To make the transition from chilled summer days to the regular school routine that bit more enjoyable, we’ve rounded up some of the best activities to explore with your little ones
It’s that time of year again when roads get busier, the Carrefour aisles become filled with colourful stationery, lunch boxes, and school bags, and schools in Dubai reopen. As much as we wish it could be summer forever, it’s always good to get the kids back to normality. The idea of returning to the bustle of school commutes, packed lunches, and helping out with homework may seem a little daunting, but don’t worry, you’ve got this.
While you’ve been busy making sure your young learners have all the right bits and bobs for their first day back to school, we’ve put our thinking caps on to come up with some of the top family days out in Dubai. That first week back can be a whirlwind, so consider this your well-earned reward. After all, there’s no better way to celebrate surviving the return to school than with some quality family fun.
Indoor Adventures
There’s no shortage of family fun in the city, so we’ve narrowed it down to a few of our current indoor favourites. Always a hit with both kids and grown-ups, the Dubai Butterfly Garden is home to over 15,000 butterflies from more than 50 species. Wander through at your own pace, learn about the butterfly lifecycle, and make a few fluttering new friends (some might even hitch a ride on your shoulder) and best of all, it’s easy on the wallet after the back to school splurge.
Also perfect for the young and the young at heart, you’ll find something to delight every family member at IMG Worlds, one of the world’s biggest indoor theme parks. Superhero fans can conquer thrilling coasters at The Marvel Zone, young explorers can come face to face with dinosaurs at The Lost Valley, and kids can witness their favourite shows come to life at The Cartoon Network Zone. There’s also plenty of cartoon and superhero-themed merch in the stores, so little ones can stock up on some fun new school supplies (and maybe even transform into a mini Superman).
For families with children ages two to 11, head to Oli Oli in Al Quoz, the experiential play museum featuring eight galleries spread across two floors. Each space provides an immersive sensory experience, all inspired by leading global educators, developmental psychologists, and artists. Alternatively, those with kids aged 9 and above can get behind the wheel at Chaos Karts, the Super Mario-themed racetrack also located in Al Quoz.
If you’re looking to try something a bit different, The Smash Room offers a special package for rule breakers ages five to 13. It’s a fun, safe way for kids to let off steam after the return to school in Dubai, with the chance to smash up electronics and furniture. Don’t forget to bring a phone to blast your favourite tunes through the speaker and grab a spray paint bottle afterwards to get creative and leave your mark.
Escape the City
As we’ve said, Dubai is starting to fill up again, making it the perfect opportunity to take a day trip to somewhere new. Situated in Ras Al Khaimah, Jebel Jais Adventure Park is the ultimate destination for daredevils, featuring the world’s longest zipline, the Jais Ropes Course, and self-guided Sky Maze. A little closer to home, Hatta Wadi Hub also promises an action-packed day with exciting activities like kayaking, hiking, ziplining, mountain biking, and the iconic Hatta Drop-in water slide.
Family Staycays
Giving you even more time to bond as a family and catch up after the first week of school, splash out and book a fun-filled staycation. Just a stone’s throw away from Hatta Wadi Hub, JA Hatta Fort Hotel has become a favoured spot for families seeking adventure. Set within the picturesque Hajar Mountains, settle into one of its cosy rooms or glamping-style terra cabins and savour a staycation at your own pace.
Spend your days exploring rugged bike trails, conquering mountain peaks, or diving into an array of activities such as mini golf, padel tennis, and archery. The property even has its own petting zoo, where guests can interact with resident deer, ponies, bunnies, tortoises, and exotic birds. Parents can also relish a well-deserved pampering session with rejuvenating treatments at Terra Wellness.
Beautifully situated along the golden sands of the Dubai Islands waterfront, Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai is another haven for families. Presenting a whole host of activities, guests can explore the resort’s spectacular water park, featuring lagoon pools, a lazy river, cliff jumping points, a kids’ splash play area, and thrilling waterslides. Little ones can also take a break from the sun with engaging activities like crafting and scavenger hunts at Camp Safari or check out the E-Zone, complete with arcade games, air hockey, a PlayStation, and a movie corner.
Families seeking to add an extra dash of excitement to the experience can opt for a stay in one of five Build-A-Bear themed suites, allowing children to bring home their very own cuddly friend. These playful suites also include access to the Mirage Family Lounge, serving all day snacks and featuring a fun-packed indoor playground complete with a kid-friendly wall climb, slides, and interactive games.
Getting back into the Dubai school routine can be tricky, but it doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Once the first week’s out of the way, it’s mostly smooth sailing. So, between the packed lunches and after-school activities, make sure to leave some time for a little adventure. After all, it’s all about finding that sweet spot between learning and fun.
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