15 Must-Visit Outdoor Attractions in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah

Embark on a thrilling adventure at Dubai Safari Park, a one-of-a-kind destination that brings the wonders of a real safari right to the city. Perfect for families and animal lovers, the park is home to over 2,500 animals from across the globe, offering a unique blend of education, exploration, and entertainment.

The park is divided into thematic "villages," each showcasing wildlife from different regions, including Africa, Asia, Arabia, and the Explorers' Village, where lions reign supreme. Little ones will love the interactive Kids Farm, while the whole family can marvel at the world's first drive-thru crocodile exhibit and the UAE's only drive-thru hippo and tiger encounters.

With a variety of live shows, feeding experiences, and workshops, the fun never ends. All bundle options promise an unforgettable day surrounded by wildlife and scenic beauty.

Treat your senses to a breathtaking journey at Dubai Miracle Garden, a family-friendly oasis featuring incredible floral displays and designs. With 70 flower varieties and approximately 100 million blooms, this garden is a masterpiece of natural beauty. Stroll through vibrant pathways and be sure to marvel at the world-record-holding Airbus A380 floral arrangement, a stunning centerpiece that showcases the creativity and scale of this enchanting destination.

Explore a world of floral art at Dubai Miracle Garden. Where every visit is a celebration of nature's wonders, it's the perfect day out for visitors of all ages.

Step into Al Barari Playground, an outdoor paradise designed to keep kids entertained and active in the fresh air. This unique play space combines imaginative features like the ‘Erikson’ play ship, Adventure Splash Zone, and an exciting zipline with areas for parents to relax and enjoy a bite from nearby eateries like The Dairy Shed or The Mill Café. With a tranquil oasis of trees and plenty of seating, it’s the perfect spot for a family day out.

Don’t miss this vibrant playground experience that offers fun and relaxation for the whole family!

Embark on an extraordinary cultural adventure at Global Village, where traditions, cuisines, and entertainment from around the world come together in one dazzling destination. This vibrant family-friendly spot offers something for everyone: from thrilling rides and arcade games to captivating live performances and cultural pavilions showcasing unique crafts and goods from across the globe.

Kids will love the carnival rides, play area, and the chance to ride the towering 58m high 'Wheel of the World' Ferris wheel. Don’t miss the weekly fireworks displays or the electrifying circus shows that bring an energetic carnival atmosphere to your evening. New attractions this season include the stunning Exo Planet City, an intergalactic-themed experience, and The Restaurant Plaza, featuring 11 two-story food-courts offering global delicacies.

Plan your visit and enjoy unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Looking for a refreshing day out for the whole family? Splash N Party is the ultimate destination for water-filled fun. This charming, gated water park is perfect for children and families, offering everything from gentle splash pads for the little ones to thrilling waterslides and an exciting zip line for adventurers. With a cozy atmosphere and temperature-controlled pools, it’s an ideal spot for sunny-day play.

Parents can relax and recharge at the onsite restaurant and juice bar while the kids enjoy themselves. Make memories while indulging in tasty kids' meals with fun and delicious options for the little ones too. 

Whether you’re zipping through the air, sliding into fun, or simply splashing around, Splash N Party promises a day of smiles and laughter. 

Experience the ultimate family adventure at Aventura Parks, Dubai’s largest zipline park in Mushrif Park! Explore 25 ziplines, 80 obstacles, and 5 circuits, from beginner-friendly courses like Discovery and Rangers to adrenaline-packed challenges like the Extreme Tarzan jump and thrilling zipline rides.

With its tranquil Ghaf forest setting, nature trails, and discovery play areas, Aventura is perfect for creating lasting memories. Whether you're zipping through the treetops or enjoying family fun on the ground, it's an adventure like no other.

Dive into a world of fun at LEGOLAND Water Park, the only water park in the UAE designed specifically for kids aged 2-12 and their families. With over 20 slides and attractions, there’s something for everyone, from the thrilling Tidal Tube to the playful DUPLO Splash Safari for toddlers. Build and float your own LEGO creations at Build-A-Raft River or race your loved ones down the exciting LEGO Slide Racers.

Unwind at the gentle LEGO Wave Pool or treat yourself to VIP comfort with a private cabana rental. Don’t forget to refuel at Caesar’s Pizza & Pasta Buffet or grab a quick bite at one of the park’s convenient dining spots.

