Best Family Friendly Dubai Tours: The Complete Guide
Dubai is one of the best family holiday destinations in the world. It has theme parks, desert camps, waterparks, cultural sites, and indoor attractions that work for kids of all ages. Whether you are travelling with toddlers, school-age children, or teenagers, there is a Dubai family tour that fits your trip.
This guide covers everything you need to know about family friendly Dubai tours: what to expect, which attractions to visit, how much things cost, and how to plan the best itinerary for your family.
Why Dubai is a Good Family Holiday Destination
Dubai works well for families because it combines adventure, education, culture, and entertainment in one city. Here is what makes it stand out:
- Safe city with low crime and family-first infrastructure
- Wide range of kid-friendly attractions from toddlers to teens
- Mix of indoor and outdoor activities suitable for all seasons
- English is widely spoken, making it easy to get around
- DTCM-licensed tour operators follow strict safety and quality standards
- Many attractions offer free entry for children under 3
- Hotel and resort options include kids clubs, pools, and family suites
- Short transfers between most major attractions
Dubai also has a rich Emirati heritage. Cultural tours in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Dubai Creek, the Gold Souk, and the Spice Souk give children a genuine educational experience alongside the entertainment.
Best Time to Visit Dubai with Family
The best time for a family friendly Dubai tour is November to March. During these months, temperatures stay between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius. Outdoor activities like desert safaris, beach visits, and city tours are comfortable during this period.
Summer (June to September) is very hot with temperatures reaching 42 degrees Celsius. This does not mean you cannot visit. Many families travel in summer because hotels and tour packages are cheaper. Indoor attractions like Ski Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, KidZania Dubai, and LEGOLAND are ideal for summer visits.
Peak Season: November to March
This is the most popular time for families. Weather is pleasant for outdoor desert safaris, beach days, and city sightseeing tours. Book in advance as tour slots fill up quickly during this period.
Off-Peak Season: June to September
Summer offers budget-friendly tour packages. Most families focus on indoor attractions and waterparks during these months. Prices for hotels and tours can be up to 40 percent lower compared to peak season.
Note: Ramadan dates change each year. During Ramadan some restaurants and entertainment venues have modified hours. Check dates before booking.
Family Friendly Dubai Tour Options
There are several types of family friendly tours in Dubai. The right choice depends on the ages of your children, your budget, and how many days you have.
Dubai City Tour for Families
A Dubai city sightseeing family tour is the best starting point for first-time visitors. It covers the key landmarks in one trip with transport included.
A standard Dubai city tour for families includes:
- Burj Khalifa observation deck visit
- Dubai Mall and Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
- Dubai Frame for panoramic views of old and new Dubai
- Dubai Creek abra ride
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
- Gold Souk and Spice Souk walk
- Jumeirah Mosque exterior stop
Tours run as half day (4 to 5 hours) or full day (8 to 9 hours). Full day city tours for families typically include hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and transport in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Price range: AED 150 to AED 450 per adult. Children under 5 often have free entry at many stops. Always confirm child pricing when booking.
Family Desert Safari Dubai
The family desert safari is the most popular tour among families visiting Dubai. It combines dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and an evening at a traditional Bedouin desert camp.
What is included in a family desert safari:
- 4×4 dune bashing across red sand dunes
- Camel ride at the desert camp
- Sandboarding on the dunes
- Henna painting for kids and adults
- Falcon show and interaction
- Belly dance and Tanoura dance performances
- Buffet dinner with Arabic and international food
- Shisha and Arabic coffee (for adults)
- Stargazing in the open desert
Dune bashing is safe for children aged 3 and above. Experienced drivers modify the ride intensity for families with young children. If you have toddlers or infants, they can still enjoy the camp activities and camel rides. Car seats are available on request from most DTCM-licensed operators.
Family desert safaris run in two timings:
- Evening safari: Departs 3:00 PM, returns around 10:00 PM
- Morning safari: Departs 7:00 AM, returns around 11:00 AM
Price range: AED 150 to AED 350 per adult. Children under 3 are often free. Children aged 3 to 11 get discounted rates on most packages.
Popular desert zones for family safaris in Dubai: Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, Lahbab Red Dunes, Al Badayer Desert.
Dubai Theme Park Family Tour
Dubai has some of the largest theme parks in the world. Most are located at Dubai Parks and Resorts in Jebel Ali, about 30 minutes from Downtown Dubai.
LEGOLAND Dubai
LEGOLAND Dubai is designed for children aged 2 to 12. It has over 40 rides, shows, and building experiences across six themed zones. The LEGOLAND Water Park is attached and great for hot days. Price starts from AED 295 online.
