Dubai transforms into a wonderland for families even during the scorching August heat. While daytime temperatures soar, the city cleverly counters with world-class indoor attractions, refreshing water parks, and early morning outdoor adventures that make summer visits surprisingly enjoyable. This guide reveals 19 Things to Do in Dubai With Kids in August specifically curated for families traveling with kids in August, taking advantage of lighter crowds, special summer discounts, and smart timing to beat the heat.
1. Splash Around at Aquaventure Waterpark
Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm becomes an essential August destination, offering the perfect combination of thrilling water slides and refreshing pools to combat Dubai’s intense summer heat. The park’s massive 43-acre layout features over 30 slides and attractions, including the jaw-dropping Leap of Faith slide that sends riders through a clear tunnel submerged in a shark-filled lagoon. Younger children will adore Splashers Island, a dedicated water playground with miniature slides, climbing frames, and dumping buckets designed specifically for kids under 1.2 meters tall. What makes August visits special are the significantly shorter wait times – you might find yourself walking right onto rides that normally require 30+ minute queues during peak season. The park also offers shaded cabana rentals that provide a comfortable retreat between water adventures, complete with cooling misters and dedicated attendants. For families with teens, the new Trident Tower presents three adrenaline-pumping slides including the Poseidon’s Revenge, where riders stand on a trap door that suddenly drops them into a near-vertical slide. Don’t miss the lazy river that winds for nearly 2 kilometers through lush landscapes – perfect for relaxing while still staying cool. The waterpark’s private beach area offers calmer waters of the Gulf for swimming, with lifeguards stationed every 50 meters for added safety. August visitors should take advantage of the “Splash ‘n’ Stay” packages that combine waterpark access with hotel accommodations at reduced summer rates.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: World’s most innovative water slides combined with marine animal encounters
- Key Experiences: Shark-filled lagoon slides, private beach, kids’ adventure river
- Ideal Time: 9 AM-12 PM (before peak heat and crowds)
- Getting There: 25-minute drive from Downtown or free shuttle from Atlantis
2. Explore Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo presents a mesmerizing underwater world that’s ideal for escaping the August heat while providing incredible educational value for children. Housing over 140 species of aquatic animals in the world’s largest suspended aquarium, this attraction never fails to leave kids wide-eyed with wonder. The 48-meter-long tunnel walkthrough creates the sensation of walking on the ocean floor as sand tiger sharks, giant groupers, and graceful rays swim overhead in the 10-million-liter tank. August’s lighter crowds mean your family can take time admiring each exhibit without feeling rushed – you might even catch feeding times (10am and 3pm daily) when divers hand-feed the sharks and rays. The underwater zoo on the upper level features fascinating ecosystems from rainforests to rocky shores, with highlights including the King Croc enclosure housing a massive 5-meter-long saltwater crocodile and the nocturnal zone where kids can observe fascinating creatures like blind cave fish. For an unforgettable experience, book the Glass Bottom Boat tour that sails across the top of the main tank – it’s particularly magical in August when you might get a private tour due to lower visitor numbers. The aquarium’s newest addition, the UAE Night Dive experience (4-6pm daily), showcases local marine life and is included with general admission. Educational stations throughout explain marine conservation in child-friendly terms, making this both an entertaining and enlightening experience.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: One of world’s largest aquariums with unique animal encounters
- Key Experiences: Tunnel walkthrough, crocodile exhibits, boat rides
- Ideal Time: Afternoon (perfect midday escape from heat)
- Getting There: Inside Dubai Mall, metro accessible
3. Discover Indoor Thrills at IMG Worlds of Adventure
IMG Worlds of Adventure stands as the world’s largest indoor theme park, making it the perfect August destination where families can enjoy thrilling rides without worrying about the scorching temperatures outside. Spanning 1.5 million square feet of fully air-conditioned space, this mega entertainment complex features zones dedicated to Marvel superheroes, Cartoon Network characters, and dinosaurs. Kids can team up with the Avengers on the ultra-high-tech Battle of Ultron motion ride or join Finn and Jake from Adventure Time on a whimsical dark ride. The Lost Valley dinosaur zone transports visitors back in time with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and two roller coasters, including the hair-raising Predator drop ride. For younger children, the LazyTown play area offers safe climbing structures and gentle slides themed to the popular kids’ show. August visitors benefit from significantly shorter lines – we’re talking walk-on access to rides that normally require 45+ minute waits during peak seasons. The park’s dining options cater specifically to families, with healthy kids’ meals and allergy-friendly options available. Don’t miss the daily character meet-and-greets where children can interact with their favorite superheroes and cartoon characters in special air-conditioned zones. The venue also offers parent swap services for families with kids of varying ages, allowing adults to take turns riding thrill attractions while someone stays with younger children.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: World-class theme park completely protected from summer heat
