The best free things to do in Dubai with kids include watching the Dubai Fountain, visiting public beaches, seeing turtles at Jumeirah Al Naseem, exploring Old Dubai, walking through the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, spotting flamingos at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, and enjoying free waterfront walks.
If you do not mind a short drive, there are also free or low-cost family day trips from Dubai, such as Shees Park, Al Wathba Lake Park, Wadi Ghuna in Fujairah, and other nature spots across the UAE.
Some places in this guide are completely free. Others are low-cost or may have small entry fees, so always check the latest opening hours and prices before visiting.
Best Free Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
1. Watch the Dubai Fountain Show
The Dubai Fountain is one of the best free family activities in Dubai. Kids usually love the music, lights, and water dancing in front of Burj Khalifa.
You can watch the show from the public viewing areas around Burj Lake near Dubai Mall. It is a great evening plan, especially if you are already visiting Downtown Dubai.
The show is short, so it works well for families with young children. You do not need to spend money unless you choose to eat nearby or book a paid lake ride.
Best for: Toddlers, young kids, older kids, tourists, families
Cost: Free from public viewing areas
Time needed: 20-45 minutes
Location: Downtown Dubai, outside Dubai Mall
Parent tip: Arrive early in the evening if you have a stroller because the area can get crowded.
2. See or Feed the Turtles at Jumeirah Al Naseem
The Turtle Lagoon at Jumeirah Al Naseem is a lovely place for animal-loving kids. It is part of the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project, which helps rescue and care for sick or injured turtles.
Families can visit the turtle area and see the turtles in the lagoon. Sometimes there are feeding or education sessions, but the schedule can change, so check before going if feeding is your main reason for visiting.
This is a short but meaningful activity. It helps children learn about marine life, rescue work, and why sea turtles need protection.
Best for: Toddlers, school-age kids, animal lovers, families
Cost: Free to view
Time needed: 30–60 minutes
Location: Jumeirah Al Naseem, near Madinat Jumeirah
Parent tip: Call or check online before visiting if you want to attend a feeding session.
3. Go to a Free Public Beach
A beach day is one of the easiest free things to do in Dubai with kids. Many public beaches in Dubai are free to enter, and children can enjoy sand play, swimming, walking, and sunset views.
Good beach options include Kite Beach, JBR Beach, Sunset Beach, Jumeirah Public Beach, and Umm Suqeim Beach. Some beaches have cafes, toilets, showers, play areas, or food trucks nearby, but extra facilities may cost money.
For a low-cost family day, bring your own towels, water, snacks, sunscreen, beach toys, and extra clothes.
Best for: All ages, active kids, families, budget travellers
Cost: Free entry at many public beaches
Time needed: 1–3 hours
Location: Jumeirah, JBR, Umm Suqeim, Kite Beach areas
Parent tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid strong sun and heat.
4. Tour Old Dubai with Kids
Old Dubai is one of the best free cultural activities for families. You can walk through heritage areas, see traditional buildings, explore small lanes, and enjoy creekside views.
Good places to visit include Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Dubai Creek, Al Seef, and the old souk areas around Bur Dubai and Deira.
Children can see a different side of Dubai here. Instead of skyscrapers and malls, they can experience wind towers, wooden boats, traditional markets, and older streets.
Walking around is free, although some museums, cafes, shops, or abra rides may cost extra.
Best for: Families, tourists, older kids, culture lovers
Cost: Free to walk around
Time needed: 1–3 hours
Location: Bur Dubai, Al Fahidi, Dubai Creek, Al Seef
Parent tip: Keep the walk short with younger kids and add snack breaks.
5. Explore the Gold Souk and Spice Souk
The Gold Souk and Spice Souk are free to enter and fun for curious children. The Gold Souk is full of bright jewellery displays, while the Spice Souk has colourful spices, herbs, saffron, teas, perfumes, and dry fruits.
You do not need to buy anything. Kids can enjoy the colours, smells, and busy market atmosphere. It is also a good way to teach children about traditional shopping in Dubai.
The souks can get crowded, so keep younger children close.
