractions.

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Time needed: 1.5 to 3 hours

Dubai Dino (Free!)

Situated quite centrally in the Souk Dome on the mall’s ground floor, the 24-metre-long and 7-metre-high Dubai Dino is a firm favourite of kids as one of the mall’s permanent displays. Marvel at the 155-million-year-old creature from the late Jurassic period in stark contrast to its modern surroundings in this desert mall.

Time needed: 15 minutes

Be Scared Senseless at Hysteria

Hysteria is a haunted house experience like no other – explore through a 15-room mansion simulator. Certainly not for the faint-hearted, this extreme fear experience is only for your thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies; you’ll find it at the Cinema end of the Mall, Level 2/P7 – recommended for 16 years+.

• Learn more about Hysteria and ticket pricing here.

Time need: 20 minutes

Catch the Latest Flicks Reel Cinemas

Speaking of the infamous cinema end to Dubai Mall – one of the largest cinemas in the Middle East can be found at Dubai Mall, the perfect way to spend a few hours tucked away from the heat. Almost every type of modern movie-going experience you can imagine can be found here, from Dine-in to 4D, ScreenX and Platinum Suites.

• See the current schedule for movies at Reel Cinema Dubai Mall

Time needed: approximately 2 hours

Get Behind The Wheel at Ekart Zabeel

On your marks, get set, go! On the rooftop of Dubai Mall Zabeel (an extension of Dubai Mall), go-karting is the latest new sensation to join the entertainment lineup! Standard track sessions are available through race events that can be organized in groups of up to 8.

• Learn more and pre-book tickets for Ekart Zabeel here

Time needed: approximately 90 minutes

Dubai Fountains (Free)

Please note that the Dubai Fountains were temporarily closed in May 2025 for extensive renovations; an official reopening date is yet to be announced

One of the best free activities in Dubai is sitting outside. At the foot of the Burj Khalifa, you will see the breathtaking Dubai Fountain show. Beautifully choreographed performances happen daily at 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., and again in the evenings from 6:30 p.m. and every half hour until midnight.

We highly recommend grabbing a spot at a restaurant that has a view of the Dubai Fountains to maximise your experience and avoid the often crushing crowds on weekends.

For a truly special way to enjoy the fountain shows, take a traditional abra boat out onto Burj Lake to see the action up close (paid), or step out onto the Burj Lake boardwalk (paid) for the closest views.

You can check out some stunning footage of what to expect at the Dubai Fountains here:

Time need: The show itself is only about 5 minutes, but allow yourself 30 minutes getting outside, find your position, and keep a lookout for the following light show on Burj Khalifa

• A complete guide on the best spots and timing for the Dubai fountains and Burj Khalifa light show here

Wander & Dine at Souk al Bahar

The experience doesn’t end within the Dubai Mall. Keep heading outside the Mall (on the Lower Ground Floor, underneath the flagship Apple store). You will find a bridge over Burj Lake, which takes you to Dubai Souk al Bahar.

Catch a Show at Dubai Opera

The city’s premier cultural entertainment hub always has an extensive lineup of shows throughout the year, from opera and ballet to Westend and Broadway favourites. It is just a few minutes walk from the fashion end of Dubai Mall to Dubai Opera, making a perfect pairing for your evening entertainment.

• See what shows are happening at Dubai Opera this year

All of these fabulous experiences are before we get to the actual shopping part and the time it takes to walk around the mega-complex!

Our top tip – don’t attempt to see and do it all. If you have kids, head over to our family-friendly guide to Dubai Mall. With adults only in your group, there’s more you can squeeze in, but do try and balance it with other activities on your trip to Dubai too.

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Dining In And Around Dubai Mall

You can expect everything from quick bites and food court food to fine dining, all within Dubai Mall. The largest food court is in the centre of the top floor of the Mall, but don’t miss a further extensive range of fast food and dine-in choices on the lower ground floor as you head to the Burj Khalifa “At The Top” entrance.

Restaurants are dotted all over the Mall, primarily on the side toward Burj Lake.

Do note, restaurants within Dubai Mall are dry, ie they don’t serve alcohol. If you fancy a drink with lunch or dinner, head over to Souk Al Bahar, accessible by a footbridge from Dubai Mall, or any of the surrounding hotels which are licensed.

Top dining picks for families in Dubai Mall

The choices are vast when it comes to family dining – you can’t go wrong, suiting even the fussiest of eaters. Most likely, you will simply stop when the hangry strikes, but here are a few family-friendly ideas to keep in mind;

• The Cheesecake Factory – of international fame, you know what you’re getting, and great menu choices to suit everyone.
• TGI Fridays – likewise, an international menu with a range of familiar family-friendly choices.
• Social House—Situated on the Lower Ground Floor as you exit the Fountains or Souk Al Bahar, this restaurant has a huge and varied menu selection and a great atmosphere that lends itself to family groups. Its prime location means it can be very busy, so try to dine outside of peak hours.

Top Dubai Mall dining picks for a great view

Restaurants outside the Dubai Mall get the best views of the Dubai Fountain, which occur daily at 1:00 pm and 1:30 pm, and again in the evening from 6.30 pm and every half hour until 11:30 pm. Some of our favourites include:

• Open Flame Kitchen – an upscale eatery on the 1st floor overlooking the action with international dishes on offer.
• Carluccios – an Italian favourite on the lower ground floor in the heart of the action.
• Tribes – a fabulous fun choice on the 3rd floor of Dubai Mall, tastes from all over Africa can be enjoyed inside and out.

You can find our complete guide to Dubai Fountain dining spots within Dubai Mall here.

New Car Parking Charges for Dubai Mall in 2024

Parking charges have been introduced at Dubai Mall from 1 July 2024. Operated by Salik (they also operate Dubai’s toll roads), there will be no toll booths, and you will be automatically charged to your Salik account.

We have been advised that the following charges will apply:

Time in Car Park	Mon – Thu	Fri – Sun
up to 4 hours	FREE	FREE
up to 5 hours	AED 40	FREE
up to 6 hours	AED 60	FREE
up to 7 hours	AED 80	AED 80
up to 8 hours	AED 100	AED 100
up to 12 hour	AED 100	AED 200
up to 24 hours	AED 500	AED 500
over 24 hours	AED 1000	AED 1000

Visitors, your rental cars will be registered already for Salik, but you’ll need to pay these charges at the end of your rental, along with any tolls you pass through in Dubai.

