50 Things to do in Dubai and the UAE with kids for Dh50 or less

DUBAI FRAME: This architectural wonder is Dubai’s latest cultural landmark, strategically situated to ‘frame’ stunning views of Old and New Dubai, straddling and connecting the emirate’s past with its future. It makes for a great outing for little ones and grandparents alike, who will love the interactive exhibits inside, as well as the many photo spots and mind-boggling panoramas – especially the from the see-through glass floor! DETAILS: Dh50 adults, Dh20 children (3-12 years), under 3s free, Dubaiframe.ae.

DUBAI CAMEL FARM: Owned by a camel-loving French expat, this friendly farm is full of family-friendly activities, from camel rides and a petting zoo to camel safari and Bedouin picnic, and even camel hugging therapy. Located in Dubai between Al Qudra and Al Ain road, it’s imperative to call ahead in order to book your visit, and they only accept cash. DETAILS: Dh40 per person (under 3s are free), additional cost for activities. Call in advance to book your visit 0 50 485 7676, Thecamelfarm.ae.

DUBAI SAFARI PARK: Dubai Safari Park is back and bigger than ever with new additions to its menagerie of wild and wonderful creatures, including elephants and giraffes. Serving both as an animal reserve and an educational centre, the new Dubai Safari includes a wide range of new interactive, educational and entertainment experiences for kids, including giraffe feeding, birds show and a dedicated kids’ farm. From gorillas to hyenas, lions and tigers to hippos and lemurs, kids can marvel at the majestic wildlife relaxing on the eco-friendly facility’s specially cooled rocks, while learning about their habitats and conservation. Adults Dh50, children Dh20, under 3s free, Dubaisafari.ae.

THE PALM FOUNTAIN AT THE POINTE: Launched on 22 October 2020, this world-record-busting fountain is the world’s largest dancing fountain, spread over 14,000 sqft of sea water, with a super shooter that reaches heights of 105 metres. Illuminated by more than 3,000 LED lights, this is the only multicoloured fountain in Dubai and is a celebration of Dubai’s resurgence and ambition to aim for the sky. Kids love anything that is ‘the biggest’ or ‘the best’, and they will love watching this record-breaking fountain dance along to a selection of songs from one of the restaurants at Al Nakheel’s The Pointe. The Palm Fountain is free to view and has 20 bespoke shows, with five different shows running daily between sunset to midnight (7pm to 12am) while swaying to an array of popular songs including Khaleeji, pop, classic, international and more. Each lasts for three minutes and is performed every 30 minutes.

LOVE LAKE DUBAI: The Love Lake Dubai comprises two huge interlocking heart-shaped lakes, and is so enormous that it can apparently be viewed from space! Perfect for barbecues and watching the sunset, this love-themed desert lake spot is a great place for a picnic, and is dotted with brilliant photo opportunities. DETAILS: Free to visit, Love Lake Dubai.

PAWSOME CUDDLES AT PET ME, DUBAI: Craving a cuddle from a furry friend but don’t have any pets of your own? Kids will love the opportunity to get up close and cosy with pups at this dog grooming and kennel service in Oasis Center on Sheikh Zayed Road. In their ‘Meet our PET ME members’ sessions children can stroke and play with well-behaved, friendly dogs over a supervised half hour. DETAILS: Dh50 per person for 30 minutes, Sun-Thur, 10am, 12pm, 3pm, 5pm. Times may vary, call in advance to check, 042220902, Petme-ae.com.

KITE BEACH: Dubai is teeming with wonderful beaches, but you don’t have to stay at a fancy 5-star hotel to have a gorgeous beach day at a beautiful seaside spot. Public beaches like Kite Beach in Jumeirah are totally free to visit, and have plenty going on to keep little ones happy. Pack a bucket and spade, sun screen and a towel and make your way to this beautiful beach early to secure a peaceful spot. While there are many people kite surfing and sun bathing on a weekend, if you go early in the morning you’ll miss the crowds, and then you can finish up with a delicious breakfast at one of the many cafes and restaurants nearby. DETAILS: Free to visit, Kite Beach, Jumeirah.