- Key Experiences: Marvel superhero rides, dinosaur encounters
- Ideal Time: Open-close (fully indoor)
- Getting There: 30-minute drive from Downtown with free parking
4. Morning Desert Safari Adventure
While desert excursions might seem challenging in August, specially adapted morning safaris offer an unforgettable experience before the day’s peak heat. Departing at 5 AM, these family-friendly tours include gentle dune bashing in climate-controlled 4×4 vehicles with expert drivers who adjust the intensity based on your children’s ages. The golden morning light creates spectacular photo opportunities as you stop atop towering dunes to watch the sunrise. Kids will love the camel rides at the traditional Bedouin-style camp, where they can also try sandboarding down smaller dunes under supervision. The camp itself features shaded seating areas with cooling misters, falconry displays, and henna painting stations. A lavish breakfast spread includes both international and Emirati options, with special children’s platters available. August’s advantage? You’ll often have the entire desert to yourselves, as most tourists opt for evening safaris. The experience concludes by 9:30 AM, before temperatures become uncomfortable, and includes complimentary hotel transfers. Many operators provide child safety seats upon request, and the vehicles are equipped with cold towel dispensers and extra water supplies.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Exclusive morning access to stunning desert landscapes
- Key Experiences: Sunrise views, camel rides, sandboarding
- Ideal Time: 5-9 AM morning tours
- Getting There: Hotel pickup included with all major operators
5. Ski Dubai Snow Play
At Ski Dubai inside Mall of the Emirates, families can experience winter magic despite the August heat outside. This massive indoor snow park maintains a constant -4°C temperature across its 22,500 square meter area, complete with real snowfalls throughout the day. Children under 6 will enjoy Snow Penguins, a gentle play area with mini sledging slopes and snowball throwing zones, while older kids can try the chairlift to the 85-meter main slope for skiing or snowboarding lessons. Don’t miss the daily penguin encounters at 11 AM and 5 PM, when kids can watch these adorable birds swim and interact with trainers. The Snow Cinema (shows hourly) provides a cozy break where families can watch animated shorts while seated on snow benches with blankets. August visitors benefit from extended “Summer Snow Nights” with special activities like glow-in-the-dark tubing until 11 PM. All necessary winter gear is provided, though bringing your own gloves is recommended for better fit. The adjacent Après ski café serves hot chocolate and other winter treats to complete the experience.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Only indoor ski resort in Middle East with real snow
- Key Experiences: Penguin encounters, snow play zones
- Ideal Time: Weekday mornings or Summer Snow Nights
- Getting There: Direct metro access via Mall of the Emirates station
6. KidZania Dubai Career Roleplay
This innovative edutainment center at Dubai Mall lets children aged 4-14 experience different professions in a kid-sized city. Over 70 roleplay activities range from piloting airplanes to baking pizzas, all designed to teach real-world skills through play. August’s special “Summer Camp” program includes extra workshops like junior robotics and science experiments. The air-conditioned facility features authentic replicas of real Dubai landmarks, including a miniature Burj Khalifa and Dubai Creek. Kids earn KidZos (the city’s currency) for completing jobs, which they can spend on treats or save in their bank accounts. Parents relax in the comfortable observation lounge while children explore independently (staff supervise all areas). August visitors enjoy shorter wait times for popular roles like firefighter and surgeon, plus special character appearances throughout the day. The venue offers allergy-friendly dining options and quiet rooms for children who need sensory breaks. Pro tip: Arrive at opening to maximize earning potential before the “city” gets busy.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Unique educational play concept found only in major cities worldwide
- Key Experiences: Professional roleplaying, skill-building activities
- Ideal Time: First morning session for fullest experience
- Getting There: Inside Dubai Mall, metro accessible
7. Green Planet Biodome Exploration
The Green Planet’s spectacular indoor rainforest recreates a tropical ecosystem complete with over 3,000 plants and animals. This climate-controlled biodome maintains perfect 25°C humidity year-round, making it an ideal August retreat. Kids can walk through four levels of the forest, from the flooded rainforest floor to the dense canopy where sloths and toucans reside. The daily animal encounters (included with admission) allow children to assist with feeding butterflies, turtles or sugar gliders under staff supervision. August’s “Rainforest Researchers” program gives kids field notebooks to complete as they spot specific species throughout the exhibits. Don’t miss the ant colony observation wall or the piranha feeding at 2 PM daily. The venue’s design ensures wheelchair/stroller accessibility throughout, with interactive elements placed at child-height. The on-site café offers rainforest-themed healthy meals, including insect-shaped cookies that adventurous kids can try. Evening visits (until 8 PM in summer) often feature special lighting effects that make the forest come alive in new ways.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Only indoor tropical rainforest in Middle East