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Staying Near Dubai Mall

There’s a lot to be said for staying close to Dubai Mall on your trip to Dubai. Especially if you’re only here for a short stopover, staying near Dubai Mall puts many of the major attractions and shopping conveniences at your fingertips.

The top hotels you will find near to Dubai Mall are:

• Armani Hotel Dubai
• Address Downtown
• Kempinski Central Avenue
• Kempinski The Boulevard
• Palace Downtown
• Vida Downtown
• Rove Downtown

There’s no denying most of these hotels are at the luxury end of the scale and out of many travellers’ budgets. We recommend you pop over to our complete guide of places to stay in Downtown Dubai to see if this location will be suitable for your stay.

Anywhere that easily connects to the Red Line Metro would also be a great choice for staying close to Dubai Mall. You can see our complete guide on where to stay in Dubai here or check the map below:

Save on Dubai attractions

The best way to save on Dubai attractions is to book your tickets in advance and look for multi-ticket deals, both within Dubai Mall and encompassing other top Dubai and UAE attractions. We recommend you try:

• Ultimate Family Multi-Attraction Dubai Mall Pass to the Aquarium, KidZania and PlayDXB (+ you get a Du 4G SIM)
• The Dubai Pass – a multi-attraction pass with several different booking options

Opening Hours for Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is open for shopping:

• Daily 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Note that on Eid holidays, Ramadan and special events, these regular Mall hours can change.

Keep up to date with what is happening at the Mall with the Dubai Mall App (Android here)- we talk about all the great apps you can download ahead of your Dubai trip here.

There are some slight variations for different attractions within the mall:

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

• Weekdays (Monday to Friday): 10:00 am to 11:00 pm (last entry at 10:15 pm)
• Weekends (Saturday & Sunday): 10:00 am to 12:00 am (last entry at 11.15 pm) 

Restaurants

• Food courts and restaurants within the mall – 10:00 am to 1:00 am daily
• On the external Promenade 10:00 am to 2:00 am daily
• Select cafes open from 9:00 am on weekends

Supermarket

• Monday to Thursday: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm
• Friday to Sunday: 9:00 am to 12:00 am

Reel Cinemas

• See their programmed shop times here

Dubai Ice Rink

• Daily 10:00 am to 12:00 am

Extra Services available at Dubai Mall

To make your Dubai Mall as comfortable as possible, there are several great add-on services;

• Wifi (free)
• Porter Service (paid)
• Delivery service (get those shopping bags sent straight back to the hotel so you can get on with enjoying the attractions without baggage – paid!)

NEWS IN 2024: Dubai Mall is expanding! If 1.2 million square foot of retail space isn’t large enough, how about an extra 240 luxury stores and restaurants? There’s no open date yet but the announcement has been made, so let’s see what sort of attractions will fill this retail space.

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We hope this helps you plan your trip to one of Dubai’s top attractions. Undoubtedly, it is still the heart of city entertainment and retail experiences far beyond any ordinary shopping mall!

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SEE ALL OUR TOP DUBAI ATTRACTION REVIEWS HERE

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What to Expect at Burj Khalifa

Before we dive into the best time to visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, let’s first understand what this megastructure is all about and which parts are open to the public.

The world’s tallest building stands at 828m tall with 160 floors. At the time of completion in 2010, it became known for being:

• The tallest building in the world
• Tallest freestanding structure in the world
• The building with the highest number of stories in the world
• Home to the highest outdoor observation deck in the world
• Tallest service elevator in the world

There have been a few proposed attempts to break its record; however, as of early 2025, none of these projects have been completed or taken the crown from the spectacular Burj Khalifa.

Pop on over here if you’d like to learn more about the building itself and incredible record-breaking Burj Khalifa facts

Observation Decks at Burj Khalifa

There are three main sets of public observation decks and attractions you can visit at the Burj Khalifa

• Level 124/125 “At the Top” – these are the main public observation decks
• The VIP level “At The Top SKY” Level 148
• The Lounge on Levels 152 +153 + 154

In addition, there is the iconic and breathtaking At.Mosphere Restaurant & Lounge on the 122nd floor, offering some of the city’s most incredible breakfast, lunch, high tea, and dinner experiences with a serious wow factor.

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The most important part of planning your trip to Burj Khalifa is recognising that stand-by tickets are hugely more expensive than pre-booked tickets and will simply not be available at peak times, as all tickets have been pre-sold. 

This is one aspect of your trip to Dubai that you absolutely must think about booking in advance to save, so you don’t miss out. The other experience that can be booked out weeks in advance is the new Museum of the Future.

The reason we recommend booking through an authorized reseller such as Get Your Guide for peace of mind that you’ve bought genuine tickets and the ability to cancel for free up to 24 hours beforehand should your plans change; you cannot do this if purchasing direct on the rather clunky to use official website.

Burj Khalifa Timings

The Burj Khalifa observation deck AT THE TOP is open daily at the following times:

• Weekdays – Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
• Weekends – Saturday & Sunday: 5:00 AM to midnight

Prime Hours for Burj Khalifa

• 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Non-Prime Hours for Burj Khalifa

• 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
• 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Note that it’s recommended to book your time slot for up to 90-minutes before you want your experience at the top of Burj Khalifa to account for queues (except sunrise). Last entry is 45 minutes before closure.

At The Top – Burj Khalifa’s Main Public Observation Deck

The main observation deck that most visitors will see is At The Top on the 124th floor and 125th floor. Entrance is from the Lower Ground level of Dubai Mall.

After security checks and waiting your turn for the incredible high-speed elevator, you’ll arrive at Level 124 and the outdoor observation deck. Continue to work your way around the informative displays and immersive experiences, then make your way up to Level 125 through an internal staircase, where you’ll find a gift shop and a tribute to Arab Arts & Culture.

At a towering 456 metres above ground level, you will experience expansive views of the Persian Gulf, the surrounding Downtown area and the vast Dubai skyline (though visibility can be quite variable based on atmospheric conditions).

It is important to note that even with pre-booked tickets, these are not skip-the-line tickets; the time you book simply indicates the earliest time you can start to queue, in 30 minute blocks.

You should expect a sustainable period of lining – both to get up the tower (even with lifts that operate at 10m/sec) and down again. Overall, your Burj Khalifa experience will take 1.5 to 2 hours. There are further displays to read on the way out too.