Best for: Curious kids, tourists, families, budget travellers
Cost: Free to walk around
Time needed: 1–2 hours
Location: Deira, near Dubai Creek
Parent tip: Hold children’s hands in busy lanes and ask prices clearly before buying anything.
6. Spot Flamingos at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best free nature activities in Dubai with kids. It is known for flamingos and other birds, especially during the cooler months.
Families can visit the bird hides and watch flamingos from a distance. This is a calm activity, so it is best for children who enjoy animals, nature, and quiet observation.
Bring binoculars if you have them. They make the experience more exciting for kids.
Best for: Animal lovers, school-age kids, nature-loving families
Cost: Free
Time needed: 30–90 minutes
Location: Ras Al Khor, Dubai
Parent tip: Visit in the morning for a better chance of seeing active birds.
7. Walk Around Al Seef and Dubai Creek
Al Seef is a family-friendly area beside Dubai Creek. It has heritage-style buildings, creek views, shops, cafes, and open walking spaces.
Walking around Al Seef is free. You only spend money if you choose to eat, shop, or book an activity.
It is a good place for families because the walking paths are easier than the busy souks. Kids can see boats on the creek, take photos, and enjoy a relaxed evening walk.
Best for: Families, tourists, stroller-friendly walks, photos
Cost: Free to walk around
Time needed: 1–2 hours
Location: Bur Dubai, beside Dubai Creek
Parent tip: Visit in the evening when the weather is cooler and the lights are on.
8. Visit Free Playgrounds and Outdoor Parks
Dubai has many outdoor spaces where kids can play without a big cost. Some community parks and open areas are free, while some public parks may charge a small entry or parking fee.
Good family-friendly areas include Dubai Creek Harbour, JLT lakeside areas, Dubai Marina promenade, JBR Walk, local community parks, and open spaces in family communities.
These places are best during cooler months or evenings. They are simple, but they work well for families who just want kids to run, walk, ride scooters, or enjoy fresh air.
Best for: Toddlers, young kids, families living in Dubai
Cost: Many areas are free; some parks may charge small fees
Time needed: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Parent tip: Check if the area has toilets, shade, and parking before going.
9. See the Dubai Mall Aquarium Viewing Panel
The full Dubai Aquarium experience is paid, but kids can still see part of the giant aquarium tank from the public mall area for free.
This is a good quick stop if you are already visiting Dubai Mall. Children can see fish, rays, and other sea life through the large viewing panel.
You can combine this with the Dubai Fountain for a free family plan in Downtown Dubai.
Best for: Toddlers, young kids, tourists, families visiting Dubai Mall
Cost: Free from the public viewing area
Time needed: 15–30 minutes
Location: Dubai Mall
Parent tip: Combine it with Dubai Fountain to make the visit more interesting without paying for tickets.
10. Enjoy Free Waterfront Walks
Dubai has many free waterfront walking areas that are good for families. These places are great for evening walks, stroller walks, photos, and simple family time.
Good options include:
- Dubai Marina Walk
- JBR Walk
- Bluewaters Island
- Dubai Creek Harbour
- Al Seef
- Dubai Water Canal
- Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk
Most of these places are free to walk around. You only pay if you eat, shop, park, or book activities.
Best for: Families, toddlers, evening walks, tourists
Cost: Free
Time needed: 1–2 hours
Parent tip: Evening is usually better, especially during warmer months.
11. Shees Nature Trail and Shees Park
Shees Park and the nearby nature areas are great for families who want mountain views, fresh air, walking, and outdoor time. The area is near Khorfakkan and is popular for weekend trips.
Kids can enjoy the park, green areas, mountain views, short walks, and photo spots. It is best during the cooler months because the area is outdoors.
This is a good choice for families with a car and children who enjoy nature.
Best for: Nature-loving families, older kids, picnic-style trips
Cost: Often free or low-cost; check current rules before visiting
Time needed: 2–4 hours including travel
Location: Khorfakkan/Sharjah side
Parent tip: Bring water, snacks, hats, and comfortable shoes.
12. Visit Sharjah Desert Park
Sharjah Desert Park is a good educational day trip for kids. It is not fully free, but it is usually low-cost and can be worth it for families.
