The ultimate family-friendly destination and Globetrotters HQ!
Come and see the beauty and adventures that can be had in our adopted home the United Arab Emirates (UAE) –from the dazzling cities to incredible desert safari’s, amazing architecture and spectacular spreads – most importantly doing it with kids!
Make this page your first stop if you have never visited the Emirates, or for that matter the Middle East before. The UAE is a land of extremes; from cosmopolitan cities to rolling desert dunes; conservative but embracing of its Islamic cultural roots. You name it, it can probably be seen or be done in the UAE – if not they’ll build it, on the grandest scale possible!
This post guides you through important things to know about Islamic and Emirati culture, dealing with heat, safety and caring for infants while showing religious respect, and helping you through some of the do’s and don’ts of Ramadan. We also have guides in this section on the religious celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha.
Navigating your way across the United Arab Emirates
Use this map to skip straight to destinations of interest, or read on below!
Discover the UAE
What to do with kids in the UAE
With our own experience and the help of other parent bloggers in the UAE we have put together THE most detailed guide you will find on the web dedicated to family-friendly attractions across all seven Emirates. Where we have more in-depth reviews, these are detailed below.
In response to much negative publicity, the UAE receives for ‘lacking culture’, this guide walks you through what to expect from traditional Bedouin culture, why it might not always be visible to the average tourist – and how you can seek it out!
It’s getting hot, hot, hot in Abu Dhabi! Having experienced 11 summers now in the UAE from newborns to tweens, we’ve put together our guide to favourite places in the capital where you can look to escape the heat with the kids – and keep them physically and mentally challenged too!!
From one day trips around the captial to desert staycations and exploring the Western Region of the Emirate, this is an absolute bumper list of activities sure to fill your winter weekends in the UAE in a family-friendly way. (Hosted on Family Travel in the Middle East)
Visiting the UAE capital need not cost a fortune. When the weather is cool there’s plenty of outside activities for all the family to enjoy from bike paths to beaches. This is one of the best listings you’ll find for free (and really cheap) outdoor activities.
Time to get in touch with nature and head to the desert and beach. Includes a preparation guide for dealing with all the sand and our favourite desert camping spots across the country.
With several new theme parks opening in the UAE since 2016, the Globetrotters have been putting each to the test to come up with this bumper guide on what to expect at Legoland Dubai, Motiongate Dubai and IMG Worlds of Adventure.
It’s no surprise that one of the world’s hottest countries has some of the world’s best water parks. From the mega parks to the community splash areas, we talk you through all the best places to keep your cool in the UAE.
Only got limited time passing through Dubai International Airport? We give you the low down on airport lounges and entertainment, airport hotels and if you leave the airport what can you squeeze into a short trip. Includes a guide on how to transfer between Dubai and Abu Dhabi Airports.
Should you stick it out in AUH airport, or use even a short layover to get out and explore some of the city’s major sites? We talk you through all the options and time you should allow for a smooth transit. (Hosted on Family Travel in the Middle East)
Abu Dhabi is not nearly as expensive as you might think to visit. Check out these 40+ ideas from culture to recreation that won’t cost you more than 100AED ($36) for the whole family to enjoy (hosted on Family Travel in The Middle East)
Top reads for UAE visitors in more detail:
Al Ain with Kids
The Oasis City of Al Ain is the second-largest city in Abu Dhabi but often left off tourist agendas. This is a real shame as it really is the cultural hub and historic centre of the UAE. Between its UNESCO listed Oases, brilliant zoo and plentiful museums, this should be the first stop to learn more about the country. Not all of it will be overly amusing for kids, however, so we give you a detailed rundown of what to expect here.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – with Kids!
Now considered not just one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Middle East, but the world, the stunningly elegant Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a mustn’t-miss attraction for millions of visitors to the UAE every year. But how appropriate is it for you to visit such an auspicious place with your kids? We give you our hands-on guide how you can still enjoy this architectural marvel and keep the kids happy.
This mega list of 150+ destinations to visit in Dubai was published on our partner publication Dubai Travel Planner. An incredible round-up of Dubai attractions, events and favourites from the beaches to the city and beyond to the desert, downloading this is an absolute MUST if Dubai is on your UAE agenda.
Looking to travel from within the UAE with your kids? In a country abound with tourism and natural wonders, it’s no surprise many UAE residents love to stay put for their holidays. In this detailed UAE staycation guide, we have investigated things to do for families across all 7 Emirates of the UAE. From how to get there to the best resorts and a fabulous selection of family-friendly things to do in all seasons.
Where else would you expect to find the world’s biggest flower garden than right in the heart of Dubai? An amazingly colourful and seriously eclectic mix of over 45 million blooms make up this new addition to the “must-do” list for visitors to Dubai. Get in early in the day to beat the crowds, the heat and the shutterbugs to admire this floral marvel. Tucked away in the outer suburb Dubailand it’s hard to believe what lies ahead inside but kids and grown-ups alike will enjoy this new attraction.