DUBAI HILLS COMMUNITY PARK: This residential park built next to the relatively new development of Dubai Hills is the size of 63 football fields and an absolute masterpiece in landscaping. There’s so much to keep children occupied here, including three amazing separate play grounds, a skate park, rock climbing wall, basketball courts, dog walking area and so much more. Every playground is full of wonderful, modern equipment, and each has a completely different theme. One is dedicated to younger children, with smaller swings and slides and sunken trampolines, another is all about vertices and climbing, with a high watch tower and mini zip line, while the star attraction is the vast wooden climbing frame and slide apparatus that is designed to look like an enormous, fearsome dragon, complete with wooden jungle, castle and footbridge. And best of all? It’s absolutely free! While Dubai Hills residents will be locals, this incredible park is well worth a visit wherever you live in the UAE. DETAILS: Dubai Hilla Park, Dubai Hills Community, free to enter.

SHEES PARK IN Khorfakkan, SHARJAH: Opened on 15 October 2020, this spectacular new park nestled amongst the mountains covers an area of more than 11,000 square metres and features a 25-metre high manmade waterfall. It also includes more than 50 metres of walkways through three mountain terraces connected by stone stairs, leading to a main viewing platform. The perfect place to get back to nature now that the weather is cooling, head there for a hike and a picnic, and enjoy the mountain views and picturesque waterfall. It also includes a children's play area, 32 shaded seating areas for families, an outdoor theatre that can accommodate 70 people and a barbecue area. DETAILS: Shees Park Sharjah, free entry.

BUHAIS GEOLOGY PARK, SHARJAH: While you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve stumbled onto Mars, this rocky moonscape of a park, opened in 2019, is actually in Sharjah, situated about an hour’s drive from central Dubai in an area of staggering geological significance. Teeming with marine fossils, the site is based on what used to be an ancient sea bed, and features five interconnected pods, which house exhibitions investigating the UAE’s rich geological history. This unique site is the ideal day trip for little dinosaur-lovers, science buffs or fossil fans, and features an easy 1km trail loop that features ancient archaeological burial sites from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages, as well as giant Ophiolite boulders - parts of a section of the Earth’s crust that has been forced up and exposed - which make for a wonderful teaching aid to tell kids about tectonic plates and the history of the Earth. DETAILS: Roughly 1-2 hours drive from Dubai, Free entry, Sunday-Thursday 9am-6pm, Friday 2pm-6.30pm, Saturday 11am-6.30pm, 06 801 2100.

HATTA HONEYBEE GARDEN: Hatta’s delightful Honeybee Garden features kid-friendly educational tours of the honey factory’s garden, where the whole family can don bee clothes and learn about the types of trees and plants that are involved in honey production, as well as view the types of bee hives used past and present. DETAILS: Entry tickets and tour from Dh50, Hattahoney.ae/honeybee-garden).

AL NOOR ISLAND: This wonderfully unique and artistic island in Sharjah is an award-winning example of leisure architecture and makes for a fabulous day trip with the kids. Easily accessible from central Sharjah, park up in the large car park and then cross over the bridge to the island. Attractions include an intimate but charming butterfly house, a wonderful adventure playground, sunken trampolines for hours of bouncing fun, a literature pavilion, as well as fascinating botanical species like the Dragon Blood Tree and multiple artistic sculptures dotted around the stunningly landscaped leafy walkways. DETAILS: Dh35 adult, Dh20 child (3-12 years), Alnoorisland.ae.

AL AIN ZOO: This popular wildlife park in Al Ain is home to many marvellous creatures, from gorillas and wolves to giraffes and jaguars. This extremely reasonably priced zoo has added some new experiences to its offering recently, including a penguin parade and even a lion-feeding encounter! DETAILS: Al Ain Zoo, Dh31.50 adult, 10.50 child general entry, extra price for special experiences, Alainzoo.ae.

