44 memorable things to do in Dubai with teenagers

Dubai is a bit of a fantasy playground for visitors of all ages, with teens being particularly well catered for with plenty of adrenaline-pumping and out-of-this-world experiences. Experience zip lines, waterparks, and desert experiences on your family vacation to Dubai. Dubai is today one of the premium destinations for worldwide travellers. You find plenty of things to do in Dubai with teenagers.

Table Of Contents
  1. Know before you go. Our top Dubai travel tips
  2. Best things to do in Dubai with teens
  3. Free things to do in Dubai with teens
  4. Eating out in Dubai with teens
  5. Top tips for teens in Dubai
  6. Budget travel guide for Dubai with teenagers
  7. Day trips from Dubai
  8. Where to stay in Dubai with teens
  9. Frequently asked questions about Dubai
  10. Author bio:

Know before you go. Our top Dubai travel tips

Travelling to Dubai can be such an enriching experience for the whole family. There are so many things to do in Dubai and having the best place to stay in Dubai and wander is extremely important. Here we’ve got some information to get you planning your family vacation to Dubai to make it completely hassle-free.

sitting on the window ledge looking at the dubai skyline
You will find plenty of things to do in Dubai for young adults

Where to stay in Dubai with teens

You’ll never be short of options for your accommodation in Dubai. In Dubai, you find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels. You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families, and groups on every budget. If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or have specific needs, we recommend using Trip Advisor and Hotellook to find the best prices in Dubai.

Budget:  Premier Inn Dubai Ibn Battuta Mall provides family rooms fitting up to 4 people. The hotel includes an outdoor pool, restaurant, 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour front desk, facilities for disabled guests, and luggage storage.

Mid Range: This 3-star hotel rates highly with families staying in Dubai. The Rove Marina Dubai features family rooms for 4 to 6 people. Onsite restaurant, gym and outdoor swimming pools await.

Luxury: The 5-star Kempinski Mall of the Emirates is centrally located featuring facilities like the pool, gym, boutique shops, and tourist essentials such as the tour desk and currency exchange. situated within close proximity to areas such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah, with the Mall of the Emirates metro station a mere 5-minute walk away

Dubai apartment alternative for your stay

If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation when on your U.A.E trip with teenagers in Dubai, then an apartment is the best choice for you on your family vacation. There are so many options for singles, couples and families in Dubai as well.

You can search VRBO or if you’re looking for something a bit more fancy, maybe with an amazing view or a swimming pool then Plum Guide will help you find the perfect apartment in Dubai for teens on your Middle East trip with family.

How to get to Dubai United Arab Emirates

Dubai is one of the premier tourist destinations in the Middle East. Dubai is serviced by long distant buses, and planes all bringing people daily to the city.

  • Plane: The Dubai International Airport handles close to 90 million passengers every year. The airport is located in the Al Garhoud district, 4.6 km east of Dubai  Book your Dubai plane with Kiwi Flights today
    • You can book your transfer from the airport to Dubai today
      • If your flights have a long stopover, or you just want to relax before your trip you should consider getting a lounge pass with Priority Pass. Priority Pass have access to airport lounges all over the world. Search now for your lounge pass
  • Buses: Buses from places such as Abu Dhabi, and Muscat arrive daily in Dubai
  • Driving to Dubai from surrounding countries such as Oman, and Qatar is easy. There are new highways from each city leading to Dubai. You can pick up a rental car at any major airport in the Middle East. Book your rental car here.

How to get around Dubai with teenagers

The expansive public transportation system of Dubai consists of buses, water buses, a monorail system, a tram, and the Dubai Metro. The Dubai Metro has two lines: the Green Line (20 stops that run from the Etisalat region to Dubai Creek) and the Redline (28 stops that span between Al Rashidiya and Al Furjan 

In Dubai, you can pay for all public transport including bus, metro, water bus, water taxi, tram and even for public parking with a Nol card. The Nol card can be picked up at stations and convenience stores.

Another option is driving in the city, it may not be practical, but it can be fun when you see people who drive a Mercedes G63, or a Ferrari Roma etc.

Weather in Dubai

The city of Dubai has a reputation for being sunny and very hot. Temperatures in the 40°s are not uncommon in this desert city. Summer can see extremely hot temperatures in Dubai. June to September is the hottest period of the year and daytime temperatures can reach 45-50 degrees

We may not have emphasized enough yet, but Dubai can get REALLY hot! The best time to visit is undoubtedly in the cooler winter months November to April. Temperatures in July/August creep to 50c – but if you plan your trip right and stick indoors during the day, a summer trip to Dubai can be done – often much cheaper than in the winter but expect some seasonal and outdoor attractions to be closed.