Pro Tip: Kids under 3 receive free swim diapers, and life vests are complimentary for all little builders! It’s the ultimate family destination for splash-filled fun.

Dubai Garden Glow is a seasonal attraction that blends art, education, and entertainment into a must-try family activity. Glow Park, the world’s largest glow-in-the-dark garden, enchants visitors with its vibrant displays created from millions of energy-saving bulbs and recycled luminous fabric. 

Dinosaur Park offers an educational journey back in time, featuring over 120 animatronic dinosaurs that bring prehistoric creatures to life. For an extra dose of wonder, Magic Park immerses visitors in a visually captivating world of optical illusions and interactive installations, although this section requires a separate ticket. 

Dubai Garden Glow is the perfect evening escape, combining creativity and fun for visitors of all ages.

Aqua Parks Leisure, located on Kite Beach, is Dubai's first freshwater swimming pool waterpark and a hidden gem for family fun. It offers over 21 activities, from frog jumps to monkey bars, ensuring endless entertainment for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents with a playful spirit. The venue promises hours of splashing and giggling, making it a perfect day out.

Dubai Crocodile Park is the city's newest animal attraction, offering an exciting and educational experience for the whole family. The park spans 20,000 square meters and houses 250 Nile crocodiles, from hatchlings to full-grown adults, all living in climate-controlled environments. Visitors can enjoy observing these impressive creatures safely while learning about their history, conservation efforts, and the vital role crocodiles play in the ecosystem.

In addition to the crocodile exhibits, the park features an African lake-themed aquarium, large landscaped outdoor areas, and a museum focused on crocodile conservation. Multiple dining outlets and air-conditioned spaces ensure comfort year-round, making it a perfect destination for a family day out.

Emirates Park Zoo and Resort offers an incredible day out for families, with over 1,400 animals including hippos, flamingos, reptiles, and other wild creatures. Visitors can get up close to these animals, with opportunities to feed giraffes, elephants, goats, monkeys, and hippos. The zoo also hosts exciting animal shows, such as a Sea Lion presentation, Elephant Encounter, and a Tropical Birds Show, giving children a chance to learn about conservation and the natural behaviors of these animals. In addition, the zoo features interactive experiences like a zoo zipline and a driving adventure for kids.

Explore the tranquil Jubail Mangrove Park sanctuary, where you can take a scenic walk along a 1-2 km boardwalk with six educational sections. The route offers incredible views of marine life beneath a see-through net, a viewing tower, and a beach platform for a closer connection with nature. Watch out for a variety of birds, fish, and crabs, while the clear waters reveal mangrove roots and diverse wildlife. 

For children, there's a play area, and families can enjoy kayaking and beautiful photo opportunities at viewing terraces. Rangers are on hand to share details about the ecosystem and the park’s flora and fauna.

Circuit X offers an exciting mix of adventure parks for all ages, with activities ranging from water-based fun to extreme sports. The Skate Park is suitable for kids aged 5 and up, featuring ramps for all skill levels, while the BMX Park is perfect for those with some BMX tricks in mind, catering to kids 7 and above. The Splash Park is a water wonderland, ideal for little ones as young as 1, offering splash and climb activities. The Ropes & Zipline Park challenges adventurers with aerial courses that test balance and courage. The parks operate throughout the week with specific hours and age restrictions, so it's best to check timings and plan your visit accordingly.

Al Montazah Amusement and Water Park is one of the UAE's premier adventure destinations, featuring two main parks: Pearls Kingdom and Island of Legends. Pearls Kingdom, an award-winning water park, is home to over 30 exhilarating aquatic rides and slides. It's known for its immersive themes, including pirates, sunken treasures, and magic carpets, offering fun for all ages.

On the other hand, Island of Legends combines mythology and adventure with over 40 attractions, such as a thrilling ride on the Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel, providing stunning views of Sharjah’s key landmarks.

The park also features historical and mythical experiences like the Loch Ness Monster and the Time Train for an unforgettable family outing!

Al Noor Island offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Sharjah, blending modernity with Arabic culture. The island features a range of attractions perfect for families. You can explore the serene landscape while enjoying a stroll, or visit the Butterfly House. The island also showcases bespoke art installations and sculptures, alongside illuminated designs that create a mesmerizing atmosphere after sunset.

For some downtime, head to the Literature Pavilion or let your children play in the playground, with shaded seating areas nearby for relaxation. Noor Café offers a healthy selection of snacks and drinks in a natural, airy setting. This island truly has something for everyone.