Motiongate Dubai
Motiongate Dubai suits slightly older kids and teenagers. It features DreamWorks, Columbia Pictures, and Lionsgate zones with rides and shows based on popular films. Best for families with children aged 8 and above.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
IMG Worlds of Adventure is the largest indoor theme park in Dubai. It is fully air-conditioned, making it a top choice in summer. Marvel, Cartoon Network, and dinosaur zones appeal to older kids and teens. Some zones have separate charges.
Bollywood Parks Dubai
Bollywood Parks Dubai celebrates Indian cinema with live shows, character meet and greets, and family-friendly rides. A good option for families who enjoy Bollywood entertainment.
Tip: Buy tickets online in advance. Weekday visits are quieter than weekends. Combo passes that cover multiple parks offer better value.
Dubai Waterpark Family Tour
Dubai has three major waterparks popular with families:
Aquaventure Waterpark
Located at Atlantis The Palm, Aquaventure is one of the best waterparks in Dubai for families. It has rides for all ages, a private beach, and a lazy river. The Lost Chambers Aquarium is connected and adds an educational element.
Wild Wadi Waterpark
Wild Wadi is near the Burj Al Arab in Jumeirah. It has over 30 rides including a wave pool, lazy river, and the Jumeirah Sceirah high-speed slides. Family-friendly areas are set up for younger children.
Laguna Waterpark
Laguna Waterpark is at La Mer Beach. It combines water slides with beachfront access. Good for families who want both waterpark fun and beach time in one location.
Most waterparks provide life jackets for children, family changing rooms, and kid-friendly dining. Prebook tickets online for discounts.
Old Dubai Cultural Tour for Families
An Old Dubai cultural tour is one of the most educational family experiences in the city. It covers the historic parts of Dubai that show how the city looked before the skyscrapers.
What a cultural family tour of Old Dubai covers:
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: Traditional wind-tower buildings and narrow lanes
- Dubai Museum: History of Dubai from fishing village to global city
- Dubai Creek: Abra ride across the creek between Bur Dubai and Deira
- Gold Souk in Deira: Over 300 gold shops in one market
- Spice Souk: Colorful spices, dried fruits, and traditional goods
- Textile Souk: Fabric shops and traditional clothing
Children find the Spice Souk and abra ride particularly engaging. Local guides make the tour more interesting for kids by telling stories about trading history and Emirati traditions.
Dubai Dhow Cruise Family Tour
A dhow cruise is a relaxing evening on the water. Traditional wooden dhow boats sail through Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina while passengers enjoy dinner and live entertainment.
Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise: Classic option through Old Dubai. Traditional Arabic setting.
Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise: Modern skyline views from the water. Good for older kids.
Both options include a buffet dinner, Tanoura dance show, and live music. Duration is around 2 hours. Price range: AED 80 to AED 200 per adult. Children under 3 are typically free.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi Combined Family Tour
Many families add a day trip to Abu Dhabi when visiting Dubai. The drive is about 90 minutes each way.
Key Abu Dhabi stops on a combined family tour:
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: One of the most beautiful mosques in the world
- Ferrari World: Thrilling roller coasters and family rides on Yas Island
- Louvre Abu Dhabi: Art and history museum suitable for older children
- Yas Waterworld: Large waterpark next to Ferrari World
Combined Dubai and Abu Dhabi family tour packages are available as full-day trips with transport included.
Family Friendly Dubai Tour Packages
DXB Tourisma offers DTCM-licensed family tour packages in Dubai built for different trip lengths. Here is a summary of popular package structures:
| Package | What is Included | Best For |
| 3 Nights 4 Days | City tour, desert safari, waterpark or theme park | First-time families, short trips |
| 5 Nights 6 Days | City tour, desert safari, Abu Dhabi day trip, dhow cruise, waterpark | Families who want a balanced mix |
| 7 Nights 8 Days | City tour, multiple theme parks, desert safari, Abu Dhabi, cultural tour, dhow cruise | Families who want to cover everything |
All DXB Tourisma family packages include hotel pickup and drop-off, English-speaking guides, and transport in air-conditioned vehicles. Private family tours are available for groups who prefer a custom itinerary.
Family Friendly Dubai Tour: Age Guide
Different ages need different experiences. Here is a guide to what works best:
Toddlers and Young Children (Ages 2 to 5)
- Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Gentle and visually engaging
- The Green Planet Dubai: Tropical biodome with sloths, birds, and exotic animals
- KidZania Dubai: Role-play city for children aged 4 and above
- LEGOLAND Dubai: Designed specifically for young children
- Laguna Waterpark: Has splash pads and toddler-friendly zones
- Desert safari camp activities and camel rides
Note: Most tour operators recommend a minimum age of 3 for dune bashing. Children under 5 cannot participate in some active experiences like quad biking.
