Dubai is home to some of the world’s most impressive theme parks, offering everything from adrenaline-filled roller coasters to immersive movie worlds, water adventures, and family-friendly entertainment. Whether you’re looking for thrilling rides, indoor comfort during summer, or full-day family fun, Dubai’s theme parks deliver unforgettable experiences.
This guide covers the best theme parks in Dubai, what each park offers, their key attractions, who they’re ideal for, locations, and helpful tips for planning your visit.
Here is a list of the best theme parks in Dubai and the activities they offer for kids, movie lovers, adults, and busy women in Dubai’s fast-paced lifestyle.
1. IMG Worlds of Adventure – The World’s Largest Indoor Theme Park
IMG Worlds of Adventure is Dubai’s largest indoor theme park, offering year-round entertainment across four themed zones: Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure, and IMG Boulevard. The park is fully air-conditioned, making it ideal during Dubai’s hot months and perfect for families, thrill seekers, and movie fans.
IMG Worlds of Adventure Opened in 2016 by the Ilyas & Mustafa Galadari Group, IMG became the world’s biggest indoor theme park. It was built to bring global brands like Marvel and Cartoon Network to Dubai in a climate-controlled, immersive environment. Since launch, it has continued to grow with new rides, updates, and seasonal events.
Key Attractions & Activities
- Velociraptor Roller Coaster – A high-speed indoor-to-outdoor coaster, one of Dubai’s fastest.
- Spider-Man: Doc Ock’s Revenge – A 3D ride that puts you inside a Marvel-style battle.
- Forbidden Territory – A dinosaur adventure featuring realistic animatronics.
- Ben 10: 5D Hero Time – A kid-friendly 5D action ride.
- The Haunted Hotel – A live-actor horror attraction for adults and teens.
- IMG Boulevard – Dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
IMG Worlds of Adventure Is Best For
- Families with kids
- Marvel fans and movie lovers
- Thrill seekers and teens
- Adults looking for horror attractions
- Visitors wanting a fully indoor theme park
- Tourists in Dubai seeking all-day entertainment can combine theme park visits with iconic attractions like Burj Khalifa, making the most of their day in the city.
- Women and residents preferring a comfortable indoor experience
Location
E311 Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Dubai (Near Global Village)
Important Visitor Info
- Timings: 12 PM–10 PM (weekdays), 12 PM–11 PM (weekends)
- Average Visit Duration: 4–6 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid long queues
- Tickets: Online prices are usually cheaper.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly; height restrictions apply on some rides
2. Motiongate Dubai – Hollywood’s Biggest Theme Park in the Middle East
Motiongate Dubai is a blockbuster-inspired theme park that brings Hollywood to life through immersive zones based on DreamWorks, Lionsgate, and Columbia Pictures. The park blends animated worlds, cinematic sets, and thrilling rides, making it one of Dubai’s most complete movie-themed attractions.
Motiongate Duabi Opened as part of Dubai Parks & Resorts, Motiongate was created to offer guests a real Hollywood-style experience with indoor and outdoor rides, 4D shows, themed dining, and live entertainment. Each zone feels like stepping directly into a movie universe—from fantasy kingdoms to high-action film settings.
Key Attractions & Activities
- Capitol Bullet Train – The Hunger Games
A high-speed launch coaster that recreates the adrenaline of Panem’s futuristic world. - Madagascar: Mad Pursuit
A wildly fun indoor coaster that delivers sharp twists and fast-paced family excitement. - Shrek’s Merry Fairy Tale Journey
A gentle storytelling boat ride through Shrek’s charming fairy tale universe. - Ghostbusters: Battle for New York
An interactive shooting dark ride where guests help save the city from paranormal chaos. - How to Train Your Dragon Zone
Family-friendly rides and dragon-themed experiences inside a beautifully designed environment.
Motiongate Dubai Is Best For
- Families with kids
- Movie lovers and film enthusiasts
- Fans of animated films (Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda)
- Teens and thrill seekers
- Visitors wanting a Hollywood-style theme park
- Tourists looking for a full-day entertainment experience
Location
Dubai Parks & Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Road
3. LEGOLAND Dubai – The Ultimate Theme Park for Kids Ages 2–12
LEGOLAND Dubai is a family-focused theme park built specifically for children aged 2–12. With over 40 rides, shows, and hands-on building zones, the park encourages creativity and imagination while offering safe, age-appropriate fun. It’s one of Dubai’s top destinations for families with young kids.