HATTA FORT AND HERITAGE VILLAGE: This is a collection of ancient dwellings including Hatta Fort, which have been preserved and reconstructed to showcase rural living dating back centuries. There’s a nice easy hike up to two towers and plenty of interesting historical structures to explore – and the view from the top is unreal. Take a picnic, or have lunch at the restaurant onsite. DETAILS: Hatta Heritage Village, Hatta (1-2 hour drive from central Dubai), free to enter.

ZABEEL PARK: Home to the Dubai Frame, this huge park (Dh5pp entry via Nol card only) is popular with people of all ages, whether for a walk or a game of cricket. While park entry is free with a ticket to Dubai Frame (gate 4), if you just want to use the park then use the other entrances. Near gate 1 there is a vast children's play area, featuring a massive hill of large slides, a selection of roundabouts and rocks to climb, as well as multiple mini playgrounds dotted about. The pathway up and down to the grassy amphitheatre nearby is excellent for a scoot or rollerskate, and if you get there for sunset then you can sit on one of the amphitheatre ledges with a picnic, watching the Frame reflect the stunning golds and oranges of the setting sun - breathtaking. DETAILS: Dh5 entrance with a Nol card.

ATLANTIS HOTEL: No trip to Dubai is complete without a visit to the world’s most famous manmade island, The Palm Dubai, and the jewel on the trunk of this is of course Atlantis Hotel. One of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, there’s enough going on in the hotel to amuse little ones even without having to pay for a ticket to visit anything. Enjoy the buzz and vibrancy of the many retail shops, gawp at the amazing Lost Chambers Aquarium, part of which can be viewed from the outside, and round it all up with an ice cream or lunch in one of the many restaurants and cafes. DETAILS: Atlantis, free to enter but activities cost.

DUBAI CREEK PARK: Next to the Creek, this vast park (Dh5pp entry with Nol card) is great for watching abras and boats splash past or for a family barbecue. As one of Dubai’s oldest parks it can get very busy. Playground facilities are dotted about, while on warmer days a visit to Children’s City indoor entertainment is a must. DETAILS: Dh5 entrance wil Nol card.

SUSTAINABLE FUN AT EXPO’S TERRA PAVILLION: Residents and visitors can enjoy an exclusive preview of what Expo 2020 has to offer at the Expo 2020 Pavilions Premiere. Offering a tour of the long-awaited mega event’s Sustainability Pavilion before Expo 2020 begins in October, guests have the opportunity to visit the Expo site in Dubai South from 22 January to 10 April. The thematic Sustainability Pavilion, also known as Terra, will feature plenty of entertaining kid-friendly fun and will be open to visitors five days a week with tickets costing Dh25. Daily places are limited, and tickets must be booked in advance by visiting www.expo2020dubai.com/pavilions-premiere.

SAFA PARK 2: A hidden gem, this small park is a green oasis just off Al Manara Street. With three different play areas within the park, there is plenty to keep the kids amused – just running between the different zones will tire out little legs! Lots of trees provide shade for picnics, the small kiosk in the middle sells simple snacks and drinks, and there are toilets within the park. Lovely and quiet on a weekday morning, pre-pandemic it was popular with kids’ parties at weekends. DETAILS: Parking: Free, roadside, free entry, opening times: 8am - 10pm.

RAS AL KHOR WILDLIFE SANTUARY: This peaceful wetlands reserve is home to hundreds of fish, crustaceans and wading birds relaxing on the water. With the glittering towers of Sheikh Zayed Road an incongruous backdrop, the birds range from elegant heron to majestic osprey, but it’s the flamboyant pink flamingos that steal the show for most little ones, and there’s the chance to watch their daily feeding times from a wooden hide at the end of a pier. DETAILS: Free entry, the best time to visit is between November and April. Feeding times 9-9.30am, and 3-4pm, opening times Sat to Thurs, 9am-4pm, 800 900.

