A round up of fantastic summer fun that avoids the heat of the sun.
Dubai’s summer is here, and it’s time to beat the heat with some fantastic indoor fun. Check out this ultimate guide to staying entertained indoors, featuring everything from thrilling escape rooms and cosy board game cafés to exciting bowling alleys and beyond.
Expo 2020 Dubai Museum
Dive back into the memories of Expo 2020 Dubai at the Expo 2020 Dubai Museum in Expo City. This newly unveiled museum is your gateway to reliving the spectacular World Expo journey. A one-day pass for Dhs120 grants access to the Expo 2020 Dubai Museum, Stories of Nations exhibitions, and highlights such as the Vision and Women’s Pavilion, Alif, and Terra. For a focused experience, tickets are Dhs50 for adults and Dhs40 for children aged four to 11, covering only the Expo 2020 Museum and Stories of Nations. Discover more about this nostalgic trip down memory lane here.
Tel: (0)4 555 2030 | Website: expocitydubai.com
Fun City Dubai
Perfect for letting kids burn off energy, Fun City Dubai is a vibrant indoor amusement venue. It boasts colorful soft play areas, ball pits, thrilling rides, and video games—ensuring endless fun for little adventurers. With several locations across Dubai, Fun City offers a limited-time pass for Dhs135 per month.
Locations: Mercato Mall, Oasis Mall, Motor City, Century Mall, Ibn Battuta Mall, Arabian Center | Website: funcity.ae
Game Over
Gather your friends and tackle escape room challenges at Game Over in Nakheel Mall. With 12 escape rooms, 11 virtual escape games, and a board game café featuring over 50 options, it’s an adventure lover’s paradise. Choose from genres like adventure, mystery, horror, and fantasy for the ultimate group bonding experience.
Hours: Sun to Thurs 10am – 10.30pm, Fri and Sat 10am – 12am | Entry: Dhs140 | Tel: (0)4 577 3289 | Instagram: @game_over_dubai
Glitch Arabia
Step into action at Glitch Arabia, located at Al Ghurair Centre in Deira. With over 30 thrilling attractions, including an indoor roller glider, VR adventures, and a ninja warrior course, it’s a dynamic destination for both kids and adults. Pricing starts at Dhs35 for two experiences.
Hours: Sun to Thurs 10am – 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am – 12am | Entry: Dhs35 for 2 experiences, Dhs65 for 3 experiences, Dhs100 for 6 experiences | Instagram: @glitcharabia
iFLY Dubai
Experience the sensation of skydiving without leaving the ground at iFLY. You’ll float in a vertical wind tunnel 4 meters above the floor, simulating a free-fall experience. Special offers are available, so you can take flight for Dhs149.
Tel: (0)4 231 6292 | Website: iflyme.com
Infinite Ski
If you’re eager to hit the slopes but need to practise, head to Infinite Ski in Al Quoz. This first-of-its-kind dry ski slope lets you learn and perfect your skills on a revolving belt. Sessions start at Dhs110.
Prices: From Dhs110 | Tel: (0)4 235 3408 | Instagram: @infinite_ski
Jameel Arts Centre
At the southern edge of Jaddaf Waterfront stands the Jameel Arts Centre, a contemporary art haven with serene, sunlit rooms and lush gardens. It showcases Middle Eastern contemporary art and hosts a solo exhibition by Japanese artist Tsuyoshi Hisakado this summer. Entry is free, and afterward, enjoy a meal at Green Michelin Star restaurant Teible.
Hours: Mon to Sun 10am – 8pm, Fri noon – 9pm (closed Tue) | Tel: (0)4 873 9800 | Instagram: @jameelartscentre
Kidzania
For ages four to 16, Kidzania in Dubai Mall is a 7,000-square-metre city where kids can role-play real-life jobs and earn Kidzania currency. It’s a fantastic, educationally enriching experience.
Hours: Sun to Thurs 10am – 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am – 11pm | Tel: (800) 3822 46255 | Website: kidzania.ae
La Perle by Dragone
Experience the breathtaking La Perle show by Franco Dragone, featuring stunning acrobatics and performances in a 2.7 million-liter aqua stage. Dive into the action and witness athletes and acrobats soar and plunge from 25 meters high. Check out various offers and packages here.
