Dubai is a city that offers an array of family-friendly festivals, perfect for creating unforgettable memories with loved ones. From colorful cultural celebrations to thrilling entertainment events, there’s something for everyone. Some of the top festivals include the Dubai Shopping Festival, which features incredible deals and live performances, and the Dubai Food Festival, where families can savor diverse culinary delights. For those seeking art and culture, the Dubai Opera hosts various family-oriented shows. The Dubai Winter Festival brings a magical winter wonderland, with activities like ice skating and festive markets. Additionally, the Global Village offers a cultural extravaganza with fun activities, rides, and entertainment from around the world. Other notable events include the Dubai International Film Festival and the Dubai Camel Racing Festival, providing a unique experience for children and adults alike. These festivals make Dubai a perfect destination for families looking for fun and exciting adventures.
Top 15 Family-Friendly Festivals in Dubai to Enjoy with Kids
Dubai is known for its vibrant culture, exciting events, and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you are a resident or visiting, there are plenty of festivals in Dubai that offer fun, entertainment, and learning opportunities for kids. Here’s a list of the top 15 family-friendly festivals in Dubai that promise memorable experiences for the whole family.
1. Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)
The Dubai Shopping Festival is one of the biggest family-friendly festivals in Dubai, where visitors can enjoy shopping, entertainment, and exciting discounts. Families can spend the day exploring various malls, engaging in kid-friendly activities, and enjoying live performances. The festival also includes magical light shows, fireworks, and interactive events that keep kids entertained. With attractions like ice skating and theme park visits, DSF is a must-attend for families looking for fun and excitement.
2. Dubai Food Festival
The Dubai Food Festival is a culinary celebration that appeals to all ages. This family-friendly festival in Dubai features an array of food trucks, pop-up restaurants, and culinary workshops, providing families with an opportunity to taste dishes from around the world. Kids can enjoy hands-on cooking experiences, special kids’ zones with interactive games, and food-themed activities. It’s an excellent festival for food-loving families to discover new tastes while keeping the little ones entertained.
3. Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS)
Dubai Summer Surprises is an annual family-friendly festival in Dubai known for its exciting range of discounts, events, and activities for families. The festival spans several weeks and includes kid-friendly events like magic shows, interactive workshops, and live performances. Children can enjoy themed attractions at malls, while parents take advantage of great deals. DSS provides families with the perfect summer escape, offering entertainment and fun in air-conditioned venues to beat the heat.
4. Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF)
For families with a love for cinema, the Dubai International Film Festival offers a range of family-friendly films. The festival showcases international and regional movies, with a special focus on child-friendly films and animations. Families can enjoy movie screenings, filmmaker interactions, and film-related workshops that offer a unique learning experience. The DIFF is a great way to expose children to the world of cinema while enjoying cultural diversity and creativity.
5. Dubai Camel Racing Festival
For families who want to experience traditional Emirati culture, the Dubai Camel Racing Festival is a fascinating event to attend. Kids will enjoy watching these majestic animals race across the desert, and families can learn about the history of camel racing, a beloved pastime in the UAE. The festival is not only family-friendly but also educational, offering fun activities and interactive sessions for children to learn about desert wildlife and Arabian traditions.
6. Dubai Jazz Festival
The Dubai Jazz Festival is a popular family-friendly festival that brings world-class musicians to the city. While the festival features jazz music for all ages, it also offers kid-friendly zones, games, and activities. Children can enjoy music-themed workshops and dance performances. This festival is perfect for families who appreciate music and want to expose their kids to the world of jazz in a fun and interactive way. The relaxed outdoor setting makes it ideal for families.
7. Global Village
Global Village is a year-round entertainment destination in Dubai, but it becomes even more magical during its annual cultural festival. Families can enjoy international pavilions, live shows, rides, and kid-friendly attractions. The colorful atmosphere and themed events make it one of the most popular family-friendly festivals in Dubai. Kids can explore cultures from around the world, enjoy shopping, and participate in games and activities designed specifically for younger visitors.
