55 exciting activities to beat the heat and max out the AC fun in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and beyond

The UAE knows how to summer smart. Whether you're herding hyper kids through Trampo Extreme, swinging in style at Topgolf, or strolling through The Green Planet’s rainforest without breaking a sweat, we’ve got you. This glam-packed guide is your go-to for indoor thrills, chills, and air-conditioned escapism!

This list is part of our Summer Vibes campaign, promoting all the fun things to do in July and August while staying safe in the sunshine.

Ski Dubai

Who needs Aspen when you’ve got Ski Dubai? Tucked inside Mall of the Emirates, this frosty fantasy land brings real snow to the middle of the desert. We're talking slopes, chair lifts, snowball fights, and yes—penguins in puffer jackets (kidding, sort of). Whether you're a snow bunny or just here for the selfies in thermal gear, it's pure winter wonderland vibes minus the frostbite. Sip hot chocolate while watching people wipe out gloriously—it’s oddly satisfying. Honestly, nothing screams "UAE summer hack" louder than skiing indoors while it’s 50°C outside. Fluffy snow and frizz-free hair? Sold.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

Think cartoon chaos meets cool air: a/c meets adrenaline massive. IMG Worlds of Adventure is where Marvel nerds, dinosaur chasers, and roller coaster junkies unite under one blessedly chilled roof. Think Spidey swings, Velociraptor screams, haunted hotel shenanigans, and enough churros to fuel a small army. It’s the only place where your kids can fight a T-Rex while you scream your heart out on a looping coaster—and not sweat a single drop. Wear comfy shoes, pack your sass, and prepare for 10-year-olds to outpace you in every direction. Fun, frantic, and fabulously chilled.

The Green Planet

Need a nature fix without being roasted in the sun? Step into The Green Planet, Dubai’s tropical biodome where humidity is intentional and the parrots are sassier than your latest rom-com leading lady. You’ll walk into a multi-story rainforest—yes, in City Walk—where sloths, snakes, and birds of paradise call the shots. It’s educational if you squint, Insta-worthy if you don’t, and surprisingly zen once you adjust to the jungle soundtrack. Bonus points for pretending you're in the Amazon while sipping an iced latte afterward. Perfect for kids, plant nerds, and anyone who wants to sweat in a curated, air-conditioned way.

CLYMB Abu Dhabi

You want high drama? Try flying face-first into a wind tunnel or climbing the tallest indoor wall in the world at CLYMB. Located on Yas Island (naturally), this futuristic fitness playground lets you pretend you’re Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible—minus the million-dollar insurance. Newbies are welcome; pros are worshipped. And honestly, you haven’t truly lived until your instructor yells “chin up!” while you’re flailing mid-air in a flight suit. It’s sweat, sass, and sky-high stunts without ever stepping outdoors. You’ll leave breathless, bruised, and totally brag-worthy.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Want to see a 10-million-liter aquarium without ever putting on SPF? Slide into Dubai Mall and head straight to the underwater zoo where sharks, rays, and Insta-fiends roam freely (behind glass, thankfully). You’ll walk through a massive tunnel with sea creatures gliding overhead like they’re late to a gala. There’s even a King Croc who looks like he’s judging your outfit. It’s cool, educational-ish, and fully indoors—meaning no sweaty regrets. Great for kids, dates, or those needing a break from retail therapy. Pair with an iced latte and you've got the chillest escape in the middle of mall madness.

Trampo Extreme

Think of Trampo Extreme at Nakheel Mall, as your inner child’s playground—with better socks and way more sass. Wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, ninja courses, and climbing walls that dare you to unleash your chaotic side. Whether you’re flying solo, dragging the kids, or secretly racing your partner through the obstacle course, it’s a cardio blast disguised as fun. And the best part? It’s fully air-conditioned, so you’ll be breathless from excitement, not heatstroke. Bonus: exhausted kids = quiet dinner. You’re welcome. It’s bouncy, bonkers, and brilliant for burning off that third iced latte.

Museum of the Future

Think futuristic flex with major wow factor. Dubai’s Museum of the Future is a glossy, glowing architectural stunner packed with AI, space missions, and eco-dreams. You’ll walk through immersive exhibits that make you feel like a time-traveling genius. Think space pods, robot nurses, mind-controlled tech—all wrapped in a giant calligraphy-covered donut. Perfect for content creators, curious minds, and people who pretend they understand NFTs. It’s the future, darling—and it’s got elevators that feel like teleporters. Bring a power bank, a sense of wonder, and shoes worthy of your brainy bombshell moment.