Showtimes: 6.30pm or 9.30pm daily | Tel: (0)4 437 0123 | Website: laperle.com
Loco Bear (Opening August)
Get ready for an adventure at Loco Bear in Al Quoz 2. This 70,000-square-foot space is an adventure hub with a slime universe, soft play areas, trampoline zones, wall climbs, bowling, and more.
Opening soon | Instagram: @goloco.dxb
Limba
Unleash your creativity at Limba Ceramics Cafe in Mirdif Avenue Mall. Choose a plain ceramic piece, paint your design, and enjoy a drink while you craft. It’s a relaxing and fun way to make a personalised keepsake.
Hours: Sun to Thurs 10am – 8pm, Fri to Sat 9am – 8pm | Tel: (0)50 120 9005 | Instagram: @limbaceramics
Markets
Summer is the perfect time to explore indoor markets like RIPE and Not Just For Vegans. These markets are brimming with homegrown treasures and are a great way to support local vendors while escaping the heat. Free entry | https://ripeevents.com/ripe-market/.
Mercato Mall Slide
Cool off with a thrill at Mercato Mall’s slide, back for Dubai Summer Surprises. Enjoy the slide for free, and end your ride in a ball pit perfect for a quick photo op. Both kids and adults can join the fun. Dubai Summer Surprises wraps up on September 1, so don’t miss out!
Free | Until Sept 1 | Instagram: @mercatomall
Mohammed Bin Rashid Library
For book lovers, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Al Jaddaf is a must-visit. It’s the largest library in the Arab world, with diverse sections including rare books, a media library, and more. Keep an eye on their social media for events and workshops.
Hours: Mon to Sat 9am – 9pm, Fri 2pm – 9pm | Tel: (0)4 222 2025 | Instagram: @mbrlae
Modesh World
Celebrate summer at Modesh World, Dubai’s beloved edutainment park, offering free entry from June 21 to August 18, 2024. With over 170 attractions, live events, workshops, and the chance to meet Modesh and Dana, it’s a summer staple.
Hours: Mon to Thurs 10am – 10pm, Fri to Sun 10am – 12am | Instagram: @mymodesh
Motiongate
Experience Hollywood magic at Motiongate Dubai, the largest theme park in the Middle East inspired by blockbuster films. Don’t miss the record-breaking roller coasters themed around Lionsgate hits like John Wick and Now You See Me.
Tel: (800) 262 9464 | Website: dubaiparksandresorts.com
Museum of the Future
Step into tomorrow at the Museum of the Future, where each of its seven levels provides a glimpse into the world 50 years from now. Enjoy the serene meditation centre at Al Waha, featuring a calming light and water projection.
Hours: Daily 10am – 9.30pm | Entry: Dhs149, under-fours free | Instagram: @museumofthefuture
Neon Galaxy
Located in Dubai Parks and Resorts, Neon Galaxy is a space-themed adventure park for children and teens. Explore ninja courses, a rope climbing area, a ball pit, and more. Prices start from Dhs60 for one hour.
Open daily from 11am | Tel: (800) 262 9464 | Website: dubaiparksandresorts.com/en/neongalaxy
OliOli Dubai
Welcome to OliOli, Dubai’s beloved playground for the little adventurers! This experiential children’s museum is an interactive wonderland with eight immersive galleries designed to spark imagination and curiosity. From building forts to exploring the ‘Future Park,’ every corner promises a mix of fun and learning that kids adore. Open daily AED 139 call +971 (0) 47027300 for more info.
Oo La Lab
Dive into the enchanting world of fragrances at Oo La Lab’s ‘Chemistry of Bukhoor’ workshop. In this sensory adventure, you’ll craft a personalized bukhoor scent using traditional Arabian oils and oud. This two-hour session is a treat for your senses and a perfect way to bring home a custom fragrance. AED 400 Alserkal Avenue Al Quoz, +971 (0) 52 361 2813, or visit uae.oola-lab.com.
