Are fun, free and whimsical your watchwords when looking at what to do with the kids all day? We have what you need. Whether you want to spend an afternoon in the sun or take part in a parent-child workshop, we have identified your options. Get ready for a fun ride:
Jameel Arts Center: Head to this Jaddaf Waterfront institution in Dubai to see curated art exhibitions, take part in workshops, and – well – just learn about art. On January 30, for example, there is a sensory stimulation workshop and visit for children aged three to five. The workshop, led by Learning Coordinator Hadeel Al Heeti, teaches children the art of listening through a guided tour, exploring the sounds of Reasonable Music by Samson Young to A Composition for a Public Park by Hassan Khan . Registration is required.
Dubai Flea Market: Do you like your vintage and easy to pay games? Head to the Dubai Flea Market on January 23 at Ibn Battuta Mall’s Parking 3 – Rooftop (first floor), where you’ll find gems – some old and some new – all at discounted prices. The flea market will take place from February every second Sunday of the month. Hours: 11am-5pm.
The Point, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai: Few things are better than watching the night sky light up in a rainbow of colors – see the joy on your child’s face as you see the fountain jets dance in the breeze and into the spotlight precisely placed and witness the fireworks festival from January 24 to 30 at 9 p.m. Fountain shows take place daily every half hour from sunset to midnight.
Dubai Creek Harbor Playground: Get ready for some quiet time as your child becomes engrossed in one of these themed play areas. The first is a marine-themed playground with a giant wooden whale, seaweed forests, a climbing area, and slides. The second is a dune-inspired space and the third an Emirati-themed Creek Play installation. You can sip hot coffee while watching the boats go by.
Trump International Golf Club Caddy Shack: At this Friday market at the Caddy Shack, kids can dress up, learn a new trick at arts and crafts stations, and play while you shop and visit pop-up shops. Opening hours: 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Expo 2020 Dubai: Head to the world’s biggest fair where those under 18 get in free – there’s plenty to do and see, including taking part in interactive exhibits, watching magic shows and science experiments, trying out rides and stop at cool lodges.
Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project at Jumeirah Al Naseem: Teach kids about marine ecosystems and how to conserve them when you visit this center dedicated to helping turtles. While the kids – and you – can go to the outdoor turtle enclosure every day, Wednesdays are special – you can join in on a feeding session.
Visit the beach, Jumeirah Beach Road: A carnival atmosphere awaits families here – with sun, sand and small, cool waves of water lapping at your feet. There are vendors with everything from cotton candy to hot dogs, free play areas – and for those who want it, public exercise spots. There are also shops, movies and all that, but even if you don’t want to spend the money, this place has a lot to offer – think Instagram-perfect photos, kids’ activities and surfing, if you’re up for it.
Mature market: This cool market is fun for adults and kids alike – there are lots of unique things for parents to try and buy, and for the kids there are a number of activities including art sessions and crafts, a bouncing area, and even a mini petting zoo. Dubai Police Academy Park’s covered markets on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. are free for children under 12; adults pay 5 Dh.
Al Fahidi Historic District: This scenic spot is home to Dubai’s oldest building (1780s), Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai Museum and the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding. Wander the alleys of the neighborhood, once known as Al Bastakiya, and you’ll discover hidden nooks with beautiful artwork, cafes with delicious treats, and Instagram-worthy spots where you can capture a memory with your young.
Dubai Fountains: Spend an evening watching the famous fountain dance around as the sky changes color. The tallest tower in the world sometimes joins the evening shows with light shows or cool messages. Visiting Dubai – this is one shot you won’t want to miss. Evening shows every 30 minutes from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. (times may vary).
Dubai Water Canal: Walk around the Dubai Canal Bridge where you can walk along the twisted bridge. Or take a walk along it and see the purple-lit waterfall below Sheikh Zayed Road at sunset.
The sea : Step out to this cool spot where graffiti is splattered on the walls; wooden merry-go-rounds await the children; and a sandy shore calls for a moment of relaxation. You can take a dip in the pool, watch the traveling entertainers or simply watch the day slowly give way to night. Free visit, Jumeirah 1, shops open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Al Qudra Lakes: I think we can all agree that now is the perfect time for a picnic. Take plenty of tucks, playboards and bikes with you and bundle up the kids. Relax by the water as you feed the ducks, watch the herons feed and play a game or two. Be warned though – there are no bathrooms nearby; it really is the savage.
Archaeological Center of Mleiha: Do you have a history buff by your side? Make him happy by visiting this center which will be full of stories from the past, Bedouin culture, rare objects from the region. Access to the center is 25 Dh for adults and 15 Dh for children (3-12 years old, children under 3 are free. Open Saturday to Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday to Friday until 9 p.m.
Sharjah Science Museum: Curiosity is the key to enjoying this attraction. Kids can learn about the science behind illusions, astrophysics, aerodynamics and more through experimentation. Opening hours: Wednesday to Friday from 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tickets: Free admission for children under two years old.
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