- Key Experiences: Animal encounters, canopy walk
- Ideal Time: Late afternoon to combine with City Walk attractions
- Getting There: Located in City Walk, 10-minute taxi from Downtown
8. Dubai Frame Panoramic Views
The architectural marvel of Dubai Frame offers breathtaking 360-degree views from its 150-meter-high glass bridge, connecting perspectives of old and new Dubai. August visitors benefit from extended evening hours (until 9 PM) when temperatures are more comfortable for accessing the outdoor observation decks. The experience begins with an immersive multimedia show tracing Dubai’s transformation from fishing village to global city, particularly engaging for school-aged children. The glass floor on the upper level provides thrilling photo opportunities as you appear to float above Zabeel Park. Air-conditioned galleries on the ground floor feature interactive exhibits about Dubai’s future urban projects, including touchscreens where kids can design their own futuristic buildings. August’s reduced crowds mean families can take their time at each exhibit without feeling rushed. The Frame’s strategic north-south orientation ensures shade on one side throughout the day, providing relief from direct sunlight. Evening visits reward guests with spectacular sunset views over the Arabian Gulf followed by the city’s glittering light display after dark.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Unique architectural landmark with panoramic views
- Key Experiences: Glass floor walk, future city exhibits
- Ideal Time: 5-7 PM for sunset views
- Getting There: 15-minute walk from Al Jafiliya metro station
9. Dubai Ice Rink at Mall of the Emirates
This Olympic-sized indoor ice rink offers a refreshing escape from August’s heat with public skating sessions perfect for families. The rink maintains a cool -4°C temperature, providing complete relief from Dubai’s summer weather. First-time skaters can borrow penguin and snowman skating aids for balance, while more experienced kids will love the Friday night disco skating sessions with light shows and music. August’s “Skate School” program offers beginner lessons with certified instructors in small group settings. The rink’s viewing area features comfortable seating where parents can watch while staying warm, with café service available. Special family sessions on weekend mornings include fun games on ice and character appearances. The venue provides all necessary equipment including skates (available down to toddler size 6), helmets, and knee pads at no extra cost. Evening sessions (until 11 PM) often have themed events like Frozen character skate-alongs or hockey demonstrations. The rink’s location inside Mall of the Emirates means you can combine your visit with other attractions like Ski Dubai or the Magic Planet family entertainment center.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Olympic-quality ice skating in desert climate
- Key Experiences: Themed skate nights, beginner lessons
- Ideal Time: Morning sessions or Friday night disco skating
- Getting There: Direct metro access via Mall of the Emirates station
10. Dubai Safari Park Animal Encounters
This 119-hectare wildlife park houses over 3,000 animals in carefully climate-controlled habitats designed for Dubai’s extreme summers. August visitors can focus on the air-conditioned indoor exhibits during peak heat, including the Reptile House and Nocturnal House with its reverse light cycle. The African Village’s safari truck tour operates with extended shaded areas and cooling misters during summer months, allowing comfortable viewing of giraffes, zebras and rhinos. Kids will love the petting zoo area (open mornings only in August) where they can interact with domesticated animals in covered barns. The park’s summer schedule includes extra keeper talks and feeding demonstrations in the cooler early hours. Don’t miss the air-conditioned Birds Show arena featuring free-flying parrots and eagles. August’s advantage comes in nearly private experiences – you might be the only family on the Asian Village’s safari boat ride through the gibbon islands. Packable cooling towels are available for purchase at all rest areas.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Ethical wildlife encounters with summer adaptations
- Key Experiences: Safari truck rides, animal shows
- Ideal Time: Park opening until 11 AM
- Getting There: 40-minute drive from Downtown with ample parking
11. Legoland Dubai & Water Park