Escape rooms

Drama queens, assemble: the only place yelling is productive If yelling at your friends in a dark room sounds like your idea of fun, then escape rooms in Dubai are your jam. Choose from horror, mystery, or spy-thriller themes, then race against the clock solving puzzles, dodging jump scares, and desperately trying to remember your best friend’s birthday (hint: it’s a clue). Perfect for birthdays, team-building, or testing your relationship without involving IKEA furniture. It’s one hour of chaos, confusion, and triumph—all in glorious A/C. Wear comfy clothes, bring brains and banter. May the sassiest sleuth win.

Dubai Ice Rink

Strap on those skates and channel your inner Elsa because the Dubai Ice Rink is giving frosty realness all year round. Located inside Dubai Mall, this Olympic-sized rink is your one-way ticket to escaping the heat while doing triple axels (or trying not to fall). Whether you glide like a swan or cling to the wall like a tourist with trust issues, it’s all part of the icy charm. Neon disco nights? Yes. Teen TikTok squads? Of course. Cool date idea? Absolutely. Freeze your worries and flaunt that wintery drip—UAE-style.

VR Park

Ready to shoot zombies, skydive off skyscrapers, or drive like a maniac… all without breaking a nail? VR Park at Dubai Mall is the fantasy playground you didn’t know you needed. It's immersive, wild, and the kind of place where “is this real?” becomes your inner monologue. From motion simulators to escape rooms in space, this is Black Mirror but fun. Great for a day out friends, kids, or solo gamers flexing their reflexes. No sweat, no sunburn, just full-on tech-fueled thrill rides in glorious air-conditioning. Also: the selfies with those giant VR headsets? Priceless.

Luxury cinemas

Mall + movie + menu = mood: where popcorn has truffle oil You’ve done Netflix. Now do it better. Dubai’s luxe cinemas (hello, Roxy, VOX GOLD, Reel Platinum) are less ‘cinema’ and more ‘bougie lounge with a movie playing in the background.’ Think recliner seats, gourmet snacks, pillow service (yes, really), and servers who bring your sliders mid-scene. The only drama here is on the screen—and maybe your date’s movie choice. Perfect for escaping the heat, the kids, or the real world. Bonus points if you wear sunglasses inside and pretend you're a Hollywood exec “previewing content.”

Board game cafés

Want to drag your friends into a competitive spiral while pretending it’s “just for fun”? Welcome to Dubai’s board game cafés, where caffeine meets chaos. Spots like Unwind and Dice Café offer hundreds of games—from classics like Uno to five-hour strategy epics you’ll still be playing when winter arrives. The vibe is chill, the air is cold, and the drama? Delicious. Order an iced matcha, stack those Jenga blocks, and unleash your inner boardroom villain in a totally safe space. Nerdy? Maybe. Addictive? 100%. Bring friends who can handle losing… gracefully.

Cooking classes

If your idea of cooking involves microwave buttons, summer is the perfect time to spice things up. Sign up for a culinary workshop (Top Chef, Mamalu Kitchen, or Dubai Cooking School) and learn to whip up everything from pasta to kunafa—all inside air-conditioned bliss. Whether you burn the garlic or become the next Nigella, it’s about laughs, messes, and maybe impressing someone later with your new “signature dish.”

Indoor archery

Looking to channel your inner warrior princess this summer? Indoor archery ranges like Sharjah Archery Club or AimStorm in Al Quoz let you do just that—minus the heatstroke. Pull that bowstring, square your stance, and unleash your sass with every arrow. It’s focused, fierce, and oddly therapeutic (especially if you think the bulls-eye is your ex or your possibly toxic boss). Great for solo missions or competitive friends meet-ups. Safety gear is included, but you bring the attitude. May the odds be ever in your favour—just don’t poke someone’s eye out while posing for the 'gram.

