Top 5 Family-Friendly Malls in the UAE with Indoor Activities (2025)
Tuesday, 20 May 2025
The UAE has redefined what shopping malls mean to families. Gone are the days when malls were just places to shop. Today, they’re fully equipped destinations where kids can learn, play, and explore—while parents relax or get their shopping done. Whether you’re looking for weekend fun, an after-school treat, or a way to beat the summer heat, here are the top 5 family-friendly malls in the UAE in 2025 that offer amazing indoor entertainment.
Table of Contents
- Dubai Mall – Endless Experiences Under One Roof
- Yas Mall – Abu Dhabi’s Ultimate Island Experience
- City Centre Mirdif – Adventure Inside the Mall
- City Centre Al Zahia – Sharjah’s New Family Hangout
- Dubai Festival City Mall – Indoor Thrills by the Creek
- Tips for Visiting UAE Malls with Kids
- Why UAE Malls Are Perfect for Families in 2025
- Frequently asked questions
1. Dubai Mall – Endless Experiences Under One Roof
Location: Downtown Dubai, Dubai
Best For: Full-day family adventures with global appeal
Why It Stands Out:
Dubai Mall isn’t just a shopping center—it’s practically a city in itself. With over 1,200 retail stores, this mall is packed with attractions for all ages.
Top indoor highlights include:
- Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: One of the world’s largest suspended aquariums.
- KidZania: A mini-city where children take on real-life roles like doctors, pilots, and chefs.
- Dubai Ice Rink: Chill out with skating fun for beginners and pros.
- PlayDXB (VR Park): Augmented and virtual reality experiences for tweens and teens.
Parents Love: The proximity to the Burj Khalifa and dozens of family-friendly dining options.
2. Yas Mall – Abu Dhabi’s Ultimate Island Experience
Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Best For: A family getaway packed with attractions
Yas Mall is Abu Dhabi’s largest mall and a key piece of the entertainment puzzle on Yas Island—home to Ferrari World, SeaWorld, and Yas Waterworld. Inside the mall, families will find:
- Fun Works: A massive 60,000 sq. ft. kids’ play zone with climbing walls, soft play, and learning centers.
- VOX Cinemas: With family-friendly screens and KIDS theaters.
- Access to Ferrari World and Clymb for adventurous teens
Extra Tip: Combine mall time with a theme park visit for a full day of fun.
3. City Centre Mirdif – Adventure Inside the Mall
Location: Mirdif, Dubai
Best For: High-energy kids and thrill-seeking families
City Centre Mirdif is not just family-friendly—it’s adventure-packed. It’s a favorite among Dubai residents for its manageable size, quiet ambiance, and exciting attractions.
- iFLY Dubai: Experience indoor skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel.
- Little Explorers: Fun, educational activities that teach kids about the world through play.
- Magic Planet: Classic family arcade fun, bumper cars, rides, and more.
Family Advantage: Easier to navigate and park compared to mega-malls like Dubai Mall.
4. City Centre Al Zahia – Sharjah’s New Family Hangout
Location: Al Zahia, Muwaileh, Sharjah
Best For: Convenient family fun in the Northern Emirates
Sharjah’s newest shopping gem, City Centre Al Zahia, combines modern design with a strong focus on families. It’s fast becoming a go-to spot for local parents thanks to:
- Magic Planet: Games, rides, and interactive zones.
- Diverse dining options with child-friendly seating.
- Frequent events, seasonal workshops, and pop-up activities for kids.
- Well-designed family rest areas and baby care zones.
Why Go: Great mix of fun and functionality, especially for families living in Sharjah and Ajman.
5. Dubai Festival City Mall – Indoor Thrills by the Creek
Location: Dubai Festival City, Dubai
Best For: Unique combo of indoor fun and waterfront vibes
This mall blends retail with recreation seamlessly. What makes it stand out is the blend of shopping, attractions, and spectacular outdoor views—all in one destination.
- Bounce-X: Indoor trampoline and freestyle park (fun for teens & adults).
- Fabyland: Perfect for toddlers and younger kids.
- IMAGINE Show: The world’s largest water and light projection show, viewable from inside and outside the mall.
- Water taxi rides and dhow access available for added family fun.
Don’t Miss: Seasonal events and pop-up LEGO or Nickelodeon zones.
To make the most of your family mall visits in 2025, here are some practical tips: The UAE continues to lead globally in family-focused innovation. Malls here are built not just to sell, but to serve as lifestyle hubs—especially in a region where extreme summer heat limits outdoor play. These malls are: Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, these indoor havens provide everything a family needs for a fun-filled day. The UAE has turned mall culture into an experience that caters to the whole family. Whether you’re planning a birthday surprise, a weekend outing, or a spontaneous escape from the heat, these five malls offer an unbeatable mix of entertainment, safety, and convenience. With new experiences constantly being added, UAE malls remain some of the most versatile family destinations in the world. Dubai Mall tops the list with KidZania, VR Park, and the Aquarium, but Yas Mall and City Centre Mirdif are also strong contenders. Yes! Most malls have soft play areas, stroller access, family restrooms, and baby changing rooms. City Centre Al Zahia in Sharjah is currently the best-equipped mall for families in that region. Absolutely. Most are metro- or taxi-accessible and offer ample parking for those who drive.
Why UAE Malls Are Perfect for Families in 2025
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which UAE mall has the best indoor activities for kids?
Are these malls suitable for toddlers and young children?
What is the best mall in the Northern Emirates for families?
Can I visit these malls without a car?
