Dubai Summer Activities 2026: Best Family Events & Kids Camps

Dubai Summer Activities 2026: 15 Family Events, Kids’ Camps & Free Workshops to Enjoy This Summer

Dubai’s summer season is packed with exciting indoor adventures, educational workshops, creative camps, and family-friendly attractions designed to help residents and visitors beat the heat. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly activities or premium experiences, there’s something for every age group.

From science workshops and indoor theme parks to art classes and shopping mall events, here’s your complete guide to the best Dubai summer activities in 2026.

Why Families Love Dubai During Summer?

Although outdoor temperatures can soar during the summer months, Dubai transforms into a hub of indoor entertainment with air-conditioned attractions, educational camps, museum experiences, and shopping festivals. Many activities are specially designed to keep children active, learning, and entertained while schools are on holiday.

15 Best Dubai Summer Activities in 2026

CAMPS

1. Dubai Public Library summer camp

Inspired by the United Arab Emirates’ Year of Family, Dubai Culture’s Summer Camp is taking place at several branches of libraries throughout the city. The camp’s curriculum for this year includes a wide range that is educational, fun and engaging experiences, all as well as fostering family values, and building a stronger our national identity. The camp offers a mix of imaginative arts, craft technological innovation and technology and assists children in developing an identity within their local community and also develop skills for the future. The camp is offered to children of two ages – five to eight and 9 to 14.

Location: Dubai Public Library branches that include Al Mankhool Library, Al Twar Library, Al Safa Art & Design Library, Al Rashidiya Library, Umm Suqeim Library, Hatta Library, Hor Al Anz Library as well as Al Barsha Community Centre.

How to Register?

You can register your child at your selected library branch, on Dubai Culture’s website: dubaiculture.gov.ae/en/events/Summer-Camp—DPL—2026

2. Young Innovators Camp

In August this year, Etihad Museum will be welcoming children for an exciting summer camp that is a blend of science, history and creativity. The campers will explore the rich UAE culture while gaining curiosity, creativity and critical thinking abilities. The camp is held in The museum’s Science & Innovation Lab, the program includes hands-on activities such as arts-and-crafts classes, imaginative storytelling sessions, as well as group-based games and challenges that stimulate collaboration, curiosity and creativity. Children between 5 and 12 are invited to join the camp.

When was the Young Innovators Camp Conducted?

• August 3 to 7, 9am to 3pm
• August 10 to 14, 9am to 3pm

Where was the Camp Organised?

• Etihad Museum

💰Price

• Dh350 (early bird pricing)

📝Register

• Register for the camp here: museumtickets.dubaiculture.gov.ae/etihad/gridSale/details?sellItemCode=ETEVENT

WORKSHOPS

1. Arabic calligraphy workshops for specialized workshops

Are you awestruck by the curves and strokes of Arabic calligraphy, but don’t want to try it? Dubai Culture is presenting a series of workshops in its Arabic Calligraphy and Ornamentation and Gilding initiative that aims to help and develop new talents. Take part in courses that are specialized for Ruq’ah Thuluth, Naskh, Diwani and Jali scripts and explore the art of embellishment and the art of gilding. The classes are taught by expert instructors of Arabic calligraphy. Join one or more of the workshops and they’ll be happening all through July. Everyone of any age is accepted.

• 📅July 4 – 26, 5pm to 7pm
• Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children
• Free of charge
• Sign-up: Register for the workshop at dubaiculture.gov.ae

2. Kinusaiga art masterclass

Take part in a hands-on workshop that teaches participants the no-sew technique of textiles that turns upcycled fabric scraps into stunning artworks, and encourages the ability to be creative, accessible and sustainability. The class is given by Abeer Al Edani, an award-winning Iraqi artist who is located in Dubai and open to all individuals 18 and over.

