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Kid-Friendly Day Trips for The Entire Family to Let Loose

Updated: Jul 29, 2024


Image of kids enjoy day trip with entire family

Places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are Emirates that overflow with activities and attractions that cater to all ages. If you are looking for a fun-filled family day trip, you are in luck! All you need to do is load up your vehicle, create the ideal road trip playlist, and set off to explore these beautiful spots with your children. Such a family day trip can be all things fun and explorative, particularly for children. 

These vibrant cities offer a variety of options. You can choose among famous historical sites, revel in the region’s culturally rich heritage spots, or introduce the little ones to some of the world’s best architectural marvels such as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai or the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The stunning natural landscapes of the Emirates also make for a perfect day trip.


We may not always have the time or budget for long vacations. But sometimes we have weekends with no plans or extended weekends that we can put to good use. Day trips or ‘staycations’ offer the perfect mini holiday for families looking for a break from the routine. Adults can unwind while children can enjoy the much-needed family-bonding time.  

So, are you ready to plan a fun family day trip with kids? Here are some weekend plans with activities for your family to get started on.


1 . Explore Historical and Cultural Gems

Dubai: Bur Dubai Grand Mosque 

This magnificent mosque, constructed in the traditional Islamic style, serves as the heart of Dubai’s religious community. Adorned with blue mosaics and detailed geometric carvings, it stands as an architectural marvel. At night, its stunning illuminations make it the most photographed mosque in the city. 


Abu Dhabi: Al Jahili Fort 

Be sure to visit Al Jahili Fort in Abu Dhabi, which is one of the largest fortresses in the UAE. Constructed in the late 19th century, it served as Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa the First’s summer residence. After extensive restoration in 2008, the fort now includes a visitor information center and a permanent exhibition dedicated to Sir Wilfred Thesiger, a famous explorer and photographer who crossed the Empty Quarter twice in the 1940s. 

 

2. Witness Architectural Marvels

Dubai: Museum of the Future 

While one may always think of the Burj Khalifa when we speak about architectural wonders, the Museum of the Future is nothing like you have seen. The museum delves into how society might develop in the next few decades through science and technology, taking children on a creative journey into the future. Described as a ‘living museum,’ it blends traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre, and themed attractions, allowing visitors to look beyond the present and explore the boundless possibilities of the future.

Abu Dhabi: Louvre Abu Dhabi 

The modern Louvre Abu Dhabi is a remarkable sight. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, this universal museum—the first of its kind in the Arab world—features 9,200 square meters (about the area of a Manhattan city block) of galleries highlighting a diverse array of historic and cultural artifacts from around the globe. Beyond its impressive art collection, the highlight of this renowned museum is the iconic 180-meter, eight-layer star-latticed dome, which allows sunlight to filter through, creating fascinating patterns on the walls and floors. 

 

3. Embrace the Beauty of Nature

Dubai: Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo   

A captivating underwater wonderland filled with ocean life awaits at the Dubai Aquarium. This 10-million-liter tank features a stunning tunnel and leads to an impressive underwater zoo where you can get a beautiful view of hundreds of sea creatures. Witnessing aquatic life can be mesmerizing as well as informational for children. If you are looking to incorporate learning with fun, this aquarium and zoo is the perfect destination.

Abu Dhabi: The Empty Quarter 

Spanning the borders of Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, the vast Rub' al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, is the second-largest desert in the world. Often accessed from the Abu Dhabi side, this immense area is best explored with the help of expert local guides. They will introduce you to the desert’s most reliable companions (camels) and explain why they are known as the ‘ships of the desert.’ You can also enjoy falcon and saluki shows – a unique experience for children.  

                  

4. Unwind at Theme Parks

Dubai: Dubai Safari Park   

If you and your child love animals and enjoy close encounters with them, your choice of destination should be the Dubai Safari Park. Home to 3,000 animals, the park offers a diverse range of wildlife from elephants and bears to the Arabian Wolf. The park closes for the summer, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Abu Dhabi: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi                                                                 

This massive theme park is a favorite among fast car enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. If your children are interested in cars, this is where you need to be. Toddlers or preschoolers may not be allowed on many rides, but the park offers much more than just adrenaline-pumping rides. There are several gentler attractions and large displays that showcase Ferrari cars and detail the company’s history. 

 

Travel makes everyone happy, and day trips are mini happiness boosters that the entire family deserves. These mini adventures offer a chance for children to become explorers in their own city or region, discovering hidden gems and appreciating local wonders. So, what are you waiting for? Pick a place from the options shared and plan a quick outing, one where the entire family benefits from positive memories and physical activity.

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