Dubai has long been known as a fantastic place for family vacations. It’s safe, clean and fun with a capital F. There are so many amazing experiences to be had and sights to explore behind every corner.

A desert adventure? A beach getaway? An in-city cultural tour? Check, check and check. Finding one city with enough activities to appeal to everyone’s tastes is a rarity, but Dubai fits the bill.

This article will highlight five family adventures that are sure to create lasting memories for you and your little ones.

1. Take a Trip Into Desert Wilderness

Going on a safe, well-organized Dubai safari is a must-try for visitors of all ages. The contrast to the city makes quite an impression, and the scenery in the desert is a feast for young imaginations.

You’ll also be mesmerized by the flora and fauna you spot, and the expanse of the dunes is a sight to behold. It certainly makes for a day trip that stands out from the crowd.

There are also many interesting added options for desert safaris: barbecues, stargazing, dance shows, falconry displays, camel trekking and sandboarding, to name a few.

A popular option for older teenagers and adults is dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle. Talk to your chosen desert tour operator about the various packages available. And remember to mention the ages of your children to ensure they have the appropriate gear and safety measures in place.

2. Open Young Minds With a Cultural Tour

There’s more to Dubai than the glitz and glamor of the city. In fact, the emirate has a fascinating, surprising past as a quaint coastal village.

Learning more about Old Dubai is a rewarding experience for the whole family. Taking a stroll through Bur Dubai, its historic neighborhood perched on the banks of the creek, and the bustling souks (markets) can transport you back in time.

The intricate network of courtyards and narrow lanes is truly captivating. Plus, you can find unique keepsakes for friends and family back home.

To make sure you don’t miss any of the best spots, opt for a cultural tour such as one operated by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU).

3. Experience Thrills at a Dubai Theme Park

A family trip to Dubai wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of its big-name theme parks. Legoland and Motiongate Dubai are among the most popular.

In its various parks, Dubai is home to some record-breaking roller coasters, the world’s second-largest indoor theme park, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and more rides than you could ever imagine. It's a thrill-seeker's paradise.

4. Swim With Dolphins

For an unforgettable experience, make your way to Dolphin Bay in Atlantis, The Palm. Here, you can swim or scuba dive alongside a pod of beautiful, good-natured dolphins. A private VIP experience is available too. Most children can only dream of swimming with dolphins, but in Dubai, you can make it a reality for your kids.

Aside from getting close enough to touch and pet these friendly creatures, you’ll also be able to meet sea lions. Children as young as three can interact with these incredible animals.

To complete your water fun-filled day, make your next stop at the Aquaventure theme park. It’s one of Dubai’s best-loved water parks and guarantees hours of fun. Dolphin Bay guests receive complimentary entry. 

5. Have Dinner While Watching Dancing Fountains

As night falls, The Dubai Fountain comes to life with one of the planet’s most spectacular shows.

Every half an hour, from 6 pm daily, the fountains present a choreographed show of light and sound. Jets of water reach up to 140m high as they and the lights appear to dance to a range of songs from classical to contemporary Arabic and other music.

Having dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants and cafés where the fountains are in sight will take your dining experience to a new level. It certainly makes entertaining your kids while they wait for their meal a whole lot easier.

Experience All That Dubai Has to Offer

These five experiences are guaranteed to make your family trip to Dubai a special one. But of course, these are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all that this great city has to offer.

Still, starting with a week of adventure and exploration, you’re sure to bring home magical memories that will stay with you and your children for a lifetime.