Play DXB
Cool down this summer at Play DXB, formerly known as VR Park at The Dubai Mall. This virtual reality playground offers everything from dune bashing in the desert to soaring alongside the Burj Khalifa. The thrill levels vary, so there’s something for everyone. Prices start at Dhs200. Level 2, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, 10am to midnight daily, vrparkdubai.com.
Precision Football
Kick your game up a notch at Precision Football in Ibn Battuta Mall. With UEFA-qualified coaches, smart pitches, and high-tech training zones, it’s the ultimate spot for aspiring football stars. Whether for events, birthday parties, or individual coaching, it’s a hub for fun and skill development. Ibn Battuta Mall, Dubai, (0)58 820 6756.
Ready Set Go
Let your little ones go wild in Dubai’s largest soft play area, Ready Set Go! With a jungle theme, this fun zone includes a soft play area, role play town, jump park, and a café for parents to relax. Entry is Dhs75 for kids under 90cm and Dhs150 for those above. Two adults get in free, with an extra adult ticket priced at Dhs40. Grab your tickets here. Al Quoz 3, Dubai, Mon to Thurs 10am to 8pm, Fri 10am to 10pm, Sat 9am to 10pm, Sun 9am to 9pm, (0)4 229 9989.
Rimbambelle
Introducing Rimbambelle, Bluewaters Island’s newest indoor play paradise! Open since June, this jungle-themed wonderland offers slides, ball pits, and interactive games for kids, while parents can unwind with a cocktail. The venue also features workshops and events for the whole family. The Wharf, Bluewaters Island, Dubai, daily 10am to 10pm.
Rock Republic Dubai
Scale new heights at Rock Republic, the UAE’s largest bouldering gym. Perfect for fitness enthusiasts and adventurous duos, this indoor climbing gym offers a unique and bonding experience. Open daily, it’s a fantastic way to challenge yourself and have fun. DIP Dubai, Mon to Fri 3:30pm to 10pm, Sat and Sun 9am to 6:30pm, (0)4 546 2978, rockrepublicdubai.
RollDXB
Relive the joy of roller skating at RollDXB, where the focus is on fun and freedom! Open to all skill levels, this roller rink promises a blast from the past. Prices start at Dhs65. Shed 3 Marina Cubes Street, Dubai Maritime City, Port Rashid, Sun to Wed 2:30pm to 10pm, Thurs 2:30pm to midnight, Fri and Sat 10am to 1am, (800) 6868, @rolldxb.
Sagra Italian Pastifico
Get hands-on with pasta making at Sagra Italian Pastifico. This charming spot offers a two-hour workshop where you can learn to craft fresh pasta from scratch. Perfect for foodies eager to take home a delicious creation. Price, Dhs250, road 3, Jumeirah, sagrairalianpastifico.com.
Ski Dubai
Chill out at Ski Dubai, the city’s frosty wonderland in the Mall of the Emirates. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or meeting penguins, this 22,500-square-metre snow park has it all. Prices vary by activity. Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, (600) 599 905, skidxb.com.
Sky Zone
Sky Zone at Ibn Battuta Mall is your indoor playground for bouncing off the walls—literally! With a Wipe Out zone, ninja courses, zip line, and more, this 35,000-square-foot park is a fantastic way to let loose. Prices start from Dhs149. Persia Court, Ibn Battuta Mall, Dubai, (800) 759 9663, skyzone.ae.
The Green Planet
Explore nature like never before at The Green Planet, an indoor rainforest teeming with over 3,000 plants and animals. Enjoy encounters with exotic creatures and even spend a night camping under the tropical dome. Prices start at Dhs155. City Walk, Dubai, daily 10am to 6pm, (0)4 317 3999, thegreenplanetdubai.com.
The Smash Room
Unleash your inner fury at The Smash Room! Equipped with old furniture and objects for smashing, it’s the perfect place to let off steam. Packages start from Dhs69. Umm Suqeim Street, Al Quoz Industrial 4, (0)58 198 2323, thesmashroom.com.
