While Dubai is perfect with its impressive skyscrapers and buzzing beaches, sometimes you just need a break from the hectic fast-paced urban life. So if you feel like a change of scenery and going out into the 'wild', then read on as we have rounded up 10 awesome family experiences outside of Dubai to try. From a 'glamping' experience to a thrilling toboggan run and even a safari tour, there are so many exciting options for you and the family to unwind and take some time off away from the city.
If you're really looking for a change of scenery, then it doesn't get better than the beautiful Mleiha area in Sharjah.
The Mleiha Archaeological Center is a must visit destination that you and the kids will absolutely love. Besides feasting your eyes on the beautiful desert landscape and discovering centuries of findings, you and the kids will be able to participate in many exciting indoor and outdoor activities. There are also desert adventures and activities that you can take part in, such as camping, sand duning, hiking and more so this really is an ideal city break for all!
Book with Kidzapp and get 10% OFF activities at Mleiha!
One of the best places to go to when escaping the hussle and bussle of the city is most definitely Bab Al Nojoum's camp site at Hudayriyat.
You and your family will be able to spend the day cosied up in a tent nestled on the beach at Hudayriyat Island with mesmerizing views and awesome facilities. You will have access to a water-sports center, a kids play area, a beach cinema and stretches of beach. There are also plenty of activities for the kids to enjoy like table tennis, beach volley, foos ball, badminton and more!
Book with Kidzapp now and get up to 15% OFF your day use tent!
If you're looking for a thrilling adventure out of the city then head to Ras Al Khaimah and experience the UAE's highest peak with the Jais Sledder toboggan run.
You will be able to access spectacular views of the Hajar mountain range and Ras Al Khaimah's stunning coastline while on this thrilling ride. The low-slung track is 1,840 metres and reaches speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour. The sleds can seat up to two individuals with a maximum weight of 150kgs, and kids under the age of 8 or less than 1.35m need to be accompanied by an individual older than 8 years.
This is definitely an adventure you and the kids will remember for years and years to come!
Escape the glam of the city and experience glam in an entirely different way at the Long Beach Campground.
The Long Beach Campground, located along a 300 meter stretch of beach in Ras Al Khaimah, combines traditional camping with luxurious amenities and engaging activities, creating a truly unique and immersive ‘glamping’ experience. You have a variety of elegant tents to choose from, and you can enjoy an all-inclusive activities package that includes access to the beach, pool, outdoor spa, water sports and more!
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Explore the largest safari in the world outside Africa with Sharjah Safari!
Spread out over 800 hectares, this impressive venue houses 120 different species and up to 50,000 animals such as birds, reptiles and mammals such as lions, crocodiles, bulls and much more. You and the kids will be able to take part in lots of awesome activities and experience exhibits, shows and a safari tour.
Keep in mind that Sharjah Safari closes during the summer (from June 1 to September 30), so be sure to head there before this period.
For a truly unique experience away from the city, make your way to Abu Dhabi and enjoy a 2-hour kayak tour inside the mangroves!
A guide will be with you throughout the tour and will take you and your family through the mangroves' channels. You will be able to spot some wildlife and learn all about the mangroves. A fruits salad and bottled water are included in the fee, so you can stay perfectly hydrated and well nourished throughout.
Book with Kidzapp and get 10% OFF your guided kayak tour!
Al Noor Island is the perfect city escape if you're looking to just tone things down and spend a chilled day out with your family.
Located in the heart of Sharjah, Al Noor Island offers a mix of urban life and Arabic culture. There is a dedicated kids' playground for the little ones and a Butterfly House. You will also find lots of bespoke art installation and sculptures scattered throughout this serene island, and for some major down time, you can head to the Literature Pavilion and escape reality with a book. And for when you need to refuel, Noor Cafe will be at hand to serve you and the kids healthy snacks and refreshing drinks.
Book with Kidzapp and get 15% OFF your entry tickets!
Head to Shark Island off Khorfakkan beach with your family and enjoy shimmering waters while exploring stunning coral reef.
This small rocky island is the perfect spot for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving. The water is just 15 metres deep, so you can easily see the beautiful seabed. You will also be able to spot the thriving marine life like sea anemones, moray eels, turtles, Arabian angelfish and rays.
You can hop on a small boat from Khorfakkan beach croniche to access the island, which is around 10 minutes away.
If you're looking to try a new water fun adventure outside the city, then you should definitely check out Al Ain Adventure Park.
Al Ain Adventure Park is the Middle East's first whitewater rafting, kayaking and surfing facility. Located at the base of Jebel Hafeet Mountain in Al Ain, the Park has awesome unique aerial activities such as an airprak, zipline, climbing wall and more. Other activities you and the kids can also enjoy include swimming, kayaking, wakeboarding, surfing and more!
Take a scenic road trip along the new Sharjah-Khorfakkan highway and head towards Khorfakkan to enjoy an awesome view of the stunning Al Rafisah Dam.
Built in the 1980s, the dam has been upgraded with a new visitor centre and rest area. The entire area is just absolutely beautiful as the dam borders a large, pure blue lake overlooked by the impressive Hajar mountains and surrounded by a rich green landscape and man-made waterfall. And it's not just the view, you will find an outdoor play area for the kids, a rest area, a mosque and even a popular restaurant with a lake view.