Most schools finish off on Friday 5th of July 2024 this year – and a lot of families will be jetting off to somewhere cooler by then, or even beforehand. If by any chance, you are in Dubai with the kids for any part of the summer break – I am pretty sure you’ll be looking for something to keep them entertained. Lucky for us – Dubai is built for the heat, and there are so many offers going on during this time so you can take the little ones out without breaking the bank.

See below a list of activities and events to keep the little ones (and parents) entertained – in malls, hotels, restaurants and play areas in and around the Dubai this summer. Follow us on Instagram as we spend Summer here in Dubai with kids

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Dubai Summer Surprises – Activities in Malls

Note : Dubai Summer Surprises starts from 28th June 2024 to 1st of September 2024

Ibn Battuta Mall

Take the kids to Ibn Battuta Mall for activities related to space & science exploration. Astrolab is back again this summer! There will be Astronaut craft, Rocket Ship College Making, Milky Way Splash Painting and daily face painting

Have a look at the Astrolab Schedule for more details.

Nakheel Mall

Are your kids a fan of the Transformers? Take them to meet Autobots and Decepticons in Nakheel Mall at the Palm Jumeirah before the school reopens, this summer! Test your skills in code-breaking, Energon mining, and a virtual showdown against the Decepticons. Train with Megatron’s obstacle course, then join the battle to defeat the Decepticons.

• Details :
  • Activities (LG) : Friday 16th to Friday 30th August 2024 | 1-9pm
  • Meet & Greet (L2, outside Vox Cinemas) : Weekends only | 2-2:20pm 4-4:20pm 6-6:20on 8-8:20pm
• Cost : Free

Mall of the Emirates

From July 3rd to 14th, kids can dive into the exclusive Despicable Me 4 ball pit attraction at Mall of the Emirates. This fun-filled hotspot celebrates the movie release and offers a playful escape for the little ones.

• When : Wed 3rd July to Sunday 14th July 2024
• Cost : Minimum spend of 300 AED in Mall of the Emirates, as a SHARE member. More on instagram.com/malloftheemirates

Times Square Centre

Get on over to Times Square Centre for their Back to School Festival with Magic Phil. Not only will you get to see his show, there will also be a Rapunzel Story Show and lots of prizes to win!

• When : Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th August 2024 | 2-7:30pm
• Cost : Free

Mercato Mall

Take the family to Mercato this summer for daily circus entertainment _{(see schedule in gallery)}, and course – the much-anticipated summer slide installation is set to add an extra dose of fun and excitement to the festivities, starting from Friday 28th June 2024! Here’s a video of the slide this year!

• When : Friday 28th June – Sunday 1st September 2024
• Cost : Free. More on mercatoshoppingmall.com

Tip : Download the Mercato & Town Centre Jumeirah PrivilegePLUS app – become a member, and start enjoying rewards. For every AED 200 spent, members earn 1 PrivilegePLUS point, which can be used to enter exciting draws, including:

• Summer Weekly Draw – where two winners will each receive AED 5,000.
• Monthly Draw – where one lucky member will win AED 11,000 worth of prizes
• Grand Draw, to win a Damas Jewelry voucher worth AED 20,000 every quarter.
  • Every entry into the monthly draw automatically qualifies for the Grand Draw.
• Mega Draw to win a brand-new Cherry Tiago 8 Premium, courtesy of Al Rostamani

City Centre Mirdif

Join Madagascar’s Alex, Marty, Gloria, Melman, the Penguins and of course King Julien for a new DreamWorks adventure show at City Centre Mirdif. Take the kids over to watch, and then carry on shopping and have a meal there after!

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Summer Staycation & Daycation Offers

Staycation : Rixos Bab al Bahr

Why not take the family for a staycation in Ras al Khaimah? It’s only an hour plus drive away from Dubai – and rooms are generally much more affordable than Dubai itself. Relax, have a bite and a few drinks while the little ones are entertained.

Rixos Bab al Bahr has a fabulous offer this summer, with rates valid until 31st of August 2024 :

• Kids up to 11.99 go free
• Upgrade from Deluxe Garden View to Premium Garden View when booking in June
• Rates start from 799++AED All Inclusive
• More details on Rixos’ website

Contact details :  reservation.rak@rixos.com |  07 202 0000

Here’s 10 reasons why you should take the family to Rixos Bab al Bahr this summer.