Arabian Nights Village – A family-friendly desert experience
You haven’t truly experienced the UAE until you get out of the big cities and experience the best the desert has to offer. Arabian Nights Village sits about 1.5 hours away from Abu Dhabi, deep in the sand dunes. There are evening and overnight tour options all perfectly suited to family groups that include modern desert activities like dune bashing and sandboarding as well as touches of traditional Bedouin culture. Enjoy sunset camel rides, traditional henna, music and meals, or simply relax around the village and enjoy the oasis pool.
Not just one adventure park but two! A seasonal event that occurs over the cooler winter months in Zabeel Park, Dubai. The Globetrotters take you on a tour of one of the latest and greatest attractions. Animatronics and a lot of neon, but still a magical evening experience for young kids.
Looking to discover more of the traditional Bedouin culture of the UAE? Look no further than the Al Dhafra Festival. Held annually in December, the Western Region of Abu Dhabi comes alive with visitors from all over the GCC participating in a range of events from Saluki racing to date packing. The flagship event though is the Camel Mazayna – a beauty contest for camels. A little off the beaten track, a little hard to find and understand for tourists as there’s limited information in English but an incredibly rewarding experience.
Finally, we have a complete go-to destination for family adventure and activity – and my luck its right here on our doorstep in Abu Dhabi – in fact, it’s only 10 minutes from the airport and just over an hour from Dubai International. From theme parks to shopping, relaxing at the beach or watching the action of the annual Abu Dhabi Grand Prix there’s something for all the family to enjoy here.
For a couple of years now we have driven past what we thought was an abandoned fairground on the dusty windswept Emirates Road in outer Dubai. After a little research I discovered that after dark in the winter this monstrosity actually comes to life to bring you a “seasonal cultural extravaganza” and “an amazing array of festivals, shopping and entertainment”, as Global Village – what more could you want!
The UAE has an international reputation for flashy architecture, amazing tourist attractions and glitzy hotels within the boundaries of its traditional Islamic roots. Then there’s Umm Al Quwain (UAQ). Fair to say it sits in a league of its own when compared with the other Emirates, particularly the very modern and diverse cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
If the random camels don’t come as a bit of a surprise, the feeling like you have entered a time warp into another realm will probably hit you. Find out how the Globetrotters found themselves in this corner of the world, and why despite staying in possibly the scrubbiest looking hotel we’ve ever seen, we’ll be back to UAQ!
The much-awaited Legoland Dubai theme park is now open. Was it worth the wait? Who would it be best suited to? Come and see our review.
UPDATED: We now also have coverage on the Legoland Dubai Water Park, come take a look at what to expect cooling off at Dubai Parks & Resorts. We also have coverage on what to expect on a Daycation at Lapita Resort, and a review of staying at Rove at the Park Park value accommodation option at Dubai Parks and Resorts.
The latest water sensation to hit Abu Dhabi that will please residents and visitors alike! Aquafun is a giant inflatable water park based just off the shore of the famous Corniche beach where kids and grown-ups can tackle over 80 different obstacles – all while trying to maintain their balance (though falling in the water when you’re at a desert beach ain’t half bad!).
Come and see what we thoughtand everything you need to prepare yourself for a trip to A’l Bahar, Abu Dhabi’s latest sports and entertainment hub.
The Wonder Maze
A new addition to Umm al Emarat Park in the hear of Abu Dhabi, The Wonder Maze is a seasonal instalment which sees kids faced with 5 paths – but only one leads to the central tower! There are word clues they can solve along the way and plenty of fun to be had. The best feature is that the maze walls are moveable; so think you’ve conquered it one week but come back the next and you will have to find a new way to the end!
The new Presidential Palace of the UAE is the city’s grandest and most opulent building. Where the Federal Supreme Council meet and welcoming diplomatic guests, the Palace is now open for the public to view. Take a guided tour or self-guide yourself around this stunning complex to marvel at its architecture and absorb the country’s history and governing traditions.
I always understood brunch to be a meal somewhere between breakfast and lunch; not in Abu Dhabi. You see not only is Friday our weekend, brunch is really a fancy way of saying gastronomically amazing 4-hour lunch – at some of the most prestige hotels in the world.
Sounds posh and exciting, right? It certainly is, but can you bring the kids? Yes!! Not only can you bring them, but the best brunches will also specially cater for them, here are five of the best Friday brunches we’ve found so far for kids entertainment – plus our favourite all-rounders for cuisine service and atmosphere.
For a little taste of luxury that the whole family can enjoy, check out Brilliant Brunch at Safina and why the Saadiyat Beach Club makes the perfect setting that all the family can enjoy.
For one of the best brunches for food selection, don’t miss The Terrace on the Cornicheat St Regis Abu Dhabi.
And for one of the most family-friendly options with a fabulous kids room, entertainment and amazing city views, you can’t beat Crust at the Four Seasons.
Nice post with lots of important information , would be very useful for planning a trip. Though nearby and transiting often through Duabai, have still not visited here 🙂
Keri from Baby Globetrotters says:
I recommend everyone to get out of the airport for at least a few days each time they transit through the UAE – and don’t let yourself get stuck just in Dubai, you will get a very artificial experience of the country there if you just stick to the malls and the high rises. Try to head out to the mountains and the desert to see what its really all about.