TRADITIONAL ABRA RIDE ON DUBAI CREEK: The creek was once the historical centre of the city’s commerce and it remains an amazing opportunity to show your kids a different side of Dubai. Harking back to a simpler time, little ones will love this experience. Plus, boat rides don’t get much cheaper than this (be warned: the traditional abras are not very stroller-friendly, but the air conditioned abras have more space). DETAILS: Dh1 per ride (Dh2 for air conditioned abra), Bur Dubai (Creekside), daily 5am to midnight. See RTA.ae for timetable details.

AL BARSHA POND PARK: This medium-sized park has a European feel to it, featuring manicured lawns, tree-lined avenues and a large man-made pond. You can hire peddle boats on the water, or mini peddle quad bikes on land, and there are also large shaded play areas, with one area for under 3-year-olds and the other more suitable for older children. There are plenty of trees and grassy areas that are perfect for picnics, plus a running track, should you fancy a jog with the buggy. Gets busy at weekends. DETAILS: Parking: Free, just outside the gate; Entrance cost: Free; Facilities: There’s a Circle Café kiosk selling breakfast, healthy snacks and food, plus toilets; Opening times: 6am - 11pm daily.

DUBAI AQUARIUM (FROM THE OUTSIDE): It’s impossible not to be impressed by this enormous aquarium, stretching across the full height of Dubai Mall and teeming with hundreds of rippling rays, steely sharks and vibrant tropical fish behind the world’s largest single pane of glass. While paid entrance to the Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is well worth it, for those on a budget it’s enough to gaze from the outside - children will be mesmerised by the googly fish eyes and shimmering fins glittering through the water, and after feasting your eyes you can fill your stomachs at one of the many cheap eateries on the mall’s food court on the top floor. DETAILS: Dubai Aquarium exterior, ground floor of Dubai Mall, free to see from the outside.

THE BEACH OPPOSITE JBR: This seaside development is the ideal spot to go to if you fancy some beach action without having to pay a pretty penny. Bring your beach gear and settle down, take in the views of Bluewaters Island, and enjoy the many photo opportunities against the stunning street-art murals set-up along the walk. DETAILS: The Beach, opposite JBR, Dubai, free to visit.

AL THURAYA ASTRONOMY CENTRE: Expand children’s minds with this family-friendly Astronomy Centre within Mushrif Park, which houses a planetarium where families can view the wonders of the universe during an impressive space show. Alternatively you can visit the Astro Cinema which screens documentaries and sci-fi movies. Or visit post-sunset and let little ones marvel at the moon and planets through the centre’s telescopes. DETAILS: Dh20/ ticket, location Mushrif Park (there is a Dh10 fee for car entry to Mushrif park, take a Nol card), 04 2216603.

BLUEWATERS ISLAND: This new development, set on its own island, is the home to the world’s largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai, which is set to open at some point this year. Bring scooters or skates for kids, while you enjoy the skyline views on the pedestrian walkways, and then dip into one of the many eateries for a coffee or milkshake.

DUBAI TURTLE REHABILITATION PROJECT: Jumeirah Group’s Al Naseem Hotel runs The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation project in collaboration with Emirates Wildlife Protection Office. With the project they rescue, care for, protect, and rehabilitate sick turtles, while also raising awareness of the threats faced by marine turtles. The enclosure is open to the public every day of the week and kids will love spotting these gentle, ancient creatures in the shimmering waters. The weekly feedings at 11am on Wednesday mornings used to be open to the public and are set to reopen soon. DETAILS: Free entry, Jumeriah Al Naseem, 04 301 7198.

CITY WALK: This open-plan shopping destination has a whole host of photo ops to keep you and your little ones occupied while you walk around. With the feel of a buzzing urban city like London or New York in the sun, there are many cool street-art murals to enjoy, fun water features to look at, as well as many street vendors selling balloons, as well as ride-on electric animals for rent. DETAILS: Free to visit, City Walk Dubai.