Topgolf Dubai
Beat the heat at Topgolf, where the bays are air-conditioned and the golf is always on par. Enjoy a round of golf with friends while snacking and sipping in comfort. Emirates Golf Club, Emirates Hills 2, Dubai, Mon to Fri 10am to 2am, Sat and Sun 9am to 2am, (0)4 371 9999, topgolfdubai.ae.
Street Maniax
For those craving action, Street Maniax has it all: trampoline parkour, ninja courses, and more. Perfect for older kids and adults, with various ticket options available. Prices start at Dhs130. 19/Al Khail Street, Al Quoz 3, Dubai, (04) 348 8981, airmaniax.com.
TEPFactor
Challenge yourself and your team at TEPFactor, an award-winning obstacle course that tests physical and mental skills. With a range of challenges, it’s a fun and exhilarating experience. Prices are Dhs77 for kids and Dhs99 for adults. Bahar Plaza, JBR, Dubai, Mon to Thurs 12pm to 10pm, Fri to Sun 12pm to midnight, (0)56 404 0802, tepfactor.ae.
The Lost Chambers
Dive into the depths at The Lost Chambers, Atlantis the Palm’s impressive aquarium. With 14 chambers and over 65,000 marine animals, it’s a fascinating adventure. UAE residents get a discount, so don’t forget your Emirates ID. Atlantis, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, (0)4 426 1040, atlantisthepalm.com.
The Storm Coaster
Ready for a thrill like no other? The Storm Coaster is Dubai’s newest, heart-pounding indoor ride that combines a stomach-dropping vertical plunge with an immersive storm-chasing experience. Step into the world of extreme weather as you’re lifted high above the city and then plunged into the centre of a massive storm, complete with cinematic effects and real-world footage. To ride this stormy adventure, you need to be at least 130 cm tall. Ready to face the tempest? Book your ride here. Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills, Dubai. Open Sun-Thurs 10am-11pm, Fri-Sat 10am-12am. Dhs99 per person. Tel: (0)4 448 5033. @dubaihillsmall.
Theatre of Digital Art
Experience art like never before at the Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA) in Souk Madinat Jumeirah. This mesmerising space brings masterpieces to life with immersive digital projections and surround sound, turning the art gallery into a dynamic, multi-sensory experience. Whether it’s Van Gogh, Monet, or the iconic Frida Kahlo, ToDA offers an array of shows that make art feel like an adventure. Beyond the exhibits, enjoy jazz nights, meditation sessions, and more. Check their website for current shows and schedules. Theatre of Digital Art, Souk Madinat, Dubai. Prices vary. Tel: (0)4 277 4044. toda.ae.
Vertical Design
Curious about neon signs? Dive into the dazzling world of neon art at the Vertical Designs Neon Discovery workshop. In this 90-minute course, you’ll explore the science behind neon, create your own glowing art, and get hands-on with glass blowing—the key to crafting neon signs. Gather your friends for a creative adventure. Vertical Design, inside Urban Nest, Al Quoz. Dhs950 per person. Sessions available morning, afternoon, and evening. Three people per class. verticaldesigndxb.com.
Wavehouse
Wavehouse at Atlantis The Palm is your ultimate destination for vibrant, neon-lit fun. Step into a realm of entertainment with a four-lane, ten-pin bowling alley, pool tables, arcade games, and much more. It’s the perfect spot to mix up your usual night out with some playful competition and lively ambiance. Wavehouse, Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. Tel: (0)4 426 2626. atlantisthepalm.com/wavehouse.
Wild Paint Studio
Unleash your inner artist at Wild Paint Studio in Al Quoz. This creative haven, set in a transformed warehouse, offers six exciting painting experiences, from splat and spin to neon and graffiti. Whether you want to decorate walls with graffiti or create glowing masterpieces, there’s an artistic adventure waiting for you. Prices start at Dhs160, with options to book individual sessions or group activities. Wild Paint Studio, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1. Mon-Fri 2pm-10pm, Sat-Sun 10am-10pm. From Dhs160. Tel: (0)56 833 6804. wildpainthouse.com.
