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Time Out Dubai
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Things to do in Dubai in summer: 53 cool activities to try
Temperatures in summer can get pretty toasty here in Dubai. But that doesn't mean the fun stops. There are heaps of brilliant things to do in Dubai in summer. From fun activities and attractions to try indoors, there's plenty to keep you busy. You might also like: The movies you have to catch this summer From sky-high restaurants with a view to indoor theme parks, and icy milkshakes to slurp, these are the best things to do right now. 56 cool things to do in Dubai in Summer Indoor attractions Be Pac-Man for the day If this was one of your favourites as a kid, then you need to step inside the game and experience real-life Pac-Man. Now at Active Games, the 45-minute maze will even get your heart rate up as you dodge hungry ghosts, collect power pellets and chase a high score. Opening Wed May 7. From Dhs160. Mon-Wed 1pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. Al Quoz, Bounce around at Loco Bear When it comes to indoor entertainment, pretty much everything you can think of is under this roof. Climbing walls? Yup. Trampolining? Of course. Roll glider? You know it. VR headsets? What do you think. And that's only the half if it. Giving you hours of summer fun, the attraction is the new spot to checkout with all the family. Free entry. Credit bands from Dhs250. Open Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Quoz 2. (800 56262). Get up high at Ain Dubai The world's largest observation wheel was closed for more than two years for maintenance but has since reopened and is happily spinning once again. Standing at 250m high, the world's largest observation wheel looks out onto Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah as well as landmarks like the Burj Al Arab and the Burj Khalifa. From Dhs145 (aged 12+), From Dhs115 (aged 3+), Free (infants under 3). Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island. Hit the slopes at Ski Dubai (Credit: Supplied) Getting too hot out and about? Cool off at Ski Dubai. Whether you're meeting the penguins, zorbing along the snow or zipping down the slopes, it's a top way to keep active and have some fun in an icy environment. Sound a bit strenuous? You can ditch the slopes a little early and enjoy the hot chocolate included in your ticket price instead. Prices vary. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri 10am-midnight, Sat-Sun 9am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, (04 409 4000). Escape the heat (literally) at Game Over (Credit: Game Over Escape Rooms) With themed escape rooms covering everything from Harry Potter to Alice and Wonderland or horror, these 60-minute escape rooms are ideal for two to seven players, so round up your mates and put your brains together, in the cool A/C. Dhs175 (for two). Open Sun-Thu 10am-10.30pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah, (04 577 3289). Have a sugar rush at Museum of Candy In need of a sugar rush? The attraction is an incredible adventure browsing 15 rooms all dedicated to (you guessed it), candy. Not only will you learn some weird and wonderful facts, you'll also get to slide into a gummy bear pool, watch some crazy candy being crafted and get some ideal insta opportunities. Don't leave without trying the unlimited ice cream (the flavours might surprise you). From Dhs119 (adult), Dhs99 (child). Open daily 10-10pm. Umm Hurair Rd, Oud Metha, (04 591 0088). Meet the stars at Madame Tussauds (Credit: Supplied) Dubai is a popular place for celebs to travel, but to get up close and personal with the stars (kind of) a trip to Madame Tussauds on Bluewaters Dubai is for you. Snap a selfie next to recently added stars Kate Winslet and George Clooney, before trying an action shot with tennis star Serena Williams. Say 'air-conditioning'. From Dhs95. Open daily 11.30am-8.30pm. Bluewaters Dubai. (04 873 3042). Plunge underwater at Deep Dive Dubai When it comes to trying out something different, a trip to Deep Dive Dubai should be on the agenda. Explore the sunken city 60m deep (that's 14 million litres of water) with scuba diving equipment strapped on. Expect to discover faux abandoned apartments, a library, a games room and more. Not sure if going all the way down to the bottom of a false ocean is for you? There are options to shallow dive and snorkel if you prefer to be close to the surface. Happy splashing. From Dhs400 (snorkelling), from Dhs900 (shallow diving), from Dhs1100 (freediving), from Dhs1800 (scuba). Open daily 9am-6pm, Nad Al Sheba. (04 501 9444). Ride the Stormcoaster at Dubai Hills Mall Wandering around the mall and the urge for an adrenaline rush hits? With twists, turns, massive dives and inclines, the high-octane ride is officially the fastest vertical-launch ride in the world, getting up to 41km/h. Blink and you'll miss it, as the ride whooshes around in under two minutes. It's all indoors, too. From Dhs65. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, (04 448 5033). Say hi to the fish at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Whether you want to check out the marine life from behind the glass or dive with sharks in the massive tanks, there's an option for all fish fans at The Dubai Aquarium. With 140 species and more than 400 sharks and rays, this is one spot that all the family will love this summer. Prices vary. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 38224 6255). See the city from The Dubai Frame Want a view, but also want to stay inside? This cool vantage point at Zabeel Park allows visitors with a head for heights to see the city's past, present and future in a one-hour tour with unique views of 'old' and 'new' Dubai from a 150-metre-high sky glass bridge. Don't forget your camera phone as you'll want to capture the super views. Dhs50 (adult), Dhs20 (child). Daily 9am-9pm. Zabeel Park, (800 900). Go shopping in a brand new mall Get your retail therapy in the city's latest shopping mall, where you could literally browse for hours. Pick up some new pieces at stores from Omega to The Editors Market, treat yourself to something sweet from Parka before getting the food shop in at the brand new Spinneys supermarket. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-noon. Nad Al Sheba, Skate around at Dubai Mall Ice Rink When you think of ice skating you usually think of it being Christmas time but here in Dubai we are lucky enough to have access to Dubai Mall's Ice Rink all-year round. The perfect way to stay cool when the sticky summer heat descends, why not brush up on your skating skills followed by a mooch around the A/C chilled mall? From Dhs110. Open daily 10am-midnight, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 3822 46255). Spend the day lost at SENSAS The new multi-sensory experience has just landed in Dubai, putting together a selection of experiences and puzzles that you will work your way around. From wacky taste tests to challenges in pitch darkness, you'll get to make the most of some awesome photo opportunities too. From Dhs140. Open Mon-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Quoz, (050 856 4990). Skydive at iFly There is nothing worse for thrill seekers than being idle and throughout the summer months there is no need to stay shut away. One way to get your adrenaline pumping is by taking part in an indoor skydive at iFly. As part of the experience, you'll be taken four metres into the air (with an instructor) inside a powerful air tunnel and then you will descend down. There is even the option to take part in a VR experience where you can feel like you are taking part in a real skydive from a plane. From Dhs179. Sun-Thu noon-10pm, Fri noon-midnight, Sat noon-11pm. City Centre Mirdif, (04 231 6292). Stroll around the Chinatown Chinatown inside Dubai Mall is like taking a trip to an East-Asian country without boarding a plane. A lovely way to spend an afternoon, there is an expansive food hall (make sure to fuel up on all your favourite Chinese dishes), a handful of shops and a large Chinese medicine spa. There's loads of Instagrammable spots too, so snap a quick selfie next to the giant panda before you leave. Free. Open daily noon-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Visit House of Hype A newer addition to Dubai Mall, House of Hype is the type of place you could spend hours in. From making your own music video to creating your own avatar, walking through the different themes and games, to designing trainers with your voice, you've got over 100 activities to choose from. If you need a pick-me-up, try a funky cake pop or a cheesy taiyaki fish as you make your way round. Happy exploring. From Dhs149. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (04 542 0330). Zoom down a glass slide An eye-watering 220m above ground, this slide and walking experience gets your heart pumping while you enjoy jaw-dropping views of the city below. But if that's not enough for your inner thrill-seeker, you can try leaning over the edge – with a safety harness – to bag the Instagram snap of your dreams. While those who want to take things slower can try the glass slide. Don't look down. From Dhs80. Open daily 10am-10pm. Address Sky View Hotel, Downtown Dubai, (04 873 8888). Art and culture Explore Museum of the Future Chances are you've admired the Museum of the Future (after all, it's one stunning piece of architecture) but have you checked out inside yet? The museum has a number of floors with different interactive experiences to explore. It recently celebrated its first birthday and with an AI-powered humanoid, Ameca, Bob the robot barista and flying robots inside a visit is something to be ticked off your to-do list this summer. From Dhs159. Open daily 9.30am-7pm, Sheikh Zayed Road, (800 2071). Read a book at Mohammed Bin Rashid Library This stunning library opened in June 2022 and is a must-visit for those who love to read. There's everything from maps and business books to young adult fiction and special collections. It's home to more than 1.1 million printed and digital books in Arabic and foreign languages. Costing Dhs1 billion to build, the seven-floor building is home to nine libraries, an amphitheatre, a garden and a café, so there's plenty to explore. Free. Open Mon-Thurs, 9am-9pm, Fri, 2pm-9pm, Sat, 9am-9pm. Al Jaddaf, (800 627523). See the summer shows at The Foundry If you didn't know already, The Foundry is one of the best places in Dubai to see art. With free shows all summer, there's loads to explore. Not only free to attend, you can view a series of new works every few weeks from the creative community, including local and international artists. Free. Open daily 10am-10pm. Dubai Downtown Boulevard, (04 367 3696). Visit the Theatre of Digital Art If you're an art lover, the Theatre of Digital Art is one to try. A 360-degree digital art theatre with a variety of events and exhibitions, there's always something new to see and do here. From live jazz music evenings to yoga classes and moving work from some of the world's biggest artists (from Monet to Banksy) the immersive experience is one of the city's coolest attractions. Prices vary. Open daily 10am-11pm. Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, (04 277 4044). Watch a show at Dubai Opera Spend a few hours being mesmerised by your performance, in the comfort of the grand opera house. This stunning boat-shaped building puts on loads of incredible performances, from ballet to rock concerts. You can find more on this years' top gigs and concerts in our 2025 guide here. Prices vary. Downtown Dubai, (04 440 8888). Restaurants Afternoon tea time at The Royal Tearoom Served in the huge lobby of the world-famous hotel, next to the water droplet sculpture and just back from the fire walls on entry, there's a lot to catch your interest at this one. But the afternoon tea that arrives is guaranteed to keep your attention. Served with flair – and explanations about the tea-brewing process – there's a selection of high-quality sandwiches and a generous selection of cakes. Dhs560 for two. Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 2626). Eat unlimited steak at Rowley's Rowley's in DIFC hosts a laid-back yet lively Saturday brunch dedicated to serious meat lovers, offering a full carnivorous feast in a stylish setting. The unlimited brunch menu features endless servings of steak, crispy truffle fries, juicy beef skewers, beef tartare, tater tots and a rotation of signature salads. You can indulge as much as you like while enjoying the cool weekend atmosphere. Dhs260 (house beverages), Dhs190 (soft drinks), free (kids under 7). Sat 12pm-3:30pm. The Slice, Central Park Towers, DIFC, (04 257 4754). Time Out Market (Credit: Time Out Market) If you're other half just can't decide what they want to eat, take them here. The market is packed with some of the city's best food vendors guaranteed to satisfy any craving. In the mood for a filling treat? Grab the garlic knots from Pitfire Pizza. Want something a little more local? Be sure to try the spread from Liban. Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am, Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-midnight. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, (054 375 2421). Get a mixed beverage and bar bites at Paradiso A restaurant and bar with an incredible view of Dubai, sit amongst the life-size carousel horses and carnival lights for a (very) cool mixed drink and the best bar bites in the city. Order a selection of modern tapas, with the crunchy octopus cracker, truffle brioche, wagyu beef meatballs and paella croquettes all very well presented and extremely moreish. Open Sun-Wed 5pm-2am; Thu-Fri 5pm-4am; Sat 4pm-4am. FIVE LUXE JBR, (04 455 9989). Sip unlimited mixed drinks for Dhs90 (Credit: GABA) Tea room by day, speakeasy by night – the newest bar in Dubai Marina has just launched an impressive deal if you're a fan of mixed drinks. Running every day from 5pm to 10pm, you can enjoy free-flowing mixed drinks while listening to live DJs and checking out the rotating art exhibitions inside. Dhs90. Daily 5pm-10pm. Exact location confirmed on booking, Dubai Marina, @ Kick-start the day with breakfast at Bartartine Famous for its tartines and healthy dishes across Europe, Bartartine's Dubai outpost serves a fantastic breaky. Located in Dubai Hills Mall, the recently opened spot offers both indoor and outdoor seating options and a menu filled to the brim with baked goods and egg dishes. From eggs benedict and the veggie-baked omelette to tasty tartines (of course) made with smoked turkey and Edam cheese, there's a little something for everyone. Wash it all down with some speciality coffee made with an organic blend. Open daily 9am-midnight. Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, (04 529 3467). Make a date at The Agency Those who have been in Dubai for a while will likely remember the popular grape bar The Agency (largely due to its incredible weekly deals). Well, it's back in town with a revamp and is still promising a huge selection of grape. Now located in DIFC's Jumeirah Emirates Towers, the bar promises and an extensive selection of grape-by-the-glass from Dhs50 each. And it's indoors, too. Open daily 11am-1am. Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road. (04 330 0000). Spin around at Al Dawaar Choosing where to sit in a restaurant is high-stakes stuff, and we're not embarrassed to admit we've wandered from window to window multiple times, sat down, and then ended up moving again. But at Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant, you don't have to worry about choosing the best view of Dubai, as it's guaranteed to come to you. In the 90 minutes it takes to rotate the entire way around, you'll get to enjoy 360-degree views of Deira and beyond as you tuck into classic buffet dishes. We will admit, the novelty does wear off (it's the city's only revolving restaurant for a reason), but the views from the 25th floor make this spot well worth a visit at least once. Open Mon-Fri 6.30pm-11.30pm; Sat-Sun 12.30pm-4pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm. Hyatt Regency Dubai, Deira Corniche. (04 209 6912). Have lunch at SUSHISAMBA Credit: SUSHISAMBA Dubai Check out the SUSHISAMBA's special weekend lunch offer. Expect a dining experience that offers a selection of signature dishes. From the sea bream ceviche and the favourite samba Dubia roll to the seafood cazuela rice. The special weekend lunch menu is priced at Dhs249 for two courses, or Dhs299 for those who want to cheer to a weekend well spent with a glass of grape or mixed drinks. Dhs249 (two courses), Dhs299 (two courses and a glass of grape) Sat-Sun 1pm-3.30pm. Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, (04 278 4888). Try Dubai's best tasting menu at FZN by Björn Frantzén The restaurant at Atlantis The Palm has just 27 seats, 13 of which surround the open kitchen, where you can try duck barbecue with yuzu, Kampot pepper and foie gras, and turbot with Cecina de wagyu. At dinner, you can choose a grape pairing, a zero percent pairing, a combination of both, or your own selections from a cellar featuring 1,300 grape labels. Starting from AED2,000 per person, this is one of the most expensive tasting menus in Dubai – but it's also one of the best. From Dhs2,000. Open Tue-Sat 7pm-1am. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (050 107 6322). Visit an award-winning brunch at Zuma One of the most popular brunches around, this has both à la carte and buffet aspects to it, and you get to select one of the restaurant's signature mains which is brought to your table. It's a brilliant way to try one of the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai as there are so many signature dishes to tuck into and a large range of sushi to try. With a selection of maki, nigiri, sashimi and more, plus robata and tempura, the brunch gets off to a strong start. Choose from dishes including the famous miso black cod, before rounding it all off with dessert. The service is excellent and the bar makes for a lively post-brunch drink. A stalwart in DIFC and a crowd-pleaser in every way. Dhs545 (soft drinks), Dhs645 (house beverages), Dhs795 (bubbly). Sat 12.30pm-4pm. Gate Village 6, DIFC. (04 425 5660) Watch a dinner show at Babylon Though there are now many dinner and show venues in the city, there aren't any quite like Babylon in DIFFC. Inspired by the ancient city, the interiors pay homage to decadence and the entertainment follows suit. Plus the upmarket dishes including sushi and steak are just as good as the entertainment. Prices vary. Wed-Sat 9pm-3am. Podium Level, Gate Village 5, DIFC. (04 352 7750). Family Get caught in the rain at The Green Planet Missing wildlife? What about the rain? Fancy a trip to the jungle? A tropical thunderstorm happens at 1pm and 5pm every day at The Green Planet to help you cool off. From Dhs155. Open daily 10am-6pm. City Walk, Al Safa Street, (800 637227). Take the kiddos to a new ice-cream parlour Credit: Amorino Now nestled into Souk Madinat Jumeirah, the ice-cream parlour was originally founded in 2002 by two Italian friends, taking over Italy, Paris, and now Dubai. Famed for its tasty cones in the shape of a rose, you can sample over 22 flavours and discover the souk's alleyway with a chilly treat. Don't forget to top the cone with a gelato-filled macaron when you're ordering, or for those who don't fancy a cone, try an Affogato or a French crêpe instead. Sun-Thurs 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Al Sufouh 1. (055 229 3710). Explore Tr88house This cool indoor play centre has areas for all different ages, from tots to tweens. including trampolines and even a soft play. At 65,000 sq ft there's plenty of room to run around indoors. There's a coffee shop, too if you're a parent in desperate need of a caffeine fix. From Dhs50. Open daily 10am-midnight. Bluewaters Dubai, (04 355 8888). Run around at KidZania (Credit: Supplied) If your little ones are desperate to let off a little steam over the warmer months, swap an outdoor playground for an indoor play town, and let them go crazy at KidZania. Here, they can try their hand at all sorts of career options, be it a firefighter or radio presenter, a pilot or even a surgeon! There are all sorts of other cool grown-up roles for them to test their skills at too, so a few hours here should burn off plenty of energy. From Dhs195. Open daily 10am-11pm. Dubai Mall, (04 448 5222). Scream at IMG Dubai's 1.5million-square-foot IMG Worlds of Adventure is the biggest indoor theme park on the planet, and it's home to some pretty epic rides (and ice-cold A/C). The only things sweating will be your palms as you ride the roller coasters in all of the different zones. If you're coming with the little ones, be sure to visit the IMG Kids' Zone too. Dhs345 (adults), Dhs100 (kids). Open Sun-Fri noon-10pm, Sat noon-11pm. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Dubailand, (04 403 8888). Visit Loco Bear When it comes to indoor entertainment, pretty much everything you can think of is under this roof. Climbing walls? Yup. Trampolining? Of course. Roll glider? You know it. VR headsets? What do you think. And that's only the half if it. Giving you hours of summer fun, the attraction is the new spot to checkout with all the family. Free entry. Credit bands from Dhs250. Open Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Quoz 2. (800 56262). Sport Burn it up at CRANK Credit: CRANK This Al Quoz studio is known for pushing the boundaries when it comes to a spin class (they've even hosted one on the DXB runway), so expect to push yourself at one of the sessions. Get in the zone inside the darkened studio, get lost in the music (the playlists are top-notch) and keep riding until your legs are burning. Expect some intense endorphins after this one. From Dhs130. Open Sun, Mon, Wed, Fri 6.30am-9.30pm, Tue, Thu 6am-9.30pm, Sat 8am-2pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, (04 321 2095). Jump around at Parkour DXB Flexing your running muscles has never been easier or more fun, than with Parkour. Dubai is one of the best cities in the world to test your skills, with three locations dotted around town. Parkour JVC is a particular standout, with a 5,500sqft gym featuring custom-built obstacle courses. Classes are available for all age groups, too, so don't rule it out as an option for little ones. Opening times and prices. Various locations including Port Rashid, Al Quoz and JVC. (800 727 5687). Glow in the dark mini golf at JBR You can traverse three worlds across 18 holes of luminous action at 3D Blacklight Minigolf's 18-hole course. With everything from desert scenes to the ocean depths and the solar system, it really is golf with a difference. From Dhs110. Open Mon-Thurs 1pm-1am, Fri-Sun 11am-1am. Bahar Plaza Level, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence. (04 565 7621). Practise underwater yoga at The Lost Chambers This is as close to doing yoga under the sea as it gets. At this early-morning session (well, 8am) at the popular aquarium on the Palm, not only will you be put through your paces at a yoga class, but you'll also do so surrounded by the stunning tanks at the Lost Chambers aquarium. You'll come out feeling relaxed and stretched, and you'll also get a chance to spot sharks, stingrays and jellyfish while you strike a pose. Dhs175. Mon, Wed, Sat, Sun, 8am-9am. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 1000). Have a sound healing session Things to do in Dubai in July. Credit: The Chi Room Spend an evening connecting with your inner emotions as you listen to the tones of Tibetan bowls being rung throughout the room. Located in Al Quoz, the studio will get you to lie down and simply listen to the soothing frequencies, designed to help your mind relax and settle. Or if you would rather do something different, the studio hosts sessions in yoga, meditation and even breathwork to ensure you find some inner calm. Prices vary. Open daily 8.30am-8pm. The Chi Room, Unit 80, Alserkal Avenue. (04 573 6500). Skate around at Roll DXB Get your skates on, literally, as this is one cool indoor venue you'll want to rush along to this summer. Roll DXB is a super-fun place for a laugh-a-minute day out as you skid around the roller rink to top tunes. Head here with your mates or a date and enjoy top tunes as you attempt to stay on your feet. A retro roller disco vibe means you'll have a brilliant night out. Neon headbands at the ready. From Dhs90. Open daily 11am-11pm. Marina Cubes, Port Rashid, Deira, ( 055 800 6868). Swing at the golf simulator at Five Iron Although plenty of courses in Dubai have summer golf deals, if you want to avoid the heat on the fairways but still practise your swing, Five Iron is a top option. As well as the pool tables and shuffleboard, the golf simulators are absolutely worth a try, where you can battle it out with your mates around the course without setting foot outside, plus you can refuel with some tasty pub grab afterwards. Are you the next Rory McIlroy or Lydia Ko? Grab a club and find out. From Dhs74.5. Open Sun-Mon 7am-midnight, Tue-Thu 7am-1am, Fri-Sat 7am-2am. The Westin Dubai Marina, (04 396 6867). Try a Pilates class at POSTURE Posture The studio is about as aesthetic as they come, with starlit roofs, huge lit mirrors and a gorgeous recovery area where you can pick up a coffee afterwards. Offering everything from reformer to sound healing and yoga, the team come from all around the world with some of the best technique in the business. From Dhs150 (single class). Class timings vary. Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah, (058 515 0624). Cinemas with USPs Cinemacity Fountain Views This licensed cinema has a VIP experience. Put your feet up in the VIP recliner and prepare to be thoroughly entertained in the utmost comfort. Dhs138 (VIP Class Recliner). Cinemacity Fountain Views, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, (04 770 0111). Watch a summer blockbuster at Roxy Xtreme Cinemas can even get a little too cold, so if you're feeling the heat it's time to cool off in front of the silver screen. Boasting the largest cinema screen in the Middle East, the Roxy Xtreme screen is a whopping 28m high by 15.1m wide, which is the size of two tennis courts. When watching a film here, you can even sit in the Director's Boxes, which host 12 people and come with food. Prices vary. Roxy Cinemas, Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, (800 7699). ScreenX at Reel Cinemas in Dubai Mall This multi-projection screening system offers audiences a 270-degree cinema screen. That means even your peripheral vision will be fully engaged in the latest blockbusters. The technology expands the image of films onto three of the cinema's walls without distorting what's on screen and is perfect for watching action-packed flicks or horror movies. Yikes. Prices vary. Reel Cinemas, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai (800 382246255). The Theatre at Vox Cinemas Tucked up inside Mall of the Emirates, this movie magic has gone *all out* to make you feel like a VIP. Arrive early before your movie, so you can make the most of the THEATRE lounge, complete with welcome drinks, pool tables and even shuffleboards for a quick game before the trailers start rolling. Ranging from around Dhs225 a ticket, popcorn is included, but of course, you can order some other treats once you're in there. And by treats, we mean a full three-course meal if you fancied it. Whether you choose burger sliders, a steak sandwich or dynamite shrimp, enjoy personal butler service. Prices vary. VOX Cinemas, Mall of the Emirates, Level 2, (600 599905). Waterparks to cool off at Atlantis Aquaventure Found at Atlantis The Palm, thrill-seekers can make the most of a line-up of world-class slides and cool off with a float around the lazy river. Something for the little ones, the park also has a dedicated kids' zone featuring a giant pirate ship that is kitted out with water guns and giant buckets. Just remember to pick up some pool socks so your feet don't get too hot. From Dhs360. Open daily 9.15am-6pm. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah. (04 426 0000). Jungle Bay Ready for family fun near the Marina? The Lighthouse, Whizzard & Body Slides are gentle slides that are perfect for little thrill seekers, while a dedicated splash park, Aquaplay, with no height restrictions, is aimed at kids of all ages. For the more daring, Family Waves is a six-metre pneumatic wave pool offering hours of splashing fun. P.S: You'll need to book this one in advance as it's a very popular choice. Dhs200 (adults), Dhs100 (kids aged four-12) Mon-Fri; Dhs300 (adults), Dhs200 (kids aged four-12) Sat-Sun. Open daily 8am-sunset. Al Sufouh, (04 399 3333). Wild Wadi Backdrops don't get much better than that of the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. With around 30 fun slides and experiences there's something for everyone whether you're looking for hair-raising, or just hoping not to get your hair wet at all. One of Dubai's oldest and most iconic waterparks, a fun day out is guaranteed. From Dhs195 (residents). Open daily 10am-6pm. Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqeim, (04 348 4444). Other things to do in Dubai in summer 13 must-visit Dubai attractions remaining open for summer 2025 There's still lots to enjoy during the warmer months The movies you have to catch this summer (and where to watch them) The blockbusters you can't afford to miss 50 free things to do in Dubai in 2025 You won't believe what you can do