History
Opened in 2016 within Dubai Parks & Resorts, LEGOLAND Dubai introduced the beloved LEGO universe to the Middle East. The park was developed to provide a fully interactive, educational, and entertaining environment where children can play, build, and explore. Over the years, it has continued to evolve with new attractions, seasonal events, and themed experiences.
Key Attractions & Activities
- Dragon Coaster
A mild family roller coaster that combines playful storytelling with gentle thrills—perfect for young adventurers. - Driving School
Kids get behind the wheel of mini electric cars and learn basic driving skills before receiving their own “LEGOLAND Driver’s License.” - Miniland
A stunning indoor world built with over 20 million LEGO bricks, featuring miniature versions of global landmarks and iconic Dubai structures. - LEGO Factory Tour
A behind-the-scenes experience where kids see how real LEGO bricks are produced. - LEGO City & Kingdoms Zones
Interactive play areas, building stations, and easy rides designed for younger children.
Who LEGOLAND Dubai Is Best For
- Families with toddlers and young kids
- LEGO enthusiasts
- Parents seeking educational, creative experiences
- Visitors wanting a low-stress, child-friendly theme park
- Tourists looking for indoor + outdoor kid activities in Dubai
Location
Dubai Parks & Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Road
4. Wild Wadi Waterpark – Dubai’s Most Iconic Water Adventure Park
Wild Wadi Waterpark is one of Dubai’s most famous outdoor water parks, built around the Arabian legends of Juha and Sinbad. It features high-speed slides, wave pools, and family attractions, making it a top spot for both adrenaline lovers and families looking to cool off in Dubai’s heat.
Opened in 1999, Wild Wadi is one of Dubai’s earliest large-scale water parks and quickly became an iconic attraction thanks to its location beside the Burj Al Arab. Over the years, the park has upgraded rides, improved safety standards, and added new experiences, keeping it a favorite for residents and tourists.
Key Attractions & Activities
- Jumeirah Sceirah
A record-breaking free-fall slide where riders plunge at high speeds—ideal for thrill seekers. - Master Blasters
A network of water roller coasters that use powerful water jets to push riders uphill for a unique, fast-paced experience. - Breakers Bay Wave Pool
The largest wave pool in Dubai, offering rolling waves perfect for families and swimmers. - Juha’s Journey Lazy River
A relaxing float ride through calm waters, great for younger kids and those looking to unwind. - FlowRider
A surf simulator where guests can bodyboard or attempt stand-up surfing.
Wild Wadi Waterpark Is Best For
- Families and groups
- Thrill seekers and adventure lovers
- Water park fans
- Tourists looking for an outdoor summer activity
- Residents wanting a refreshing all-day experience
- Visitors staying near Jumeirah or Burj Al Arab
Location
Jumeirah, Next to Burj Al Arab, Dubai
Important Visitor Info
- Timings: Usually 10 AM–6 PM (seasonal changes apply)
- Average Visit Duration: 3–5 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays or early mornings
- Tickets: Online bookings often provide the best rates
- Accessibility: Life jackets available; height restrictions apply on major slides
- Extra Tip: Bring waterproof footwear—floor surfaces can get hot in summer
5. Aquaventure Waterpark – One of the World’s Top Water Parks
Located inside Atlantis The Palm, Aquaventure Waterpark is one of Dubai’s most iconic attractions, known for extreme slides, marine encounters, and a private beachfront. With award-winning water rides, underwater experiences, and family zones, it remains a must-visit destination for tourists and residents.
Key Attractions & Activities
- Leap of Faith
A near-vertical drop that shoots riders through a transparent tunnel surrounded by sharks—one of the park’s most famous slides. - Poseidon’s Revenge
A trap-door capsule slide where the floor drops beneath you, launching you into a high-speed loop. - The Rapids
The longest river ride in the Middle East featuring waves, drops, and fast-moving flows. - Marine Encounters
Unique experiences including shark snorkeling, dolphin interactions, and aquarium-based activities. - Splashers Kids’ Zone
A safe and fun area designed for younger children with slides, sprays, and climbing structures.
