Dubai · With kids

Water park on the Palm with slides graded by height, a river ride and a shallow toddler zone. Ages 4+, and a full day.

A walk-through tunnel inside Dubai Mall with a small zoo above it; an hour, and a reliable refuge from the midday heat. All ages.

Afternoon 4x4 trips run from the city into the Lahbab and Al Marmoom dunes; ask for a gentler drive with young children. Ages 6+.

Fenced park on the Sharjah side with calm lagoons, shade, lifeguards and playgrounds, for a small entry fee per person. All ages.

From May to September, plan outdoors before ten and after five. Malls, metro and taxis all take strollers, and young children ride the metro free.