With the school holidays upon us, parents in Dubai are on the lookout for exciting ways to keep their children entertained. Fortunately, the city is bursting with delightful outings, creative activities, and family-friendly adventures to engage young minds over the break. From thrilling indoor amusement parks to enchanting gardens and hands-on workshops, there’s something for every little explorer. Here are 14 entertaining activities to embark on this school break.
Lala Little Wonders
Kickstart the holidays at Dubai’s newest entertainment centre, Lala Little Wonders, where a Halloween-themed playground awaits. Running throughout the half-term break, little ones can revel in themed activities, creative workshops, and spooky stage shows. Children are encouraged to don their Halloween best for photo opportunities with beloved superheroes and princesses. Additional workshops, such as candle making and trick-or-treat bag crafting, are available from Dhs45, with packages starting at Dhs450 for multiple visits.
Where: Al Joud Building, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Qouz
When: Mon to Thurs 9am to 8pm, Fri to Sun 9am to 9pm
Contact: WhatsApp 056 911 0033, @lalalittlewonders and @theglowpophouse
Black Bunny Amusement Park
From October 12 to 18, Black Bunny Amusement Park transforms with a spooky theme featuring slime-making, Halloween arts and crafts, and trampoline challenges. Families can opt for a fun Halloween camp running from 10 am to 2 pm, priced at Dhs209 with meals or Dhs179 without meals for a single day, while a five-day package is available for Dhs999 with meals included.
Where: Al Quoz 3, Dubai
When: Camp timings from 10 am to 2 pm
Contact: 048243088, @blackbunny.dxb
Museum of Candy
Cartoon Network MENA has creatively revamped the Museum of Candy with “Adventure Time: Side Quests,” an attraction inspired by the beloved series. Kids can immerse themselves in the magical Candy Kingdom, interacting with giant character installations and customising merchandise with a dedicated calligrapher. Be sure to arrive early for exclusive giveaways.
Where: Museum of Candy, Sounbulah Building, Umm Hurair Road, Oud Metha
When: Mon to Fri 11 am to 9 pm, Sat and Sun 10 am to 9 pm
Contact: @museumofcandy_official
Ski Dubai
As the weather cools down, Ski Dubai invites kids aged four to ten for a thrilling autumn camp filled with winter-themed adventures. Activities include rides, a treasure hunt, face painting, and movie screenings at VOX Cinemas, all bundled with healthy meals. Prices start from Dhs399 for a single-day camp.
Where: Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates
When: October 12 to 16, 9 am to 5 pm
Cost: 1-day camp package Dhs399, 1-week package Dhs1,500
Madame Tussauds and Illusion City
For a budget-friendly family day out, visit Madame Tussauds and Illusion City for just Dhs180 per adult and Dhs155 for children aged two to eleven. Enjoy lifelike wax figures at Madame Tussauds, and challenge perceptions at the mind-bending exhibits of Illusion City.
Where: Bluewaters Island, Dubai
Deal: Dhs155 per child (2-11), Dhs180 adults, under 2s free
Contact: @tussaudsdubai @illusioncity_dubai
Dubai Safari Park
The Dubai Safari Park reopens for the season with an exciting “Wildest Opening Week” from October 12 to 18, featuring the “Little Explorers’ Base Camp.” Kids will have the chance to enjoy fun activities like face painting, arts and crafts, and safari-themed inflatables.
Where: Al Warqa 5
When: October 12 to 18
Cost: Tickets from Dhs50
Contact: dubaisafari.ae/wildest-week
Dubai Miracle Garden
One of Dubai’s iconic attractions, the Dubai Miracle Garden, showcases more than 150 million blooming flowers across 72,000 square metres. Wander through spectacular displays, including heart-shaped arches and the famous Emirates A380, all recreated with vibrant flowers.
Where: Al Barsha South Third, Al Barsha
Cost: UAE resident rates available, Dhs100 for tourists
Contact: @dubaimiraclegarden
Global Village
Global Village is reopening just in time for the school break, packed with new pavilions, dining options, and entertainment for all ages. Don’t miss this vibrant cultural fair.
Where: Wadi Al Safa 4
When: Opens October 14, from 6 pm; Sun to Wed 4 pm to 12 am, Thurs to Sat 4 pm to 1 am
Cost: Season 31 tickets at Dhs25 on weekdays, Dh30 on weekends and public holidays
Contact: @globalvillageuae
Creative Workshops at Osteria Mario
For young artists, Osteria Mario is hosting an interactive workshop from October 13 to 16. Kids can paint their own tote bags before diving into a pizza-making session, followed by a well-deserved scoop of ice cream.
Where: Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Festival City Mall and Circle Mall
When: October 13 to 16, available at 11 am and 5 pm
Cost: Dhs120 per child
Contact: Dubai Hills Mall 052 929 2088, Dubai Festival City Mall 052 220 0868, Circle Mall 058 217 5998
Dine and Save at Uptown Social
Families dining at Uptown Social can benefit from a 20% discount off the à la carte menu, running from October 12 to 16. This pet-friendly venue allows you to enjoy good food and family time.
Where: Uptown Social, Jumeirah Lake Towers
When: October 12 to 16
Contact: WhatsApp 050 272 5729, @uptownsocialdubai
Ribambelle Dubai
At Ribambelle Dubai, parents can relax with a cocktail while their children enjoy a soft playground and interactive masterclasses, making it a perfect spot for both dining and entertainment.
Where: Bluewaters The Wharf, Dubai
Contact: @ribambelle.dubai
NESTT for Dining and Play
NESTT combines a restaurant, children’s play area, coworking spaces, and activity rooms. Aimed at children up to eight, it features age-specific play zones, allowing parents to work or relax while their kids have fun.
Where: NESTT, Q East by Alphabeta, Al Quoz, Dubai
Cost: Children from 0 to 3 Dhs90, ages 3 to 8 Dhs110
Contact: @nestt.ae
Family Staycation at Grand Hyatt Dubai
For families in search of a staycation, Grand Hyatt Dubai offers exciting packages including breakfast, spa treatments, and access to the Grand Hyatt Waterpark. Use code GCC20 to benefit from discounts on room rates and spa services.
Where: Grand Hyatt Dubai, Dubai Healthcare City
Contact: 04 317 1234, hyatt.com
Staycation at Mina Seyahi
Mina Seyahi hotels provide a luxurious family getaway with access to beachfront facilities and 19 dining venues. Activities for children include arts and crafts, cookie decorating, and visits to the Jungle Bay Waterpark, while adults can enjoy spa treatments or beach relaxation.
Where: Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, Le Meridien Dubai Mina Seyahi, W Dubai – Mina Seyahi
Contact: marriott.com
With a plethora of exciting options, there’s no shortage of fun-filled activities to make this school break a memorable one for both children and parents alike.