5 best apps to make learning fun for young Dubai kids in 2025

Back-to-school doesn’t have to mean boredom and endless worksheets. For Dubai children, aged 5–12, screen time can actually be productive, entertaining, and downright fun, but yes, parents, we see you rolling your eyes: Supervision is a must, and with the younger ones, the phone remains with you.

That’s where these 5 best learning apps for 2025 come in. From math battles and reading adventures to coding games and language challenges, these apps turn studying into playtime your children will actually want to do. Keep a strict eye on usage, cheer them on, and watch curious minds explore, learn, and level up for the school year.

1) Best for Math: SplashLearn

Math and English can feel like a battlefield some days. That's where SplashLearn can help. It's the online platform turning learning into playtime for kids in pre-K through grade 5. Available on Web, iOS, and Android, SplashLearn combines colourful graphics, interactive lessons, and games that actually make your child want to practise math. Personalised learning paths keep things challenging without being overwhelming, while progress tracking lets parents monitor their child’s achievements.

Bonus: there’s a 7-day free trial, so you can test-drive the fun before subscribing.

2) Best for Reading: Epic

It's a library that fits right in your tablet or phone over 40,000 children’s books at your child’s fingertips, anytime, anywhere. From audiobooks to read-along adventures and classic eBooks, Epic! turns reluctant readers into bookworms without breaking a sweat. It's helpful for kindergarteners and kids aged 6–12, it’s basically a VIP pass to a world of stories, imagination, and learning. Want your child to actually ask for more reading time? Epic! has you covered—it’s fun, engaging, and maybe even a little addictive (in the best way).

3) Best for learning languages: Duolingo

Who said learning a new language had to be boring? Duolingo turns English, French, Arabic, and more into a game your children will actually want to play. With streaks, rewards, and quirky owl nudges that might just guilt them into practicing, it’s learning disguised as fun. Helpful for ages 7+, it keeps children engaged, motivated, and maybe even a little competitive—because who doesn’t want to beat their own streak?

4) Best for Critical Thinking: Scratch Jr

Why just play games when you can make them? ScratchJr turns coding into a colourful, child-friendly playground where logic meets creativity. Perfect for ages 5–7, it lets them drag, drop, and design their own stories, animations, and mini-games, no boring instructions required. They learn the basics of coding while thinking critically and solving problems, all while having a blast.

5) Khan Academy

Khan Academy Kids turns math, reading, and problem-solving into a colourful adventure for children, aged 4–8. With lively animations, interactive challenges, and fun rewards, kids stay engaged while building real skills, without even realising they’re learning. Perfect for curious minds, this app keeps screen time educational, playful, and totally guilt-free for parents.