Dubai Autodrome (indoor karting):

Want to race without the rage? Welcome to the only place in the UAE where you can floor it legally and still look cute. Dubai Autodrome’s indoor karting track is fast, furious, and air-conditioned—unlike Sheikh Zayed Road during rush hour. Strap into your little race car, channel your inner Lewis Hamilton (or Vin Diesel, no judgement), and zip around like it’s the final lap of your to-do list. It’s a total vibe—helmet hair included. Great for birthday bashes, corporate flexing, or date night with someone who needs to be taken down a notch. Warning: addictive. And slightly competitive.

KidZania

If parenting in the summer feels like a hostage situation, say hello to your saviour: KidZania, with branches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This mini indoor city inside Dubai Mall lets your kids try grown-up jobs—doctors, chefs, pilots, even radio hosts—while you sip coffee and contemplate your life choices. It’s fully air-conditioned, suspiciously efficient, and you don’t have to bribe anyone to clean up. Kids earn fake money, burn real energy, and you get a few blessed hours of peace. Ideal for age 4–14 and exhausted parents everywhere. Honestly, we’d pay real money to let our kids pretend to be dentists all day.

Bounce Dubai

When adulting feels heavy, you can always dive into gravity-defying cardio fun This massive indoor trampoline park in Al Quoz is a bounce-tastic paradise with dodgeball zones, parkour areas, and the kind of foam pits you’d willingly swan-dive into. Teens love it. Influencers film in it. Grown-ups pretend it’s for “fitness” and then prance around on foams for an hour straight. Bonus: no sunburn, no sweat patches, just cardio disguised as chaos. Wear your coolest athleisure, hydrate like you’re on Love Island, and jump into the most joyful workout ever.

Chillout Ice Lounge

Chillout Ice Lounge is bringing sub-zero drama to Times Square Center. You walk in, they wrap you in a parka, and boom—you’re sipping hot cocoa at -6°C surrounded by ice sculptures and neon-lit icicles. It’s frosty, it’s fabulous, and it’s the closest you’ll get to a European winter without airport security. Perfect for date night, novelty-seekers, or dramatic “I need a break from this weather” statements. Bonus points if you wear faux fur and pretend you're in a Vogue winter shoot.

3D blacklight mini golf

Tucked away in JBR’s Bahar Plaza, this hidden gem is pure glow-in-the-dark ridiculousness. Armed with a neon putter and terrible aim, you’ll navigate 18 trippy holes across psychedelic jungle, underwater, and sci-fi themes—lit entirely by blacklight. No skills required, just a sense of humour and a willingness to laugh at your terrible putting. It’s cheap, cheerful, and very “I didn’t expect to have this much fun in a golf game.” Great for teens, tourists, and dates that don’t take themselves too seriously. Warning: your teeth and white sneakers will glow like a nightclub bathroom.

AYA Universe

AYA Universe at WAFI City Mall is where you go when you want to float through time, stars, and neon-drenched dreams. This interactive light-and-sound experience feels like you stepped into the mind of a glam alien with a thing for mood lighting. Walk through 12 different rooms filled with cosmic projections, mirrored illusions, and pulsing beats—aka a photoshoot waiting to happen. It’s part museum, part rave, part spiritual awakening. No science degree required. Just wear something reflective, serve face, and let the galaxy work its magic on your feed.

Brass Monkey, Gaming Arcade

Brass Monkey at Bluewaters Island is where you go to unleash your inner teenager—with better shoes and chilled mocktails. There’s bowling, retro arcade games, VR racing, and even pool tables, all served with sides of sliders and sass. Whether you’re celebrating a work win, date night, or just “survived another week in Dubai,” it’s the ultimate grown-up playground. The lighting is moody, the crowd is pretty, and the vibes are immaculate. Oh, and it’s freezing inside—because nothing pairs with joystick jousting like ice-cold A/C and even colder lemonades.

Infinity des Lumières

Art snob? This one’s for you: where Monet meets mood lighting Art, but make it vibey. Infinity des Lumières at Dubai Mall isn’t just a museum—it’s a full-on immersive art experience where Van Gogh, Monet, and Japanese wave art swirl around you in floor-to-ceiling projections set to dreamy music. You don’t just look at the art—you walk through it. Perfect for days when you want culture without lifting a finger (or sweating through your blouse). It's slow, stunning, and surprisingly emotional. Also, it gives your Insta feed major art snob cred. Wear floaty clothes, bring a date, and act like you understand impressionism.