The ultimate combination of dry and wet attractions makes Legoland perfect for August visits. Start at the theme park’s indoor attractions like the 4D cinema and Factory Tour before moving to outdoor rides as temperatures cool. The water park’s Build-A-Raft lazy river and wave pool provide refreshing relief, with shaded seating areas throughout. August’s “Brick-or-Treat” summer event features special Lego monster builds and costume parades. Miniland Dubai’s intricate Lego replicas of city landmarks are housed under shaded structures with cooling misters. Younger children will spend hours at Duplo Valley’s water play area and gentle rides, while older kids challenge themselves on the Dragon Coaster. The resort’s unique “Reserve ‘N’ Ride” system minimizes queue times – especially valuable in August when you can often walk right onto popular attractions. Don’t miss the new Lego Mythica zone featuring fantastical creatures brought to life through augmented reality technology.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Perfect blend of water and dry attractions
- Key Experiences: Lego building workshops, water slides
- Ideal Time: Split days between parks to avoid midday heat
- Getting There: Adjacent to Dubai Parks & Resorts complex
12. Museum of the Future
This architectural masterpiece offers a mind-expanding journey through possible futures across seven immersive floors. Children will be captivated by the interactive exhibits about space colonization, climate solutions and AI technology. The “Tomorrow Today” gallery features real prototypes of futuristic inventions, while the “Future Heroes” zone is specially designed for kids under 10 with hands-on activities about problem-solving. August visitors benefit from extended evening hours (last entry 7 PM) and special summer workshops about robotics and coding. The building’s stunning oval design with Arabic calligraphy makes for incredible photos, best captured in early morning light. Inside, the climate-controlled environment provides welcome relief from summer heat while stimulating young minds. Don’t miss the opportunity to “converse” with the AI-powered digital librarian or see the prototype Mars habitat. The museum’s approach makes complex scientific concepts accessible through gamification and stunning visual displays.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Cutting-edge technology exhibits in iconic building
- Key Experiences: AI interactions, space simulations
- Ideal Time: Afternoon for indoor comfort
- Getting There: 10-minute walk from Emirates Towers metro
13. Motiongate Dubai Hollywood Adventure
This Hollywood-inspired theme park brings blockbuster movies to life through thrilling rides and attractions. August visitors can enjoy significantly shorter wait times for popular rides like the Capitol Bullet Train (Hunger Games) and Hotel Transylvania dark ride. The fully indoor Sony Pictures zone provides air-conditioned relief with attractions like Ghostbusters 5D and Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs river adventure. DreamWorks zone’s How to Train Your Dragon rollercoaster offers spectacular indoor/outdoor thrills, with shaded queue areas for summer comfort. August’s “Summer Nights” program extends hours with special character meet-and-greets and live entertainment. The park’s design clusters attractions by movie franchise, making navigation easy for families. For younger children, the Smurfs Village area offers gentle rides and play structures all under covered areas. Dining options include themed restaurants with kid-friendly menus and ample indoor seating.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Hollywood movie magic come to life
- Key Experiences: Studio-themed rides, character encounters
- Ideal Time: Focus on indoor zones during midday heat
- Getting There: Part of Dubai Parks & Resorts complex
14. Laguna Waterpark at La Mer
This beachfront waterpark combines thrilling slides with laid-back coastal vibes. August visitors enjoy extended “Splash Nights” with glow parties and DJ entertainment under the stars. The park’s compact layout means less walking between attractions – a bonus in summer heat. Kids will love the WaveOz 180 FlowRider for simulated surfing and the lazy river with interactive water features. For families with younger children, the dedicated Splash Pad area provides safe water play with miniature slides and dumping buckets. August’s reduced crowds mean you can often have entire slides to yourselves during weekday visits. The private beach area offers calmer waters for swimming, with lifeguards stationed every few meters. Cabanas with cooling misters can be rented by the day, providing a comfortable home base. The park’s dining options include healthy kids’ meals and refreshing smoothies available at multiple locations.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Beachfront location with thrilling slides
- Key Experiences: FlowRider, lazy river, night splashing
- Ideal Time: 4-9 PM during Splash Nights
- Getting There: 15-minute drive from Downtown Dubai
15. Etihad Museum Interactive History
This architecturally stunning museum brings UAE history to life through cutting-edge interactive exhibits. Children can “sign” the 1971 union agreement on touchscreens or explore replica Bedouin tents with augmented reality features. August’s special “Young Historians” program includes daily workshops where kids create traditional crafts or participate in storytelling sessions. The museum’s chronological journey from pearl diving to modern federation uses multimedia displays that captivate young visitors. Air-conditioned galleries provide comfortable exploration, with seating areas strategically placed for family breaks. Don’t miss the Union House replica where the UAE was founded – its immersive projection show runs every 30 minutes. The museum’s design includes ramps and elevators for stroller access throughout. Evening visits (until 8 PM on weekends) often feature special light shows projected onto the museum’s wave-like roof structure.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: High-tech approach to national history