AL KHAZZAN PARK: This well-maintained, centrally located park opposite City Walk features a striking blue-and-white-striped water tower at its heart, and the Burj Khalifa for a back-drop. It has two shaded play areas with climbing frames, swings and slides - one suited to toddlers and one for older children. There’s a peaceful little library here, with walls built from UAE coral, and it’s also home to one of the UAE’s oldest trees. There is also a Hapi cafe here, serving up trendy artisanal food, from pancakes and breakfast items to grilled steak, bone marrow and array of gourmet coffees. DETAILS: Parking: Street parking directly outside; Entrance cost: Free; Facilities: Toilets, shaded seating and play areas; Opening times: 8am - 10pm Saturday to Wednesday, 8am - 11pm Thursday and Friday.

CHILDREN’S CITY: Tucked in Dubai Creek Park, this excellent edutainment venue is often overlooked but contains a wealth of experiences for children of all ages. From the Forsherwelt galleries, which are designed to introduce children up to the age of 10 to the fascinating world of science and laboratory, to the interactive galleries dedicated to Earth sciences, nature, space exploration, the human body, international cultures, and even a toddler play area and a dedicated Planetarium, there’s plenty to fill up your day. All for the very reasonable price of Dh10 per child 2-10 years, and Dh15 for adults, or Dh40 for a family ticket (two adults and two children). There is an additional fee of Dh5 for park entry, Nol card required. Open 9am-7pm weekdays and 2-8pm Friday and Saturdays. Childrencity.dm.gov.ae, 04 334 0808.

AL MAJAZ WATERFRONT SPLASH PARK, SHARJAH: What kid can resist a splash park? None we’ve ever met – and this mini splash park on Al Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah is full of aquatic fun, including spray-tastic water tunnels, waterfalls, fountains and everything needed to soak your little one with lots and lots of fun. There are many other attractions around Al Majaz Watrfront too, including a fountains and kids’ play area. DETAILS: Dh50 ticket entry, Al Majaz Waterfront, Sharjah.

ARABIA’S WILDLIFE CENTER: This hidden gem, located under an hour from Downtown Dubai in Sharjah, is sure to impress young and old alike. Home to all kinds of desert creatures from reptiles and birds, to nocturnal species, there’s an enclosure where you can view Arabian Oryx and gazelles as well as ostriches, flamingos and much more. DETAILS: Child 1-12 years free, 13 upwards Dh15, 06 531 1999.

PLAYHOUSES IN MUSHRIF PARK: This vast desert park is a large protected area with indigenous Ghaf woodland. But what the kids will love is these replicas of traditional houses from all over the world. They have 13 models of Arabic and English houses in their international village. There are also BBQ areas, playgrounds for kids, courts to play volleyball and basketball and a cycle track. DETAILS: Dh3 per person, Dh10 per car, located in Al Khawaneej, 04 288 3624.

JUMEIRAH FISHING HARBOUR: This fishing harbour surrounded by cafés and restaurants is a serene snapshot of Dubai’s marine past. Breathe in the salty sea air and take in the pretty coastal views ,complete with traditional-style architecture, fishermen relaxing in the shade and the quaint fishing boats dancing on the water. Kids will love watching crabs scuttle up and down the steps along the quay side, and there is a small play area to help (briefly) occupy toddlers. DETAILS: Free to visit, located in Jumeirah (while there’s no clear signage, it’s easy to find: drive along Jumeirah Beach Road with Mercato Mall to your left, pass two traffic lights and then turn right).

RIPE OUTDOOR MARKET: Ripe Market is reopening from 15 October at The Dubai Police Academy Park in Umm Suqeim and, as well as the farmers’ market, street food trucks and artisan crafts stalls, there is a full program of activities put on by Dubai Police - including pony rides, marching bands and Mascot Mansour - plus an expanded sports academy by Just Play, including football pitches, paddle tennis courts and basketball. Plus a mini petting zoo and an array of workshops and activities for little ones, alongside live music. DETAILS: Dh5 for entry to Police Academy Park, Friday (9am-7pm) & Saturday (10am-7pm) at Police Academy Park, Umm Suqeim.