Dubai Frame (museum level)

Yes, it’s 150m tall and looks like the world’s bougiest photo frame. But the inside of Dubai Frame is where the real drama happens—especially the indoor museum at the base. Interactive exhibits walk you through Dubai’s glow-up from humble fishing village to luxury utopia, all in glorious A/C. The slick future gallery shows what the city might look like next—flying taxis, robot nannies, and real estate on Mars. After you get all educated and inspired, head to the top for skyline selfies. Just don’t wear a short skirt on the glass bridge. You’ve been warned.

Woo-Hoo! (children’s museum)

Woo-Hoo! in Al Quoz is a pastel-coloured, immaculately designed wonderland where the kids run wild—and you sip coffee in peace. Soft play areas, pretend city zones, and creative workshops all wrapped in a dreamy aesthetic that’s perfect for those “just play quietly while mummy answers emails” kind of days. It’s so chic it almost makes parenting look easy. Warning: you’ll want to redecorate your home after visiting. But for now? Sit back, let them burn energy indoors, and order another iced latte with oat milk. You earned it.

Storm Coaster

You thought mall rides were chill? Think again. The Storm Coaster at Dubai Hills Mall is a vertical launch roller coaster that literally snakes through the inside of the mall like it’s chasing rent money. One minute you're shopping, next minute you're hurtling through loops at 77km/h. It’s loud, it’s wild, and it absolutely does not care if you just had lunch. Perfect for adrenaline junkies who want their thrills with a side of air-con and food court recovery. Don’t wear lashes. Or heels. You’ll lose both.

Tashkeel

Feeling artsy without the heatstroke? Head to Tashkeel in Nad Al Sheba, an art and design hub where you can sign up for cool indoor workshops—think pottery, printmaking, photography, and calligraphy with an Emirati twist. It’s peaceful, beautifully curated, and makes you feel like you’ve finally found a hobby that doesn’t involve binge-watching reality TV. Great for solo vibes, artsy couples, or parents who want their teens off TikTok for 90 minutes. You leave with your own creation, some paint on your elbows, and the smug glow of “I made this.”

Selfie Kingdom

Content creators, this one's for you: 25 rooms, infinite angles Let’s be real: sometimes you just need 25 themed rooms, ring lights, and a full-length mirror that makes you feel like Beyoncé’s cousin. That’s the Selfie Kingdom in Dubai. Located near Motor City, this museum-meets-content-studio lets you shoot, pose, and pout across dozens of curated backdrops—from ball pits to flower walls to futuristic pods. Bring outfit changes. Bring your sass. Bring a friend who knows your angles. Whether you’re a micro-influencer or a mum with a killer feed, this is peak “main character energy.” And yes, it’s ice-cold inside. Thank the content gods.

Yalla! Bowling

 Yalla! Bowling in Mall of the Emirates isn’t your retro alley with sad lighting and stale fries. This is Dubai-style pin smashing—sleek lanes, disco lights, proper eats, and cocktails that match your nail polish. It’s great for dates that don’t involve awkward silences, group hangouts with competitive drama, or just showing your kids how it’s done. The best part? No sunburn, no sweat, and plenty of gutter balls to laugh at. It’s the only sport where stilettos are optional and sass is required.

Street Maniax – Adventure & Trampoline Park

Street Maniax is where energy meets mayhem, and gravity is a joke. With parkour pits, ninja warrior courses, dodgeball arenas, and zip lines, this indoor adventure park in Al Quoz is a full-blown cardio party. It’s loud, crazy, and exactly what your kids (or inner child) ordered. Bonus: you burn calories while laughing, flailing, and pretending you didn’t pull a muscle mid-bounce. The vibe? Equal parts American Gladiator and TikTok fever dream. Wear stretchy clothes. Leave your dignity at the door. Bounce, flip, sweat—repeat.

BOUNCE-X

Take your average trampoline park and throw neon, beats, and lasers at it. That’s BOUNCE-X at Dubai Festival City. It’s the world’s first freestyle terrain park, combining trampolines, parkour, and a rave-like light show that feels more Ibiza than Dubai summer. Kids love it, teens live there, and adults pretend they’re “just supervising” before secretly doing backflips. The music pumps, the floors bounce, and the air-con is delicious. Pro tip: do not attempt flips after biryani. Trust me.