December through February are the coolest months for your family trip to Dubai,

Summer essentials for Dubai

Dubai for international visitors

International travel to the U.A.E requires a bit more thought. You will need travel insurance for sure in Dubai. Medical care is not cheap and if you want good quality care it will cost you a fortune if you don’t have travel insurance. The official currency of the U.A.E is United Arab Emirates Dirham. If you use your bank account from home you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an internation rate. These are just some of the things you need to think about,

  • For International travellers, travel insurance is a must get a quote through Insurance Masters and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses.
  • Do you need a visa to visit Dubai? The country of the U.A.E may require you to have a visa or an ETA ( Electronic travel authorization) to enter the country. You can check and buy these documents at iVisa.
  • Load a Revolut Travel Money card with USD dollars for your visit and save on transaction fees
  • Make phone calls with an international sim card that you can buy before leaving home or buy a voucher for a virtual e-sim for your mobile phone.
  • A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can rent a pocket modem that you can pick up at the airport or your hotel, alternatively buy a pocket modem that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet or computer.

Travel accessories for teenagers

For teenagers, travelling can be a fun and exciting experience. However, there are a few things that they need to take into account in order to make the trip as comfortable and safe as possible. One of these is ensuring that they have the necessary travel accessories.

Best things to do in Dubai with teens

So now that you have all of the very best Dubai travel tips, it’s time to start planning your Dubai trip. Here we have all the very best activities in Dubai for teens.

Activities in Dubai for teens – Aquaventure

It’s hard to go past Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis the Palm as a top spot for teens in Dubai. This sensational waterpark includes some of the world’s best water slides including the 9-story high Leap of Faith that hurtles you through a shark-filled lagoon, Poseidon’s Revenge capsule where you hit speeds up to 60km/hr and Slitherine racers. The Lost Chambers Aquarium is also located at the Atlantis and is well worth a visit.

water park area for tourists in Dubai.
Fun in Dubai is everywhere at Aquaventure Waterpark

If you stay a night at Atlantis, your waterpark tickets are included. The resort hotel also offers plenty of fun lounges and restaurants where your teens will be welcome, including the Wavehouse with ten-pin bowling and a fun burger & shakes menu. If theme parks are your thing, a trip to Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi just up the coast may be the perfect place for a day trip.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

This impressive theme park, near Global Village, is known for its thrills and spills for both kids and thrill-seeking adults. For Marvel fans, you will find a section devoted entirely to Marvel’s super hero’s.

If you have younger children there is also a Cartoon Network area featuring the Powerpuff Girls and Ben10. Worlds of Adventures is the world’s largest indoor theme park, featuring rides such as Thor Thunder spin, Predator and the thrilling Raptor flight. This is a must for any family vacation in Dubai. Search prices and tickets for IMG Worlds.

Fun things to do in Dubai for teenagers – Motiongate

Dubai Parks & Resorts is home to several theme parks – most famously Legoland – but your teens in Dubai are most likely to be attracted to the rollercoasters and action rides at Motiongate, a Hollywood-themed thrill park.

The Lionsgate section particularly has recently expanded to be home to two Hunger Games-themed thrill rides and early 2021 will see another 2 roller coasters under the franchises of John Wick and Now You See Me – the most rollercoasters you’ll find at any park in the Middle East!

Stay at nearby Lapita Resort for theme park tickets included in your stay, then you can stay and enjoy the evening around the outdoor Riverland entertainment complex.

Coolest things to do in Dubai – VR Park

There are a ton of family-friendly attractions in Dubai to enjoy within Dubai Mall – if the window shopping alone isn’t enough at one of the world’s largest malls isn’t enough – a favourite we’ve found teens gravitate to is VR Park – the world’s largest virtual reality theme park.

Some of the most popular attractions here included the Dubai Drone which sees drone taxis zipping through the skyscrapers in this futuristic rollercoaster experience, and the Dune Bash is another UAE favourite. Entry is free to VR Park just to look around, or you can purchase pay&play credits or a Super 10 pass.

Read more: All the very best things to do in Abu Dhabi

Burj Khalifa

While we are in the area…. Ok, it’s corny, it’s touristy, but without a doubt one of the unmissable attractions for families in Dubai.

a lagoon in the city of Dubai with a fountain of lights
There are plenty of activities in Dubai for teenagers

The views from At The Top – Burj Khalifa are as you’d expect from the world’s tallest building – spectacular – but the cost is steep and the queues in peak holiday times can be very long.

