Top 15 Things to Do in Dubai With Family: Jet Ski, Safari & More
Sep 26, 2025
Planning a family vacation to Dubai? You’re in for a treat.
Dubai is one of the most exciting family destinations in the world, offering a unique mix of adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences. But with so many options, choosing the right things to do in Dubai with family can feel overwhelming.
At Ride in Dubai, we specialize in creating fun, safe, and memorable water sports experiences for all ages. We've curated this ultimate list of 15 best family activities in Dubai from heart-racing jet ski rides to relaxing beach days and iconic theme parks.
Let’s dive into the top adventures your whole family will love!
1. Jet Ski Along Dubai’s Coastline
Few family activities in Dubai offer the thrill, views, and fun of a guided jet ski tour.
At Ride in Dubai, every tour begins with a full safety briefing and expert supervision. You'll cruise past famous landmarks like the Burj Al Arab and Atlantis The Palm, ideal for families with teens or kids (as passengers). It’s the perfect blend of adrenaline and scenery.
Age 16+ to ride
Kids welcome as passengers
Fully guided with photos included
2. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Looking for indoor things to do in Dubai with family? Head to Dubai Mall and step into one of the world’s largest suspended aquariums.
Home to sharks, rays, and even a giant crocodile, this spot is both educational and awe-inspiring. It works well as a mid-morning break, or something to pair with lunch and a bit of mall exploring.
3. Family-Friendly Beaches
Sunset Beach, Kite Beach, and Al Mamzar are easy picks for a laid-back day by the sea.
While Ride in Dubai focuses on guided water experiences, we often recommend wrapping the day with a stop at the beach. It’s a slower side of the city, and one of the simplest family activities in Dubai that doesn't need a ticket. Just towels and time.
4. Kayaking in Hatta Dam
Once outside the city, families can enjoy calm waters surrounded by Hajar mountain views at Hatta Dam.
Located just 90 minutes from the city, Hatta offers a serene kayaking experience for families who want to reconnect with nature. The area is well-known for its calm waters and scenic surroundings, making it a suitable option for light paddling and relaxation. Kayaks are available for rent, and no prior experience is required.
5. Desert Safari With Camel Rides
Not all family activities in Dubai happen by the water. Some take you straight into the sand.
A desert safari is one for the books. Families can expect camel rides, gentle dune drives, and dinner under open skies. Many tours also include music, dance, and sandboarding, which keeps the experience moving without feeling rushed.
It’s a slower pace, but that’s part of the appeal. Everything’s usually sorted for you, transport, meals, guides. So all you need to do is show up and enjoy it.
6. Flyboarding Like a Superhero
Older kids and teens will love this one!
Flyboarding uses water-powered jets to lift you into the air for a superhero-like experience. With step-by-step instruction from certified guides at Ride in Dubai, it’s exciting and safe, even for first-timers.
Ideal for confident swimmers aged 12+
Full safety equipment provided
Awesome photo ops included
7. Water Jetpack for Dads and Teens
For families who bond over adrenaline, this one adds a twist, literally.
The water jetpack uses high-pressure propulsion to lift riders above the sea. It’s similar to flyboarding but offers more upright control, making it a great fit for older teens and adventurous parents.
This is one of those fun activities in Dubai for families that works well as part of a combo. It’s often booked with a jet ski session to turn a quick outing into a half-day experience.
8. Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark
Atlantis Aquaventure is a waterpark, but it feels more like a full-day resort.
You’ve got record breaking slides, river rides that loop for kilometres, and cabanas if you’d rather stay dry. It’s one of the go-to fun activities in Dubai for families who want something that keeps kids moving and gives adults room to breathe.
9. Sunset Boat Tour
If you're ending the day near the water, a sunset boat tour is one of the calmest ways to wind things down.
Several tour operators around Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence offer private or small-group cruises, timed perfectly for golden hour. It’s one of those family activities in Dubai that gives you a break from the action, but still feels like part of the adventure.
10. Bounce Dubai Trampoline Park
To let the kids burn off energy without being out in the heat, this works.
Bounce is an indoor trampoline park that covers everything from dodgeball courts to free-running zones. It’s one of the go-to fun activities in Dubai for families with high-energy kids, especially in the late afternoon when everyone needs to move but not melt in Dubai heat.
11. Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is more visual than physical, but it still holds attention, especially for kids who like a bit of height.
The Dubai Frame gives you a clear view of both the old city and the skyline beyond, all from a skybridge suspended 150 metres up. It’s one of the more educational family activities in Dubai, especially when paired with the exhibits inside that walk you through the city’s past and future.
12. Drive a Jet Car
What appears to be a supercar at the dock turns out to be a fully waterborne ride, built for smooth cruising and visual impact.
Jet Cars are Ride in Dubai’s latest addition. These vehicles combine the thrill of a powerboat with the look of a luxury car, making them one of the most distinctive family activities in Dubai. Ideal for older children and teens, the Jet Car is a unique way to explore the coastline while enjoying a one-of-a-kind ride.
13. IMG Worlds of Adventure
When the heat hits or the kids want characters and rollercoasters, this indoor theme park covers both.
IMG is divided into zones, from Marvel and Cartoon Network to dinosaurs and haunted hotels. It’s one of the biggest indoor family activities in Dubai and works well as a full-day option when the weather keeps you inside.
14. Indoor Skiing at Ski Dubai
This is one of those family activities in Dubai that feels completely out of place, in the best way.
Inside the Mall of the Emirates, families can ski, snowboard, or just meet the penguins. It’s a full winter setup, from gear rentals to instructors, and works well for anyone craving a break from the sun.
15. Create a Custom Combo Packages With Ride in Dubai
Most of the time, the best family activities in Dubai are the ones you design yourself.
Ride in Dubai offers custom packages that combine jet ski, flyboard, and jet car options. Families often book a 2 to 3 hour block, get professional photos, and leave with stories they’ll never forget.
You can always plan your own adventure.
How to Plan the Perfect Family Day in Dubai
Many tourists start their plans by searching for fun activities in Dubai for families, only to be overwhelmed by hundreds of results.
Our advice is to choose three kinds of experiences:
A nature escape like Hatta or a desert safari
A water-based activity like jet skiing or flyboarding
One indoor experience for midday or backup plans
By organising your itinerary this way, you’ll manage your energy and rest, excitement and comfort, which makes for a smoother experience, especially with kids.
Why Families Choose Ride in Dubai
Ride in Dubai stands out in a crowded space of family activities in Dubai by focusing on three things: safety, comfort, and service.
Every guest wears a life jacket. Every ride is guided. Every moment is captured on camera so families can relive the experience long after the day is over.
We’ve also made sure our facilities are built with families in mind:
Lockers for valuables
English-speaking staff
Smooth check-in and guided tours
Clean changing rooms and showers
Ride in Dubai is more than a water sports company. It’s also a place where fun activities in Dubai for families become part of your favourite memories.
