The UAE isn’t about business or luxury only. It welcomes families with children, offering amusements for all ages: from Legoland to Desert Drive, from an aquarium with sharks, beaches with shallow waters, to extreme aquaparks!
Even the most active toddler will enjoy the atmosphere here. And this trip may be much easier than you think! All public spaces are fully accessible for strollers.
There are special mother-and-child rooms everywhere. In addition, the local culture is extremely child-friendly. To make your vacation smooth, the best advice for avoiding reliance on public transportation schedules and getting around easily and comfortably between entertainment parks is to rent a car.
If you compare offers in advance, you can find cheap car rentals and choose a vehicle with enough space for a stroller, luggage, and children’s toys. Let’s see what the Emirates offers for families with toddlers!
Underwater World
Have a “Baby Shark” fan? Then an aquarium is a great option to visit! Fish, sharks, stingrays, manta rays, and other sea creatures always amaze children. The large aquarium at the Dubai Mall and the National Aquarium in Abu Dhabi are must-see places, especially when it’s hot outside. They are both soothing and a source of genuine wonder for children. Moreover, with enough time and a rented car, you may visit both of these places if your kid is impressed by underwater creatures!
Day at the Beach
Want some peace? White sand, shallow water — the UAE’s perfect beaches are among the easiest ways to entertain a toddler without a complicated itinerary. Some sand, water, a bucket, and a few toys from the car boot, and your kid is busy for the rest of the day! Drive to Kite Beach, Saadiyat Beach, or Al Bateen Beach. They have play areas, fine sand, and a gentle slope into the water for safe swimming.
Always plan beach trips for the morning or late afternoon. The Emirate’s sun is strong. Use sunscreen, hats, and sun-protective clothing for kids and adults. When going to the beach, take towels, toys, a kite, snacks, and whatever the kid may need. Don’t worry, no need to carry all the stuff if you have rented a car. And do not forget about water! Offer your child something to drink regularly.
Family Theme Parks
Of course, not all theme park rides may be suitable for young children due to age and height restrictions. Unfortunately, you can’t let your toddler ride Formula Rossa at Ferrari World right now, but the parks themselves can still be enjoyable for everyone. For example, Yas Waterworld in Abu Dhabi has a special area for the youngest visitors with water games and age-appropriate attractions. A perfect place to burn off some energy! Your toddler will love it! And when it’s time to have a nap, you’ll easily get back to the hotel in a rented vehicle with no need to wait for a taxi.
Indoor Activities
Indoor activities are a real lifesaver for families with kids! A vacation in the UAE, especially during the summer, may feel unreal without air-conditioned places. So, save these recommendations just in case:
KidZania (Abu Dhabi)
An interactive city where children can try out different professions, like doctor, firefighter, pilot, store clerk, or TV host. Suitable for children ages 2 and up.
OliOli Children’s Museum (Dubai).
An interactive children’s museum in the Al Quoz neighborhood, easily accessible by car, and has free parking for visitors! Eight themed galleries and more than 45 hands-on exhibits, and a bonus — a separate Toddler Gallery for children under 2.
Leo & Loona (Abu Dhabi)
Active, fast toddlers are very welcome! Run around, play, and explore: over 30 attractions for children ages 0 to 10, a soft-play area, interactive games, and pedal go-karts.
Need something calm?
The Green Planet (Dubai)
is an option. An indoor tropical forest with birds, reptiles, monkeys, sloths, and other animals.
Dubai Dolphinarium.
Another cool place; enjoy dolphin shows and other marine animals.
To avoid overwhelming the toddler’s nervous system and stress for parents, don’t plan too much in a day. Driving from one location to another with a rented car and AC in it may give your child a break to relax and cool down a little. And parents will have time to catch their breath before the next adventure.
The UAE also has numerous children’s play areas, shopping malls with kids’ zones, and family entertainment complexes. This is a great way to spice up your day if the heat or your little one’s fatigue makes it difficult to spend much time walking around the city.
A vacation in the UAE with young children isn’t just possible — it’s also extremely comfortable. Thanks to the high level of safety, the well-developed infrastructure, and the ease of renting a car for convenient travel, your family trip will be filled with vivid and pleasant memories!