Game Over escape rooms

Game Over in The Dubai Mall isn't just an escape room—it's a cinematic experience. Choose from lavishly designed horror, fantasy, or mystery themes that feel more Netflix Original than mall attraction. Solve puzzles, scream a little, and bond (or bicker) with your squad under time pressure. It's brilliant for group dates, teen birthdays, or co-workers with unresolved issues. Expect jump scares, cryptic clues, and the constant feeling that your IQ might be failing you. Pure chaos in glorious A/C. Also, great hair lighting for that exit selfie.

Tee & Putt mini golf

Neon, nonsense and no skills required: glow and go Located in WAFI Mall, Tee & Putt brings a glow-in-the-dark twist to mini golf that makes you forget golf was ever a serious sport. You’ll play 18 wild holes through alien labs, space tunnels, and blacklit chaos. It’s silly. It’s sassy. It’s slightly competitive, especially after you realize your child is better than you. Excellent for date night, awkward teens, or those of us who want the golf vibes without the sunstroke. And yes, your white outfit will glow like you’re hosting a ‘90s rave. We love.

La La Land kids café

La La Land in Meydan is a pastel-coloured, immaculately designed wonderland where the kids run wild—and you sip coffee in peace. Soft play areas, pretend city zones, and creative workshops all wrapped in a dreamy aesthetic that’s perfect for those “just play quietly while mummy answers emails” kind of days. It’s so chic it almost makes parenting look easy. Warning: you’ll want to redecorate your home after visiting. But for now? Sit back, let them burn energy indoors, and order another iced latte with oat milk. You earned it.

Adventure HQ

This one’s for the outdoorsy types who prefer to gear up inside. Adventure HQ is part retail haven, part playground—complete with an indoor climbing wall, rope course, and bouldering zones. It’s kid-friendly, adult-approved, and the kind of place where you can buy a kayak then immediately climb a fake mountain. The best part? You don’t even need to sweat through your tank top to feel like a pro. Great for families, fitness junkies, or anyone craving a little rugged adventure—minus the sun and sand in your sneakers.

Booktopia

Bookworms unite: chilled vibes & zero noise complaints Located in Silicon Oasis, Booktopia is one of those rare, quietly magical places where you can read, sip tea, and pretend the world outside doesn’t exist (or feel like lava). Curl up with a book, join a poetry night, or attend one of their creative workshops. It’s calm, cosy, and filled with people who whisper respectfully. Plus, they’ve got coffee and WiFi, which technically makes it an office. Sort of. If you’re done with malls and mini golf, this is your intellectual hideaway—zero chaos, full charm.

Topgolf Dubai

Even if you’ve never held a golf club in your life, Topgolf Dubai at Emirates Golf Club is pure fun with a capital F. Think climate-controlled hitting bays, killer playlists, and screens tracking every (possibly tragic) swing. You can sip mocktails, snack on sliders, and live out your sporty glam fantasy—all with a view of the skyline and none of the sweaty polo shirts. Great for families, team bonding meet-ups, squads, or solo players who just want to vibe with a view. Bonus: the only thing hotter than your drive is the A/C. No sunburn, no bad shots remembered.

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

It’s a wonderland. As you walk through different superhero worlds, you’ll encounter thrilling rides like the Riddler’s, which will have you gripping your seat, and the Green Lantern escape—a surreal plunge that takes you deep in the character’s story, making you feel like you’re actually living it, or even falling through it. Beyond the DC universe, beloved cartoon characters like Bugs Bunny and Fred Flintstone are around to add to the fun. And when hunger strikes, you’re covered, there’s a food stall on nearly every corner.

Yas Waterworld

Try the Liwa drop, we dare you.

This summer, you can enjoy and splash around in one of the largest indoor, outdoor water parks here. With over 40 rides and slides, including adrenaline-pumping tubes and kid-friendly zones, it’s a perfect way to cool off and have a blast. You can splash around in a pool, take difficult rides on rollercoasters, swim through tunnels and try the Liwa Drop, where you fall through the trapdoor and zip through a tunnel, landing in water.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Whoosh!

Ferrari-themed rides deliver an undeniable thrill. From sleek indoor adventures to the world’s fastest roller coaster and heart-stopping drops, the adrenaline rush hits full throttle every time.