SHARJAH DISCOVERY CENTRE: This great-value edutainment venue is divided into seven different sections to entertain the kids, including a Drive Town, Airport, Build Town, petroleum refinery, TV studio, Climbing Walls, Sound Zone and an area dedicated to teaching the human anatomy. DETAILS: Dh5 for children (2-12yrs), Dh10 age 13+, free for under 2s, located on Sharjah airport road between interchanges 4 and 5, opposite Sharjah Classic Cars Museum and Sharjah Airport, 06 558 6577.

DUBAI MARINA BOAT TOUR: You could spend a packet on a tourist boat ride, or you could pay peanuts for an equally pleasant journey on the low-cost, clean and rarely busy commuter boat service that is the Dubai Water Bus. Departing from just outside Dubai Marina Mall, there are many different routes to choose from, but our favourite is the one that heads over to Marina Walk, where there are plenty of coffee shops and fountains for the children to splash in. The water bus is buggy-friendly and air conditioned, and a fine way to enjoy the marina from the water. DETAILS: Dh3-11 depending on the route, children are free, see RTA.ae for timetable and route details.

AL FAHIDI HISTORICAL DISTRICT: This rich heritage area, previously known as Al Bastakiya, features Dubai’s oldest building (1780s) the Al Fahidi Fort, as well as the Dubai Museum (Dh3 for adults to visit and Dh1 for children), and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). But there is enough to enjoy just wandering through the beautiful traditional buildings, peeking into the odd art gallery here or catching a glimpse of a picturesque courtyard there, and kids will love running through the dusty narrow streets and looking up at the wind towers. Head over to the Arabian Tea House’s breezy courtyard for a relaxed refreshment or atmospheric lunch that feels a world away from the manic modernity of new Dubai. DETAILS: Free to visit, you can reach the location through the Al Fahidi Metro Station nearby.

DUBAI FOUNTAINS: Situated in the shadow of the glittering Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain’s spectacular, choreographed water and light show can be viewed at various points throughout the day, but the 6pm showing is perfect for little ones, with the sun setting, and the temperatures cooling. If you want to eat too, head to one of the Dubai Mall restaurants with an outdoor terrace at around 5pm (we like Carluccio’s for its kid-friendly menu and frequent promos), grab a table overlooking the water and fountains, and wait for the show to start. DETAILS: Free to view, showings Saturday to Thursday 1pm, 1.30pm, and 2pm; Friday afternoon 1.30pm, 2pm, and 2:30pm; Evening shows every 30 mins 6-11pm (times may vary).

PALM BOARDWALK: On the edge of the southern crescent of The Palm Jumeirah, the stunning views back towards JBR from the Boardwalk will wow your guests and are well worth the effort it takes to get there. Pack scooters and trikes and let the little ones ride up and down the wooden boardwalk. It’s fully enclosed so safe and completely flat so great for buggies. Stroll along and take in the magnificent panoramic views, with the jet skiers swirling in front of you, leisure boats sailing past, as well as skydivers falling towards Sky Dive Dubai. DETAILS: Free to visit any time but late afternoon into early evening will be cooler and you may catch one of Dubai’s spectacular sunsets.

DUBAI WATER CANAL: Little ones will love scooting through the perspective-altering length of the architectural wonder that is the Twisted Bridge over Dubai Water Canal. Head there first thing in the morning or pre-sunset for some jaw-dropping views, and follow up with a bridge-hop over to Tolerance Bridge and then a pleasant walk along the Dubai Canal, where you can also catch a magical, purple-lit waterfall gushing beneath Sheikh Zayed Road come sundown. DETAILS: Free to visit, situated off Sheikh Zayed road.