Tip : While you’re at Ras al Khaimah – take a drive up Jebel Jais! These attractions have Kids go Free (ages 12 and below) offers this Summer until 15th September 2024.

• Get Jais Sledder tickets. _{Price : 50 AED 1 ride | 120 AED for 3 rides}
• Get Jais Zipline tickets. _{Note : Min 40kg, 130cm tall.}

Daycation

With the temperatures at a high – wouldn’t it be nice to do a daycation with the family at a resort? Some have family brunches with pool, beach and kids’ club access which makes it an ideal spot to spend the day with the family. Here are some recommendations :

Once Upon a Brunch, at Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah 

Here’s a fabulous family brunch at Mezzerie in Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah – Once Upon a Brunch – where you’ll find wandering fairies, princess appearances and a magician to keep the older ones, entertained! Runs every Saturday from 1-4:30pm, prices start from 320 AED for soft package, and for the summer – Kids up to age 14 go free from 1st of July until the 31st of August! Pool, beach and kids’ club access included! +971 4 818 2153 Book here.  

Tip : Lets DXB currently have a 30% discount for house & sparking package for July 2024 bookings. Download the Let’s DXB app. See our summer experience.

Khyber’s Summer Splash & Dine _{Dukes the Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel}

For those who love Indian cuisine – take the family over to Khyber at Dukes the Palm for an early dinner with the kids. Head over beforehand, as not only do you get outdoor pool and beach access, you also get to use their indoor pool – which is an absolute treat in this weather! Khyber’s Set Menu is available everyday, for 149 AED Mon-Thurs, 199 AED Fri-Sun – from 5pm. Kids 6-12 are charged 50% of the set menu price. Quote DFLG Splash & Dine – Whatsapp 058 889 9428 | Email dukesthepalm.dining@royalhideaway.com

See our reel on what to expect! Offer available from Monday 22nd July 2024.

Sunkissed Brunch at Habtoor Grand Resort 

Did you know that every Saturday from 12:30-4pm, Habtoor Grand Resort does a family brunch which also has pool and beach as well as kid’s club access? Prices start from 300 AED for the soft drinks package. _{Entertainer & More Cravings Buy 1 get 1 free is applicable for this brunch throughout the summer!}

For details and more – have a look at our ‘Best Family Brunches in Dubai 2024 : Tried and Tested’ listing!

Family Brunches & Dining Offers

The Roast by Bubbalicious x Helen Farmer

Promising the very best of British bites, beverages, music and nostalgic memories, The Roast by Bubbalicious announces a special edition with famed broadcaster and author, Helen Farmer. She brings her new book, My Mummy’s Secret Adventures for an afternoon of live reading, activities and family fun. Each child will also receive a FREE copy of My Mummy’s Secret Adventures book and a Clear Popz lollipop

Details : Sunday, 4^th August | 1:00pm to 4:00 pm

• Where : Mina’s Kitchen, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
• Price : 295 AED Soft | 350 AED House Wine & Spirits | 450 AED English Bubbly | 200 AED Kids 6-12 YO
• Book online

Please mention, ‘As seen on Dubai Family Leisure Guide’ if emailing to book. Thanks!

Taste of Summer Offer at Sofitel the Palm Dubai

Sofitel the Palm is having a summer offer in a few of their F&B outlets. It’s a good time to take the family out for a meal – comfortable indoor venues, quality F&B offering and of course – valet, included, which is a huge plus over the summer months. The 3-course set menus start from 200 AED, and you get a 20% discount if book online.

Venues include :

• Porterhouse Steaks & Grills
• Moana Restaurant, for Seafood
• Zoya by Maui, for Indian
• The World Eatery,
• Hong-Loong, for Pan-Asian

Attractions

Green Planet

A perfect spot for summer months is Green Planet – as you can bring the kids to see animals in a temperature-controlled environment. Come up close and personal with a variety of birds, say hello to the friendly lemur and let the little ones hold a giant cockroach – if they dare! Get Discounted Green Planet Tickets*

*120 AED for Kids 2-10 YO | 135 AED for 11 YO and Adults

Aya Universe

Have you been to Aya Universe at Wafi Mall? They have introduced a new room recently – known as The Star Pool. This is Dubai’s largest immersive ball pit that kids will absolutely love! If you haven’t been there yet – now’s a good time as Kids age 12 and below go Free until 31st of August 2024. Get Aya Universe tickets*

*135AED for 13 YO & Adults, 1 Comp ticket for 12 YO and below

Dubai Park and Resorts

Families can take advantage of Dubai Parks™ and Resorts’ latest ‘Get Two Park Tickets For The Price Of One’ offer this summer. This includes the Real Madrid World, MOTIONGATE™ Dubai, LEGOLAND ® Dubai and LEGOLAND ® Waterpark.