Snow Abu Dhabi (Wadi Adventure)

Bring in the chill for your summer.  Escape the desert heat with real snow! Snow Abu Dhabi in Reem  offers skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snow play areas inside a massive indoor snow park—perfect for family fun and unique summer cool-down.

Xtreme Zone at Abu Dhabi Mall, and Galleria Mall

If you're looking to keep the kids active and entertained this summer, Xtreme Zone at Abu Dhabi Mall and The Galleria is a fun indoor playground for all ages. This high-energy family entertainment centre packs in everything from adrenaline-fueled laser tag battles and classic arcade games to bowling lanes and immersive VR adventures. It's a one-stop destination for variety, excitement, and air-conditioned fun.

Younger children will love the soft play zones and mini attractions, while tweens and teens can go head-to-head in competitive games or try out cutting-edge virtual reality rides. Whether it’s a casual afternoon, a birthday celebration, or just a break from the summer heat, Xtreme Zone delivers action, laughs, and screen-free play in a safe, vibrant setting. Bonus: parents can relax nearby with coffee or shop while the kids let loose.

Marina Mall ice rink

Beat the scorching summer heat with a refreshing escape to the indoor ice rink at Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi’s premier spot for cool, active entertainment. The rink offers a smooth, spacious surface perfect for figure skating, casual cruising, or even fun lessons to sharpen your skills. It’s a lively, family-friendly environment where kids and adults alike can enjoy the thrill of gliding on ice, surrounded by the mall’s bustling energy.

With comfortable seating for spectators and skate rentals on site, it’s easy to spend hours cooling off while staying active. Special sessions, themed nights, and holiday events add extra sparkle to the experience, making Marina Mall Ice Rink a must-visit destination to skate away the summer heat in style.

Qasr Al Hosn

Step inside Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi’s oldest and most iconic stone structure, and you’ll find yourself at the crossroads of the UAE’s rich past and dynamic present. Originally built in the late 18th century as a watchtower to protect the only freshwater well on Abu Dhabi island, this majestic fort has been transformed into a vibrant cultural landmark. Today, it stands as a beautifully restored museum where history comes to life.

Wander through centuries of Emirati life, from pearl diving and traditions to the rise of a modern nation. Interactive exhibits, archival photographs, and personal artefacts give visitors a deeper understanding of the UAE’s journey. The House of Artisans, located within the complex, offers live demonstrations of traditional crafts like Al Sadu weaving, Talli embroidery, and Khoos palm weaving.

A stroll along Corniche beach in the evening

Escape the intense heat by visiting Corniche Beach early in the morning or after sunset. Enjoy a peaceful stroll, cycling along shaded paths, or relaxing at beachfront cafes when temperatures are cooler and the atmosphere is magical.

Desert safari with evening BBQ

Get ready to kick your summer up a notch with a desert safari that’s anything but ordinary. First, hold on tight as you smash through towering dunes in a 4x4 for some serious dune bashing think wild twists, adrenaline-pumping drops, and enough bumps to make your heart race. Then swap the speed for a slow cruise on a camel’s back, channeling your inner desert explorer. Feeling bold? Grab a board and shred those sandy slopes with some epic sandboarding action.

When the sun dips low and the stars come out, it’s time to feast. Settle in for a smoky, mouthwatering BBQ spread under the sky, where juicy grilled meats and traditional treats fuel the party.

Explore the Louvre, Abu Dhabi

Discover world-class art and exhibitions in a stunning architectural masterpiece. The museum offers a cool, contemplative break from the heat with art spanning centuries and cultures.ars, an unforgettable blend of adventure and culture.

Have a spa-cation

This summer, relax and unwind at The H Dubai’s stunning executive suite. How about unwinding with a full night’s stay in a spacious suite designed for comfort and style, waking up to a delicious breakfast, and indulging in a soothing 120-minute massage tailored just for you at the acclaimed Santai Spa by Mandara? You can take your time with a late checkout until 6 PM, enjoy a refreshing 30-minute Peloton bike class, and make use of the gym, Peloton studio, and outdoor pool at your leisure.

Enjoy a beachfront break with your family

It’s summer and you need a quick getaway. You can swap city stress for sea breeze at JA Ocean View Hotel. You can enjoy a buffet. And if you’re with kids? Even bette, there’s a CoolZone play area to keep them entertained.