Children can learn about Arabian wildlife, desert animals, plants, and nature. It is especially good for school-age children who enjoy animals and learning.
Because it is outside Dubai, plan your trip properly and check opening hours before driving.
Best for: Animal-loving kids, school-age children, families
Cost: Low-cost entry; young children may enter free depending on current rules
Time needed: 2–4 hours
Location: Sharjah
Parent tip: Check the latest ticket prices and timings before visiting.
13. Visit Al Wathba Lake Park
Al Wathba Lake Park is a peaceful outdoor area in Abu Dhabi emirate. It can work well for families who enjoy lakes, open spaces, walking, picnics, and nature.
It is not in Dubai, so it is better as a day trip. Facilities may be limited compared with city parks, so bring what you need.
This is best during cooler months and not during summer midday.
Best for: Outdoor families, picnic lovers, nature-loving kids
Cost: Often treated as a free or low-cost outdoor stop; check current access rules
Time needed: Half day
Location: Abu Dhabi emirate
Parent tip: Carry water, snacks, sunscreen, and rubbish bags. Leave the area clean.
14. Visit RAK Nature Treasures
RAK Nature Treasures is a family-friendly nature and farm-style attraction in Ras Al Khaimah. It is better described as low-cost rather than fully free.
Kids can enjoy animals, plants, open spaces, and a quieter setting away from the city. It can be a good weekend stop for families who want something more natural and relaxed.
Because it is outside Dubai, combine it with another Ras Al Khaimah activity to make the drive worthwhile.
Best for: Animal lovers, nature-loving kids, family day trips
Cost: Low-cost entry may apply
Time needed: 2–3 hours plus travel
Location: Ras Al Khaimah
Parent tip: Check opening hours, entry price, and weather before going.
15. Go Hiking and Explore Nature at Wadi Ghuna, Fujairah
Wadi Ghuna in Fujairah is a nature option for families with older kids who enjoy walking, mountains, and outdoor exploring.
This is not a soft-play style activity. It is better for active families who can prepare properly. You need good shoes, water, sun protection, and a safe route.
Avoid visiting wadis during or after rain because flash floods can be dangerous.
Best for: Older kids, active families, nature lovers
Cost: Usually free outdoor access, but check current access and safety conditions
Time needed: Half day to full day
Location: Fujairah
Parent tip: Do not go without preparation. Check weather and avoid remote areas if you are not experienced.
16. Visit Tayyibah Heritage Museum in Fujairah
Tayyibah Heritage Museum is a cultural stop in Fujairah. It is useful for families who want children to learn about old UAE life, traditional objects, and heritage.
This is better as part of a Fujairah day trip, not a quick Dubai activity. It can be interesting for older kids, especially if they enjoy history and local culture.
Because smaller museums can have changing timings, check before visiting.
Best for: Culture-loving families, older kids, educational day trips
Cost: Check current entry details before visiting
Time needed: 1–2 hours plus travel
Location: Fujairah
17. Have Fun at a Water Park or Splash Area
Most major waterparks in Dubai are paid, so they should not be listed as free unless there is a confirmed offer. However, families can still look for free or low-cost water play options.
Some hotels include waterpark access for guests. Some attractions may run seasonal offers, birthday deals, or child-free-entry promotions. Community splash pads or public beach water play areas may also be available in some locations.
For a truly free water day, a public beach is usually the best choice.
Best for: Toddlers, young kids, summer family fun
Cost: Major waterparks are usually paid; check for offers
Time needed: Half day
Parent tip: Do not assume a waterpark is free. Check current deals before promising it to kids.
Best Free Things to Do in Dubai with Kids by Activity Type
Best Nature Activities
- Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
- Turtle Lagoon
- Public beaches
- Shees Nature Trail
- Al Wathba Lake Park
- Wadi Ghuna
Best Cultural Activities
- Old Dubai
- Gold Souk
- Spice Souk
- Al Fahidi
- Al Seef
- Tayyibah Heritage Museum
Best Evening Activities
- Dubai Fountain
- Al Seef
- Dubai Marina Walk
- JBR Walk
- Bluewaters Island
- Dubai Creek Harbour
Best Educational Activities
- Turtle Rehabilitation Project
- Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
- Sharjah Desert Park
- Tayyibah Heritage Museum
- Old Dubai
Suggested Free Half-Day Dubai Plan with Kids
Plan 1: Dubai Mall + Fountain
This is a good option for tourists and families without a car.
