Dubai’s top indoor attractions to beat the summer heat with the family

Summer holidays are synonymous with joyful escapes — a chance for families to unwind, reconnect, and make lifelong memories.

In Dubai, the summer season takes on a special charm thanks to the #DubaiDestinations campaign, which showcases the city’s rich offering of air-conditioned indoor attractions that cater to all ages and interests.

As schoolchildren eagerly await the end of term, Dubai’s world-class indoor venues stand ready to welcome families into immersive spaces brimming with excitement, discovery, and fun — all while staying cool.

From snow-covered slopes and rainforest domes to theme parks and adventure zones, there is no shortage of ways to stay entertained during the hotter months.

Dubai’s rise as a premier destination to live, work, and visit has been underpinned by strategic investments from both public and private sectors.

This collective effort has resulted in world-class infrastructure, particularly in hospitality, entertainment, and leisure. With each passing year, the city continues to enhance its global tourism appeal by expanding its portfolio of attractions.

The summer edition of the #DubaiDestinations campaign offers families a chance to explore the very best of these experiences — all conveniently indoors and curated for comfort, safety, and maximum enjoyment.

Located in the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai is one of the city’s most iconic leisure destinations. It offers a magical escape from the summer heat with its vast indoor ski slope — one of the longest in the world, stretching over 400 metres.

Children aged 4 to 12 can join the venue’s summer camp, which combines snow-based fun with interactive learning. The 3,000-square-metre Snow Park offers rides and attractions suitable for all ages, and young visitors can even meet penguins in a memorable and educational encounter.

At KidZania, located in The Dubai Mall, children aged 2 to 16 step into a realistic mini-city where they can experience over 40 different careers. From doctors and firefighters to chefs and engineers, kids learn valuable life skills and responsibilities through creative, immersive role-play. Spread across 7,000 square metres, it blends education with entertainment in a unique and engaging way.

A standout family destination, Dubai Parks and Resorts features multiple themed attractions in one location. The newly launched Real Madrid World pays tribute to the world’s most successful football club with over 40 football-themed rides and experiences.

Motiongate Dubai brings Hollywood to life with film-based shows and rides, while LEGOLAND Dubai offers more than 40 attractions designed for children, including a water park tailored to younger age groups.

As Dubai’s largest indoor theme park, IMG Worlds of Adventure spans over 1.5 million square feet and hosts six adventure zones. Popular characters from Marvel and Cartoon Network feature prominently, while The Lost Valley, IMG Boulevard, The Haunted Hotel, and Kids Zone offer something for everyone. The park can accommodate over 20,000 guests a day and is a must-visit for thrill-seekers.

Located in City Walk, The Green Planet recreates an indoor rainforest filled with exotic flora and fauna. Home to more than 3,000 species — including sloths, porcupines, anteaters, lemurs, snakes, and rare birds — it offers experiences like rainforest camping and zookeeper activities. Expert staff are available to guide visitors and provide educational insights.

Situated within The Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo houses over 140 marine species in a massive 10-million-litre tank. A 48-metre tunnel gives guests a stunning underwater view, while trained divers feed sharks and rays during live sessions. The zoo portion includes habitats simulating rainforests, rocky shores, and ocean environments, offering a deeper look into marine biodiversity.

OliOli, an experiential children’s museum, is designed for curious minds. With more than 40 interactive exhibits spread across six themed galleries, the centre fosters creativity, critical thinking, and motor skills. Highlights include the Air Gallery, Cars and Ramps, Future Park, and Toshi’s Nets, all created to support developmental milestones in a playful setting.

One of the region’s most popular family entertainment venues, Magic Planet operates in several Dubai malls. It offers arcade games, simulators, indoor rides, and skill-based challenges that cater to every age group. It remains a reliable choice for spontaneous fun and quick escapes from the heat.

For active families and young adventurers, Adventure Zone offers safe yet challenging indoor activities. From rock-wall climbing and high ropes courses to trampolines and a skateboarding zone, the venue is fully supervised and adheres to strict safety standards. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking adrenaline without stepping outdoors.

In addition to these highlights, Dubai is home to dozens of other indoor attractions designed to provide safe, educational, and entertaining experiences during the summer months. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, the emirate offers unmatched opportunities for indoor recreation — cementing its reputation as one of the best cities in the world to live, work, and explore.

With the #DubaiDestinations campaign in full swing, now is the perfect time for families to dive into the city’s dynamic mix of experiences and make the most of the summer break — no passports required.