- Key Experiences: Union documentary, passport stamp activity
- Ideal Time: Morning hours before crowds
- Getting There: 10-minute walk from World Trade Centre metro
16. Aventura Parks Tree Top Adventures
This eco-adventure park in Ghaf Forest offers thrilling ziplines and obstacle courses designed specifically for family fun. August mornings provide ideal conditions before equipment heats up in the sun. The “Little Adventurers” course (ages 4-7) features mini ziplines and rope bridges just a meter off the ground, while older kids can tackle the 8-meter-high Challenge Course. August’s “Dawn Adventures” program opens gates at 6 AM for cooler temperatures and magical morning light filtering through the trees. All courses feature safety harnesses with staff monitoring each section. The forest canopy provides natural shade throughout the day, with misting stations at ground level. The park’s newest addition, the Night Line experience (6-9 PM weekends), lets families zipline under the stars with special glow elements. On-site instructors adapt challenges based on children’s abilities, ensuring an empowering experience for all skill levels.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Thrilling but safe aerial challenges in nature
- Key Experiences: Ziplining, treetop bridges
- Ideal Time: 6-9 AM morning sessions
- Getting There: 30-minute drive from Dubai Marina
17. Dubai Opera Family Performances
This architectural gem hosts specially curated family matinees throughout August, ranging from musicals to circus performances. The stunning dhow-shaped venue offers world-class acoustics and comfortable seating with booster cushions available for younger children. August’s programming typically includes interactive shows where kids can meet performers afterward. The venue’s backstage tours (select dates) reveal fascinating behind-the-scenes details about theatrical productions. For first-time opera-goers, the 60-minute “My First Opera” introductions make the art form accessible through engaging narration and highlights. The adjacent Fountain Views restaurant offers kid-friendly menus with perfect sightlines to the Dubai Fountain shows (schedule aligned with performance times). August’s advantage comes in discounted “Summer Culture Pass” packages that bundle multiple shows at reduced rates. The opera house’s design ensures excellent views from every seat, with family restrooms and changing facilities available.
Key Highlights:
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- Why Visit: World-class performances tailored for young audiences
- Key Experiences: Matinee shows, backstage tours
- Ideal Time: Morning or early afternoon performances
- Getting There: Connected to Dubai Mall metro station
18. Dubai Garden Glow – Dinosaur Park
This enchanting nighttime attraction in Zabeel Park combines art, nature and dinosaurs in a magical illuminated wonderland. While August evenings remain warm, the park’s 7 PM opening time allows families to enjoy cooler temperatures while exploring massive glowing dinosaur sculptures and interactive displays. The Dinosaur Park section features over 120 animatronic dinosaurs with educational information about each species, while the Art Park dazzles with sculptures made from recycled materials. August visitors benefit from special “Summer Glow Nights” with extended hours until midnight and misting stations throughout the park. Kids will love the dinosaur digging pit where they can uncover replica fossils, and the glow-in-the-dark maze that challenges them to find their way out. The park’s design ensures wheelchair/stroller accessibility across all areas, with plenty of shaded seating spots for breaks. Food kiosks offer refreshing treats like ice creams and chilled juices to keep everyone cool. Don’t miss the 8 PM and 10 PM light shows when the entire park synchronizes to music in a spectacular display.
Key Highlights:
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- Why Visit: World’s largest glow-in-the-dark dinosaur park
- Key Experiences: Animatronic dinosaurs, light shows, glow maze
- Ideal Time: 7-10 PM for comfortable temperatures
- Getting There: 15-minute walk from Al Jafiliya metro station
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19. Mattel Play Town Interactive Fun
This colorful indoor entertainment center brings beloved Mattel characters to life through themed play zones. Kids can drive Thomas the Tank Engine on his railway tracks, solve construction challenges with Bob the Builder, or create masterpieces at the Angelina Ballerina art studio. August’s “Summer of Play” program adds extra character meet-and-greets and themed workshops daily. The air-conditioned facility is designed specifically for children aged 2-10, with safe play areas divided by age group. Parents appreciate the comfortable lounge areas with charging stations and free WiFi. The on-site café serves healthy kids’ meals with character-themed presentations. August weekdays offer the most relaxed experience with minimal crowds, allowing children to move freely between activities. The venue hosts regular sensory-friendly sessions with adjusted lighting and sound for children with special needs. All play equipment is sanitized hourly, with staff facilitating activities throughout the day.
Key Highlights:
- Why Visit: Beloved characters in interactive play environment
- Key Experiences: Roleplay stations, creative workshops
- Ideal Time: Weekday mornings for smallest crowds
- Getting There: Inside City Walk development
