Family Adventures Outside Dubai That Are Worth Driving For

Spend a fun-filled family day at Emirates Park Zoo, home to over 1,400 animals including hippos, flamingos, reptiles, and more. Get up close with wildlife, join feeding sessions with giraffes, elephants, monkeys, and goats, and enjoy exciting shows like the Sea Lion Presentation, Elephant Encounter, and Tropical Birds Show. Kids will love the animals’ tricks while learning about conservation and adaptation. For extra thrills, try the zoo’s climbing and driving adventures (age and height restrictions apply). Don’t forget to carry a photo ID, wear proper shoes, check show timings, and follow zoo rules for a smooth visit. Tickets are not valid during public holidays. 

Dive into an unforgettable family adventure at The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, home to 46,000 animals and the largest tunnel in the Middle East. Explore 10 themed zones, cross the glass bridge, ride the Bu Tinah Dhow glass-bottom boat, and discover the Pristine Seas exhibition by National Geographic. With All Access and VIP packages offering behind-the-scenes tours, fish feeding, and skip-the-line entry, it’s an experience full of learning, excitement, and wonder for the whole family. 

Step into a world where art, science, and technology blend at TeamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, the largest of TeamLab’s global venues with 25+ interactive installations across 17,000 m². Wander through Environmental Phenomena where light, water, sound, and motion shift with your presence, explore barefoot in the Wet Zone, or move freely in the Dry Zone. Iconic works like Massless Suns, Levitating Void, and Morphing Light Sculptures respond dynamically to touch and movement. With KIDZAPP open-entry tickets, enjoy free-flow access until 4 PM on weekdays and 1 PM on weekends—no pre-booking needed. Plan 1.5–3 hours to fully immerse yourself, as re-entry is not allowed.

Discover the beauty of nature at Jubail Mangrove Park the stunning sanctuary, where a winding boardwalk takes you through clear waters, lush roots, and rich wildlife. Choose from three trails (1–2 km) with stops at six educational zones, including a floating platform with see-through nets, a viewing tower, and a beach platform to dip your toes in. Spot birds, fish, and crabs along the way, let kids enjoy the play area, and capture family moments from the viewing terraces. For extra adventure, try kayaking or learn more from the on-site rangers about the unique ecosystem.

Get ready for an unforgettable family adventure at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, now open on Yas Island! Spanning 183,000 sqm across five indoor levels, this marine life theme park is home to over 100,000 animals and features eight immersive realms, including Endless Ocean—the world’s largest multi-species aquarium with 68,000 marine creatures. From dolphins, dugongs, and penguins to walruses and manta rays, each realm offers purpose-built habitats and interactive experiences that bring the “One Ocean” story to life. Kids will love thrilling rides like the Manta Coaster, Jelly Plunge, and Turtle Twist, while little explorers can climb, crawl, and play in themed zones like Explorer’s Sea Base and Penguin Play. With a mix of exciting attractions, educational exhibits, and close-up encounters, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is the perfect spot for families to learn, play, and connect with the wonders of the ocean. 

Spend a memorable day at Louvre Abu Dhabi, exploring world-class exhibitions, masterpieces, and rotating installations that celebrate the shared story of humanity. Wander through galleries showcasing 600+ works from pre-history to today, with new pieces regularly arriving from international museum partners. Enjoy four major global exhibitions each year, and don’t miss the stunning outdoor terraces at Aptitude Café and the Museum Café, perfect for a coffee, meal, or family break with spectacular views of Jean Nouvel’s architecture. Good to Know: The museum is closed on Mondays, with galleries open until 6:30 PM on weekdays and 8:30 PM on weekends. Children under 18, members, and People of Determination (plus one companion) enter for free. Admission includes access to galleries, exhibitions, the Children’s Museum, plazas, cafés, and boutique.

Head to Al Montazah Parks, one of the UAE’s first adventure destinations, where two exciting parks await — Pearls Kingdom Water Park and Island of Legends Amusement Park. At Pearls Kingdom, dive into a magical world of pirates, treasures, palaces, and galaxies with over 30 thrilling water rides, ranked among the world’s best by TripAdvisor. Over at Island of Legends, step into a realm of time travel and mythology with more than 40 attractions, from carnival adventures to the Eye of the Emirates wheel, offering panoramic views of Sharjah’s landmarks. Conveniently located in the heart of Sharjah, just 20 minutes from Dubai and Sharjah airports, Al Montazah is perfect for a family day out. 

Discover Al Noor Island in Sharjah, a stunning blend of nature, art, and culture that makes for the perfect family day out. Stroll through lush landscapes, explore unique art installations, or relax at the tranquil Literature Pavilion. Kids can enjoy the playground while you grab healthy bites at Noor Café. Don’t miss the enchanting Butterfly House (open daily 9 AM – 6 PM) or the illuminated art displays that transform the island after sunset. Whether you’re chasing butterflies, enjoying a family walk, or simply soaking in the serenity, Al Noor Island is a must-visit spot. 