Who Aquaventure Waterpark Is Best For
- Families with kids and teens
- Couples looking for fun experiences
- Groups and friends
- Thrill seekers and adventure lovers
- Tourists staying on Palm Jumeirah
- Visitors wanting beach + water park access
Location
Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
6. Ski Dubai – The Middle East’s First Indoor Snow Park
Ski Dubai is one of the world’s largest indoor snow parks, offering real snow all year inside Mall of the Emirates. From skiing and snowboarding to snow play areas and penguin encounters, it provides a full winter experience in the heart of Dubai.
Opened in 2005, Ski Dubai introduced indoor winter sports to the Middle East. It was developed as part of the Mall of the Emirates expansion to give residents and tourists a unique cold-weather escape, and it has since become one of Dubai’s most popular indoor attractions.
Key Attractions & Activities
- Indoor Ski Slopes
Five snow slopes with varying difficulty levels, suitable for kids, beginners, and experienced skiers. - Snow Bullet Zip Line
A snowy-themed zip-line that lets visitors glide through the cold above the snow park. - Penguin Encounter
A close-up experience with King and Gentoo penguins in a controlled, safe environment. - Snow Park Zone
Tobogganing hills, snow slides, climbing structures, and plenty of snow-play activities for families.
Visitors can plan a full day in Dubai by combining indoor attractions like Ski Dubai with shopping and dining at Dubai Mall.
Who Ski Dubai Is Best For
Families with kids
Ski and snowboard lovers
Tourists seeking a unique indoor attraction
Residents wanting a winter escape
Beginners learning to ski or snowboard
Location
Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
7. Global Village – Dubai’s Cultural & Entertainment Mega Park
Global Village is a massive multicultural theme park combining entertainment, country pavilions, food, shopping, and carnival rides. Open seasonally from October to April, it celebrates global cultures and offers one of Dubai’s most affordable family experiences.
Key Attractions & Activities
- Carnaval Amusement Park
Over 200 rides, games, and attractions for kids, teens, and adults. - Country Pavilions
More than 90 cultures represented through crafts, products, food, and live shows. - Stunt Shows & Live Performances
Fire shows, acrobatics, dance acts, and international entertainment. - Iconic Rides & Attractions
Includes the region’s largest funfair wheel, classic carnival rides, and seasonal attractions.
Global Village Is Best For
- Families & large groups
- Cultural and food lovers
- Tourists wanting affordable entertainment
- Shoppers looking for unique global products
- Kids & adults looking for rides and shows
Frequently Asked Questions About Theme Parks in Dubai
Does Dubai have any theme parks?
Yes. Dubai has multiple major theme parks, including Motiongate Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Legoland Dubai, Ski Dubai, Global Village, Wild Wadi, and Aquaventure Waterpark. These parks cover indoor rides, outdoor attractions, water activities, and film-themed experiences.
What is the largest theme park in the world, Dubai?
IMG Worlds of Adventure is the largest indoor theme park in the world. It spans over 1.5 million square feet and includes zones themed around Marvel, Cartoon Network, and dinosaur adventures.
Where is Disneyland in Dubai?
Dubai does not have an official Disneyland. The closest Disneyland parks are in Paris and Hong Kong. Dubai’s Motiongate Dubai is the most comparable option, offering Hollywood-themed attractions and family-friendly rides.
Which waterpark is better in Dubai?
Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm is generally considered the best waterpark in Dubai due to its record-breaking slides, shark lagoon attractions, and long river rapids. Wild Wadi is also popular for families and offers iconic slides like Jumeirah Sceirah.
What are the top 3 theme parks?
The top three theme parks in Dubai are Motiongate Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and Aquaventure Waterpark. These parks offer a mix of thrill rides, immersive worlds, and large-scale attractions.
Is entry to Atlantis free?
Entry to the Atlantis hotel is free, but attractions inside—such as Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium—require paid tickets or hotel guest access.
Is Atlantis very expensive?
Atlantis is considered a luxury property, and the prices for rooms, dining, and attractions are on the higher end. However, ticket deals and seasonal discounts are available online, especially for Aquaventure.
What is the difference between aquapark and waterpark?
Both terms refer to water-based recreational parks. “Waterpark” is the common term used in Dubai and internationally, while “aquapark” is simply another name. Both include slides, pools, wave attractions, and water-based activities.