Family fun on a budget

Dubai has many cool and exciting things to do as a family, and you do not even have to spend a fortune! From free museums to having fun with nature, Dubai has a lot of engaging, interactive, and most importantly, fun things to enjoy.  Here are some of our top choices for you and your children to do over the weekend, without breaking the bank. 

Feed the turtles – free

Jumeirah Al Naseem has a turtle rehabilitation sanctuary, allowing children and families to take a look at 7 species of turtles, all of which are listed as either vulnerable to extinction or critically endangered.  The aim of the sanctuary is to rehabilitate and release back into the wild any turtles which have been found to be sick or injured. Visitors can watch and find out interesting facts about sea turtles and the threats they face. Whilst learning all about these turtles, children can also feed them. This is a very educational, yet exciting, activity that kids of all ages can enjoy.

The Playhouses, Mushrif – AED3 per person or AED10 per car 

The international village, which comprises 13 models of Arabic and English houses, is a great place for kids to play around in. Be sure to check out the horse and camel riding areas where you can go for a ride. There are also Bedouin tents where you can learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Bedouin people. Once the children are all tired out from playing, why not have a picnic on the grass and watch the world go by? This definitely makes for a fun, family day out. 

Children’s City – AED10 per child

This is a very exciting place for the youngsters in your family, where they can learn, discover, explore, and play through interactive, hands-on experiences. There are several exhibits with dedicated areas to learn about the Earth, nature, space and the human body. Just some of the highlights of Children’s City include the massive planetarium and the technology gallery.  If you have some very young ones, don’t worry, they can still have fun at the dedicated toddlers’ area. This day out makes for a trip that is as fun as it is educational. 

Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary – free

If you want to get a glimpse of nature in the heart of Dubai, then why not head over to Ras al Khor wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary features a variety of salt flats, mudflats, mangroves, and lagoons for the birds to use for their nests and individual habitats. Whilst the actual area is protected, with visitors unable to enter, there are three bird hides located on the perimeter of the sanctuary, which are free for the public to access during daylight hours. These provide a way to allow visitors and nature lovers to admire the birds in their habitat while maintaining the quality of the area for its winged residents. This is a great place to see some of Dubai’s natural wonders!

Dubai Coffee Museum – free

The Dubai coffee museum is a must-go for any coffee lover! Set up in one of Dubai’s heritage hubs, Al Fahidi, visitors get to try out coffees, in styles from around the world, including Japan, Ethiopia, and local Arabic styles. This is a great place to learn about the roasting and brewing process, all while enjoying a nice cup of hot coffee!  

 The Coin Museum – free

Learn about history through the unique collection of coins that this museum displays. The museum proudly displays relics from different eras alongside interactive displays. This is a great place to learn about Arab histories, such as the different caliphates that once occupied the region, in a fun and unique way.  The museum is located in the Al Fahidi historical neighbourhood, where all of the buildings are built in the local style made with traditional building materials, such as stone, gypsum, teak, sandalwood, fronds and palm wood. This makes a really interesting place to learn about the local history and culture.  

La Mer – free

This fun seaside spot has always got something going on. From its beachside market stalls to the bouncing, inflatable playground, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. Take a wander around the urban streets and check out the very impressive graffiti murals. This is definitely one of the most insta-worthy photo spots in Dubai, If it gets a bit too hot, be sure to take a dip in the sea or visit the best value waterpark in Duba, Laguna! This is one place in Dubai where you will definitely not get bored.

Al Qudra Lake – free

This idyllic spot out in the desert is the perfect place to come as a family. Now that the hot summer months are almost behind us, there is an excellent cycle track here which is ideal for a family bike ride. There are also lots of wildlife here, so it is a great place to spot the many different species that Al Quadra their home. There are over 170 different species of animals located in and around the lake. This includes flamingos, rabbits, gazelles, and even eagles and some foxes. This is definitely a great place to connect with your family and nature at the same time!  If all the excitement and activity has left you needing a bite to eat, then head to the many food trucks at Last Exit,  

There are also some excellent barbeque stations located around the area, making it a perfect spot for a sunset dinner in the desert. 

As you can see, there are lots and lots of exciting and fun things to do that do not cost much at all! No matter what your budget is, there are plenty of activities that are great for kids and parents alike. Be sure to let us know what your favourite budget activity is and share your experiences with us using #betterhomes. We are excited to see what you get up to!