If you’re not dead set on climbing the world’s tallest tower, by all means, skip it, and simply admire the architecture from the foot. Book your Skip the Line Burj Khalifa tickets.

Dubai with teenagers – fountain show

Each evening on Burj Lake you can enjoy a completely free choreographed fountain show every 30 minutes, and later in the evening there’s also a light show projected onto the Burj Khalifa, often you will see the Burj lit up for special causes too. The best way to see the Dubai Fountain Show is from a well-positioned nearby restaurant.

Dubai with kids – The Palm Fountain

If you love this sort of live and free entertainment, you may also enjoy the new nightly show that’s opened at The Pointe, The Palm Fountain (and now overtaken as the largest fountain show in the world, of course). There’s also a great free nightly show Imagine at Dubai Festival City – a great one if you want to stay close to the airport DXB.

Go Jetskiing in Dubai

Jet skiing is a great way to get your adrenaline fix. The thrill of the speed and the excitement of the action make it a popular choice for those looking for an adventure in Dubai with teens.

Points of interest in Dubai with teens are best seen from the water

There are a large amount of tours companies in Dubai running Jet ski tours ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours in duration that take in all the best Dubai sights. Jet skiing can be a lot of fun and one of the most memorable experience you will be talking about for a long time to come.

Things for teens to do in Dubai – Global Village

This seasonal spectacular is like a giant World Fair playground. Take a journey from the gondolas of Italy to the Taj and the essence of India. 70+ countries are represented in one place through food, clothing and goods stores. Open from 4 pm daily in the winter, live performances, as well as fairground rides, can be experienced – it is a true world-taster session!

The basic entry for this colourful, fun and eye-opening experience is only 15AED, one of the cheapest attractions in Dubai! Its only downfall is that it is a little out of town so a decent taxi ride for tourists.

Discover more: All the best things to do in Istanbul for travelling families

Zipline across Dubai Marina

XLine Dubai – The longest urban zip line is a spectacular aerial experience, flying between the skyscrapers of Dubai Marina at 80km/hr! The limit is over 12 years old, 130cm and 50kg.

If your teens want to take the sky-high thrills even further, then we recommend a day trip to the mountains to try the world’s longest zip line Jebel Jais Flight through the Hajar Mountains in Ras Al Khaimah.

There’s a 1480 m high sky maze to experience, as well as mountain climbing and other extreme sports – definitely a day trip you won’t want to miss for adrenaline junkies. Book XLine Dubai tickets for your adventure experience.

Find all the very best travel with teens products on amazon now!

Flying Cup Dining experience

If you still want to reach some heights and great views without the speed, what about sky-high dining? Dubai fun places are everywhere and the Flying Cup in JBR enjoys some of the city’s most superb beachfront views of The Beach JBR and overlooking Bluewaters & Ain Dubai—soon to be the largest observation wheel in the world.

evening beach scene with ferris wheel and swimmers in Dubau
The beach is one of the best places to chill in Dubai

Dine in the Sky 40m above ground level on milkshakes and a scrummy meal from a local favourite restaurant Operation Falafel.

Want some expert family travel advice? Read our guide on how to keep your kids social on a family vacation

Things to do in Dubai for teenagers – Aqua Fun

While we’re in the JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residences) area of the city, another great fun family activity on the beach is tackling Aqua Fun. A decent workout and a good laugh can be found at this inflatable obstacle course (the biggest in the world, of course) on the Gulf waters.

Spelling out the word I love Dubai, there are 70 inflatable obstacles to tackle. You’ll be aching all over after but it’s a wonderfully fun family activity that teens especially will enjoy (and no harm mum and dad booking themselves in for a session at their hotel spa the following day for post-workout a massage!)

Cool things to do in Dubai with teens – The Dubai Frame.

The Dubai Frame is a 150-meter-tall, 93-meter-wide bridge located in Zabeel Park, Dubai. The frame is designed to resemble a picture frame, and it offers views of Old Dubai and New Dubai.

Dubai Frame from above.
What to see in Dubai with teenagers – The Huge Frame

Visitors can access the frame via an elevator, and there is also a viewing platform at the top. The Dubai Frame has been described as “an iconic new landmark for the city. Book your Frame of Dubai entry tickets.

Fun activities Dubai – Speedboat experience

Dubai is a city surrounded by water, and where water may not have existed before, it has been created! There is a huge range of water-based experiences to try in Dubai.