Escape to Shees Park in Khor Fakkan, a scenic spot surrounded by towering mountains and perfect for a family day out in cooler weather. Spread across 11,000+ sqm, the park welcomes you with a 25-meter artificial waterfall flowing into a serene lake, stone pathways, and shaded seating areas. Stroll along the 506-meter walkway lined with palm trees, explore mountain terraces leading up to a 30-meter-high viewing platform, and take in breathtaking views of the region. With a kids’ play area, barbecue spaces, and even an outdoor theatre, Shees Park offers the ideal mix of relaxation, nature, and family fun. 

Walk in the rain without getting wet! The Rain Room, a part of Sharjah Art Foundation, is a unique art installation that uses recycled water, providing a continuous stream of rainfall. With special trigger motion sensors, the room detects movements and pauses the rain wherever you are. A fun experience for the whole family with plenty of photo-snapping moments. You can buy tickets at the venue or book online to choose a specific time-slot in advance. Book in advance if you're heading there on busy days. - Each visit is a 15min session - Only 5 people are allowed in at a time - Children need to be supervised at all times While you wait for your session to start, you can grab a dessert and drink at Fen Cafe & Restaurant that's right next to the entrance desk. 

Fujairah Adventure Park is the UAE’s largest playground for thrill-seekers. Reopens mid-to-end September with new attractions and upgraded guest experiences! Set against Fujairah’s stunning natural backdrop, this park is packed with adrenaline-pumping activities for all ages. Soar on the Zipline Hawk & Eagle, take a daring ride on the Giant Swing, or paddle across the lake with kayaking. Adventure lovers can push limits on the Pump Track, Dirt Jump, and mountain biking trails, while climbers scale the wall and test precision at archery and axe throwing. For more thrills, leap from the Quick Flight tower, dive onto the Bag Jump, or explore rugged hiking trails. Make it a full experience with camping spots under the stars or cozy up in one of the 10 chalets, each with a BBQ, seating for up to 8, and on-request chef services. With 24/7 security and full facilities, Fujairah Adventure Park is the ultimate family-friendly destination for outdoor fun and adventure. New Offers coming soon! 

Al Ain Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals and offers families an exciting day full of adventure. From penguin parades and cheetah runs to feeding giraffes, lions, and budgies, there are endless interactive experiences to enjoy. Brave souls can even hop on a thrilling safari tour through the world’s largest man-made safari, where lions roam just meters away. Kids can celebrate their birthday with unforgettable animal-themed parties, while families relax at the zoo’s cafes, picnic areas, and souvenir shops. With stroller rentals, shuttle services, and plenty of fun activities from animal shows to bike trails, Al Ain Zoo is the ultimate wildlife destination in the UAE.

Kite Beach Center is the perfect seaside escape for families. Spend the day lounging on the sand or dive into action with water sports like surfing, kitesurfing, kayaking, hydrofoil, and scuba diving. For campers, it’s an ideal spot where you can pitch your own tent, rent one, or stay overnight in a cozy bungalow. With its stunning views and endless activities, it’s a beach day everyone will love.

Q: What is Al Montazah Parks, and what can we do there?
A: Al Montazah in Sharjah features two attractions in one—Pearls Kingdom Water Park with 30+ slides and rides, and Island of Legends Amusement Park with 40+ attractions inspired by myths, carnivals, and adventures. Great for both thrill-seekers and families with little ones.

Q: What makes Al Noor Island special?
A: Al Noor Island combines nature, art, and relaxation. Families can enjoy the Butterfly House, illuminated art installations, tranquil gardens, a kids’ playground, and healthy snacks at Noor Café. Advanced booking is required.

Q: Is Shees Park worth visiting?
A: Absolutely! Located in Khor Fakkan, Shees Park offers a 25m waterfall, mountain walkways, shaded seating, BBQ spots, an outdoor theatre, and hiking terraces that give you stunning panoramic views. It’s best enjoyed in cooler weather.

Q: What is the Rain Room in Sharjah?
A: The Rain Room is an immersive art installation where you can walk through rain without getting wet, thanks to motion sensors. Each session lasts 15 minutes with only 5 people inside at a time. Tickets can be booked online, and kids must be supervised.

Q: What activities are available at Fujairah Adventure Park?
A: From ziplining, giant swings, dirt jumps, wall climbing, archery, axe throwing, and kayaking to hiking trails, camping, and chalets for overnight stays, Fujairah Adventure Park is a hub for adrenaline junkies. Note: It reopens mid-to-end September with new upgrades.

Q: What can families expect at Al Ain Zoo?
A: Home to over 3,500 animals, Al Ain Zoo offers close-up encounters like Breakfast with Giraffes, Cheetah Runs, Lemur Walks, Penguin Parades, and the world’s largest man-made safari. Families can also enjoy playgrounds, cafes, shuttle services, stroller rentals, and even birthday party packages.

Q: What does Kite Beach Center offer for families?
A: At Kite Beach Center, families can relax on the beach, try watersports (surfing, kitesurfing, kayaking, scuba diving), or stay overnight by camping or renting a bungalow. It’s a fun, scenic getaway for both adventure and relaxation.