There are plenty of activities in the UAE for the whole family. By using our top ten list you can plan your day when in the United Arab Emirates to make sure you make the most of your time on vacation.
1 – A Trip to the Beach
If you like going to the beach, sunbathing, picnics, chilling out or playing sports, then the UAE is a haven for all sorts of water based activities. With long sandy beaches, some with showers, cafes and parks for children, a day at the seaside can be a delight for everyone. For the more energetic then check out some of the beachfront hotels which offer sailing, jet skiing, surfing, or kite surfing and scuba diving. Here are some of the best beaches in no particular order:
- Jumeirah Beach
- Mamzar Beach in Dubai
- Public beach at the Corniche in Abu Dhabi
- Beaches of Fujairah on the Indian Ocean
2 – Explore the Open Desert
These are organized by tour operators and on a desert-safari you will enjoy a fast-paced adventure in the dunes. The meeting points are usually at your hotel in the early afternoon and from here you will be driven in a 4×4 led by a qualified and insured professional. For a few hours, you can safely navigate between the dunes – typical packages include camel rides, dune buggy rides and sand-skiing. The adventure could ends in a Bedouin camp, where a barbecue buffet will be served. Spend the rest of the evening comfortably under the stars, watching performances of local dances.
3 – A Boat Trip
Take your family on board a boat for a dinner cruise. Most tour operators offer packages with rates that vary according to the duration of the tour and services. A small boat trip followed by a nice walk can fill a sunny day and as an example, a boat tour of the island of Sir Bani Yas has nature reserve where animals wander freely. Near the shore you will see mangroves with many different types of flamingos who make this area their home. Dolphins and huge sea turtles are also swimming in the waters surrounding the island.
4 – A Culture a Visit to the Heritage Village
On the Breakwater in Abu Dhabi, you will gain insight into how people lived in the UAE before the discovery of oil. A traditional Bedouin encampment has been restored for tourists and a small museum includes some beautiful pictures and antiques. You can then finish your day with a meal in the restaurants that are on the pier, or a dinner cruise at sunset.
5 – A Trip to the Zoo and Aquarium
The Al Ain Zoo and Aquarium is probably the largest zoo in the Arab world. The Zoo and Aquarium is perfect for those with small children. There are animals that can be touched, plus also rare species, and the most recent arrival – a couple of white lions.
6 – A Day in the Snow
Live the unique experience of skiing in the desert: Ski Dubai snow is excellent and the facilities more than adequate especially for beginners, snowboarders and children. The snowpark is particularly aimed at children who wish to bobsled and slide downhill in an inner tube.
7 – Have Fun at the Waterpark
Wild Wadi Park is located in the Jumeirah district. It is a great water park by the sea, with 23 different waterslides, several pools and waterfalls. It also offers turbulent rivers, a huge wave pool and even water cannons for toddlers.
Then there is the enormous Aquaventure Water Park located in the Atlantis hotel. This is more suited to teenagers and adults as all of the attractions are very high up on the adrenaline scales. This is particularly true of the largest water jump of 27.5 meters. It will drop you vertically into a shark-infested lagoon (plastic sharks just in case you wondered).
8 – A Balloon Excursion
A balloon ride is a great experience that takes you above the desert and will help you to see more of the breathtaking views on offer. You will see the yellow sand and camels in the wild. The best times are to enjoy a balloon ride are at sunrise and sunset.
9 – An Afternoon at the Park
You will find many parks with beautiful gardens and fountains in some cities of the UAE. Equipped with swings and slides, you can spend an enjoyable day out and even a picnic whilst relaxing with your family. Some receommended parks in the United Arab Emirates are:
- Al Nahyan Garden
- Al Khalidiya Park
- Al Mushrif Park
- Dubai Safa Park
- Creek Park
- Mamzar Park
10 – Take a Hike Off the Beaten Track
Believe it or not there is hiking in the Emirates! There are several routes where you can discover spectacular scenery in the heart of the Wadis, mountains and wilderness. In the Hajar Mountains, you can even walk on a 10 hour trekking route. At Jebel Qatar, you can also see the Hanging Gardens, and the unique collection of strangely shaped rocks.