In our experience, Level 125 can be a much quieter and more enjoyable place, as many do not realise the second floor is there until after they’ve observed the view from all angles. The main outdoor deck, which everyone seems to rush to, is on Level 124.

• Expect to pay off-peak 145 AED kids / 179 AED adults
• During peak hours, 165 AED kids / 259 AED adults
• Kids are only discounted for the main observation decks on levels 124/125, and this applies to 3 to 12-year-olds

At The Top SKY

Ascend 555 meters to At The Top Sky – the World’s highest observation deck, including an outdoor terrace. A luxurious lounge experience with a guided tour and refreshments to add to your visit to level 124/125.

Note that your time in the lounge on level 148 is restricted to 30 minutes, but you can spend as long as you like on the lower decks (if you could call them that!).

• Primetime is all day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Non-prime is 7:00 PM until close
• Expect to pay from 339 AED to 553 AED (no kid prices)

The Lounge (Level 154 +153 + 152) Burj Khalifa

Depending on the timeslot you wish to visit, you can purchase several premium experiences for The Lounge.

Tea in the Clouds

Sit back in the lush couches spread across Level 152 to Level 154 at 585m. Enjoy an assortment of fresh bakes and desserts, alongside a selection of the finest teas and coffee.

• 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM
• Expect to pay 769 AED.

Bubbly Sundowner

Watch the sunset from level 152 to level 154. Enjoy a glass of house beverage or bubbly, complimentary gourmet canapes, a guided tour, and light entertainment.

• 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
• Expect to pay 769 AED

Cocktails Under the Stars

Hitting the tunes with either resident vocalists or House DJ, enjoy complimentary house canapes and a glass of bubbles, along with a VIP tour.

• 7:30 PM to midnight
• Expect to pay 769 AED

An alternative experience on Level 123

VIP Sunset View Lounge Experience

Enjoy a sports car pick-up from your hotel for a group of up to 4, then ascend the Burj Khalifa in your own VIP lift, where a window-side table awaits you at the exclusive lobby lounge on the 123rd floor. Enjoy unrivalled views without the crowds as the sun goes down (note minimum spends apply, in addition to the VIP entry and pickups)

• Expect to pay in the vicinity of 3000 AED for a group up to 3

If you haven’t got a group or would like to have the VIP experience during the day, then this may be the better luxury package for you – it includes a personalised Burj Khalifa AND a 5-course meal in the VIP lounge; there are 2 afternoon time slots, finishing by 4:00 PM.

Dubai Bowling Center

If you’re looking for cheap bowling, this is your place! Dubai Bowling Center features 16 top-notch bowling lanes, three projector lanes, and good food- could you ask for more? 

The highlight here is the blind bowling experience, where you wear a blindfold and let your other senses take over. How cool is that?

And the excitement doesn’t stop with bowling – there are awesome arcade games and even a trampoline park.

Feeling hungry during the game? A Japanese cafe on site serves cheesy pizzas, mouthwatering hot dogs, and filling sandwiches. The best part? You can have your snacks delivered right to your lane, so you can keep your focus on those strikes and spares.

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Location: Al Quoz 1, Meydan Road

Timings: Saturday through Wednesday, 10:00 am to 12:00 am; Thursday and Friday, 10:00 am to 1:00 am

Pricing: A game is for AED 24, and a lane for AED 114 on weekdays. On weekends, it’s charged by hour. The first hour is for AED 209, and the following hours are for AED 175 per hour. 

Find more details and make your booking at www.dubaibowling.com.

Dubai International Bowling Center

DIBC is the biggest Dubai bowling center. It is where you can join leagues, participate in tournaments, celebrate your birthday party, or just have a night out with friends. Even if you step in alone, you’ll leave with a group of new bowling buddies.

The spacious lounge has 36 lanes, modern scoring systems, and video walls to track your every move. 

There’s a pro shop on site for all your bowling gear needs. And when hunger strikes, head to the food court that offers yummy grab-and-go munchies. 

Besides bowling, you’ll also find pool tables, darts, air hockey, and foosball tables to keep you entertained. There’s also a salon for the girlies!

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Location: Shabab Club, Al Mamzar, Deira 

Timings: Daily 9:00 am to 1:00 am

Pricing: Monday-Thursday, a game costs AED 18, and a lane costs AED 126. Weekend charges are slightly higher at AED 20 per game and AED 135 per lane. They also charge AED 4 for a pair of socks. Shoe rental is free. 

Visit their website at www.dubaibowlingcentre.ae to learn more.

Glitch

Dubai has a new indoor adventure world inside one of its malls. This place spans over 40,000 square meters and is made for fun and fun alone.

Whether you want to spend your evening undertaking a ninja warrior course, rock climbing, bowling strikes, or winning nonstop at arcade games – Glitch is where you should be! 

Their bowling alley is the first of its kind with super fast ball return, chic lighting, Brunswick tech, and super comfy seating.

There are eight lanes; we know that’s not as much as the other alleys, but it’s quality that counts!

If your tummy rumbles mid-game, there’s a food court where you can get your favourite burger and nuggets. 

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Location: Al Ghurair Centre

Timing: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm from Sunday to Thursday and 10:00 am to 12:00 am (midnight) on Fridays and Saturdays.

Pricing: each activity has a different price, but you can buy a package for AED 35 for any two activities, AED 65 for any three experiences, and AED 100 for any 6.

Find more information at glitcharbaia.com

Brass Monkey

Brass Monkey is the ultimate hangout spot for people aged 21 and above. Here, you’ll find everything a fun night out is made of – bowling, billiards, darts, arcade games, and some super delicious food.

They also feature a VR driving stimulator for those of you who love to race! You need to try this!

Brass Monkey has 12 bowling lanes that come with a private bar, so you can keep your spirits up throughout the game. Get tacos, sliders, pizzas, and a whole lot of desserts, all to your heart’s (or tummy’s) content.

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And if you’re wondering about the dress code, it’s casual and relaxed. But we suggest leaving those heels at home because comfort is key when bowling.

The place also offers a lot of attractive packages for people wanting to host parties. Make sure you get in touch to get the best deal for your event. 

Location: Bluewaters Island

Timing: Monday-Wednesday, 4:00 pm to 2:00 am. Thursday-Friday, 4:00 pm to 3:00 am. Saturday, 12:00 pm to 3:00 am, and Sunday, 12:00 pm to 2:00 am.