Time Out Dubai
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
11 underrated things to do in the UAE
Dubai holds a lot of records – the tallest building, the largest shopping mall, the deepest pool and more. Beyond all of this record-breaking, there's a whole other side to the city that doesn't always make it to the 'gram but still deserves a spot on your bucket list. If you're after cool, underrated things to do that are loved and recommended by locals and residents alike, you're in the right place. We've rounded up a few not-so-easily-found spots to add to your city must-try list. 11 underrated things to do in Dubai Fight zombies in virtual reality Even if you're not a hardcore gamer, Battleworld JVC is still well worth checking out. It's home to VR arenas and stations where you can fully immerse yourself in whatever world you choose. With over 70 games to pick from, ranging from action and adventure to puzzles and simulations, you can dive into virtual reality or go head-to-head in laser tag. From Dhs20. Open daily 10am-3am. Circle Mall by Dubai Retail, @ (054 787 5777) Go bowling with a '90s twist. One of Dubai's OG bowling centres, Dubai Bowling Center, has a hidden restaurant and a gaming area called Player's Den. You can access the space by – get this – opening a trophy-shaped door. The setting inside is a bit luxe and super vintage. Play pool, bowl, throw darts and try your hand at table tennis, among other things – all while sipping on a refreshing drink. The menu deserves a shoutout too — try the fried steak burger and the za'atar kale Caesar salad are must-tries. Open Sun-Thu 10am-midnight, Fri-Sat 10am-1am. Al Quoz, Meydan Road, @dubaibowlingcenter (054 998 9787). Skate like no one's watching (Credit: shutterstock) Galleria ice rink at Hyatt Regency is not very crowded most of the time, so if you're just learning to balance on skates, it's one to check out. Learn to pirouette with professional instructors or just free skate through the relatively empty rink and have the time of your life. When you're feeling peckish, replenish with snacks and drinks at DeliBites. Dhs65 (2.5 hours). Open daily 10am-9.30pm. Hyatt Regency, Corniche Deira, (04 209 6550) Fly a plane (sort of) Credit: Etihad Airways Ever wondered what it's like to be an Emirates pilot? Thanks to the airline's flight simulator at Dubai Mall, try taking off and landing with a flight instructor by your side while you can marvel at the cockpit. Dhs160 (15 minutes). Open daily, noon-10pm. Dubai Mall, (04 325 3044). Have your F1 moment Looking to escape the heat and still get your adrenaline fix? Say no more. Chaos Karts UAE combines karting and video gaming, meaning you'll be able to drive through the desert (or even the cosmos), and drift, dodge, battle other karts or simply focus on crossing that finish line first. From Dhs140 (minimum age: nine years old). Mon-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-midnight, Sun 11am-11pm. Al Quoz. Tour a coffee roastery Take a behind-the-scenes tour of one of Dubai's top roasteries, RAW Coffee Company, that's equal parts educational and enjoyable. Through its 'Inside RAW' experience, you'll tour the roastery, learn how coffee makes its journey from seed to cup, understand how to taste and evaluate beans through a cupping session and even get hands-on with making espresso and steaming milk. Dhs262.50 per person. (Minimum of four required for a session). Days available upon enquiry. Al Quoz. (04 339 5474). Sit down for a traditional Emirati lunch Want to experience Emirati culture and food? Try the real thing at the non-profit organisation Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, located in the Al Fahidi historic district. You'll be offered a feast of Emirati delicacies in a majlis set inside a heritage building that was once an actual home. If you're planning to check it out, now's the time to do so, as there's a 20 percent off tickets now until the end of August. Breakfast: Dhs130. Wed at 9am. Lunch: Dhs145. Mon, Tue, Wed 1pm. Dinner: Dhs160. Tue, 6.30pm. Brunch: Dhs130. Fri-Sat 11am-noon. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, (04 353 6666). Learn to sail a dinghy with experts (Credit: iStock) Enjoy breathtaking views of the horizon as you learn to sail the Arabian Gulf. Classes are offered by the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club and are available every Thursday in September when the weather cools down and run from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. The best part? No experience is needed whatsoever. Dhs340. Every Thu, from Sep. 5.30pm-8.30pm. Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, Visit 22 pavilions at Al Shindagha Museum (Credit: Al Shindagha Museum) The UAE's largest heritage site is surely one to check out if you want to visit a different side of Dubai, away from the glitz and the glam. It's where you'll discover our beautiful city's origin story. Get a flavour for Emirati life in years gone by; this museum is in a stunning location too, looking out over the water. Over 22 themed pavilions display interactive exhibits that present the stories of Dubai's people and their traditions. Dhs50. Open daily 10am-8pm (last entry 7pm). Al Shindagha Museum, Al Shindagha. (800 33 222). A little away from Dubai… Have good old fun at Dreamland Aqua Park (Credit: Dreamland Aqua Park) This is the water park Dubai kids grew up with and it's still got that nostalgic charm that makes it worth a visit. Located one and a half hours away from Dubai, there are 25 attractions to enjoy, from slides and waterfalls to a massive wave pool. When you want to fuel up, head to the relaxed pool bar or the indoor dining area. Best of all, it's a lot less crowded than the city's bigger water parks, so you've got more space to splash around. From Dhs125 (adult), Dhs85 (Sat 5pm-8pm). Open Sun-Fri 11am-7pm. Sat 10am-8pm. Al Shebeakah, Umm Al Quwain, (050 6362217). Explore the cosmos at Sharjah's space museum (Credit: shutterstock) Interested in all things space? You can see the stars, the planets and all the things that make our galaxy special up close at Sharjah Academy of Astronomy, Space Sciences & Technology's planetarium. It's got cool replicas of satellites, rovers and rockets, plus games, workshops and more to keep you exploring. Ever wanted to be inside a spaceship? Now's your chance to be in one. Dhs50 (adults), Dhs25 (kids). Open Mon-Wed 9am-3pm, Thu 9am-7pm, Sat noon-7pm, Sun noon-3pm. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Road, University City, (06 516 6000). Check out vintage cars at Sharjah's Classic Cars Museum (Credit: Getty Images) If vintage cars are your thing, you'll feel on top of the world here. This collection features over a hundred classic cars and motorcycles, including models dating back to 1915. Among the collection are a Model T Ford, a 1969 Mercedes Pullman Limousine (that was custom-made for Sharjah's ruler and one of only 2,000 in the world) and a 1974 MG Midget. Dhs10. Sat-Thu 8am-8pm, Fri 4pm-8pm. Near Sharjah International Airport, Other things to do this week in Dubai How to be a big kid in Dubai — from ball pits to laser tag We're throwing it back to the good old days 69 brilliant pool day passes and deals for 2025 Have some well-earned fun in the sun 50 cool things to do in Dubai for less than Dhs50 Record-breaking attractions and bargain days out
What's On
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
The best all you can eat sushi deals in Dubai
From budget friendly buffets to upscale unlimited platters, Dubai is a sushi lover's paradise. We've rounded up eight of the top all you can eat sushi deals across the city, perfect for when one roll just isn't enough. Come hungry, leave happy. Ikigai Think all you can eat sushi, but with a side of weekend energy. This buzzing JBR spot is serving up unlimited rolls and refreshing sips in a fun, laid back setting. Whether you're in it for the grape, the cocktails, or just plate after plate of sushi, Ikigai's got a combo to suit your vibe. It's the kind of deal that turns a casual Sunday or Monday into a night to remember, especially when the sushi just keeps coming. Location: Ikigai, 1st Floor, Millennium Place Marina Hotel, Al Marsa Street, Dubai Marina Times: Sundays & Mondays, 5pm to 9pm Cost: ladies: Dhs119 (unlimited sushi & grape), gents: Dhs249 (unlimited sushi & drinks), gents: Dhs119 (unlimited sushi only) Contact: 04 550 8114 Mu-Kii Sushi Think all you can eat, but with an interactive twist. You'll order straight from sleek iPads, choosing from sushi, bao buns, udon, grills and more 'all for just Dhs160. The space is modern, the vibe is casual, and the portions? Endless. It's the kind of spot that works for a chilled family lunch or an indulgent dinner with friends. Bonus: kids under 5 eat free, and it's just Dhs90 for little ones up to 12. Location: Mu-Kii Sushi, Pavilion at The Beach, JBR, Dubai Times: Daily, 12pm to 1am Cost: Dhs160 per person, free for kids under 5, Dhs90 for kids aged 5 to 12 Contact: 04 548 4252 Barfly by Buddha-Bar Think sushi night, but make it luxe. Barfly by Buddha-Bar's Sushi Social is your midweek excuse to indulge—unlimited, expertly crafted sushi in a sleek, atmospheric setting. Every Tuesday, from 7pm to 10pm, guests can feast on endless rolls starting from just Dhs169 per person, all soundtracked by a live DJ spinning feel-good tunes to keep the vibes high and the chopsticks moving. Location: Barfly by Buddha-Bar, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah Times: Tuesdays, 7pm to 10pm Cost: From Dhs169 per person Contact: 054 994 1460 OAnjo Rooftop vibes and sushi feasts with a side of sunset views, thats a yes from us. At OAnjo, the all-you-can-eat sushi deal is a no-brainer for Dubai diners in the know. Every Tuesday, dig into unlimited sushi for just Dhs125—or upgrade to Dhs199 with unlimited selected drinks for two hours. Can't make it midweek? Swing by Friday to Sunday for the same experience at Dhs145, or Dhs245 with drinks. With a live DJ setting the mood and the option to dine al fresco, this one's perfect for an easygoing dinner that turns into a vibe. Location: OAnjo, Sheraton, Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha Times: Tuesdays and Friday to Sunday, 5pm to 11pm Cost: Tuesdays: Dhs125 (sushi only), Dhs199 (sushi + drinks), Fri to Sun: Dhs145 (sushi only), Dhs245 (sushi + drinks) Contact: 052 587 9530 Image: Instagram > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Time Out Dubai