Without a doubt, everyone should take a traditional abra journey across Dubai Creek – just 1AED each way, taking you between the city’s two oldest neighbourhoods and a great taste of the bustling Creekside economy.

Then consider either a canal ferry from Downtown, a marina cruise from Dubai Marina or your thrill-seekers are going to want to try a speedboat experience! Take in some of the city’s most spectacular views from the water, including the unforgettable Burj Al Arab Hotel.

US travel inspiration: All the best things to do in Boston for teens

Fun things to do in Dubai with family – Desert Safari

Last but not least, certainly a common tourist offering but not corny at all is taking the family out on a desert safari to see the other side of Dubai – the Desert!

Cra driving over sand dunes in desert near Dubai
The desert is one of the most interesting places to see in Dubai with family

There are plenty of companies offering these desert safari tours and most have a fairly similar line up. You need to decide what time of day you’d like to go (for most of the year, evenings are preferable as its cooler) and whether you are more interested in action sports or experiencing the desert itself.

Find a your level of luxury that suits you, some camps are more rustic than others, but that certainly doesn’t mean a lesser experience.

Most desert camps involve a hotel pick-up in Dubai, followed by a 4X4 dune bashing experience in a desert camp, where a variety of sand sports are then on offer.

Sand Dunes boarding is a hot favourite, along with the unique experience of a camel ride (definitely ride your camels here, not the overpriced tourist traps on the beach) and falconry displays.

Your desert experience will allow you the opportunity to try a traditional Bedouin feast, join in with entertainment from oud playing to belly dancing (not all traditional Bedouin offerings!) and even come away with some henna art, a truly memorable finish to your Dubai experience.

If you are after a more intimate desert experience, use the likes of Platinum Heritage which is licensed to operate within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, a protected area of the desert.

Search here for some amazing desert experiences near Dubai

Madame Tussauds Dubai

Madame Tussauds is a world-famous wax museum with locations all over the globe. The museum was founded by Marie Tussaud in 1835 and features incredibly lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and more.

celebrities at Madame Tussauds in Dubai
Kids in Dubai on vacation will love the wax museum.

Visitors to the Dubai location can take pictures with their favourite celebrities such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Justin Bieber and more. Madame Tussauds Dubai is a must-see for anyone visiting a new city! Book your entry tickets today.

Learn to scuba Dive at Deep Dive Dubai

As you know, everything in Dubai is big, including the world’s deepest swimming pool. For those teens in Dubai who want to experience something different, the discovery package is just the place to start.

Your teenage adventure experience starts with a briefing on the basics of scuba diving and an introduction to the equipment before you hit the shallow waters for practice.

Once you have the basics down, head off to explore the underwater city in the world’s deepest pool. For parents of teenagers, you can share the experience at Deep Dive Dubai through our large viewing windows.

Read more: 10 of the best cities in Europe for the best vacations for families with teenagers

The Miracle Garden

The Miracle Garden in Dubai is a must-see for anyone visiting the United Arab Emirates. The garden, which opened in 2013, is home to over 45 million blooming flowers crafted into sculptures and designs in the garden

Can a garden be a Dubai attraction for teenagers?

The flowers are arranged in a variety of colourful displays that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. See various showcases of flower sculptures in different forms of shapes like pyramids, stars, igloos, and hearts. The Miracle Garden is open from October to May and is located just outside of Dubai.

Dubai indoor activities – Go Skiing in Dubai

How does skiing in one of the hottest destinations in the world sound? While it’s well above 40 degrees outside you can be skiing, snowboarding and more at the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort. The indoor ski Dubai resort has 5 ski runs that vary in difficulty, height, and gradient, perfect for the beginner or the experienced.

At Ski Dubai, the longest run is 400 meters and has a fall of more than 60 meters. This is a great opportunity for teenagers to try something new and skiing in Dubai could be just the thing. When taking a break from skiing you have an up-close Penguin experience. Also, it is a great place to escape the heat.

Dubai things to do with teenage girls – High Tea

High Tea started out as a quintessentially British thing. This afternoon tea tradition involves savoury sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and of course, tea. For mothers and daughters, it’s a cherished ritual that often brings them closer together.

Afternoon tea with teens in Dubai is a bit of a highbrow event

If you’re looking for something to do in Dubai with teenager girls, then you should experience high tea firsthand, there are plenty of places to go in Dubai But be warned – it can be quite addictive!