School-Age Children (Ages 6 to 12)
- Desert safari with dune bashing, sandboarding, and camp entertainment
- Burj Khalifa observation deck on floors 124 and 125
- Museum of the Future: Interactive and educational
- Wild Wadi Waterpark and Aquaventure Waterpark
- LEGOLAND Dubai and Motiongate Dubai
- Old Dubai cultural tour with abra ride and souk exploration
- Dubai Frame: Views of old and new Dubai side by side
Teenagers (Ages 13 and above)
- IMG Worlds of Adventure: Marvel and thrill rides
- Motiongate Dubai: Film-based rides and experiences
- VR Park Dubai in Dubai Mall: Virtual reality experiences
- Parasailing over the Arabian Gulf near Dubai Marina
- Snorkelling at Lost Chambers Aquarium, Atlantis The Palm
- Ski Dubai indoor snow park
- Desert safari with quad biking option
Family Friendly Dubai Tour: 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Dubai City Sightseeing
Start with a full-day Dubai city tour for families. Visit the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Aquarium in the morning. In the afternoon, cross Dubai Creek by abra to Deira. Walk through the Gold Souk and Spice Souk. End the day with a Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise dinner.
Day 2: Family Desert Safari
Join an evening family desert safari. Hotel pickup at 3:00 PM. Experience dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding in the desert. Enjoy henna painting and a traditional Bedouin camp dinner. Watch belly dance and Tanoura performances under the stars. Return by 10:00 PM.
Day 3: Theme Park Day
Full day at LEGOLAND Dubai for families with young children, or IMG Worlds of Adventure for older kids and teenagers. These parks are fully indoors and ideal for any weather. Plan for at least 6 to 8 hours to cover all zones.
Day 4: Abu Dhabi Day Trip
Combined Dubai and Abu Dhabi family tour. Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in the morning. Drive to Yas Island for Ferrari World or Yas Waterworld in the afternoon. Return to Dubai by evening.
Day 5: Beach and Free Exploration
Spend the morning at Jumeirah Beach or La Mer Beach. Visit Miracle Garden or Global Village in the afternoon if the season is open. Both are family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
How Much Does a Family Friendly Dubai Tour Cost
The cost of a family tour in Dubai depends on the number of people, type of activities, and whether you book a package or individual tours. Here is a general price guide:
| Tour / Activity | Adult Price (AED) | Child Price (AED) |
| Dubai City Tour (Half Day) | 150 – 250 | 80 – 150 |
| Dubai City Tour (Full Day) | 280 – 450 | 150 – 280 |
| Evening Desert Safari | 150 – 350 | 80 – 200 / Free under 3 |
| Dubai Dhow Cruise | 80 – 200 | Free under 3 |
| LEGOLAND Dubai | 295+ (online) | Free under 3 |
| Burj Khalifa (At the Top) | 149+ (online) | Free under 4 |
| KidZania Dubai | 90 (Adults as chaperone) | 195 – 260 (children) |
Prices shown are approximate and subject to change. Book in advance online for the best rates. Many operators offer family combo packages that are cheaper than buying individual tours.
Tips for Planning a Family Tour in Dubai
- Book tours and attraction tickets online in advance, especially during peak season (November to March)
- Visit popular outdoor sites like Burj Khalifa and Dubai Frame early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Mix high-cost days with low-cost or free activities: public beaches, Dubai Fountain show, souk walks
- Carry sunscreen, hats, and light cotton clothing for outdoor tours
- Use the Dubai Metro to reach major landmarks like Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina
- Ask your tour operator about car seats for toddlers when booking desert safari or city tours
- Check age and height requirements before booking rides at theme parks
- Plan indoor activities like Ski Dubai and IMG Worlds for the hottest part of summer days
- Book a DTCM-licensed tour operator for safety and service standards
- Weekdays are less crowded than Fridays and Saturdays at most attractions
Frequently Asked Questions: Family Friendly Dubai Tour
Is Dubai a good holiday destination for families?
Yes. Dubai is consistently ranked as one of the top family travel destinations in the world. It has safe infrastructure, a wide range of kid-friendly attractions, air-conditioned indoor venues, and reliable licensed tour operators. Families with children of all ages find Dubai easy and enjoyable to navigate.
What is the best time to visit Dubai with kids?
