FROM THRILLS TO THEATRE: 4 Unforgettable Family-Friendly Destinations in Dubai

From the world’s largest inflatable bouncy castle to popular musicals and play museums, there are plenty of activities and events to keep the whole family entertained during spring

While most people ascribe a partying, tourist-oriented culture to Dubai, the emirate is actually well-suited for families too!

Spending a day out with the kids can get a bit tricky, especially if you want to find activities that suit all ages. Luckily for you, Team Yalla’s rounded up some of the more interesting spot to visit in Dubai, perfect for some quality fam-jam.

Bring out your inner child with the kids at the largest inflatable bouncy castle, or take a million photos surrounded by some stunning flowers. Take your pick and get going!

 

JumpX

 

Jumpx Dubai

Looking for an exciting and energetic activity? JumpX is a new inflatable park that has snapped up the Guinness World Record for the largest inflatable bouncy castle.

Located at RIVERLAND Dubai, the giant inflatable is a whopping 1,200 m2 of expandable fun. Kids can jump, climb and slide as they navigate an array of adventure zones, climbable walls, tunnels and obstacles spread over multiple levels. Suitable for those aged five years and up (or at least 1.1m tall), meaning that even adults can join in. But you’ll have to be quick, as JumpX is an outdoor park that will only operate seasonally throughout the cooler months.

Bookings can be made online and at the gate.

Hourly and all-day family passes are available. Daily 4pm to 9pm. RIVERLAND Dubai. For more information, visit dubaiparksandresorts.com

 

West Side Story

 

West Side Story Dubai

America’s most popular musical, West Side Story, is coming to Dubai Opera this April. Inspired by William Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet, the show’s epic themes of love, loss, and loyalty make it a must-see for theatre lovers of all ages.

The show has captivated audiences since 1957, and this performance at Dubai Opera is one of those rare productions featuring Jerome Robbins’ original choreography. It has thrilled audiences across three continents since 2003 and has been seen by over three million people in 28 countries. Boasting a stellar cast of talented actors, they bring to life the timeless story of rival gangs (the Sharks and the Jets) in 1950s New York City. The music, composed by the legendary Leonard Bernstein, includes beloved classics like “Somewhere” and “Maria”. A fantastic family experience.

West Side Story, Dubai Opera, 25 to 30 April. For more information, visit dubaiopera.com

 

Oli Oli

 

Oli Oli In Dubai

Calling all future engineers, scientists, architects and artists. Curious minds and aspiring creators are in for a treat this spring break with the launch of OliOli’s new Atelier – a hands-on maker space where children can explore the concepts of electricity, light, motion and balance. From circuit boards, scribbling machines, balancing sculptures and light play, children from 4 years+ can engage in various STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and maths) based activities. Not just for kids, this experimental play museum also welcomes families to join in the fun by working collaboratively and sharing ideas.

Running until 9 April. For more information, visit olioli.ae

 

Dubai Miracle Garden

 

Dubai Miracle Garden

Where else can you marvel at over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants? Dubai Miracle Garden spans over 72,000 m2 and is the world’s largest natural flower garden. If you have yet to visit, or even if you have, it’s an incredible place you can return to time and time again and see something new. Bursting with vibrant colours, beautiful scenery, and imaginative floral sculptures, it makes a great day out for all the family.

As you meander, children will enjoy spotting their favourite characters, such as Disney’s Micky Mouse, Goofy and Pluto, all created from flowers. There’s also an updated Smurfs Village, plus many animal structures, including flamingos, giant grass elephants and two spectacular horseheads. Other firm favourites include the floating lady, the stunning instagrammable heart arch, and the world’s largest flower structure, an Airbus A380.

Once you’re done exploring, grab an ice cream and relax in one of the garden’s beautiful cabanas.

Weekdays from 9am to 9pm and weekends from 9am to 11pm. For more information, visit dubaimiraclegarden.com

 

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Image source West Side Story, Oli Oli, JumpX, Canva

Caroline D’Almeida

A little bit of India, a little more of the UAE, and a lot of shawarma perhaps best captures Caroline’s anatomy. An avid believer in value for money, her hobbies include putting the ‘elite lifestyle’ to the test. And finding cheaper dupes for it all. A Sharjah girl new to the capital, she hopes to discover the pulse of the emirate.