8. Dubai Arts Festival
Dubai Arts Festival is a celebration of creativity and expression, perfect for families with a passion for the arts. The festival offers a variety of workshops, art exhibitions, and interactive performances for children. Kids can explore different art forms, from painting to sculpture, and engage in hands-on activities. The family-friendly workshops encourage children to use their imagination, making it a perfect festival for fostering creativity while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere.
9. Dubai Desert Safari and Festival
A thrilling family-friendly festival in Dubai, the Dubai Desert Safari combines cultural experiences with adventure. Families can enjoy camel rides, dune bashing, and traditional performances like belly dancing and falcon shows. The festival includes a unique desert camp experience, where children can watch the beautiful sunset and enjoy star gazing, sand art, and traditional storytelling. It’s an ideal event for families who want to explore the beauty of the desert in a fun and educational way.
10. Dubai Mini Grand Prix
For families who love fast cars and racing, the Dubai Mini Grand Prix is a must-see event. Held annually, this family-friendly festival in Dubai features exciting go-kart races, car shows, and hands-on driving experiences for children. Kids can participate in driving lessons, compete in mini races, and enjoy a range of other fun, interactive activities. It’s a great way for families to bond over their love for cars while keeping the kids entertained with high-speed thrills.
11. Dubai International Boat Show
The Dubai International Boat Show is another family-friendly festival that offers an exciting blend of luxury and adventure. Families can tour some of the world’s most impressive yachts and boats, learn about marine life, and enjoy water-themed activities designed for children. The festival features kid-friendly workshops on boat building, water sports demonstrations, and interactive games. For families with an interest in the sea, this is the perfect event to explore together.
12. Dubai World Cup
The Dubai World Cup is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world, and it’s a fantastic experience for families. Children can enjoy the exciting atmosphere while watching the races and participating in activities designed for young ones. The festival also features carnival games, live music, and kids’ entertainment areas, making it a fun outing for the entire family. It’s a great way to introduce kids to the thrill of horse racing while keeping them entertained with interactive activities.
13. Dubai International Boat Show
This exciting festival brings the world of boating to life, offering a family-friendly environment where kids can explore boats, engage in water sports, and participate in creative maritime workshops. Families can enjoy the display of yachts, catamarans, and luxury boats while learning about the marine environment. The Dubai International Boat Show is not only educational but also full of hands-on fun for kids, making it an unforgettable family-friendly festival in Dubai.
14. Dubai Garden Glow
Dubai Garden Glow is a one-of-a-kind family-friendly festival in Dubai, where nature meets art. The park is filled with large-scale illuminated sculptures, light installations, and themed gardens. Children will be mesmerized by the magical glow-in-the-dark displays and enjoy a range of entertainment, from puppet shows to music performances. It’s a beautiful way to spend time outdoors while marveling at the stunning light displays, making it a perfect family outing during the cooler months.
15. Dubai Winter Festival
Held during the cooler months, the Dubai Winter Festival is one of the most awaited family-friendly festivals in Dubai. It features an ice rink, Christmas markets, festive performances, and a Santa Claus grotto. Children can enjoy ice skating, take part in holiday-themed crafts, and meet their favorite characters. With a magical atmosphere filled with winter decorations and snow, the Dubai Winter Festival is the ultimate family-friendly destination to celebrate the season together.
Dubai’s diverse array of family-friendly festivals ensures that kids and parents alike have an unforgettable experience. From interactive workshops to cultural performances and seasonal celebrations, these festivals provide endless entertainment and learning opportunities for families. Whether you’re visiting or living in the city, these family-friendly festivals in Dubai are perfect for making cherished memories with your loved ones.
I am Dima Al Mustafa, a passionate explorer of Dubai’s vibrant culture, dining, and lifestyle. With a deep love for uncovering the city’s hidden gems, I created Dubai Metro to share my insights on top restaurants, cafes, festivals, and shopping destinations. My goal is to connect people with Dubai’s rich and dynamic experiences, from luxurious malls and iconic dining spots to cultural festivals and breathtaking attractions.
Through Dubai Metro, I aim to inspire locals and travelers alike to embrace the charm and diversity of this remarkable city. Join me as we uncover Dubai’s treasures, one unforgettable moment at a time.