Once you’ve had a taste of those delicious treats, you’ll likely want to indulge again and again. You will find the best High Tea, Afternoon teas in Dubai at Plato’s in Atlantis the Palm, The Burj Al Arab and Armani Dubai.

What to do in Dubai with family – Big Bus Tour

The Dubai hop on hop off bus is always popular with family travellers. The Dubai sightseeing bus is a great way to give you an overview of the city.

The bus route takes you to all the Dubai attractions so you can see everything from the world-famous Burj Al Arab to traditional gold and spice souks. This allows you can get out and visit and hop back on the next bus when it appears.

The bus runs daily from 10 am to 5 pm with over 20 stops. There is a multi-lingual audio commentary in 8 languages, English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Swedish, Icelandic, and Russian on the bus.

Going to the beach in Dubai with teenagers

The beach is one of the best reasons to visit Dubai with teenagers. The glistening blue waters are usually very safe for swimming and water sports. Most beaches have lifeguards, and the shallow sandy bottom makes it safe for the whole family.

a young lady standing on the waters edge in Dubai
Popular places to hang out in Dubai include the beach

Not all Dubai beaches are free to use, some charge a small fee for usage. Swimming is possible all year round with teenagers as water temperatures are constantly over 30 degrees. Some of the most popular Dubai beaches include

  • Jumeirah Public Beach. The Jumeirah Public Beach in Dubai is one of the oldest public beaches in Dubai and one of the best places to start your beach-hopping!
  • Kite Beach
  • Al Mamzar Beach Park
  • Mercato Beach
  • The Beach
  • Burj Al Arab Beach

This is just the start of your Dubai experience and onward to the 7 Emirates of the UAE with your teens.

Read more: 9 dark tourism destinations to visit with teenagers and our top tips on how to prepare

Dubai fun places for teenagers -Indoor Skydiving

Indoor skydiving is a new trend that is catching up with teenagers. It is a safe way to experience the thrill of skydiving without having to go through all the hassle of getting on an airplane and going to a place where there are no buildings.

The indoor sky diving facility in Dubai has been attracting many teens who are looking for something fun to do on weekends. Thrill seeking teens in Dubai will get a real kick out of this thrilling experience. It is one of the top picks in Dubai for family vacations

Things to do in Dubai with family – Footgolf

A relatively new sport, footgolf is gaining popularity worldwide. This game combines the skills of football and golf, the objective is to kick the ball into the hole in as few kicks as possible.

Footgolf is played with soccer balls instead of clubs and uses your feet instead of your hands to kick the ball into the hole. You can play footgolf in Dubai at Montgomerie sports & Wellbeing

Things to do in Dubai for teens – Ain Dubai Ferris Wheel

Dubai is home to all things big, big buildings, big shopping centres, big resorts and now the biggest Ferris wheel in the world. Witness a spectacular view of Dubai from 250 m in the sky.

Ain Dubai Ferris Wheel is the tallest in the world at 250 meters
Things to do in Dubai in 2022 must include the Ain Dubai Ferris Wheel

One trip on the Ain Dubai takes 38 minutes, and you will get 360-degree views from the world’s largest Observation Wheel. Book your Ain Dubai tickets today.

Epic family holiday destinations: 8 countries for the best family vacations in Asia

Paintball fun in Dubai for older kids

Paintball is a fast-paced game that involves running around, shooting opponents with paintballs, and trying to avoid being hit. The paintballs are spherical pellets made of synthetic rubbers or gelatin that are designed to break when they come into contact with something or you. Most courses have abandoned huts and vehicles and other obstacles littered across the course. Search for more information on Dubai Paintball for teens

Coolest things in Dubai – A helicopter ride

Dubai is beautiful in more ways than one. The best way to see the city is by helicopter, which offers an aerial view of all the different sections of Dubai. You will see the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, one of the world’s largest shopping malls, wind towers, beaches, golf courses and much more.

Stand up paddle boarding in Dubai

If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy the water on your Dubai holiday, stand up paddle boarding (SUP) might be just the thing. SUP involves standing on a large, surfboard-like paddleboard and using a long paddle to move through the water.

Things to do for teens in Dubai? try out paddleboarding

It can be done in lakes, rivers, oceans or the calm waters around Dubai. This activity is suitable for all ages and abilities. It’s also a great way to explore new areas and see things from a different perspective. Head to Jumeirah 3 to find SUPDubai.

