7 fantastic free things to do with children outdoors, in Dubai
From a picnic at Burj Park to birdwatching in Ras Al Khor, here are seven things to try
The weather in the UAE is getting cooler, which means it’s finally that time of the year when UAE parents start looking for fun outdoor activities to enjoy with children.
Here is a roundup of some free activities to try with your family in Dubai!
1. Visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Time to put the screens away for a new pastime – birdwatching! The Ras Al Khor Hide Viewing Point might just be the perfect spot to build your little one’s interest in birds.
Just five kilometres from Downtown Dubai, is a sanctuary full of mangroves and wildlife, including hundreds of flamingoes, herons and more. Ras Al Khor is closely monitored and protected by the Dubai Municipality and the sanctuary is fenced off to safeguard the area. However, there are three bird viewing areas located on the perimeter of the sanctuary. These areas allow visitors and nature lovers to admire the birds in their natural habitat while maintaining the quality of the area for its winged residents.
The 'hide viewing' areas can be accessed free of cost. The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is closed to the public on Fridays and Saturdays. Don’t forget to take along a pair of binoculars and a camera, but remember that the sanctuary hide is a quiet zone, no pets, food or drinks are allowed inside.
Timings: Sunday to Thursday 7.30 to 5.30pm
2. Turtle Lagoon, Dubai
Dubai is known for its turtle rehabilitation project. Take your children to see these amazing creatures at a sanctuary at Turtle Lagoon at Jumeirah Al Naseem.
The enclosure is open to the public every day, without any entry fees, or bookings. Check ahead on the feeding schedule held once a week on Turtle Island where anybody is welcome to join.
The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project at Jumeirah Al Naseem aims to care, protect and rehabilitate sick and injured turtles, while also raising awareness of the threats faced by these marine animals. The initiative runs in collaboration with the Emirates Wildlife Protection Office. Some of these turtles have been fitted with satellite tags, allowing the team to trace their former patients and learn more about these endangered creatures.
3. The Block at Dubai Design District (D3)
Enjoy a family friendly recreational space where you can relax and unwind.
The Block features a skate park, basketball and volleyball court, climbing walls, an urban beach as well as outdoor seating and entertainment area. With a host of cafes and restaurants it is perfect for an ‘outdoorsy’ day.
Timings: Daily, 7am to 11pm
4. Enjoy an evening at Burj Park
The Burj Park, located at the Burj Khalifa Boulevard in Downtown Dubai, is another great place with free outdoor kids’ activities.
The park, alongside the Dubai Fountain, makes for a great view and is known to host some of the best pop-up markets, recreational activities, and game stalls for kids. It features a few iconic statues for some fun photos with your family.
Timings: 9am to 11pm
5. Go back to 1969 at the Jumeirah Archeological Site
Get your children interested in archaeology and help them uncover ancient treasures.
The Jumeirah Archeological Site, located on Al Wasl Street in Jumeira 2, hosts remnants of settlements of the Abbasid era, which dates to the 9th and 11th centuries. You get to see building structures and other ancient treasures like pottery, coins, tools and more. The site is located at Al Wasl Street, Jumeirah.
6. Town Square Park, Dubailand
Get ready for a fun-packed day out at this multi-activity community park which comes complete with its own 70-seater carousel, a splash park, kids' fountain, family train track, playground, outdoor stage and expansive green areas for a cosy family picnic.
While nonresidents can enter the park for free, they can enjoy the train ride for Dh10, carousel for Dh10, and splash pad for Dh25
Timings: The park is open from early morning but the attractions open from 11am to 9pm Saturday to Wednesday and from 12 noon to 10pm, Thursday to Friday.
7. Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) park
Hidden behind JLT’s skyscrapers, this community park is divided into three zones, one for babies and toddlers with a great set of swings.
Another is for children from four onwards. The third zone is for older children and has a huge spider-web climbing frame and zip line. Pack a picnic rug and snacks to relax at the park that has plenty of grassy areas. Hats and sunscreen are advisable in the mornings. Note that the area has paid roadside parking but only via text – there are no ticket machines. Entrance is free.