Top 5 last-minute family summer activities in Dubai before schools reopen
Dubai’s back-to-school offers are here - Explore fun rides, games, and family getaways
Dubai: With schools across the UAE set to reopen soon, families still have time to squeeze in some last-minute fun before the summer break ends. From theme parks packed with rides and seasonal offers, to indoor adventures and family-friendly staycations, here are three experiences to check out before the new school year begins.
1. Dubai Parks™ and Resorts – Back to School, Back to Fun
From 9 August to 7 September 2025, Dubai Parks and Resorts will host Back to School, Back to Fun, a seasonal programme across RIVERLAND Dubai, MOTIONGATE Dubai, Real Madrid World, and LEGOLAND Dubai.
Families can find themed school merchandise at MOTIONGATE™ Dubai, LEGOLAND® Dubai, and Real Madrid World with limited-time discounts. Items include backpacks and school supplies available alongside regular park attractions.
At RIVERLAND™ Dubai, entry starts from Dh25 online and Dh30 at the gate. Attractions include:
Perplex City: a walkthrough experience with light, sound, and interactive storytelling. Tickets start from Dh70.
Neon Galaxy Indoor Playground: a multi-level climbing and play zone for children. Entry to Riverland can be redeemed toward these attractions with visitors paying the difference.
At MOTIONGATE Dubai, visitors can access rollercoasters and simulators such as Madagascar Mad Pursuit, Kung Fu Panda: Unstoppable Awesomeness, and Dragon Gliders. Retail outlets are also running back-to-school promotions.
At Real Madrid World, families can try arcade games and digital challenges at The Real Challenge, or visit Meet the Stars, a digital gallery featuring life-sized football icons. Real Madrid merchandise and gifts are available.
At LEGOLAND Dubai and LEGOLAND Water Park, families with children aged 2–12 can explore over 60 rides, shows, and activities. Highlights include MINILAND, with over 20 million LEGO bricks recreating landmarks, and themed accommodation at LEGOLAND Hotel. A seasonal 2-for-1 offer is available across two parks and the hotel.
Entry tickets - Dubai Parks™ and Resorts is running a special Back to School offer from August 9 to September 7. Visitors can enjoy two parks for the price of one at Dh295.
2. Modesh World 2025
Modesh World 2025, part of Dubai Summer Surprises, runs until 28 August at Dubai World Trade Centre Halls 4–7. Visitors can access themed zones, rides, live shows, workshops, and over 100 games and attractions.
New features this year include time-travel-themed experiences with characters Modesh and Dana. Two offers are currently available:
Adult non-playing entry at Dh25.
One free ticket with every three purchased.
Modesh World is organised by DXB LIVE in cooperation with Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE).
Entry tickets: Dh150 per playing person and Dh75 per non-playing person
3. Staycation at JA Beach Hotel – Play & Pamper
The Play & Pamper experience at JA Beach Hotel includes activities for both parents and children. Families can begin the day with a hawk-walk followed by breakfast. Children can spend time at shaded splash pads and outdoor play areas, while parents may choose in-room spa treatments or babysitting services. Lunch is served at a family-friendly restaurant, and the afternoon offers supervised activities and story time at the kids’ club.
In the evening, families can have dinner at the hotel’s Italian restaurant with toddler seating available. Back in the room, children receive a Bedtime Box with a plush toy, a storybook, and cocoa. Parents can then order from the Parent Munch Menu, offering late-night snacks delivered to the room.
Additional activities for children aged 4–10 include splash play, sandcastle building, indoor crafts, pony visits, and mini golf.
Your Stay Includes:
Breakfast
Morning splash and sand play or beach activities
Lunch
Afternoon indoor crafts, yoga, or games
Garden walk or mini golf
Dinner at Sette with children’s table activities
Visit the website - www.jaresortshotels.com to find the prices and booking rates.
4. Wild Wadi Waterpark
From 16 to 31 August, families can enjoy a final summer splash, with kids under 8 going free. The park offers over 30 rides and attractions for all ages:
Jumeirah Sceirah – high-speed thrills for adrenaline lovers
Juha’s Journey – a relaxing drift along the lazy river
Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon – playful climbs and splash zones for children
A general admission ticket to Wild Wadi ranges from Dh175 to Dh245. Alternatively, you can choose a package deal to get more for less on a fun day out.
It’s a perfect way for families to beat the heat and say goodbye to summer in style.
5. The Green Planet Dubai
From 20 to 31 August, UAE residents can explore The Green Planet Dubai for Dh129 (regular rate Dh239). Recently recognised in TripAdvisor’s 'Best of the Best Things to Do', the biodome is home to over 3,000 plants and animals, offering a memorable end-of-summer outing for curious kids and nature-loving families.
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