Indoor Karting in Dubai

The next time you’re looking for an indoor activity in Dubai to escape the heat that is both exciting and challenging, look no further than indoor go-carting! Indoor go-carting is the perfect activity for groups of friends or family members looking to add a little friendly competition to their day.

With its fast speeds and sharp turns, indoor go-carting is sure to get your heart racing. This Dubai adventure activity can be done at Dubai Indoor Kartdrome with its 1.2 kilometre track. Head to Kartdome today.

Amusement Arcades in Dubai

Amusement arcades offer a variety of entertainment options for teenagers as a great way to spend a few hours having fun. They can play the newest video games or indulge in some classic pinball machines of the past.

gaming machines in Dubai
Dubai’s activities for teens, play video games

Some of the more modern arcades will have Laser Tag, bumper cars and indoor mini golf as options. Arcades are popular because they offer things to do that are fun and affordable to do, most arcades have food and beverage options for you.

There are some great Dubai family holiday arcades to visit including the Wavehouse and Brass Monkey.

The most Instagrammable places in Dubai

With Instagram and social media playing an important part in the lives of teenagers, we have some great places for Instagram photos in Dubai. We recommend visiting The Dubai Frame, The Burj Khalifa, Burj al Arab, the Dubai Miracle Garden and the Wings of Mexico Statue for the best Instagram shots in Dubai.

Alternatively, book yourself, an Instagram tour with a guide who will take you to all the hotspots in the city. Check prices on the best Instagram tour in Dubai.

Professional photoshoot in Dubai for families

As our kids get older, we spend less and less time with them making family memories. One excellent way to capture some of these important family vacation moments is to hire a professional photographer for a few hours to make some lifelong memories for you.

The photographer will supply everything, your family just needs to provide the smiles for your Dubai photoshoot. Book your memory-making shoot today.

Annual events in Dubai that teens will love

Dubai is a city with a rich culture and history. There are many annual events that take place in Dubai that can be enjoyed by families and teens visiting the Middle East. Some of these events include the Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Design Week, The Dubai Food Festival and just up the road is the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

These events help to make Dubai a vibrant and exciting city to visit on your next family travel vacation.

Escape Rooms in Dubai for young adults

For those new to Escape Rooms, this is a quick run down. An escape room, also known as an escape game, is a physical adventure game in which players solve a series of puzzles and riddles using clues, hints, and strategies to complete the objectives at hand.

Dubai Escape rooms may consist of a large, single room, or span multiple rooms. Players are given a set time limit to unveil the secret plot which is hidden within the rooms. This sort of challenging activity makes fun vacations for teens. Below you find some of the best Dubai escape rooms.

  • Escape Reality Dubai – Indigo Sky, 1st Floor, Next to First Abu Dhabi Bank Metro Station Sheikh Zayed Road (Exit 41), Dubai 
  • Brain Game Dubai Escape Rooms -Jumeirah Terrace Building, Jumeirah 1 (opposite Big Flag Rooftop level Dubai
  • NoWayOut Escape Rooms Dubai –  HDS Business Centre – Shop#5, JLT – Cluster M – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Cinemas in Dubai

A perennial favourite with teenagers in Dubai whether visiting or residents is the cinema. Dubai like any major city in the world has a wide range of cinemas for you to attend. Below you will find a list of the best cinemas in Dubai.

  • VOX Cinemas Mall of the Emirates – Mall of Emirates – Level 2 – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
  • Reel Cinemas – Level 2, The Dubai Mall – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Travel with teens expert advice: 22 absolutely brilliant things to do in San Diego with teenagers

Things to do at night in Dubai – 10-pin bowling

10 Pin bowling is a great family activity to do with teenagers. There is nothing like a bit of family competition and 10-pin bowling in Dubai is just the thing. Strikes, spares, and gutter balls are all part of the action.

ten pin bowling alley in  chiang mai
A family vacation in Dubai includes fun with bowling

To be honest, the weather in Dubai is very hot and indoor activities like bowling are a great option. Find a place to bowl below.

  • The Wavehouse – Bowling and entertainment centre features bowling lanes, a bar, a ping-pong area, multi-level arcade games, and a soft play area for children -Atlantis, The Palm, from Dhs60 per person. Tel: (04) 4261166. atlantisthepalm.com
  • Dubai Bowling Centre – For the serious bowler there are 16 professional lanes showing movies above the lanes to give you something to look at when it’s not your turn. – Al Quoz 1, Meydan Road, from Dhs20 per person. Tel: (04) 3391010. bowlingdubai.com

Going to the gym in Dubai for teenagers

Fitness is very important to a lot of travelling teenagers these days. Working out is a big part of a healthy lifestyle. Just because one is travelling does not mean one needs to stop working out.