Pricing: Bowling is for AED 75 per player per game. Get an arcade game card for AED 100.

Here is where you can get all the details: brassmonkeysocial

Switch Bowling

This is the famous Ibn Battuta bowling that’s got everyone talking! 

What sets them apart is the decor – it’s a mix of industrial and retro with funky graffiti on the walls. Add to that great music and tasty food. From burgers to pasta, you’ll get everything for your hunger pangs here!

The venue even has karaoke rooms for those who want to show off their singing skills.

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There are 12 lanes here for you to enjoy some serious bowling action. Keep an eye out for their nightly promotions on food and drinks. It’s all about winning big while having fun!

Location: Ibn Battuta Mall

Timings: Saturday-Wednesday, 10:00 am to 11:00 pm and Thursday-Friday, 10:00 am to 12:00 am

Pricing: AED 30 per player per game

Learn more at www.switchbowling.ae.

What Do You Get to Do At Wild Paint Hosue

Divided up into six different creative activities, Wild Paint House gives you the opportunity to try your hand at:

• Splat – Dynamic wall art with a wide variety of tools and techniques

• Spin – Give your canvas a new spin with manual spinning machines

• Swing – Use pendulum art tools on an electric table

• Pour – Acrylic pour-over creations with ceramic bears

• Neon – It’s time to get funky and creative with splat or spin under neon lights

• Graffiti – Legally tag and spray the outdoor walls (winter only)

So, How Does it Work? Wild Paint House in Action!

You need to pre-book your time slot as there’s only a certain number of artists that can undertake each activity zone at one time. Walk-ins may be accommodated, but they cannot guarantee this.

You will be given a poncho or apron to protect your clothing and protective booties, but it’s highly recommended you wear something underneath that you don’t mind getting a little messy! Lockers are there to tuck away anything you don’t want to be splattered (but for the record, the paint easily comes off everything, including phones and cameras!!)

Wild Paint House Opening Hours

Wild Paint House is open 7 days a week.

• Monday 2:00 PM to 9:30 PM
• Tuesday to Friday 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM
• Saturday & Sunday 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Each session you book is allowed for an hour, but if they’re not busy and you’re still working on a creation, you can go over your slot. (This is subject to availability, though, so do plan to be done in your allotted time.)

Where to Find Wild Paint House

• Warehouse 1, Al Marabea’ St, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1, Dubai
• hello@wildpainthouse.com
• +971 568 336 804

Coming in your own car, parking is limited but can be found on the corner Al Marabea’ St and 14B Street.

By taxi or Careem, it’s easy to be dropped off just outside and walk down a short laneway.

From the nearest Metro, it’s a good 45 walk, so you may want to get off at Onpassive Metro Station and take a taxi the last little bit.

You are fairly close to Alserkal Avenue and Times Square Mall if you’re looking for a place to eat or add on activities with your trip to Wild Paint House. They have a small selection of drinks for sale but do not provide meals.

What Does Wild Paint Dubai Cost?

There are lots of different packages available depending on how many of you are looking to paint and what items you’d like to take home versus enjoying the painting experience.

These rates are current as of October 2023:

More FAQ’s Visting Wild Paint House

Is the paint ‘safe’ – They use high-quality, child-safe tempera paint from New Zealand. It is non-toxic, enviro-friendly and doesn’t have any unpleasant chemical smells (and if you are wondering whether the littles ingest any, it contains no dairy, egg, gluten, soy or peanuts – not that we’re encouraging them to go take a big lick; but hey, we’re parents too, IYKYK.

Will the paint wash off? Yup, don’t be afraid to get messy. While protection is provided with your clothing, you won’t routinely be issued gloves; you can give yourself a good hose down at the end in their washrooms.

Do you get to keep what you paint? For any of the activities that involve painting a canvas or bear (the acrylic pour), you will get a memento to take home. The graffiti and wall activities, fair game, you really can’t take them with you!

We’ve done our fair share of indoor activities with the kids over the years, and my teen says that, undoubtedly, Wild Paint House is one of her favourites! We are super proud of our artworks, though maybe self-confessed, we’re a little too meticulous and need to let go a little to try more techniques and risk making a mess of it!!

Good enough for the living room wall? We think so!!

Wild Paint House is a great, fun way to spend some time in Dubai out of the heat or a superb rainy day activity with kids.

We were media guests of Wild Paint House Dubai. We were not compensated other than some fun memories and art works we took home. All opinions are our own. Available activities and facts on the venue accurate as of October 2023

Best Sports Bars in Dubai

1. The 44

Beautiful monochrome checkered tiles, comfortable sofas, chic bar stools, and a lively vibe – The 44 sports bar is among Dubai’s best sports bars. 

Several screens here show different sports matches, so you can have your pick and enjoy the game with a group of friends. 

The best part about The 44 is its location. It is the highest sports bar in the city, with breathtaking views that you can enjoy from their terrace. The terrace is also a BBQ and Shisha spot, in case you want to take a break from the game. 

You can find The 44 in Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, a luxurious hotel that is easily accessible through public transportation or by car.

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Location: Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, Sheikh Zayed Road.

Wish to learn more? Check out their website: www.alhabtoorcity.com.

2. Stables

Catch all the live sports action at Stables and have a blast. This one-of-a-kind sports bar has a unique equestrian theme with horse-related decor, making it stand out from the rest. 

Enjoy your game on one of their big screens while sipping crafty cocktails or refreshing beers. They also have a delicious menu with dishes from all around the world. So, whenever the game stress gets too much, order your favourite dish and feel better.

The bar also offers happy hour deals and Ladies’ Nights, making it more budget-friendly. Don’t miss those out!

The best part is that you can easily find Stables in a standalone venue.

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Location: White Crown Building, Sheikh Zayed Road

Check their Instagram handle, thestablesdubai, for more updates.

4. Rodeo Drive

Next on our list of Dubai’s best sports bars is Rodeo Drive. As the name suggests, this sports bar is an American-style bar with screens to catch all the action. Their extensive drinks menu has everything from classic cocktails to premium spirits.

But wait, there’s more! Rodeo Drive also serves delicious pub food that you can enjoy while cheering for your team. They specialize in American classics like burgers, ribs, and wings that are perfect for game nights.

The highlight, however, is the mechanical bull that you can ride during halftime. It’s a fun way to take a break from the game and enjoy some friendly competition with your friends.