Summer adventure for children at Dalma Mall

 With the summer sun blazing, Leo & Loona at Dalma Mall is giving children the ultimate indoor adventure, minus the heat. In partnership with the Fayoonah Program, the UAE’s official educational ambassador, they’ve launched a summer camp that’s equal parts fun and inspiring. Running from June 30 to August 23 (weekdays, 10 AM to 3 PM), the camp offers weekly themes like space, sustainability, emotions, and even artificial intelligence—keeping young minds curious and engaged. Children get full access to Leo & Loona’s massive 2,400-square-metre indoor play city, packed with over 30  attractions. What truly sets this camp apart? In-house meals crafted by chefs using fresh, local ingredients, daily progress updates for parents, and a personalised end-of-week achievement album for every child. It’s the perfect blend of play, learning, and summer magic.

Khorfakkan amphitheatre and waterfall

It’s a drive, but it’s worth it, trust us.  

Tucked between the Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman, Khorfakkan’s amphitheatre and waterfall offers a glorious backdrop in the UAE. It may be a drive from central Sharjah, but once you arrive, the views alone make it more than worth it. The Roman-inspired open-air amphitheatre, with its grand stone arches and panoramic sea views, hosts cultural events and concerts—but it’s just as impressive to explore even when quiet. Just steps away, an artificial waterfall cascades ddown a cliff face, making for striking photos and a serene atmosphere. Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to avoid the heat and

Sharjah Archaeology Museum – journey through 125,000 years of history

Step into the ancient past at the Sharjah Archaeology Museum, where the story of human civilisation in the UAE unfolds through rare artefacts and immersive exhibits. From Stone Age tools to Bronze Age pottery, the museum traces over 125,000 years of human life, trade, and culture in the region. Discover tombs reconstructed with original stones, admire intricately crafted arrowheads and incense burners.

One of the museum’s highlights is the interactive timeline and digital displays that make archaeology accessible for all ages, especially curious kids.

Al Noor Island, Sharjah’s secret garden

Ditch the city noise and dive into Al Noor Island, Sharjah’s coolest green escape where art meets nature with a twist of magic. Look at the gardens bursting with colour, quirky sculptures that make you stop and stare, and a butterfly house so alive it feels like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Hundreds of fluttering butterflies? Yes, please.

For the young (and young at heart), there’s a playground that’s anything but boring, and plenty of chill spots perfect for a laid-back picnic.

Explore Sharjah Art Foundation

Enjoy a trip to the vibrant creative hub hosting a rotating lineup of thought-provoking exhibitions that showcase local, regional, and international artists pushing boundaries across media and disciplines.

Beyond the galleries, the foundation offers engaging film screenings, artist talks, and hands-on workshops that invite visitors to dive deeper into the creative process. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a curious first-timer, the blend of modern art and historic architecture creates a uniquely inspiring atmosphere. With events happening year-round, the Sharjah Art Foundation is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the cutting edge of the Middle East’s contemporary art scene.

Paint some ceramic plates at gorgeous cafes

Looking for a creative way to spend a leisurely afternoon in Abu Dhabi? Combine art and coffee by painting your own ceramic plates at some of the city’s most beautiful cafés. These cozy spots offer all the tools and inspiration you need to unleash your inner artist while sipping on expertly brewed coffee or enjoying delicious treats.

Places like The Arthouse Cafe in Abu Dhabi, host ceramic painting sessions where you can customize plates, mugs, or bowls with vibrant colors and designs. The good news, your personalized masterpiece doubles as a lasting keepsake or a thoughtful gift.

Enjoy multi-sensory art at TeamLab in Abu Dhabi

Think art is just something to stare at? Think again. TeamLab Abu Dhabi throws the rulebook out the window and drops you right inside a wild, interactive digital playground where lights, sounds, and colors explode around you. This isn’t your grandma’s museum—it’s a full-on sensory overload that moves, shifts, and reacts to your every move. Touch glowing flowers and watch them bloom, chase neon fish swimming through the air, or get lost in trippy, swirling waterfalls that’ll have you snapping pics like a pro.

Whether you’re on a date, rolling deep with the fam, or just want to flex your Insta feed with some seriously next-level snaps, TeamLab is the place to be. It’s bold, it’s brilliant, and it’ll make you rethink what art actually means. Prepare to get dazzled, amazed, and maybe even a little addicted.