In Dubai, you can go to a number of Gyms that sell passes ranging from a day to a week and a month. Day passes start at 16 euros a day while a week pass costs 45 euros. You can find a list of Gyms in Dubai for teenagers on the Trainaway fit website

Adventure destinations for teens: Thrilling adventure activities in Portugal for teens

Shopping with Teens in Dubai

If you need to do some shopping in Dubai there are so many places to go. Shopping is a popular activity with travelling teenagers. You find American-style, boutique shopping malls and markets across the city centre. Below you will find some recommendations for shopping in Dubai with teenagers

Dubai Mall is It is home to over 1,200 shops, 120 cafes and restaurants, 22 cinema screens, a luxury hotel, and world-class entertainment areas. Dubai Mall is the largest mall in the world and even includes an underwater zoo, ice-skating rink, gaming zone, and cinema complex

Bur Dubai Souk is the local silk and fabric market. You can purchase fabric and have it made into clothes by the nearby tailors, you will also find Aladdin shoes”, Dubai t-shirts, and Burj Khalifa souvenirs.

There is so much shopping to be done in Dubai, there are malls and shops everywhere tempting you and your teens into some retail therapy.

Insider tips: 18 tried and tested tips for stress-free vacations with teens

Free things to do in Dubai with teens

Dubai offers some of the best free things to do with your teenage family members. These free Dubai activities are perfect for keeping everyone happy and entertained without having to spend any money. There are also plenty of affordable restaurants and shops where you can shop for souvenirs without breaking the bank. Some of our recommendations for free family activities in Dubai are as follows.

  • Find Dubai street art
  • Visit the Camel Museum
  • The Dubai Fountain
  • Go mountain biking at Mushrif National Park

Eating out in Dubai with teens

Some of our favourite restaurants in Dubai with teens include Tribes and Social House within Dubai Mall. A fancier place to try is Karma Kafe at adjacent Souk Al Bahar.

Discover more: 42 best things to do in Orlando with teens

Street food in Dubai

Street food is a popular way to eat in many parts of the world. It’s a quick and easy way to get some delicious local food without having to go to a full restaurant. Street food can be found in many different styles, and options.

Some of the most well-known street foods include tacos in Mexico, Zapiekanka in Poland, and Dan Dan noodles in China. Street food often has its origins in the cultural history of people who live in the region. Some of the most popular Dubai street foods include Shawarma, Manakish and Luqaimat

Top tips for teens in Dubai

When you are travelling with teens in Dubai there are a few extra things you should know about. The top travel planning tips for Dubai will make sure your family trip to The United Arab Emirates is amazing.

Clothing in Dubai for teenagers

Although the conservative Muslim dress code may not feel enforced all the time, remember it does exist. There are a time and a place for certain outfits in Dubai. Beachside and at the waterparks, you’ll see plenty of flesh and even bikinis are acceptable.

When anywhere else, at the malls or cultural attractions, your teen girls especially should look to follow the dress code advice for women in Dubai and dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered is a good standard – it is more the stares of others that may make them feel uncomfortable than actually breaking the law. Cultural understanding of what Muslims find acceptable may make your trip easier.

Safety in Dubai with teens

Other than occasional staring by some men, Dubai is considered a very safe city for travelling families – in fact often ranked as one of the top 10 safest cities in the world. Just keep clothing and behaviour in check, watch your profanities and no offensive slogan t-shirts etc. Petty crime rates are very, very low, but do keep an eye on everyone’s belongings.

Alcohol in Dubai

There is strictly no underage drinking in Dubai. The legal drinking age is 21. Whilst things have become more relaxed in recent times, in fact, drinking without a license has now been completely decriminalized, underage drinking is still a huge no-no. Due to the large Muslim population, you will find a wide variety of mocktails on offer at many places.

sunset on a city street in Dubai
Dubai with kids is a stunning destination for families

Budget travel guide for Dubai with teenagers

Children’s pricing at attractions and restaurants is generally cut out at 12 years old. Remember to budget this when pricing up your trip to Dubai as you’ll be paying for a group of adults pretty much everywhere you go. Getting your hands on the Entertainer app will easily pay for itself within a few meals over a family of 4 – plus it includes many leisure and attraction 2-4-1 offers.