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Location: White Crown Building, Sheikh Zayed Road

Check out their website www.rodeodrivedubai.com, to stay updated with their events. 

5. Bedrock

Bedrock is one of the best sports bars in Dubai Marina. It features twenty HD screens, an indoor golfing area, and a state-of-the-art darting zone. This sports bar is for everyone – the watchers and the players! 

The minimalist interiors and welcoming vibe will make you feel right at home. They also have a great selection of drinks and food to choose from, so you’ll never go thirsty or hungry here!

They have a daily happy hour and Ladies’ Night every Wednesday to keep you entertained on a budget. 

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Location: Pier 7 Marina Dubai

Want to learn more about what’s on the menu? Head to their website: www.bedrockdxb.ae.

6. Trophy Room

A sports bar should feel airy, lively, and comfortable, and Trophy Room has all of that. This bar features high ceilings, big windows, plenty of natural light, and a cosy atmosphere. There’s seating arrangement enough for 75 sports lovers!

You can catch all major sports events here on their 11 big screens. Plus, they’ve got you covered with different languages for your sports fix. It’s a winner!

Their menu is extensive with British and Merican cuisines, and their drinks selection is absolutely refreshing. So, whether you prefer melt-in-the-mouth pizzas or satisfying burgers, you’ll get it all here. 

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Location: Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road

Since the seating space is limited, it’s best you reserve your table beforehand. Here’s where you can do that: www.fairmont.com.

7. Long’s Bar

Long’s Bar is one of Dubai’s favourite British sports pubs, and it’s the ultimate spot to catch live sports action. They’ve got a fully stocked bar right in the middle of the action, surrounded by a whopping 20 screens.

The best part? No matter where you’re sitting, you’ve got a clear view of a TV screen, so you won’t miss a single moment of the game. 

And if you’re all about those deals, Long’s Bar has one of the most extended and coolest happy hours in Dubai – you can snag a fantastic 30% off selected drinks.

But that’s not all! They’ve got some fantastic specials, too. So, it’s best you check their website to stay updated on what’s happening at Long’s Bar. 

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Location: Towers Rotana, Sheikh Zayed Road

To check out their dress code and operating hours, visit their website: www.rotana.com.

8. Headlines Executive

What’s a sports bar without some jerseys and flags, right? Headlines is the vibe you’re looking for if you want a sports bar with a cosy, homely feel. Their walls are adorned with flags and jerseys worldwide, making it the perfect place to watch your favourite team play.

Plus, the bar offers some finger-licking good Indian dishes at great prices! 

If you enjoy music, visit during the evening hours. They also have a rooftop to view Dubai’s majestic skyline and sip on some cold beer. 

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Location: Ibis Hotel World Trade Centre

Check them out on Facebook @headlinesIbisDWTC

9. The Huddle Sports Bar & Grill

If you’re looking for one of the most welcoming sports bars in Bur Dubai, Huddle is the place to be. This place has a casual yet pleasant vibe, and its menu is exceptionally reasonable. You’ll get burgers, nachos, steaks, sandwiches – basically everything!

Whether you enjoy a game of football or rugby, this sports bar has enough screens for everyone. In fact, there’s one in every direction you look. So you won’t miss any action. 

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Location: Bur Dubai and Citymax Hotels Al Barsha

Reserve a table by heading to their website: www.citymaxhotels.com.

10. Wavebreaker Beach and Grill

Fancy a beach sports bar? Rush to the Wavebreaker Beach and Grill! This place is calm, beachy, and has a big screen to keep you entertained. You can enjoy both the cool sea breeze and your favourite game here.

The seating arrangement is very comfortable, with cushy sofas surrounded by greenery. This sports bar also serves lip-smacking BBQ along with some signature cocktails. It’s an excellent spot for sundowners or even a chilled-out weekend lunch with friends. You also get aromatic Shisha here. 

If you want access to the pool and beach area, you can pay for it. They also have Happy Hour deals that you can check out on their website: www.hilton.com.

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Location: Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence

11. Spike

If you’re on the hunt for a great local spot to catch all the matches, you have to check out Spike. This sports bar features 16 screens that are installed such that no one misses a moment of their favourite game. And when it comes to grub, they’ve got you covered with a mix of international goodies like burgers, pizza, and curries.

Oh, and here’s a bonus – if you’re into the Ryder Cup, they have a special menu and some sweet deals on select beers from September 29 to October 1. 

Even if sports aren’t your thing, you can hang out on the terrace that looks over a lush green gold course! Definitely a sight!

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Location: Emirates Golf Club, Sheikh Zayed Road

To know their daily specials, visit their website: www.dubaigolf.com.

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Check current deals on Expedia

Four Seasons Resort Dubai

Private cabanas, dinner in an open-air lounge, and mesmerizing views of the Arabian Gulf from the private beachfront – now that’s a day worth living. You can experience this and much more at Four Seasons Resort – an indoor pool hotel in Dubai. 

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This is one of Dubai’s best hotels, offering its guests a relaxing stay with attentive service. The in-house restaurant, Sea Fu, offers delicious seafood dishes that you can enjoy by the poolside cabanas.

There are tennis and padel courts for the active guests, while the spa offers a range of treatments for relaxation.

And, of course, they, too, have a tranquil indoor pool. It’s set under a glass dome, sporting aesthetic blue tiles and rich marble columns. The pool is big enough to swim a few laps, and the pool water is climate-controlled for year-round comfort.

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Check current deals on Expedia

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

The Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is a masterpiece in itself. Inspired by the Ottoman Empire, this hotel offers its guests a grand experience with its palatial interiors and luxurious amenities. 

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This luxurious hotel offers a private screening experience at its in-house cinema and a world-class spa and fitness centre. There’s also something for the little ones here – the Sindbad Kid’s Club. There’s something for every child, from a mini water park to interactive gaming.

However, the hotel’s highlight is its Talise Ottoman Spa, featuring one of Dubai’s largest indoor swimming pools. The traditional hammam inspires the pool with temperature-controlled and salted water.

You can also relax in a sauna, take a steam bath, and have fun in their unique snow room. It’s a true oasis of pampering and rejuvenation!

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Check current deals on Expedia

Dukes The Palm

Dukes is another one of Dubai’s best hotels with a private beach. The rooms have a touch of British luxury, with elegant and sophisticated interiors. 