When: July 12, 10am to 1pm

Where: Al Safa Arts and Design Library

Price: Free of charge

Register for the workshop: dubaiculture.gov.ae

3. Early Explorers — Brainy ‘n Bright

In Dubai Culture’s School of Life initiative, kids begin an exciting STEM (science technology, engineering mathematics) adventure by engaging in storytelling that is paired with games based on movement that promote the exploration of and education. Children discover basic shapes and concepts with hands-on play using simple push-and pull toys. They after which they build exciting blocks-based structures, such as bridges and towers to build their imagination and problem-solving capabilities. Then, they personalize their creations by using decorations and storytelling and give meaning to what they’ve built. The workshop concludes with a simple “show and tell” session where the children develop communication and self-confidence by sharing their creations in just one sentence. The program is designed specifically designed for children 7 years old and over, and it is taught in English.

When: July 12, 10am to 12pm

Where: Al Twar Library

Cost: Free of charge

Registration: dubaiculture.gov.ae

4. Code the Flame Tree – Brainpad

In this interactive workshop on technology that is an element of the Dubai Culture’s School of Life initiative, kids will learn about how to create the Flame Tree through creative coding. Participants will build an electronic tree that is colored with as well as movement and interactive features, while learning basic Scratch abilities. Participants should bring an electronic device or laptop with Scratch installed prior to. The workshop is designed for youngsters aged between 9 and 14 years old, and will be conducted with both Arabic in addition to English.

Date: July 26, 3pm to 5pm

Location: Al Twar Library

Price: Free of charge

Registration for the workshop here: dubaiculture.gov.ae

5. Sensory learning The Flame Tree Flame Tree

A fun and interactive toddler workshop which combines sensory play and Montessori concepts, this is the ideal choice for parents who would want your child to discover their five senses with hands-on activities while gaining autonomy as well as self-directed learning. The focus of the session is on improving fine motor skills, enhancing concentration and emotional regulation with activities such as sorting transfer, and other practical exercises. The class is designed for children aged 3 years and over.

When: July 26, 3pm to 4pm

Where: Umm Suqeim Library

Price: Free of cost

Sign-up for Registration: dubaiculture.gov.ae

6. Creative workshop for beaded flower pots

Give your plant a stunning house by creating your own decorated flower pot with beads. In this class, offered by L’Atelier the participants design their own flower pots with beads to create patterns that give a unique artistic appeal to a standard object of everyday use. The workshop is available to anyone of all age groups.

When: July 26, 3pm to 5pm

Where: Al Rashidiya Library

Cost: Free of charge

Register: dubaiculture.gov.ae

7. Baybayin on plates

Do you want to learn how to write beautiful words or phrase in an ancient Filipino script? Baybayin is an old early colonial Filipino script employed to compose Tagalog. Participate in this Baybayin in the calligraphy class with the Dubai-based designer of 3D along with Filipino Calligrapher Gino Banola. Discover the splendor of this ancient script, while drawing your own wooden plates. An engaging and cultural experience for all ages.

• When: July 19, 5pm to 7.30pm
• Where: Al Mankhool Library
• Cost: Free
• Register for the workshop here: dubaiculture.gov.ae

8. Talli jewelry and Charm workshop

Take pleasure in your love of Talli embroidery and create distinctive bracelets or charms that have your personal style as part of a culture-rich experience that is a reflection of an extensive heritage that has been handed over generations.

When: Every Saturday, 4pm to 7pm

Where: Traditional Jewellery Section, Al Shindagha Museum

Prices: Dh20 for a single entry ticket to the museum, Dh40 for a group ticket that is valid for 5 participants. The workshop is included with the museum ticket.

Register: alshindagha.dubaiculture.gov.ae

9. Design a frame or cultural pouch

Bring your entire family bring the whole family to Etihad Museum for a creative and fun workshop in which you can take what you create. Create a frame to display your favorite memories or make your own pouch for culture in the spirit of the UAE through workshops that highlight the nation’s identity.

Memories Frame: July 12, 18, 26, 11am to 5pm

Cultural pouch: July 11, 19, and 25 11am to 5pm

Where: Etihad Museum

Prices: Dh10 for a single museum admission ticket, Dh20 for a group ticket that is valid for 5 individuals. The workshops are free when you purchase your ticket to the museum.