MOTIONGATE™ Dubai is also hosting a “Madagascar Summer Party” every evening at DreamWorks. Join iconic characters King Julien, Alex the Lion, Gloria, and the Penguins of Madagascar as they lead the charge in a whirlwind of music and dance!

Get discounted Dubai Parks and Resorts tickets*

*195 AED for a 1 day pass ( instead of 295 AED) | 295 AED for a 2 parks 1 day pass ( instead of 355 AED ). Note that there is a comp shuttle to take you from Riverland’s parking to the theme parks between 10am to 6pm everyday.

Planning to go to Motiongate this summer with the kids? Have a look at our tips before you go!

Real Madrid World x My Dubai Competition

Stand a chance to win a Real Madrid jersey signed exclusively by Real Madrid players or annual passes for Dubai Parks™ and Resorts or co-branded Real Madrid x Dubai merchandise! Here’s how :

1. Collect a postcard from Real Madrid World’s ticketing counter.
2. Visit the various attractions mentioned on the postcard including the Stars Flyer, The Real Challenge, White Hearts, the Hala Madrid Coaster, Bernabeu Experience and Meet the Stars, to collect the #MyDubai stamps.
3. Share an image of your stamped postcard on your Instagram feed tagging @MyDubai and @realmadridworlddubai and using the hashtags #MyDubai, #DubaiForReal and #RealMadridWorld to enter the competition. More details on visitdubai.com

Get discounted Real Madrid World tickets*

*195 AED for a 1 day pass ( instead of 295 AED )

IMG World of Adventures

IMG would be a perfect spot this summer – as it is entirely indoors! Take the kids to meet two of their new characters : Freddy & Flory, the Arabian Desert Foxes. The new lovable characters are experienced explorers and will escort visitors in the all-new “Call to Adventure Parade”. They will venture together into many new locations such as “The Jungle Boulevard”, the “Edge of the World Temple”, and
the mysterious “Mayan Pyramid”.

Get discounted IMG World of Adventures tickets*

*194 AED for 1 day pass ( instead of 365AED )

Have a look at ‘Best Indoor Attractions to take the Kids‘ for other inspo

Shows

Piano Duo & Argentinian Tango

Here’s a good one if you have older kids who play the piano, or would appreciate music & dance. This event will feature an exquisite arrangement for two pianos by the esteemed ST-DUO, accompanied by a captivating Argentinian tango couple. Perfect way to celebrate the last day of school term on Friday 5th of July! Use Code : DFG20 for 20% off. Get tickets here. Age 6+

There’s a Monster in your Show

From the team that brought you The Very Hungry Caterpillar, this smash-hit production – There’s a Monster in your Show is ready for its UAE premiere.  Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved ‘Who’s in Your Book?’ series makes its debut as a brand-new musical show. Use Code : DFG20 for 20% off. Get tickets here* Age 2+

Organised Playdates

Recess at Ribambelle

The Mum Folk has secured a fabulous playdate offer at Ribambelle – the new restaurant with a play area, located at Bluewaters Island Dubai. There’s slides, ball pits, role play, puzzles and so much more. Guess what? It’s also licensed! Book on themumfolk.zbooni.com

• Timing : Monday 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th July | 12th, 20th & 26th August | 10am – 1pm
• Location : Ribambelle, Bluewaters Island
• Cost : 50 AED per child

Wild Wednesdays at Wild Roots _{Times Square Centre Dubai}

The Mum Folk’s Wild Wednesdays at Wild Roots will carry on throughout the summer season. Children will enjoy the climbing frame, ball pit, slide, kids kitchen, fruit and veg stall, soft play, sensory den, reading tree and craft area while you meet other mums and relax. Book on themumfolk.zbooni.com

• Location & Timing : Wild Roots, Times Square | 10am – 12pm
• Cost : 55 AED per child (2 hours of play)
• Recommended Age : Suitable for age 0-6 years
• Parking : Free parking

Restaurants with Indoor Play Area or Entertainment

If you just want to chill out with the little ones in a restaurant that has an indoor play area or entertainment – don’t worry – there are so many in Dubai!