- Visit the free Dubai Mall aquarium viewing panel
- Walk around Dubai Mall
- Take photos near Burj Lake
- Watch the Dubai Fountain
- Eat at the food court or bring snacks if suitable
Best for: Tourists, toddlers, first-time visitors
Time needed: 3–4 hours
Plan 2: Old Dubai with Kids
This plan is good for culture, photos, and a budget-friendly family day.
- Start at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
- Walk toward Dubai Creek
- Explore the Textile Souk
- Take an optional abra ride
- Visit Gold Souk and Spice Souk
- End at Al Seef
Best for: Families, culture lovers, older kids, budget travellers
Time needed: 4–5 hours
Plan 3: Nature and Animals Day
This plan works well for animal-loving children.
- Visit Turtle Lagoon in the morning
- Spend time at a public beach
- Watch Dubai Fountain in the evening
Best for: Animal-loving kids, beach families, tourists
Time needed: Half day to full day
Plan 4: Weekend Nature Trip from Dubai
This is best for families with a car.
- Drive to Shees Park or Shees Nature Trail
- Pack snacks and water
- Enjoy a short walk and mountain views
- Take photos and rest at the park
- Return before dark
Best for: Families with older kids, outdoor lovers
Time needed: Half day
Tips for Enjoying Free Family Activities in Dubai
Here are simple tips to help your family save money and avoid stress:
- Visit outdoor places early morning or evening.
- Avoid midday heat in summer.
- Carry water, snacks, hats, and sunscreen.
- Check opening hours before going.
- Bring cash for parking, snacks, or small transport.
- Do not assume every place is fully free.
- Check weather before visiting wadis or mountain areas.
- Use the metro when visiting Dubai Mall, Old Dubai, or Dubai Marina.
- Carry a stroller only in stroller-friendly areas.
- Keep kids close in busy souks and waterfront areas.
- Choose beaches with toilets and lifeguards when visiting with young kids.
- Always check current entry rules before day trips outside Dubai.
FAQs
What are the best free things to do in Dubai with kids?
The best free things to do in Dubai with kids include watching the Dubai Fountain, visiting public beaches, seeing turtles at Jumeirah Al Naseem, exploring Old Dubai, walking through the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, and spotting flamingos at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.
Is Dubai Fountain free for kids?
Yes, the Dubai Fountain show is free to watch from public viewing areas around Burj Lake.
Can kids see turtles for free in Dubai?
Yes, families can see turtles at the Turtle Lagoon at Jumeirah Al Naseem for free. Check the schedule before visiting if you want to attend a feeding or education session.
Are beaches free in Dubai?
Many public beaches in Dubai are free to enter. Some beach parks, private beaches, sunbeds, parking, or facilities may cost extra.
Where can kids see flamingos in Dubai?
Kids can see flamingos at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. It is one of the best free wildlife experiences in Dubai.
Is Old Dubai good for kids?
Yes, Old Dubai can be good for kids, especially if you keep the visit short and include souks, creek views, snacks, and an optional abra ride.
Is Sharjah Desert Park free?
Sharjah Desert Park is usually low-cost rather than fully free. Children under a certain age may enter free, while adults usually pay. Check the current ticket price before visiting.
Are Dubai waterparks free?
Most major Dubai waterparks are paid. Some hotels include access for guests, and some places may offer birthday or seasonal deals. For a free water activity, choose a public beach.
What free activities are good in summer?
In summer, choose evening activities such as Dubai Fountain, Al Seef, Dubai Mall aquarium viewing panel, short beach visits at cooler times, and indoor mall walks.
What should parents carry for free outdoor activities?
Parents should carry water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, wipes, extra clothes, a small first-aid kit, and cash for parking or transport.