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What’s more, this luxurious indoor pool hotel offers exclusive dining options. Whether you’d like to treat your tastebuds to Indian cuisine or sip on some bubbly at the champagne lounge, Dukes has got you covered.

The hotel’s indoor pool is on the 14th floor, offering stunning panoramic views of the Dubai Marina skyline – just perfect for those Instagram-worthy pictures. Since the pool is temperature-regulated, you can enjoy a pleasant swim at any time of the year.

All ages are welcome at the Duke’s indoor pool, but kids will also love the kids club, lazy river and incredible infinity pool outdoors, which offers some of the best views on the Palm back to Bluewaters Island and JBR.

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Check current deals on Expedia

Sofitel Dubai The Palm

Sofitel The Palm is a five-star resort in an idyllic setting – beautiful lush trees and golden sandy shores on the outer frond of the Palm Jumeirah. The hotel oozes a French style with Polynesian touches, from its architecture to its interiors.

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There are several dining options to choose from – from the relaxing pool bar to the high-end steakhouse. There’s something for every palate here. 

Sofitel Hotel offers a total of six indoor outdoor pools, many with slides and waterfall features. There is also a serene indoor pool attached to the SoSpa (additional charges apply). The spa area also features a hammam, a steam room, and a sauna for a relaxing experience. 

The water sports and recreation offering at Sofitel is seemingly endless, with paddleboats and windsurfing to snorkelling gear that can be hired. Kids (4 to 12 years old) can join the fun at Amura Kids Club, or head to the private jetty to join a sunset cruise.

Whether you want to take a dip in a hydrotherapy pool or enjoy the views from the infinity pool, Sofitel Dubai the Palm is simply heaven!

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Check current deals on Expedia

The Ritz Carlton 

The Ritz Carlton on Jumeirah Beach is next on our list of hotels in Dubai with indoor pools. This hotel is situated in one of the nicest areas of Dubai, with high-end restaurants, business hubs, and shopping malls nearby in the JBR area of the city. 

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The hotel features six restaurants, each with a unique experience. The cuisine, the seating arrangement, the vibe – everything’s worth an experience.

There’s also a 24-hour fitness centre with state-of-the-art equipment for health-conscious guests.

The Ritz Carlton boasts six swimming pools in total, including a stunning indoor pool that’s temperature-controlled to suit your preferences. The design is contemporary, with neat lines and minimalistic decor. Note that the indoor pool is adults only, open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Check current deals on Expedia

Bulgari Resort Dubai

Want to live a Meditteranean dream in the Middle East? Bulgari Resort is your place! The hotel is designed to impress – think Italian marble, custom-made furniture, and a private yacht club. 

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The services offered are remarkable, too. From in-room packing and unpacking services to Berluti shoe shine, you’ll be impressed every minute of your stay. 

Moreover, the hotel staff doesn’t leave the kids out of the VIP vibe. There’s a Little Gems Club specifically designed for children. The club, set in two locations, offers various activities, including arts and crafts and gardening. 

The main highlight, however, is the hotel’s spa located on the ground floor. It’s everything you need to unwind from the daily stressors of life. As their guest, you’ll have access to a 25m indoor pool and a vitality pool with a touch of ancient Caracalla baths. The floor-to-ceiling glass windows with gold accents add to the luxurious feel of the pool area. 

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Check current deals on Expedia

Raffles The Palm

Here’s where you’ll find one of the best hotel pools in Dubai – outdoor and indoor.

Tall palm trees and eye-catching private beach views surround the outdoor pool. The indoor pool, on the other hand, is a part of the hotel’s Cinq Mondes Spa and is open to adults only. The pool area has intricately carved panels that filter in natural light, with a design inspired by the resort’s Arabesque architecture.

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Cinq Mondes Spa also features traditional hammams, scrub rooms, private spa suites, and a yoga studio for ultimate relaxation. The indoor pool is temperature-controlled and perfect for a refreshing swim after a spa session. 

Raffles The Palm also offers calligraphy workshops, unique gastronomical experiences, and a private beach. You can also choose to stay in one of the hotel’s luxurious villas for a more secluded and private experience. Each villa has a private pool and a built-in spa area. 

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Check current deals on Expedia

Grand Hyatt

Grand Hyatt, one of Dubai’s best family hotels, overlooks the city’s majestic skyline and offers its guests a luxurious stay on Dubai Creek, close to the airport side of the city.

Its impressive architecture, exclusive dining areas, and luxurious interiors will make you feel like you’re in a modern-day palace.

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The hotel’s leisure facilities, including an award-winning spa with an indoor temperature-controlled pool, are equally impressive. The indoor pool at Grand Hyatt is 20 meters long and is fitted with underwater speakers, setting the mood for a serene swim, though it is open to all ages.

The hotel also features a steam room, sauna, fitness centre, and a kids club. It’s a perfect place for vacationers and business travellers alike in a super convenient location.

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Check current deals on Expedia

JA The Resort

Often overlooked by visitors to Dubai as this all-in-one resort is situated just beyond the city boundaries but still offers everything you’d expect from a spectacular Dubai resort experience, and more!

JA The Resort is actually three resorts rolled into one with shared facilities that give you a huge repertoire of indoor and outdoor leisure experiences to enjoy. This includes a golf course, a shooting club, a splash park, and a tennis academy. You can also take a diving lesson to prepare yourself for an underwater adventure. 

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The hotel has a Pirates and Mermaids Kids Club, with activities suitable for children aged 4-12. For adults who wish to brave water sports, there are several options. You can go windsurfing, waterboarding, and kayaking to your heart’s content. 

When it comes to hotels with the most swimming pools in Dubai, JA definitely joins the race. There are six pools on the property – all temperature-controlled – with one pool located indoors and open to all age groups.

Whether you want an action-packed holiday or to destress and rejuvenate, JA the Resort in Jebel Ali is sure to impress.

Read TripAdvisor Reviews | Check current deals on Expedia

1. DREAM Dubai

Returning for its explosive 5th season in winter 2023/24, DREAM Dubai reopens from 4 October with an extravagant new show, Voyage.

Dream offers over-the-edge musical and theatrical performances, dancers, acrobats, aerialists, and singers in elaborate avant-garde costumes. Voyage takes the audience on a journey through epic eras and moments that shaped history in an unforgettable stage performance.

