8 free places to enjoy winters in Dubai with children

Catch the last two days of the Festive Market at Madinat Jumeirah. Children seem to love this Christmas bazaar which ends on January 7. With an upbeat vibe and a live band playing yuletide tunes, families can enjoy the winter weather for free at the event. You can ride the abra with children or shop at pop-ups featuring homegrown brands. There is also a four-lane bungee and an exciting North Pole train that is a hit with the little ones.

2. Dubai Police Carnival

Prepare for a fun-filled weekend for the whole family with the must-see Dubai Police Carnival at City Walk from January 4 - 7. Enjoy spectacular musical performances, watch awe-inspiring stunt shows see some of the most impressive Dubai Police vehicles around.

Free to attend, visitors can expect to go on a thrilling ride as Dubai Police’s elite motorcycle team showcase their skills as part of a daring stunts and acrobatics show. Watch as they push the limits of control and precision in a heart-pounding display.

Car enthusiasts are also in for a treat. Take a closer look at a stunning collection of supercars owned and used by Dubai Police. This is your chance to see these incredible powerful machines in person.

3. Hatta Festival

Leave the city behind and head for the picturesque mountains of Hatta for the ultimate day out during the ongoing Hatta Festival at the Hatta Wadi Hub till January 14.

See the Hatta Fort lit up in incredible colours throughout the festival. Foodies are spoilt for choice too. Try new flavours, experience tasty dishes and go on an amazing culinary journey at Hatta Wadi Hub.

Find out more about how to get to Hatta Wadi Hub: Link to LIU article.

4. Performing Arts of Dubai - DSF

The Dubai Shopping Festival has brought world-class performers and fresh new acts to Dubai. Residents and visitors can expect a showcase for the best global and regional talents in dance, music, beatboxing, drumming, theatre, aerial shows, water shows and so much more.

Find fresh acts every day at citywide locations including: Al Khawaneej Walk, Al Seef, Bluewaters, City Centre Deira, City Centre Mirdif, City Walk, Dubai Festival City Mall, Ibn Battuta Mall, Last Exit Al Khawaneej, Mall of Emirates, Nakheel Mall and Palm West Beach.

5. Etisalat MOTB

Head to Dubai Design District (d3) from January 5, 2024 for the 11th edition of Etisalat MOTB (Market Out of the Box).

Free to enter, Etisalat MOTB is an open-air market where shoppers can discover plenty of homegrown and international brands. Visitors will also find plenty of live entertainment events and on-stage competitions.

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, from 4pm to 10pm; Friday from 4pm to 12am; Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 12am

6. Watch DSF drone shows

Watch the record-breaking DSF Drones Show till January 14, 2024, every night from Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR.

The latest edition of the longest-running drone light show in the region will see the night skies of Dubai come alive with an out of this world display of cutting-edge drone technology against the impressive coastline backdrops of Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR.

Two incredible arrangements will take place every night with shows taking place at 8pm and 10pm daily at Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR.

7. The Grand Picnic at Safa Park

Head to Safa Park as Flat12 Cafe puts on its annual community-focused Grand Picnic on January 21 from 10am to 6pm. Visitors of ages will find plenty to do and see with catering by four eateries, plus classic and rare motors, trucks, bikes and more to keep everyone entertained.

Entry to the event is free, while entry to Safa Park is Dh 3 per person.

8. Happening at The Harbour

Make the most of Dubai’s perfect weather by planning a family day out at Dubai Harbour. The marina has been transformed into a community festival with food, fun and festivities for all ages till March 28.

Timings for Happening At The Harbour – Monday to Friday: 4pm to 10pm and Saturday to Sunday 10am to 10pm.