November to March is the best time for a family trip to Dubai. Temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities. If you visit in summer (June to September), focus on indoor attractions and waterparks. Summer packages are cheaper and some families prefer it for this reason.
How many days do you need for a family trip to Dubai?
A minimum of 4 to 5 days gives you enough time to cover a city tour, desert safari, one theme park, and some free exploration. Seven days or more is better if you want to include Abu Dhabi, multiple theme parks, and a waterpark.
What is the minimum age for dune bashing in Dubai?
Most DTCM-licensed operators recommend a minimum age of 3 years for dune bashing. Experienced drivers can reduce the intensity of the ride for families with young children. Infants and toddlers can still attend the desert camp and enjoy camel rides and other activities.
Can toddlers go on a Dubai desert safari?
Yes. Toddlers can attend a family desert safari. They can enjoy camel rides, henna painting, and the Bedouin camp entertainment. Dune bashing is generally not recommended for children under 3. Ask your operator about car seats and modified rides when booking.
Which Dubai theme park is best for young children?
LEGOLAND Dubai is the best theme park for young children. It is designed for ages 2 to 12 and has over 40 rides, shows, and building activities. The attached LEGOLAND Water Park is also a great add-on. For mixed-age families, IMG Worlds of Adventure works well because it has zones for different age groups.
Are there free activities for families in Dubai?
Yes. Several family-friendly activities in Dubai are free or very low cost. The Dubai Fountain show at Dubai Mall is free to watch. Public beaches like Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach are free. Walking through the Gold Souk and Spice Souk costs nothing. The Dubai Creek abra ride costs 1 AED per person. The Dubai Frame walkway and exterior is viewable at no charge.
Do kids get free entry at Dubai attractions?
Many Dubai attractions offer free entry for children under 3. Some, like Burj Khalifa, offer free entry for children under 4. Discounted child rates apply for most attractions for ages 3 to 11. Always confirm the current age cutoffs when booking as prices and policies can change.
Is it worth visiting Dubai with a toddler?
Yes. Dubai has many toddler-friendly options including The Green Planet biodome, Dubai Aquarium, LEGOLAND, and Laguna Waterpark. Desert camp visits with camel rides are also popular with toddlers. The city has good family facilities including stroller-friendly malls and restaurants with children’s menus.
Can you combine a Dubai city tour and desert safari on the same day?
It is possible but not recommended for families with young children. A city tour in the morning followed by an evening desert safari makes for a very long day. Most families prefer to spread these across two separate days for a more relaxed experience.
How much does a family tour package in Dubai cost?
A 3-night 4-day Dubai family tour package starts from approximately AED 2,500 to AED 4,500 per adult depending on inclusions. Prices vary based on hotel category, number of activities, and whether flights are included. Private family tours cost more than shared group tours. Children under 3 are often free on most activities.
What should I pack for a family tour in Dubai?
Pack light, breathable cotton clothing for outdoor tours. Bring sunscreen with high SPF, hats, and sunglasses. Carry comfortable walking shoes for city and souk tours. For desert safari, avoid open-toed shoes. For waterparks, bring swimwear and a change of clothes. If visiting mosques or cultural sites, carry modest cover-ups.
Is dune bashing safe for children?
Yes, when done with a licensed operator. Experienced drivers adjust the ride for families and young passengers. DTCM-licensed desert safari operators follow safety protocols. Car seats are available on request. Children under 3 are generally kept at the camp rather than participating in dune bashing.
Which area of Dubai is best to stay for families?
Jumeirah and Downtown Dubai are popular for families. Jumeirah has beach access and is close to Wild Wadi Waterpark and the Burj Al Arab. Downtown Dubai puts you near Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and easy metro access. Dubai Marina is good for families who want a waterfront base with evening dhow cruise access.
Can you book a private family tour in Dubai?
Yes. DXB Tourisma offers private family tours in Dubai. Private tours use a dedicated vehicle and guide for your group only. You can customize the itinerary, travel at your own pace, and make stops based on your children’s interests and energy levels.
Book Your Family Friendly Dubai Tour with DXB Tourisma
DXB Tourisma is a DTCM-licensed tour operator based in Dubai. We design family tours that are safe, organized, and built around what families actually need: reliable transport, knowledgeable guides, and activities that work for all ages.
Whether you are looking for a simple Dubai city tour with kids, a full family desert safari experience, or a complete multi-day Dubai family vacation package, we put together tours that remove the stress of planning.
Contact DXB Tourisma to book your family friendly Dubai tour or get a custom itinerary built around your travel dates, group size, and the ages of your children.