As the name suggests, the interior of this Dubai dinner show restaurant is sophisticated, with intricately designed ceilings, walls with special effects projection, and plush furnishings. It truly feels like you’re living a dream while dining in this high-end, luxurious setting.

Coming to the dinner options, you’ll find everything Mediterranean! This includes grilled Mediterranean vegetables, lamb cutlets, roasted cauliflower steaks, and a variety of starters and salads, not to mention their signature cocktail menu.

The best part of this dinner-show restaurant is the various sections it houses. There’s a “House of Dreams,” a waterfront terrace from where you can have a stunning view of Ain Dubai and Bluewaters Island.

In short, if you want to have an elegant wine and dine experience, Dream is an excellent choice.

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Location and Timings

• Dream is located at Address Beach Resort, JBR, and is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00 PM to late. Minimum spend starts at AED 1000.

Learn more at: Dream Dubai |  reservations@dreamdxb.com

2. Bazaar Dubai

If you want to experience a true Middle Eastern dinner show, head over to Bazaar Dubai. It is a relatively new addition to Dubai restaurants with entertainment, but it has become an instant hit amongst partygoers.

Bazaar Dubai is an open-air restaurant with an international menu, including everything from Lebanese sliders to Greek tzatziki. The live entertainment at the restaurant includes dance music with a DJ, live performers, and singers for the guests to have the best night of their lives.

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Location and Timings

• Bazaar Dubai is located in Meydan Racecourse Grandstand and is open from Tuesday through Saturday.

Learn more at @BazaarDxbClub

3. Babylon

Babylon is a dinner-show restaurant that has it all! From an amazing ambience to sleek furniture, aesthetic lighting, trendy decor, and of course, the mouthwatering food and live performances, you’ll find everything on fleek.

The live performances at Babylon include cabarets, parodies, solo acts, and group performances. The best part is the characters, who are dressed in extravagant costumes, adding to the vibe of the place.

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Location and Timings

• Babylon is located at Podium Level, Gate Village 05, DIFC, and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM. 

Learn more at Babylon DIFC

4. Koyo

If you’re up for some Japanese cuisine alongside amazing live performances, try Koyo. As soon as you set foot inside this nightclub-style restaurant, you will be blown away by the intricately decorated dining hall. With soft red lighting setting up the mood for wine and dining, the oriental setup takes you all the way to Japan!

Every Tuesday, you can enjoy a 2-course meal, followed by unlimited drinks for AED 250 for ladies and AED 300 for gents. Along with the dinner, there are musical shows, live performances, and dancers entertaining you while you eat.

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Location and Timings

• Koyo is located in InterContinental Dubai Marina and is open Tuesday to Friday from 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM, and on Saturdays, it operates from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM. 

Learn more at Koyo Dubai 

5. 53 Dubai

Located on the 53rd floor of the Sheraton Grand Hotel, 53 Dubai not only offers dinner with a show but also gives the guests a stunning view of the Dubai skyline from its window walls. 

This spectacular Dubai cabaret show includes an extravagant menu ranging from Mediterranean cuisine to famous Latin American and Asian dishes. The live entertainment includes creative performances, dances, and musicals choreographed by the Lebanese artist Jean Zakr.

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Therefore, if you want to dine with stellar views on the outside and vibrant views on the inside, there’s no better place than 53 Dubai.

Location and Timings

• 53 Dubai is located in the Sheraton Grand Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, and is open all week from 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM.

Learn more at: 53 Dubai

6. Taikun 

Taikun is a relatively new dinner-show restaurant in Dubai. With its sophisticated interior and oriental embellishments, it offers a fine dining experience with high-end live performances. 

Its menu is a fusion of French, Mediterranean, and Pan-Asian cuisine, with oysters, caviar, sushi, and sashimi platters as the highlights. For your entertainment, there’s live music, dancing, theatrical performances, and adrenaline-rushing stunts by acrobats and gymnasts. 

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Location and Timings

• Taikun is located at Hilton Habtoor City and is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 8:00 PM to 3:00 AM and on Sundays from 8:00 PM to midnight.

Learn more at Taikun Dubai 

7. Flashback Speakeasy

The concept of dinner and a show dates back to the mid-nineties, and if you want to take a stroll down history, visit the Flashback Speakeasy.

The restaurant offers live rock and roll music and dance performances that take you back to the 1920s prohibition era! The dressing, the music, the singers, and the set up are 1920-themed with music by legendary singers from the past. 

Every Wednesday, there’s a Rock and Cabaret ladies’ night at Flashback Speakeasy, while on Thursdays, there’s a “Murder in Speakeasy” themed dinner with a show from the 1930s. 

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Flashback Speakeasy is the ideal pick if you want to experience the true essence of dinner with live entertainment in Dubai!

Location and Timings

• Flashback Speakeasy is located in Paramount Hotel, Business Bay, and operates from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM from Tuesday to Saturday. 

Learn more a: Flashback Speakeasy Dubai

8.  La Casa Del Tango

How about a combination of rich Argentinian food with a sizzling dance? Sounds fun? You can experience this Dubai Dinner Show at La Casa Del Tango!

This dinner-show restaurant has been around since 2021, and with professional dancer Enrique Macana, you’ll feel like you’re sitting in the heart of Buenos Aires, tangoing your way through the night! 

La Casa Del Tango serves scrumptious meals, including the fugazetta, an Argentinian-style stuffed pizza without tomato sauce, churros served with dulce de leche, tender lamb chops, and empanadas, among others. And all this is served while the dancers cha-cha around you!

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For a true South American experience, Le Casa Del Tango should be your go-to place!

Location and Timings

• La Casa Del Tango is located in Gate Avenue, DIFC, and is open from Sunday to Thursday from 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM and from 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM on the weekends.

Learn more at La Casa Del Tango

9. Lost in Time

Renowned dinner show venue The Theatre at The Fairmont is reopening this October, serving up not only gastronomic delights from award-winning chef Mattheus Stinnissen but a brand new immersive show, “Lost in Time.”

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The story follows two astronauts who become marooned at various historical ages and seek a path back to the present day. Audiences will be tapping along from the swinging melodies of the 1920s to rock and roll and disco fever in the 1970s.

You’ll be dished up culinary delights to match your show, from Beluga and Oscietra Caviar to Lobster Ligunini or signature slow-cooked Wagyu Tomahawk.

