10 family-friendly things to do in Dubai this long Eid weekend
Make the most of Eid with these family-friendly experiences
Want to keep the family entertained over the upcoming long weekend? You’re in the right place. From splashy attractions dino adventures to golfing and more, if you’re looking for some family-friendly things to do in Dubai, we got you covered.
Go and say hello to the dinosaurs
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Dinosaurs: The Immersive Odyssey is a new immersive and interactive experience at Dubai Festival City invites you to step into the world of dinosaurs. From exploring a museum storage space where no visitors are usually allowed to walking among life-sized dinosaurs through a VR simulation and grabbing a photo with life-sized animatronic creatures for the ‘Gram – it’s an attraction the whole family can enjoy.
Post your explorations, relax and enjoy the creative activities. You can also shop for a dino-themed gift or souvenir. Just, don’t be an oviraptor and leave the eggs alone, okay?
Where: Dubai Festival City Mall, Level 2, Dubai
When: Mon to Thurs 10.30am to 9.30pm, Fri to Sun 10.30am to 11pm
Cost: From Dhs79
Contact: dinosaursodyssey.com
Let the kids loose at Boo Boo Laand
Boo Boo Laand at The Dubai Mall is a colourful, 25,000-square-metre soft play wonderland for kids of all ages. From a super slide and mini football stadium to a princess zone and crawler area for tiny tots, it’s packed with family-friendly fun.
Where: Boo Boo Laand, Chinatown, Dubai Mall
When: Sun to Thurs 10am to 10pm; Fri to Sat 10am to 11pm
Cost: Prices and packages vary
Contact: booboolaand.com
Witness the city’s transformation at Vision Dubai
Vision Dubai. Expo City Dubai
During the Eid break, Vision Dubai – the immersive experience dedicated to the story of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai – will be open to the public free of charge. Families will get a chance to reflect on leadership, resilience and Dubai’s journey. Additionally, visitors can also upgrade on-site to the Expo City Attractions Pass to also access Terra and Alif.
Where: Expo City Dubai
When: March 19 to 22
Cost: Free
Contact: expocitydubai.com
Additionally on March 21, for Mother’s Day, you can take your mother to experience a performance by Firdaus Orchestra in the House of Arts courtyard. The performance starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost Dhs75, but you can bring your mom for free. Titled A World Musical Odyssey, the performance will celebrate traditional and folklore music from around the globe – taking audiences on a musical journey from east to west.
Where: House of Arts courtyard, Expo City Dubai
When: March 21
Cost: Dhs75 per ticket, mothers enter for free
Contact: expocitydubai.com
Enjoy a community event at Alserkal Avenue
Over the long Eid weekend, from March 20 to 22 March, Alserkal Avenue is bringing the community together to share space, share a meal, and as a reminder that art and culture can be a grounding, connecting force in challenging times. The all-day programs on Saturday, March 21 will focus on activities the whole family can enjoy together from 10am to 8pm.
Little ones can enjoy workshops by The Happy Studio, thejamjar, Strawberry Fields and Wisdom Warehouse from 10am to 5pm at Warehouse 46. There’s painting, portrait playground, DIY plushies workshop, stressball-making and a whole lot more to keep your little ones engaged.
At The Yard, catch a DJ set by Shabab from 12pm to 4pm, and at 5pm a community choir will come together to celebrate Arabic music. You can also catch a free screening of ‘Life Like a Girl’ here, courtesy Cinema Akil, from 6.30pm which follows the story of a teen weightlifter as she emerged from a scrappy training camp in Egypt to compete at the championship level.
Feeling hungry? Eleven participating F&B outlets across the Avenue have each contributed one special item towards a curated Eid menu. It will be offered free of charge from 12pm to 3pm (while supplies last).
Where: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz
When: March 20 to 22
Cost: Free
Contact: alserkal.online
Go wild at The Green Planet
It’s hard not to be impressed by nature in this indoor tropical rainforest that’s home to over 3,000 plants and animals. Experiences include encounters with a sloth, an anteater, an armadillo, birds and more. The whole family will love it.
Where: The Green Planet, City Walk
When: 10am to 6pm
Cost: Dhs150 per child, Dhs175 per adult
Contact: thegreenplanetdubai.com
Wake up and smell the flowers
This colourful outdoor garden is one of the most vibrant places in Dubai, featuring more than 150 million flowers arranged into giant sculptures and themed displays. Expect towering floral castles, heart-shaped archways and even a life-size aircraft covered entirely in blooms. It’s one of the most photogenic attractions in the city and a seasonal favourite for visitors. Best news? Over Eid, it’s free for UAE residents. Simply present your Emirates ID at the counter to receive a complimentary ticket.
Where: Dubai Miracle Garden, Al Barsha South 3
When: Open daily until the start of summer, 9am to 9pm
Costs: Free until March 31, else Dhs100 per adult, and Dhs80 per child
Contact: dubaimiraclegarden.com
*40 things to do in Dubai over the Eid Al Fitr long weekend*
Take a swing at indoor golf
3D Blacklight Minigolf on the JBR is basically the hole-y matrimony of crazy golf and 90s rave aesthetic. Putt your way through challenging obstacles and unforgiving tee-offs, all against the luminal hum of UV strip lighting. Book your spot here.
Where: JBR, Bahar Plaza Level, Jumeirah Beach Residence
When: Mon to Thurs 1pm to 1am, Sat to Sun 11am to 1am
Cost: Dhs90 per child ages five to 12, Dhs110 above 13
Contact: 3d-blacklight-minigolf.com
Have a splashing good time
Home to some of the most thrilling water rides in the world, Aquaventure World is a must-visit for adrenaline seekers and families alike. Expect record-breaking slides, lazy rivers, private beaches and splash zones, so whether you want high-energy fun or a more relaxed day out, there’s something for everyone.
Where: Atlantis, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah
Cost: Free until March 22
Contact: aquaventureworld.com
Soak in some art
The Theatre of Digital Art offers a sit-down experience as artworks come to life in front of your eyes and surround you. ToDA, as it is most commonly known, is located at Souk Madinat Jumeirah and is a must-visit whether you love art or not. There are shows featuring the greats such as Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet and more, and for the first time, there is a show focusing on the one and only Frida Kahlo. The theatre also hosts jazz nights, meditation programs and more. Check the website for the latest show offerings and timings.
Where: Madinat Jumeirah
When: Varies depending on show selection, open daily 10am to 11pm
Cost: Prices vary
Contact: toda.ae
Get up close with the deep blue
Home to thousands of aquatic animals, comprising over 140 species, the Dubai Aquarium is a popular spot among residents and tourists alike. Over 400 sharks and rays live in the 10 million litre tank, including Sand Tiger Sharks, Giant Groupers, and a host of other marine species. Visitors have the chance to get up, close and personal with the creatures including feeding them and swimming with them. Book here.
Where: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
When: Sun to Thurs 10am to 11pm, Fri and Sat 10am to 12am
Cost: Dhs178 UAE Residents offer else Dhs209 per person. Package deals also available on website
Contact: thedubaiaquarium.com
