Beat the heat: Top mall activities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi this summer

Dubai: The summer heat is beginning to rise in the UAE and all we want to do is stay indoors. Be it watching a movie in the mall or staying at home, unfortunately there are very limited things to do now.

Luckily, we came up with a list of activities you can do in a mall – and no, it’s not just shopping. From ice skating to perfume making, here is our list of activities to do in a mall in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Calling all football fans in the UAE. This is one experience you do not want to miss.

The Messi Experience, an immersive attraction spanning 2,500sqm, lets you see the world of football legend Lionel Messi like never before.

The attraction features interactive storytelling and football themed games across nine different zones.

This activity is in Dubai for a limited time, so don’t miss your chance -- grab your tickets and head on over now!

The Mediterranean themed mall in the Jumeirah area has some fun and exciting events lined up, that can make your summer fun.

You can now enjoy Dubai Summer Surprises at Mercato Mall. From a circus to magic shows, comedy shows and incredible offers, you can enjoy it all.

And that’s not all. You can also “slide into summer surprises” at the mall, using the giant slide placed to help you skip long queues.

One destination for everyone in Dubai, whether you’re a resident or tourist, the Dubai Mall.

While the fountain show is currently cancelled until the end of the year, due to renovations, you can still find other fun activities to do at the popular tourist attraction.

From playing games at the arcade to going to the aquarium, watching movies at Reels cinemas and shopping, there are many things to do at this mall.

One of the most fun activities in the summer, however, is ice-skating. You can cool down and learn how to ice skate at the indoor rink in the mall.

And that’s not all. The Dubai Mall Summer Camp is back and in full swing. Hurry up and register as the summer camp, happening from June 30 to August 21, has limited spots.

The summer camp includes six attractions in the mall – KidZania, Dubai aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, At the Top, and finally Reels Cinemas and Play DXB.

While it’s too hot to go on the fastest rollercoaster in the world, in Abu Dhabi, we have the second best option.

You can enjoy the world’s record-breaking, unique indoor rollercoaster – The Storm, at Dubai Hills Mall.

Not only will it get your adrenaline levels high, it will also take you as high as 50 meters into the building!

Residents in Abu Dhabi can enjoy some exciting and fun activities at Deerfields Mall from June to August.

If you’re someone who loves everything about cars, this event happening at the mall is a must-visit. Special Edition for Classic Sports Cars, a museum showcasing some of the best cars in history is currently on display at the mall.

From vintage cars, to antiques and collectibles, this museum has it all. Happening until August 31, you can check them out for free!

Another fun event happening this weekend at the mall is a perfume making event. Happening from June 27 to 29, the "Make your own perfume" event will let you learn and experience the process of making a scent that you love.

Hurry up and head to Al Wadha mall as the Summer Shopping Carnival is coming to an end.

The UK-themed carnival, which will end on June 29, has live entertainment, iconic British elements and exciting activities for families.

You can also stand a chance to win a car at their lucky draw. So head on to the mall before the carnival ends!

If you want to cool down, you know where to head in Abu Dhabi.

Snow Abu Dhabi, in Reem Mall, is one of the best ways to escape the heat in the UAE. The coolest place in Abu Dhabi right now, has several rides and attractions that is sure to be a favourite for families.

Another fun activity to do at Reem Mall, the Reem Run!

Reem Run, a four-part summer run series, lets participants choose how far they can run – 2.5km, 5km or 10kms. You can also choose whether you want to run for a single race or all four, which began on June 21 and will continue on July 12, August 23 and September 13.

Every participant also gets a custom designed medal to celebrate your milestone! So hurry up and sign up for this fun run at the mall.