DUBAI MALL DINO EXHIBIT: Dinosaur-loving kiddos will love being transported back in time to the Jurassic period at Dubai Mall’s Souk Dome. Measuring over seven meters high and 24 meters long, this towering exhibit is a genuine fossil of a Diplodocus longus, which roamed the earth more than 150 million years ago. While you’re at the mall, be sure to head over to the aquarium, where you can marvel at the rays, sharks and hundreds of colourful tropical fish swimming behind the world’s largest glass panel. DETAILS: Free to visit, located in Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai.

LA MER: Explore the laidback coastal vibe at La Mer, where stunning graffiti murals, lime-washed beach huts and bustling backstreets filled with family-friendly eateries make for a great place to visit with the kids. There are wooden play structures dotted along its picturesque boardwalks, and the stretch of sandy beach against the calm sea makes it ideal for a paddle. DETAILS: Free to visit, Jumeirah 1, retailers open from 10am to 9pm.

AL QUDRA LAKES: Pack a breakfast picnic and trundle the kids in the car as soon as they wake up for a breathtaking dawn with the stunning waterside views and desert wildlife at Al Qudra Lakes. Feed the ducks, watch majestic heron feed and enjoy being in nature (but be warned, there are no bathrooms or retail outlets nearby). DETAILS: Free to visit, open daily.

RIVERLAND DUBAI: This fun, themed dining and retail destination is split into four zones that give an atmospheric glimpse into past eras, from 19th century Europe to 1950s America. Home to Dubai Parks and Resorts’ various theme parks, including recently reopened Motiongate, you don’t have to buy a ticket to go to one of the theme parks in order to enjoy the festive feel of Riverland’s sandstone walkways and picturesque water views. Wander amongst the many dining and retail outlets and you’ll find free children’s playgrounds, as well as trampoline floors by the riverside that just have to be bounced on. Riverland is also home to the world’s largest mobile maze (Dh35 entry) in case you feel like a challenge. DETAILS: Riverland, Free to enter, Dubai Parks & Resorts, off Sheikh Zayed Road.

TOWN SQUARE DUBAI PARK: This popular community park boasts its own carousel, splash pad, kid’s fountain, mini train, playground climbing frame and lots of green space for running around or having a picnic. Bring swim gear and a change of clothes and let little ones run riot. DETAILS: Dh10 for train ride or carousel, Dh25 for splash pad (for non residents), which opens from 3pm, located in Town Square community, Al Qudra Road.

GLOBAL VILLAGE: Family favourite and Dubai institution Global Village has been around for 25 years now with its areas dedicated to different countries across the world and boasts everything you could need for a family day out: from shopping to entertainment, rides and food from all sorts of different cultures. DETAILS: Reopening from 25 October, Dh15 per person, children below 3 free, located on Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Road, Dubai, 04 362 4114.

RAIN ROOM SHARJAH: Kids can sing in the rain without getting wet at this inspiring, immersive art installation in Sharjah, which sees you walking through an atmospherically lit, continuous indoor downpour that switches off as you walk so you don’t get drenched. The venue has reopened with strict health and safety measures, which mean a maximum of 5 people may enter at a time and each visit lasts 15 minutes. Tickets should be booked in advance. DETAILS: Free for five years and under, Dh25 per adult, Dh15 for students under 22. www.Sharjahart.org.

LOVELOCK BRIDGE AT THE YARD: Leave your mark in the emirates by securing your own padlock on Promise Bridge, then enjoy a wander around the quirky street art and sculptures dotted around this suburban hideaway. DETAILS: The Yard, Al Khawaneej, Mirdif, open 7am to midnight.

MLEIHA ARCHAEOLOGICAL CENTRE: Discover the UAE’s ancient past at this fascinating centre, where you can learn more about the history of the Bedouin culture, marvel at the artifacts and even spy rare desert flora and fauna. DETAILS: Access to the centre is Dh25 for adults and Dh15 for kids (3-12, under 3s are free), but you can opt to go on one of their fossil-hunting expeditions or other outdoor tours for an additional cost. Open Sat-Wed, 9am to 7pm, Thu-Fri until 9pm.