Jones the Grocer _{Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach}

Every Saturday and Sunday – little ones get a free meal with every adult that spends 60 AED or more at Jones in JBR. There’s face painting, arts & crafts and more to keep the little ones entertained in their kids’ corner as well!

For bookings : Call Jones at 04 439 8883 | Email here | Whatsapp here.

Reform Social & Grill

Reform’s summer tent is up and there will be lots for the littles ones to include :

• Pizza-making : Fridays from 3pm | 50 AED per child to include pizza & lemonade
• Arts, Crafts & Movies : Monday – Fridays 3-6pm | Saturday & Sundays 2-6pm

You can go ala carte, or choose to do their Daily A La Carte Brunch offer. Did we also mention small dogs are allowed in here?

Have a look at our Reform experience, and a peek at their Daily A la Brunch Menu.

Ribambelle

Take the kids to the new restaurant with a fabulous play area in Bluewater Islands – Ribambelle. Over the summer season – they have a complimentary arts and craft session included, when you pay for the little ones to use the play area. They have a fabulous dining menu – we’re talking skirt steak bruscettas, sea bass ceviches, and braised lamb shank amongst many others.

Rates per child, for 3 hours of playtime are as follows :

• 100 AED | Mon – Thurs
• 150 AED | Fri – Sun

Phileas Fogg’s

Pop over to good ol’ Phileas Fogg’s in Emirates Hills with the family – have a bite while the littles one go free in their play area. Their terrace is covered for the summer season and air-conditioned.

Tip : It’s complimentary free-flow prosecco & pink gin for ladies every Sunday from 6-10pm, with an order of starter or mains! There’s also live music so it’s fun for everyone.

Check their socials for updates – as they occasionally shift the timing depending on how busy they are – from 6-10pm to 4-8pm.

Organic Foods and Cafe

If you’re too lazy to cook and want to take the kids out for some food – take them to Organic Foods and Cafe! They’ve extended their Buy 1 get 1 free pizza offer everyday for the summer season for in-house dining as well as takeaway, until 31st August 2024 !

Organic Foods and Cafe at Cityland has a really cute indoor play area as well. Additionally, they have introduced a limited edition special summer menu – 60 AED for 1 entree, 1 main and 1 dessert. Have a look at OFC’s summer special menu.

Note that other than Cityland Mall, these OFC stores do pizzas as well :

• Sheikh Zayed Road
• The Greens
• Golden Mile, Palm Jumeirah

If you’re planning to do groceries at OFC, you can also shop online! Use code: LILONE15 for 15% off!

Have a look at our Restaurants with Indoor Play Areas in Dubai listing for other inspo!

Indoor Soft Play Areas

There are so many indoor soft play areas in Dubai – be it multi-storey ones with slides, trampolines, wall-climbing or high ropes course.

Adventure Zone _{Various Locations}

One of our girls’ favourite spots : Adventure Zone – is located in Times Square, Galleria Mall in Al Barsha as well as Al Wasl for high-ropes confidence courses as well as wall-climbing. Note that they are also in the Entertainer for Buy 1 get 1 free so make use of them this summer!

Note : Adventure Zone has Summer Camp between 9am-1pm everyday, so it will be closed for walk-ins. Bring the kids over after.

Have a look at ‘Where to take the kids climbing in Dubai‘ for details on height, weight restrictions and prices

Skyzone _{Ibn Battuta Mall}

As for trampoline parks – Skyzone in Ibn Battuta Mall has always been one of our favourite go-tos with multiple areas as well as our kids’ favourite – the zipline! They are also in the Entertainer – Buy 1 get 1 free.

Neon Galaxy _{Riverland Dubai}

All 3 of our kids (ages 4, 6 and 8) love Neon Galaxy’s Astro Arena. It’s one of the best value for money play areas in Dubai – with it being 125AED for full-day access, for 2 kids as it is in the Entertainer. See our Instagram reel below for details!

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Have a look at our ‘Dubai Indoor Soft Play Areas for Kids – The Offers you should know‘ for a quick summary.

Orange Wheels _{Circle Mall – JVC}

The Mum Folk’s exclusive offer at Orange Wheels at Circle Mall in JVC will carry on throughout the summer season every Thursday. Details below :

• Timing : Any two hour time slot (9am-9pm)
• Cost :
  • 48 AED for 6-17 months | Book here.
  • 95 AED for 18 months + | Book here.
• What else is included : FREE coffee or tea in the cafe & 15% off the entire menu

More to be added – watch this space!