Did someone say 4 hour brunch? I have been intrigued by the UAE for some time now. Think it’s time for a visit.
Keri from Baby Globetrotters says:
Yes! almost every hotel and social clubs offer these across the UAE, they really are an institution! – though some of them vary on the focus being the food or the booze, it takes a bit of research to pick out the best ones to suit your interests
Great compilation of things to do and watch out for in UAE. Having visited Dubai a few times, I relate to the respect that you need to show for their culture!
Keri from Baby Globetrotters says:
Thanks Ajay. The culture is something completely misunderstood by many new comers so glad to highlight what we’ve learnt from our experience living here.
I am fascinated by Dubai, it is on my list. I’d like to see a little of the cities but mostly the more natural areas. Those hotels look amazing!
Keri from Baby Globetrotters says:
I’m glad you have said that. So many people only do Dubai as a stop over and think it’s all concrete and malls, it doesn’t take much to head beyond the cities and properly explore the country
You have sold UAE to me now! have only been to Dubai and did a desert safari and toured the city a bit, but so much more to do!! definitely will try and plan a holiday here, am sure our two kids would love it!
Keri from Baby Globetrotters says:
Absolutely, a trip out here with the kids essential. If you leave it until the end of 2016 there will be loads of new attractions opening from theme parks to the new cultural district on Saadiyat Island – allow at least a week, a lot to see and do and a lot of ground to cover to see it all properly beyond the cities.
Great ideas. Now I have to go back to UAE since I knew nothing about that festival!
Admin says:
Oh you must! They are a little hopeless at promoting their own culture and as its quite far from the major cities doesn’t get the attention it deserves – who could pass up a camel beauty contest, as fun and bizarre as it sounds!!
Well, you definitely put across a strong point about visiting the UAE with kids 🙂 I have no doubt that it would be an incredibly pleasant holiday and personally would love to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the desert. This year our travels will bring us to the opposite side of the globe from here but who knows, maybe next??
Admin says:
A must for 2017 and beyond, so much new stuff opening this year including Legoland at the Dubai Parks complex and the Saadiyat Island cultural district – you’ll need to allow a couple of weeks to cover it all
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Nice post with lots of important information , would be very useful for planning a trip. Though nearby and transiting often through Duabai, have still not visited here 🙂
I recommend everyone to get out of the airport for at least a few days each time they transit through the UAE – and don’t let yourself get stuck just in Dubai, you will get a very artificial experience of the country there if you just stick to the malls and the high rises. Try to head out to the mountains and the desert to see what its really all about.
Did someone say 4 hour brunch? I have been intrigued by the UAE for some time now. Think it’s time for a visit.
Yes! almost every hotel and social clubs offer these across the UAE, they really are an institution! – though some of them vary on the focus being the food or the booze, it takes a bit of research to pick out the best ones to suit your interests
Great compilation of things to do and watch out for in UAE. Having visited Dubai a few times, I relate to the respect that you need to show for their culture!
Thanks Ajay. The culture is something completely misunderstood by many new comers so glad to highlight what we’ve learnt from our experience living here.
Awesome collection.
I am fascinated by Dubai, it is on my list. I’d like to see a little of the cities but mostly the more natural areas. Those hotels look amazing!
I’m glad you have said that. So many people only do Dubai as a stop over and think it’s all concrete and malls, it doesn’t take much to head beyond the cities and properly explore the country
This is absolute nostalgia for me… 🙂 Good collection of tips and suggetions. Loved it all.
Thanks Ami, its a place of such rapid change – must be fascinating to come back and revisit
You have sold UAE to me now! have only been to Dubai and did a desert safari and toured the city a bit, but so much more to do!! definitely will try and plan a holiday here, am sure our two kids would love it!
Absolutely, a trip out here with the kids essential. If you leave it until the end of 2016 there will be loads of new attractions opening from theme parks to the new cultural district on Saadiyat Island – allow at least a week, a lot to see and do and a lot of ground to cover to see it all properly beyond the cities.
Great ideas. Now I have to go back to UAE since I knew nothing about that festival!
Oh you must! They are a little hopeless at promoting their own culture and as its quite far from the major cities doesn’t get the attention it deserves – who could pass up a camel beauty contest, as fun and bizarre as it sounds!!
What a great all encompassing guide to experience the UAE. I’m going to peek at a few of these posts, as it seems like we’ll visit sooner than later.
Well, you definitely put across a strong point about visiting the UAE with kids 🙂 I have no doubt that it would be an incredibly pleasant holiday and personally would love to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the desert. This year our travels will bring us to the opposite side of the globe from here but who knows, maybe next??
A must for 2017 and beyond, so much new stuff opening this year including Legoland at the Dubai Parks complex and the Saadiyat Island cultural district – you’ll need to allow a couple of weeks to cover it all
Great post Keri all the essential information that one would need for a visit. Some great pictures in this article
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