Location and Timings

• Lost in Time occurs at the Theater, Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road every Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 PM to 3:00 AM; Friday and Saturday, there are two seatings 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and 10:00 PM to 3:00 AM.

Learn more at The Theatre Dubai

10. Billionaire

The best kind of performance is by the professionals, and that’s what you get at Billionaire Dubai.

A stunning live entertainment act put together by the famous artistic production director Montserrat More, which includes melodic singers, hoop-hanging acrobats, and jaw-dropping gravity-defying balancing acts by Michael and Dario Togni, and unique circus acts by former Britain’s Got Talent participants. 

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As for the food, the menu has an extensive range of Italian and Asian cuisine, ranging from sushi to maki rolls, all the way to everyone’s favourite pizzas!

Billionaire rolls into one of the best nightclubs in Dubai, so its definitely worth having on your Dubai bucket list if you’re up for a lavish nighttime experience in Dubai.

Location and Timings

• Billionaire is located in Taj Dubai, Business Bay, and operates from 9:00 PM to 3:00 AM from Tuesday to Sunday. 

Learn more at Billionaire Dubai 

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1. Talise Spa

If you’re looking to spend a day getting extravagant treatment at one of the best luxury spas in Dubai, the Talise Spa should be your top pick.

It has 25 treatment rooms, a jacuzzi, a steam room, a sauna, and an ice-cold plunge pool. Then there’s the outdoor pool, where you can enjoy a relaxed lunch with your partner or friends after your treatments. The most famous facility at the Talise Spa is the 90-minute Balinese massage that is excellent for people who have stressed backs and necks.

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Location

• Jumeirah Al Qasr

Cost

• The cost varies from treatment to treatment, starting from AED 540.

For more information and bookings, visit www.jumeirah.com

2. One & Only Spa

One of the best places to relax and unwind is a Hammam. And, if you’re looking for one in Dubai, head over to the One & Only Spa at Royal Mirage.

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Located right in the middle of lush green gardens, this spa gives you relaxing vibes as soon as you set foot into it. The spa itself is adorned with a stainless glass ceiling. You can choose from a variety of treatments, including the famous Rose Ritual with soothing rose and mint aroma, a clay body wrap, a honey face mask, and a relaxing head and body massage.

Location

• One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai Marina

Cost

• The cost varies according to treatment, starting from AED 335.

For more information and bookings, visit www.oneandonlyresorts.com

For a luxury spa experience, get a booking at the Heavenly Spa at Westin Mina Seyahi.

As the name suggests, this spa has everything you need for a relaxing day, including 10 therapeutic rooms, saunas, steam rooms, and jacuzzis. The treatments are carried out using award-winning products and include facials, massages, nail treatments, and full-day access to the beach and pool.

What more could you ask for on your day off?

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Location

• Westin Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina

Cost

• Price starts from AED 500

For more information and bookings, visit www.heavenlyspadubai.com

5. B Attitude Spa

B Attitude is a spa that offers ancient relaxation techniques from the East in a modish yet tranquil environment.

It offers unique massages done with figs, dates, and warm Argan oil, lavishly applied on the body to give you musky aromatherapy that relaxes your muscles and leaves you stress-free. The spa also offers a royal hammam ritual, where you soak up water infused with minerals, essential oils, and Ghassoul mud to remove toxins from the body, leaving your skin soft, silky, and fresh.

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Location

• Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina

Cost

• Price starts from AED 500

For more information and bookings, visit www.battitudespa-dubai.com

6. SensAsia

If you’re looking for a spa and wellness centre that has an impressive variety of treatments, you should try out SensAsia.

It offers several packages that have combined treatments; however, you can also enjoy separate features like extensive massages, advanced facials for glowing skin, special massages for pregnant ladies, detoxification wraps and scrubs, skin-tightening sculpting, and IV drip fusion therapies.

SensAsia also has a separate menu designed specifically for men. So, whether you’re a mom-to-be, a tired business executive, an exhausted housewife, or simply someone who’s looking for some relaxation, the SensAsia spa is just where you need to be!

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Location

• Emirates Golf Club
• The Village, Jumeirah 1
• Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates
• Express Spa, Mall of the Emirates

Cost

• Price starts from AED 350

For more information and bookings, visit sensasiaspas.com

7. The Nail Spa

Who doesn’t crave a long relaxing massage? But not everyone can afford to go to luxury spas! Therefore, if you want to loosen those muscles in a pocket-friendly manner, you need to try the Nail Spa!

It offers regular manicures and pedicures for your hands and feet. Still, there’s also the Swedish aromatherapy massage and the chocolate candle oil massage, which involves kneading and tapping your muscles into relaxation while loosening the knots.

In short, the massages at the Nail Spa will ease your muscle tension, and you will leave a stress-free, happy soul!

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Location

• Al Barsha
• Dubai Media City
• Mall of Emirates

Cost

• Prices start from AED 300 for a 60-minute massage.

For more information and bookings, visit thenailspa.com

8. Tips & Toes

Tips & Toes is another budget-friendly beauty chain in Dubai with a wide range of relaxing massages as part of their menu of extensive treatments.

Starting from the Brazillian fit-firming body massage to Thai herbal compress, Basalt hot stone massage, and pregnancy massage, you will find something that caters to your needs precisely. Besides massages, it also has Moroccan and Turkish hammams that involve skin exfoliation with black soap and clay mask cleansing to leave your skin soft and rejuvenated.

All in all, Tips & Toes is not just one of the best places to have your hands and feet pampered; it is one of the best affordable massage spas in Dubai.

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Location

• Various locations across the city

Cost

• Prices start from AED 105, depending on the treatment

For more information and bookings, visit www.tipsandtoes.com

9. ShuiQi Spa

ShuiQi is a luxury spa at Atlantis The Palm that uses water energy to help relax the body and mind.

All throughout the spa, you will find waterfalls and streams, the sound of which gives you a sense of instant relaxation and tranquillity. It has various treatments, including underwater yoga, personalized massages, hydrating facials, a body-sculpting wrap, and cryotherapy that involves cold temperatures to boost collagen production and improve blood circulation.

Its standout treatment is the ESPA energy-balancing treatment that offers scrubbing, exfoliation, and acupuncture to help fight stress and sleep deprivation.

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Location

• Atlantis the Palm, Palm Jumeirah

Cost

• Prices start from AED 500, depending on the treatment

For more information and bookings, visit www.atlantis.com