18-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time Out Dubai
Your complete guide to Dubai Internet City
Welcome to Dubai Internet City. This part of town is known to be home to some very cool offices and is a real hotspot when it comes to commuters. If you like this: Your ultimate guide to every Dubai neighbourhood You're more likely to be working here than you are living, but there are places to permanently pitch your tent, as well as grab a bite or hangout on your lunch break. If you're planning a visit (or you're already there), here's everything you need to know. Your ultimate guide to Dubai Internet City Renting in Dubai Internet City Average rent price/housing type: Dhs160,000 per year (one-bedroom apartment). It's more common to visit Dubai Internet City than to be living in it, as most buildings are commercial rather than residential. However, there are a few properties spread across the area and neighbouring areas including Dubai Media City. The average one-bedroom apartment is currently rented for an annual average of Dhs160,000 according to the latest data from Property Finder. However, there are some incredible towers currently in the works, including the Iconic and Damac Casa projects, but they'll set you back a dirham or two. Where to eat in Dubai Internet City Since this neck of the woods is surrounded by offices, it's no surprise that it's packed with tasty lunch spots. For some classic Lebanese bites, swing by Ka'ak Al Manara, or if you're in the mood for a sit-down Italian special, you can't miss the burrata risotto at Marini. If you've only got time to grab and go, pick up a superfood salad and a matcha latte at Joga before getting back to work. Things to do in Dubai Internet City With pretty Palm Jumeirah views from one side and sweeping city views from the other, for an impressive view visit Twenty Three Rooftop Bar. If you're searching for other spots that offer up an energetic evening, nip in to garden on 8 for some live sports, or an elegant mixed drink at JATO Bar and Kitchen. Or if you need somewhere to catch some rays, book in for a budget-friendly (and redeemable) pool day at Coco Lounge. Yoga-lovers definitely need to give a class a go at Zen Yoga, or feel the burn at a barre class at Zoga (just around the corner). Transport in Dubai Internet City Al Khail Metro Station has been renamed to Al Fardan Exchange Metro Station (Credit: RTA) Since it has a lot of commuters, the transport links in and out of Dubai Internet City are pretty great. Not only are you located next to Sheikh Zayed Road, but you can also easily access Jumeirah Beach Road and Dubai Marina. There are a selection of buses running through the neighbourhood, including the 88 to Deira City Centre, the 84 to JBR and Dubai Marina and the 83 to Al Ghubaiba bus station. Meanwhile, there are two Dubai Metro stations you can access from either end of the area, Al Fardan Exchange and Dubai Internet City. Both of these stations sit on the red line. Living in Dubai? 3 expert tips (you might not know) to selling your car in Dubai It's not only about the price 5 must-know Emirates ID perks you should seriously be using A game-changer Don't say 'let's go', say 'yalla': 20 very Dubai words we use every day It's time to swot up on the Dubai lingo
Time Out Dubai
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Too hot? 70 cool indoor activities in Dubai to tick off this summer
Dubai has some incredible indoor offerings for you to choose from, and believe us, there's a lot. Try some of the attractions you've never got around to, enjoy underwater yoga or get involved in a weird or whacky sport- every wanted to start rollerblading? We've got it all down for you. Jump to: Indoor activities to try in Dubai for the family Activate Canadian active gaming experience Activate is now open at City Centre Mirdif with plenty of ways to get one over your pals. The space features nine dynamic game rooms which fuse gaming, entertainment and physical activity in a state-of-the-art facility. With bright neon lights and easy-to-follow games, it's like being thrust into a retro games console (but irl). From Dhs95. Open Mon-Fri 10am-10pm; Sat-Sun 10am-midnight. City Centre Mirdif Mall. (600 599905). Active Games UAE If this was one of your favourites as a kid, then you need to step inside the game and experience real-life Pac-Man. Now at Active Games, the 45-minute maze will even get your heart rate up as you dodge hungry ghosts, collect power pellets and chase a high score. From Dhs160. Mon-Wed 1pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. Al Quoz, Air Maniax (Credit: Supplied) Instead of bouncing off the walls at home, bounce off the walls at Dubai's multi-activity indoor play arena, Air Maniax. Spread over 23,000 square feet, Air Maniax's biggest zone is an inflatable arena for all ages. Get the kids to try the challenging obstacle courses, the zip line and laser tag game, while all the while the scores are being recorded so you can see who comes out as champion at the end. From Dhs90. Mon-Thu noon-8pm; Fri noon-10pm; Sat 9am-10pm; Sun 9am-9pm. Al Quoz, (04 348 8981). Adventure Island (Credit:Supplied) The attraction now has branches in JBR and Deira, offering you and the little ones hours of fun. Start off by getting into one of the Pixel rooms that are covered with sensors, and get your steps in jumping around. If you're still not tired out, try a game or two of laser tag. Chase each other around the course as you duck and dive to avoid being hit by your opponents. Prices vary. Jumeirah Beach Residence and City Centre Deira, (058 833 9204). Battle Kart A perfect activity for the summer, get ready to battle your mates as you step inside a video game (sort of). Located in Dubai Investment Park, the track offers different games where you can team up with or go against your friends as you whizz around. One game is even inspired by the Battle Snake game on an old Nokia phone – now that is a throwback. From Dhs160. Open Mon-Thu 2pm-midnight; Fri-Sat 1pm-2am; Sun 1pm-midnight. Dubai Investment Park, (058 588 0116). Boo Boo Land (Credit: Boo Boo Laand) The play area in Dubai Mall boasts everything you need to keep the kids entertained. Spanning over 25,000 square metres, there are over 30 attractions from a snow park to a princess dress-up area, trampolines and interactive shows. Offering something for ages spanning from babies to teens, get lost in the playground paradise. From Dhs150 (toddler), Dhs190 (kids aged 3-15). Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (050 189 8140). Read more: 50 free things to do in Dubai in 2025 Bounce (Credit:Supplied) Everybody jump. Test out your trampoline skills at Bounce and see if you have a front flip in your locker. Or if it's not for you, let the little ones run wild and free jump to their heart's content. Covered in trampolines from floor to wall, the sky is the limit with this one. From Dhs90. Open Mon-Sat 10am-9pm; Sun 10am-8pm. Al Quoz (04 304 9333). Chaos Karts (Credit:Supplied) 3, 2, 1, GO. Make sure to visit with the kids if you haven't had the chance yet. Get them to step away from their video games and step inside one instead, as the virtual reality experience makes you feel as if you're in a real life version of Mario Kart. One for the bigger kids, children must be over the age of 11 to play. From Dhs140. Mon-Thu 1pm-11pm; Fri-Sun 11am-midnight Al Quoz, (04 324 2344). Dubai Bowling Center The 50 best indoor activities to try in Dubai (Credit:Supplied) The Dubai Bowling Center is one of the most recognisable buildings in Al Quoz with its 1980s retro décor taking you back to the good old days. Give your best shot on any of the 16 lanes on offer, compete against your loved ones or get into teams to knock down the pins. If you want something else to keep you entertained, simply turn and watch the classic films being beamed out on projectors instead. Prices vary. Open Mon-Wed 10am-midnight; Thu-Sun 10am-1am. Al Quoz, (04 339 1010). Dubai Butterfly Garden (Credit: Instagram/dubaibutterflygarden) Step into the enclosed garden, where you can admire over 15,000 butterflies' all-year-round. Stroll through the different zones, and watch as the beautiful bugs flutter overhead or even land on you if you're lucky. Showing the lifecycle from start to finish, the guides may even be able to let you watch some butterflies hatching from their pupa right in front of your eyes. From Dhs60. Open daily 9am-6pm. Al Barsha South 3, (04 422 8902). Mille Miglia Gallery and Cafe Calling all F1 fans – have you been here yet? Mille Miglia Gallery and Café in Al Quoz is stocked up with F1 memorabilia, swish Ferrari cars and signed items by the current drivers, Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc. Don't miss the original pitwall that was used between 2017 and 2021. Free entry. Open daily 10am-9pm. Al Quoz, (04 295 0878). GLITCH (Credit: GLITCH) The game park has been on the scene for a while now, and is packed to the max with games from bowling to roller gliding. There's plenty in the gaming realm too for you to have a crack at. Level up on the VR challenges and have a blast from the past on the arcade games. Back to reality, there's even a ninja warrior course if you're brave enough to try it. Game prices vary. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. Al Ghurair Centre, Deira, (04 886 1695). Hamleys Play Get the kiddos in the car and drive them down to Dubai Hills Mall where they can have a run around in the new play area. Open to both adults and kids, you can try out the sensory zones, whizz down some of the slides and take on an obstacle course. If you want to treat the little ones afterwards, you can browse through the toy shop on your way out. From Dhs99. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm; Fri 10am-midnight; Sat 9am-midnight; Sun 9am-11pm. Dubai Hills Mall. (04 223 1474). House of Hype Created by the team behind equally impressive Dubai attraction AYA Universe, this lot know how to give you a cool Insta-op. Tucked inside Chinatown at Dubai Mall, and on first glance, you might not know what to expect. But trust us on this one. This gigantic experience has over 100 different things to do, and you'll feel like you've walked through video games, taken a stroll through Japan and stumbled into a dream at the same time. From Dhs149. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (04 542 0330). IMG World (Credit:Supplied) One of the biggest indoor theme parks on the planet, IMG World of Adventures, features four zones – The Marvel Zone (for diddy superhero fans), The Lost Valley (where you can spot a dinosaur or two) and The Cartoon Network Zone (where favourite, colourful characters like the Powerpuff Girls hang out) and the welcoming IMG Boulevard. All inside, you can get your steps and your thrills in as you tour round the venue. Dhs365 (general admission), free (kids under 1.05m in height). Open Sun-Thu noon-10pm, Fri-Sat noon-11pm. City of Arabia, (04 403 8888). KidZania (Credit: Supplied) If your little ones are desperate to let off a little steam over the warmer months, swap an outdoor playground for an indoor play town, and let them go crazy at KidZania. Here, they can try their hand at all sorts of career options, be it a firefighter or radio presenter, a pilot or even a surgeon! There are all sorts of other cool grown-up roles for them to test their skills at too, so a few hours here should burn off plenty of energy. From Dhs195. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. Dubai Mall, (04 448 5222). Loco Bear When it comes to indoor entertainment, pretty much everything you can think of is under this roof. Climbing walls? Yup. Trampolining? Of course. Roll glider? You know it. VR headsets? What do you think. And that's only the half if it. Giving you hours of summer fun, the attraction is the new spot to checkout with all the family. Free entry. Credit bands from Dhs250. Open Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Quoz 2. (800 56262). Museum of Candy In need of a sugar rush? The attraction is an incredible adventure browsing 15 rooms all dedicated to (you guessed it), candy. Not only will you learn some weird and wonderful facts, you'll also get to slide into a gummy bear pool, watch some crazy candy being crafted and get some ideal insta opportunities. Don't leave without trying the unlimited ice cream (the flavours might surprise you). From Dhs119 (adult), Dhs99 (child). Open daily 10am-10pm. Umm Hurair Rd, Oud Metha, (04 591 0088). Oli Oli (Credit: Oli Oli) One for the tots, OliOli is an experiential children's play museum full of quirky and cool installations to thrill little ones. The hand-knit macramé play park for children to climb and wriggle across is a firm favourite and with 40 hands-on exhibits and several interactive galleries it is a go-to spot to keep youngsters entertained. Dhs69 (toddler), Dhs139 (kids aged 2-16), Dhs45 (extra adult). Open Mon-Thu 9am-6pm; Fri 9am-7pm; Sat 9am-8pm; Sun 9am-7pm. Al Quoz, (04 702 7300). Parkour DXB (Credit: Supplied) Heard of Parkour? Once just a hobby you would see hilarious videos of online, you can now let your kids try it out in a safe child-friendly environment. Try it out at one of three locations in the city that mean you can test your limits on padded mats and a safe environment instead of scaling building and hopping off roofs. If your little ones get really into it, there are even academies and weekly training classes you can sign them up for. Opening times and prices vary. Al Quoz, Port Rashid and JVC, (800 727 5687). Ribambelle (Credit: Supplied) Head over to Bluewaters with the little ones this weekend and get a table at Ribambelle, the restaurant that comes complete with an in-house slide and ball pit. Designed to give the kiddos a magical experience while you finally get to enjoy that coffee (or glass of grape), the play zones include candle-making and even t-shirt painting. Plus, the cost of their soft play entry also comes with a kids' meal included. Dhs95 (child, weekdays), Dhs150 (child, weekends).Open daily 9am-10pm. The Wharf, Bluewaters Island, (04 581 5555). SENSAS The new multi-sensory experience has just landed in Dubai, putting together a selection of experiences and puzzles that you will work your way around. From wacky taste tests to challenges in pitch darkness, you'll get to make the most of some awesome photo opportunities too. From Dhs150 (child), Dhs180 (adult). Open Mon-Thu 10.45am-10pm; Fri-Sun 9.45am-11pm. Al Quoz, (050 856 4990). VR Park (Credit: VR Park) VR Park is home to a host of virtual reality games for kids of all ages, meaning they can challenge reality and learn at the same time. Get in the game and be taken to distant planets or visit both the far-flung future and the not-so-distant world of a fully virtualised Dubai, thanks to a series of games specially designed with some of the world's top VR production houses. Free entry. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 382246255) Wavehouse (Credit:Supplied) Jump into some iconic retro arcade games and spend the day running from machine to machine. Give your hardest hit at the Thunder Hammer, see how quick you can get the whack-a-mole, or if all else fails, get a bowling lane for the whole family and try your best for a strike. To finish off on a sugar buzz, grab a cookies and cream sundae before you head home. From Dhs370 per hour (bowling). Open daily noon-11.30pm, Atlantis the Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 2626). Indoor activities in Dubai – Attractions ARTE Museum (Credit: Supplied) You could spend hours in the new Dubai Mall museum, exploring the natural landscapes of 'eternal nature' or getting involved with the live sketchbook feature – draw your own animal and watch it come alive on the digital walls. After all that art, be sure to grab a tea-inspired mocktail at the ARTE Tea Bar. From Dhs149 (adult) Dhs79 (child). Open daily 10am-10pm. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (04 570 7084). AYA Universe Let's jump in a giant ball pit and stare up at the stars. The interactive experiences at the Wafi City attraction are all about getting involved with galaxies far far away, and immersing yourself in the art. There are 12 rooms to see – including 'Flora', containing an Avatar-style light up tree, and 'The Falls', where you can dance underneath the water. From Dhs135. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Wafi City, Oud Metha. (04 542 0300). Burj Khalifa (Credit: Supplied) If you haven't already headed up the tallest building in the world, why not do it when it's a little warmer outside? All in the comfort of AC, travel up over 555 metres and enjoy the 360-degrees of the At the Top viewing deck before getting a refreshment at the Sky Lounge that sits on floor 148. Dhs159 (Sunrise tour), Dhs399 (At The Top SKY tour), Dhs769 (VIP lounge). Open daily 9am-11pm. Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, (04 888 8124). Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo (Credit: Supplied) An underwater, ocean-life-filled wonderland awaits at the Dubai Aquarium. Spend a few hours of your public holiday feeling as if you are swimming deep in the ocean, and let the little ones get up-close with some incredible creatures. Spot a sting-ray in the 10-million-litre tank, or watch on as the sharks swim ominously above your head. From Dhs199. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm; Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 382246255). Dubai Frame The 50 best indoor activities to try in Dubai (Credit: Supplied) This cool vantage point allows visitors to see Dubai's past, present and future in a one-hour tour with unique views of 'old' and 'new' Dubai from a 150-metre-high sky glass bridge which is fully air-conditioned. Travel up through one of the towers, before walking over the glass-floored bridge (eek) and coming back down the other side. Dhs50 (adult), Dhs20 (child). Open daily 9am-9pm. Zabeel Park, (800 900). Foundry Art Space (Credit: Supplied) The new art space offers you an entire evening of activities that you don't need to spend a penny on. From open exhibitions to talks and film screenings, there are even cool elevated pods to curl up with a good book in. The displays change on a monthly rotation, so you can head along every few weeks if you want to see something different. Free. Open daily 10am-10pm, Boulevard Crescent, Downtown Dubai, (04 367 3696). Museum of Illusions (Credit: Supplied) Get some hilarious family photos and take everyone down to the Museum of Illusions for a fun day indoors. You won't believe your eyes as each of you adjust to the visual trickery, including floating heads and shrinking you down to size. Take a deep breath as you trundle through the vortex tunnel — it's sure to leave your head spinning! Dhs90 (adult), Dhs65 (kids aged 3-15). Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Seef, Dubai Creek, (04 357 3999). Storm Coaster (Credit: Supplied) 'The Storm' is a record-breaking rollercoaster located inside Dubai Hills Mall. This unique experience is likely to bring thrill-seekers from around the UAE to the mall to try this one-of-a-kind ride. Will you be queuing up for a ride on The Storm? Reaching speeds of up to 77kmh, riders can expect twists, turns, and sharp stomach wrenching drops. From Dhs65. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11.30pm. Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, (04 448 5033). Ski Dubai (Credit: Supplied) Cool yourself right down and hit the slopes at Ski Dubai for a couple of hours. Whizz down the manmade mountain from two hours to the entire day, or if you're not in the mood for skiing, get a pass for the snow park and try clambering in a zorb ball, bobsledding or a tubing run. Finish up with a hot chocolate or a meet and greet with the venue's very own penguins before heading home to warm up. Prices vary. Open daily 10am-1am. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, (04 409 4000). The Green Planet (Credit: The Green Planet) A little tropical oasis in the middle of the desert, this indoor zoo and garden is packed with over 3,000 species of plants and animals, offering a slice of the tropics for nature-lovers. The experience will weave through a vertical rainforest, where the children can get up close with some sleepy sloths, or if they're feeling brave, opt in for the reptile encounter. To finish off, grab a pizza or some churros in the jungle-themed Green Planet Café before heading back home. Dhs155 (adult), Dhs135 (kids aged 2-10). Open daily 10am-6pm. City Walk, Al Wasl, (800 2629464). La Perle (Credit: La Perle Dragone) The only permanent show in Dubai, it is well worth a visit. The performance will leave you unsure where to look as the stage floods with water in one direction, and the cast show off some incredible stunts in the other. There are lots of ways to enjoy the show, from an earlier performance with the family to a luxurious dinner and show experience if you're searching for a full evening experience. From Dhs269. Show timings vary. Al Habtoor City, (04 437 0001). Madame Tussauds Serena Williams is the latest celebrity name at the wax museum (Credit: Madame Tussauds Dubai) It might not be the real thing, but it's as close as most of us are going to get to meeting a celeb. Snap a selfie with some A-listers from Dwayne Johnson to Justin Timberlake, and even say hello to Kate Winslet and George Clooney, the newest additions to the building. There are often deals and discounts on tickets, so check online to see if you can make the most of them. From Dhs95. Open daily 11.30am-8.30pm. Bluewaters Island, Dubai Marina, (04 873 3042). Mohammed Bin Rashid Library (Credit: Mohammed bin Rashid Library) Want to take some time out of the madness and get cosy with a good book? We know just the place. If you want to slow down the pace, why not spend a few hours at the library, browse the books and have a look round all seven floors. Once you're done exploring, sit down, flick through a few pages and watch the evening disappear as you get lost in a story. Free. Open Mon-Thu 9am-9pm; Fri 2pm-9pm; Sat 9am-9pm. Al Jaddaf, (800 627523). Museum of the Future (Credit: Supplied) You've definitely seen it but have you ever had a look around inside the incredible landmark? A staple of Sheikh Zayed Road, explore the three floors of interactive exhibitions all about outer space, health and the ecosystem. If you're taking the kids, be sure to visit the last floor – it's filled with some great challenges to get their minds racing. From Dhs159. Open daily 9.30am-7pm, Sheikh Zayed Road, (800 2071). Shindagha Museum (Credit: Supplied) Get a bit of culture in this hotter months and visit the UAE's largest heritage site, where you can learn more about the tales of the first residents of Dubai Creek. Get a flavour for Emirati life in years gone by, this museum is in a stunning location too looking out over the water. Dhs20. Open daily 10am-8pm (last entry 7pm). Al Shindagha Museum, Al Shindagha. (800 33 222). Souk Madinat The 50 best indoor activities to try in Dubai (Credit: ITP images) Haven't been able to haggle in a while? If you're missing getting lost in the stalls, take yourself to the market in Souk Madinat Jumeirah and get a flavour of Arabic culture. Whether it's a trinket for the house or a new fragrance you're after, once the retail therapy is over reward yourself and dine out at one of the restaurants nestled in the souk – for the authentic Middle Eastern experience, try one of the platters from Al Makan. Free entry. Open daily 10am-11pm. King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St, (04 366 8888). (Credit:Supplied) This might be the highest you've ever had your dinner. If you're looking for a special evening to impress a certain someone, enjoy fine dining at the helm of Burj Khalifa 442 metres from the ground. You can dine in for lunch or dinner, and soak up those sky-high views. Open daily 7am-midnight. Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, (04 888 3828). Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant (Credit: Al Dawaar) Can't decide which Dubai dinner view you want? Have all of them at Al Dawaar, where in the course of 90 minutes, your table will have rotated around the entire building. Speaking of courses, have as many as you fancy as the restaurant is an all you can eat buffet, offering up everything from fresh seafood to sushi, dim sum and more. Enjoy the novelty of 360 degree views without having to get up and put the spot on your to visit list. Open Mon-Fri 6.30pm-11.30pm, Sat-Sun 12.30-4pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm, Hyatt Regency Galleria Residence Dubai, Deira, (04 209 6912). Boom Battle Bar (Credit: Boom Battle Bar) Get ready to spend hours in here. Perfect for the indecisive, Boom Battle bar has it all. For over 21s only, start off your trip with a spot of augmented reality axe-throwing, before a quick round of crazy golf. If you're still feeling competitive, try your hand at shuffleboard, and why not make the loser give everyone a quick rendition of something in one of the karaoke booths. Game prices vary. Open Sun-Thu 4pm-1am, Fri-Sat 4pm-2am. DoubleTree by Hilton, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina, (04 585 7357). Brass Monkey (Credit: Brass Monkey) Fancy being big kids for the evening? Get competitive at Brass Monkey and keep a tally as you try out all of the different games in either City Walk or Bluewaters Island. Whether it's retro arcade games, bowling or a spot of foosball, all that gaming will work up an appetite, so be sure to stop at the bar afterwards for some all-American dishes. Various locations, (04 582 2244). Dubai Opera Credit: Supplied If you're looking for a sophisticated evening, why not see if you can grab some last-minute tickets for whatever's going live at Dubai Opera. From incredible ballets to some hilarious comedians, dine at one of the nearby restaurants in the Opera District (you can't go wrong with Bisou), then head in for curtain up. Downtown Dubai. (04 440 8888). Game Over Escape Room (Credit: Supplied) Located inside Nakheel Mall, Game Over Escape Rooms is interactive and offers really fascinating games. With plenty of very cool rooms including Murder on the Orient Express, One Thousand and One Nights, Alice in Wonderland, Horror Circus, Atlantis the Lost City, Dracula, Illuminati and so much more. You have a wide variety with this one. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah, (04 577 3289). Smash Room (Credit: Supplied) Crash bang wallop your way through an afternoon and release some irritation from those occasional squabbles through smashing something to pieces. Designed to be broken, the room is filled with electronics, glass and fragile objects that you can destroy at your will. Once your rage is over, all of the debris is recycled, and replaced, so it's therapeutic for you, your relationship and the environment. From Dhs69 per person. Open Mon-Thu noon-10.45pm; Fri-Sat noon-11.45pm, Sun noon-10.30pm. Al Quoz, (04 339 7810). Smash Room City If one smash room isn't enough, make your way round an entire city instead. Pick your favourite room(s) and go to town destroying an office, supermarket, restaurant, whatever you feel like. You even get to pick your weapon of choice (how fun). From Dhs397 per room. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sun 10am-noon. Sport Society, Mirdif, (04 324 5914). Showhouse Head down to the car park of the Intercontinental Dubai Marina, where you'll stumble upon the incredible new stage and dinner show. Enter through the 'dressing rooms', where you see the cast getting ready for their debut. Then it's time to watch the story unfold, while you have the option to enjoy dinner and drink or two. From Dhs200. Open Wed-Thu 7pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 8pm-3am. InterContinental Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina (04 423 8312). SUSHISAMBA (Credit: SUSHISAMBA) You won't be staring into each other's eyes here, instead you'll be fixated on those incredible views over Palm Jumeirah. Head up to the iconic sushi restaurant on the 51st floor by day or night to admire the lookout, and make sure to order the crispy taquitos and the classic Samba Dubai roll to share while you're there. Open Mon-Fri noon-3pm; Sat-Sun 1pm-3.30pm (lunch); Sun-Thu 6pm-2am; Fri-Sat 6pm-3am (dinner). St Regis, Palm Jumeirah, (04 278 4888). Swingers (Credit: Swingers) Recently landing in Bluewaters, this crazy course will let you have one full round for Dhs80, making it another bargain activity to get under your belt. There are three fun courses to choose from, made up of obstacles from hot air balloons to funfairs. If you fancy a mixed drink then you're in luck, as the venue lets you take your drinks round the course with you, meanwhile a live DJ will be playing some cracking beats in the background. Don't forget your phone either, because this place is made for the 'gram. From Dhs80. Open Mon-Wed 4pm-1am; Thu-Fri 4pm-2am; Sat noon-2am; Sun noon-1am. Bluewaters Island, (04 557 6309). Time Out Market (Credit: Time Out Market) If you're other half just can't decide what they want to eat, take them here. The market is packed with some of the city's best food vendors guaranteed to satisfy any craving. In the mood for a filling treat? Grab the garlic knots from Pitfire Pizza. Want something a little more local? Be sure to try the Za'atar Man'ousheh from Three by Eva. Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am, Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-midnight. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, (054 375 2421). Indoor activities in Dubai -Sports and Wellness Barry's Bootcamp It might be an indoor class, but this one is guaranteed to get you as sweaty as a 10k run in the summer sun. The HIIT (high intensity interval training) is a huge hit in Dubai, so get yourself booked in for a mixture of cardio and strength training. Finish off with a cold protein shake in the venue afterwards to get your energy levels back up and compliment those endorphins. Class prices vary. DIFC and Dubai Marina, Dubai Ice Rink (Credit: Supplied) Get gliding on the ice and cool yourself right down in the Olympic-sized rink slap bang in the middle of Dubai Mall. Kids and adults alike will be able to move around, have fun and sharpen their skating skills. It's also a great excuse to shake the dust off your winter woollies. The flurries of fake snow falling from the sky (AKA the rooftop of the mall) will make your cold dreams come true. From Dhs110. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 382246255). FaceFit Created in Lebanon, the FaceFit studio has now permanently set up base in Dubai to make sure your cheeks are as rosy as ever. Training 42 different muscles in your face, the hero workout is the 'signature sculpt' which starts with a quick cleanse before some face stretching and massage, also known as the warm-up. Ending with some cooling gels and sculpting, your visit to the gym can be over in as little as 30 minutes. From Dhs250. Open Mon-Sat 10am-8pm. Town Centre, Jumeirah, (052 696 5454). Forma Every visited a secret pizzeria inside a library? Say hello to Forma, the latest must-visit spot in Jumeirah. This new pizza place can be found in Al Safa Art and Design Library in Dubai and has all the arty vibes any creative could want. Order the miso corn before tucking into a six cheese pizza (the cheese pull is something else) then finish with the pretzel ice cream. Open daily, 8am. Al Safa Art & Design Library, Jumeirah @formauae Forma Project This is going to work out those knots. Dubai's first roll shaper studio, Forma Project is tucked away on the Golden Mile, and it's going to to get you feeling great. The deep tissue machine will get right in there as you move between different positions, and you can even burn up to 450 calories per session. From Dhs120 (two trial sessions). Open Mon-Sat 7.30am-9.30pm; Sun noon-9.30pm. Golden Mile Galleria, Palm Jumeirah. (058 112 1809). Roll DXB The 50 best indoor activities to try in Dubai (Credit: RollDXB) Swap the beach path for the retro rink and whizz around on some roller skates to your heart's content. Ideal for a cool Instagram pic, hire a pair of light up skates at RollDXB and strike a pose next to the neon signs. If you're really a beginner, there are newbie classes every Saturday morning so you can practice before showing off to your friends. From Dhs65. Open Mon-Wed 11am-11pm; Fri 11am-midnight; Sat-Sun 10am-11pm. Marina Cubes St, Dubai Maritime City, Port Rashid, (04 238 6206). Bedrock – Golf Simulator (Credit: Bedrock) It might not be nine holes at Emirates Golf Club, but it's as close as you can get indoors. There are a few simulators across the city where you can get a digital hole-in-one, including at Bedrock in Dubai Marina. The X-Golf simulator will let you try out 50 of the world's top courses, or work on your swing at the virtual driving range. Dhs200 per hour (noon-5pm), Dhs280 (from 5pm). Open daily noon-2am. Pier 7, Dubai Marina, (04 578 1668). GRIP The new sports hub in Jumeirah Heights has just launched, and there's tonnes for you to try, Whether you fancy a game of padel or pickleball, a tennis lesson or even a reformer pilates class, you can get them all here under one roof (yes, there are classes and courts inside). P.S – once you've finished working up a sweat, be sure to grab a smoothie or a flat white from the café before you head home. Open daily 7am-midnight. Jumeirah Heights, (050 499 2469). iFly Dubai Once you have accepted that jumping out of a plane in Dubai is too terrifying, but that you really want the feeling of weightlessness, then iFly is your only option. Strap on a special suit and enter a 10m indoor glass tunnel and jets of wind will shoot you in to the air to (try and) perform aerial stunts. From Dhs179. Open Mon-Thu noon-9pm, Fri-Sun noon-11pm. Mirdif City Centre, Mirdif, (600 5999905). Japanese head spa The viral treatment has seen some serious success in Dubai, and you can spend 90-minutes experiencing pure relaxation. Start with a head massage and hair wash, followed by a scalp treatment, facial scrub and steaming before leaving feeling brand new. Dhs555. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Refive Spa, FIVE Jumeirah Village. JVC. (04 248 9964). Mountain Extreme rock climbing It's too hot to climb an actual mountain, but try improving your bouldering or strap into the ropes at Mountain Extreme. Get those hands covered in chalk and clamber about at the indoor climbing facility, with over 127 top rope routes. From Dhs125. Open Mon-Fri 10am-10pm; Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. Al Quoz, (04 236 6040). Padel Edition For a swish new spot to play padel, get on the court at Padel Edition in Al Quoz. Sporting eight indoor courses, a recovery zone and an in-house barista to get your post-game caffeine fix, your form will be at its best in no time. Prices vary. Open daily 7am-midnight. Al Quoz, (04 348 7481). Underwater yoga at Atlantis The 50 best indoor activities to try in Dubai (Credit: supplied) Start the day with a soothing under the sea session at The Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis the Palm. Surrounded by calming blue lights and more than 65,000 marine animals, focus on your breathing and move through some sequences as sharks and stingrays sidle by. Running early morning on the weekends, book in for sessions until it's cool enough to resurface outdoors again. Dhs175. Sat-Sun, 8am-9am. The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Atlantis the Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 1000). Indoor activities in Dubai – Cinemas Cinema Akil Credit: Cinema Akil The independent cinema showcases a range of films from around the world. With locations at Alserkal Avenue and the 25hours Hotel Dubai, you can checkout screenings of smaller-scale productions, classic flicks and powerful documentaries. Grab the popcorn and check the monthly timetable to see what's new. Timings vary. Alserkal Avenue and 25hours Hotel Dubai. Roxy – Platinum Plus at BoxPark (Credit: Roxy) One of the city's most determinedly retro screens, plump for a screening at Platinum Plus at Roxy Cinema's BoxPark location. Scarlet armchair and speakeasy lighting? – yes please. Opt for a unique cinema experience, and get comfortable in the seats that look like they're out of a film themselves. To make things even better, there's a robust menu of hot plates as well as the usual cinema snacks, and table service. Prices vary. BoxPark, Al Wasl (800 7699). Reel Cinemas – Screen X – Dubai Mall (Credit: Reel Cinemas) You can't get more involved in a film than in here. The multi-projection screen at Reel Cinemas has a 270-degree screen, meaning it sweeps almost all the way around the room. Feel as if you're standing on the battlefield in an action movie, or get the fright of your life if you opt to watch a horror. Stock up on snacks and spend a couple of hours inside your film of choice. Reel Cinemas, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 382246255). The Theatre at Vox Cinemas Tucked up inside Mall of the Emirates, this movie magic has gone *all out* to make you feel like a VIP. Arrive early before your movie, so you can make the most of the THEATRE lounge, complete with welcome drinks, pool tables and even shuffleboards for a quick game before the trailers start rolling. Ranging from around Dhs225 a ticket, popcorn is included, but of course, you can order some other treats once you're in there. And by treats, we mean a full three-course meal if you fancied it. Whether you choose burger sliders, a steak sandwich or dynamite shrimp, enjoy personal butler service. Prices vary. VOX Cinemas, Mall of the Emirates, Level 2, (600 599905). VOX Private Cinema (Credit: VOX) Get all the gang together for the ultimate movie night. The private screen in the Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates is available for booking so you can watch the latest releases without that noisy stranger scoffing nachos in the back row. Instead, treat your loved ones to a luxurious movie experience, with unlimited popcorn and soft beverages included in the price. Kempinski Mall of Emirates, (055 167 3908). Looking for other indoor activities to try in Dubai The best Chips Oman dishes in Dubai (and where to find them) Chips Oman ice cream anyone? It's official: These are the 86 best restaurants in Dubai After months of testing, the results are in The best gents' nights in Dubai to try with the lads Bargain-friendly fun