Discover more: 35 amazing things to do in Edinburgh with teenagers

Day trips from Dubai

While staying in Dubai with teenagers may be the easiest option on your family vacation to Dubai, there are some fun trips for teenagers to make out of the city too. The best vacations for teenagers usually include at least one day trip. Below we have a couple of day trip recommendations for families travelling with teenagers. There are also so many more things to do on your vacation with teenagers when you add a day trip from Dubai.

Abu Dhabi day trip

Abu Dhabi lies just 138 kilometres from Dubai making it a great day trip for families visiting the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi for teens is a beautiful city filled with attractions for everyone. It has something to offer the adventurer in all of us, no matter what our interests are.

The buildings of Abu Dhabi make for great day trip from Dubai
What is near Dubai? Abu Dhabi is near Dubai

Whether you’re looking for an action-packed day or just want to enjoy the scenery, Abu Dhabi has just the thing.

Adventures in Dubai – Snorkelling in Fujairah

Fujairah, a small Emirate in the United Arab Emirates, is a popular tourist destination for its beaches and excellent year-round weather. Snorkelling enthusiasts can find a variety of marine life not found anywhere else in the UAE.

The clear water and shallow waters make for an easy experience for all skill levels. This is a family-friendly activity and doesn’t require any snorkelling experience for you to be able to snorkel and see colourful fish and sea life in the warm water. Book a snorkelling tour to Fujairah.

Planning a camping trip with teenagers? Here is the ultimate guide on how to keep teens entertained, engaged and wanting more on your camping trip!

Where to stay in Dubai with teens

If you’ve got more than a few nights to spend in Dubai, we highly recommend you look to base yourselves around JBR/Dubai Marina. Although further from the airport, this is where you will find the most action for your teens, day and night.

The other great advantage of this area is the number of hotel apartments and Airbnb options. This sort of accommodation with separate bedrooms gives families staying in Dubai with teenagers more personal space as well as kitchen facilities – and most come with superb beach or marina views to wake up to.

If you are budgeting in a theme park or water park, definitely consider staying the night on-site as the inclusive park tickets mean you can make a massive saving. We normally recommend tagging this on to the start or end of your trip with cheaper accommodation in between!

Booking.com

Are you looking to book flights, hotels, apartments, tours, airport transfers, travel insurance and more? Are you just not sure what companies you can trust to book your travel online? We have a resource page that is full of companies that we personally use and book through for all trips from a weekend away to long-term travel around the world. Click here to search our travel resources page.

Frequently asked questions about Dubai

There are so many frequently asked questions about Dubai, especially from families travelling with teenagers. Below we try to answer some of the most asked questions about travel in Dubai.

What is the legal drinking age in the U.A.E?

Alcohol can only be consumed privately or in licensed public places. A person must be at least 21 to drink legally in the UAE

Is Dubai a safe city for families?

Dubai is actually one of the most family-friendly travel destinations in the world

Do people speak English in Dubai?

English is the most widely spoken language in Dubai, especially for business, trade and tourism

How do I call the police in Dubai?

For emergencies or to get an ambulance call 999, to report a crime call the Dubai Police Al Ameen service on 800-4888 and for non-emergencies, you can call 901

Do I need to tip in Dubai?

In Dubai, you don’t have to tip, as a service charge is built into the prices (especially with restaurants). It won’t be considered rude if you don’t leave the staff any dirhams

Can I drink tap water in Dubai?

Tap water is perfectly acceptable to drink on your family trip to Dubai with tweens.

What power plug adaptor will my teen in Dubai need?

For Dubai and all places within the United Arab Emirates, the associated plug type is G, which is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Dubai operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

This article was contributed by Keri who blogs at www.dubaitravelplanner.com for us here at Wyld Family Travel. We hope this article has you inspired to visit Dubai with teenagers. There are so many things to do in Dubai with teenagers that will have you entertained on your family vacation in Dubai.

 Travelling with young adults has just as many issues as travelling with younger children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations can be so time-consuming. Use our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides from all over the world for your next family vacation inspiration to make your family vacations with teens epic.

For more amazing ideas on where to holiday in Dubai click through to our UAE Destination Guide page for more brilliant inspiration.


More travel inspiration for your family vacation with teens


Author bio:

Father, husband, traveller, and chief destination manager here at Wyld Family Travel. When Mark is not talking about travel or planning travel you will find him working in disability support. Mark is a family travel advocate, having travelled to over 45 countries with his kids from 10 months old, through to their teenage years. You will find his work here and on other popular websites.

Having a beer in Pilsen Czech
Mark Wyld

Content Creator

Sharing is caring!