How to Register: museumtickets.dubaiculture.gov.ae/etihad/gridSale/tickets

ACTIVITIES

1. Family trails

Bring your loved ones together and embark on a 20-minute family walk which is an interactive journey that takes visitors on an intriguing journey through historical places within Dubai. Take the family trail guidebook by visiting the Dubai Creek The birth of a City house, Perfume House, Emerging City House and the Culture of the Sea pavilion at Al Shindagha Museum, before you start. These trailbooks will let families learn and play through solving tasks, puzzles and challenges as they go.

When: Every weekend, between 10am and 7pm.

Where: Al Shindagha Museum

Prices: Dh20 for a single museum ticket. Dh40 on a group admission ticket, valid for five individuals. The tour is free when you purchase your ticket to the museum.

Register: alshindagha.dubaiculture.gov.ae

2. Arts of performing and choral Arabic

Through engaging vocal, musical, theatre, and other movement-based activities, children build their singing abilities as well as their rhythmic awareness, creativity expression and stage presence within an enjoyable and supportive learning environment. In the course, students will learn and practice ‘Ardona Someqbalona or ‘Our Land Our Future’ as well as ‘Al-Shams Al-Ra’e’a’ which is ‘The Beautiful Sun from the album “The Child and The Sea’ while enhancing their breathing and vocal techniques, increasing the self-confidence and coordination of their children, and developing their skills in performing arts by focusing and warming up exercises, vocal and expression exercises and interactive theatre games. movements and character building exercises as well as improvisation and creating scenes. The program concludes with short performances that allow children to show off their talents and learning. The workshop is open to children ranging from 6 to 14 years old.

• When: July 5, 12, 19, 26, 5pm to 7pm
• Where: Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children
• Cost: Free of charge
• Registration for the workshop: dubaiculture.gov.ae

3. Participants of the Change exhibition

Dubai Culture, in collaboration with the Barjeel Art Foundation, is hosting the largest retrospective exhibit “Observers of Change: art of the UAE (1971-2025) in the Etihad Museum until the end of the year. The exhibit traces the development of the UAE’s cultural identity over the last five decades and showcases more than 70 pieces of the Barjeel Art Foundation collection. The exhibit brings together important works by contemporary and pioneering artists who have resided or worked within the UAE since 1971. Through photography, painting installation, sculpture or mixed media. These works trace the evolution of the local art scene and show the country’s wider change.

When: Until December 10, 10am to 8pm

Where: Etihad Museum

Prices: Dh10 for a single museum admission ticket, Dh20 for a group ticket that is valid for 5 individuals. The exhibit is free when you purchase the ticket to the museum.

Register here: dubaiculture.gov.ae

4. Dubai Dates Festival

Take pleasure in dates during dates at Dubai Dates Festival, which will be back on the 18th of July. The festival is a week-long celebration of sustainability, community, and pride in culture and brings people from the fields artisans, craftsmen, and people who love heritage to enjoy the most authentic and memorable experience. The festival is open to the public at no cost, and registration is not required.

When: July 18 – 26

Where: Qalaat Al Remaal, 10am to 10pm

Why Dubai Summer 2026 Is Perfect for Families?

Dubai continues to expand its lineup of family-focused summer experiences with educational camps, creative workshops, sports programs, and indoor attractions that cater to every budget. Whether you’re a resident planning school holiday activities or a tourist visiting during the warmer months, you’ll find countless ways to stay cool while making lasting memories.

With free workshops, exciting kids’ camps, interactive museums, and entertainment across the city, Dubai proves that summer can be just as enjoyable as any other season.

FAQ

1. What are the best Dubai summer activities for children in 2026?

• Kids’ camps, indoor theme parks, science workshops, robotics classes, museums, art sessions, and sports camps are among the most popular options.

2. Are there free family events in Dubai this summer?

• Yes. Many shopping malls, libraries, museums, and community centres host free workshops, storytelling sessions, and children’s activities throughout the summer.

3. Which indoor attractions are best for families?

• Indoor theme parks, aquariums, museums, trampoline parks, VR centres, and children’s play zones are excellent choices for escaping the summer heat.

4. Should I book summer camps in advance?

• Yes. Most popular camps have limited capacity, so early registration is recommended.