2020 has been a turbulent year. So want to know what you can look forward to as a family as you head in to 2021? So many things.
From new rides at Motiongate to just being thankful that 2020 is behind you, Dubai is a fabulous place to live for families and although we’ve noted ten things for families to look forward to in January and beyond, there are quite a few more.
Bring on the New Year.
A new season of outdoor dining
There’s plenty of delightful al fresco dining ahead of Dubai dwellers, so make the most of your weekends with the family with some outdoor breakfasts, brunches, lunches and suppers. And with choices ranging from beachside spots to terraces over-looking golf courses, there are plenty to try out between now and May.
A return for events
With lots of shows postponed in 2020, we’re looking forward to the new dates returning in 2021. Fingers crossed for a rescheduled Disney on Ice.
Brilliant new books to read
Little bookworms always have their heads stuck in a good book? If the book shelves need re-stocking because the kids have worked their way through its contents, never fear because 2021 is bringing loads of new releases to Dubai. Watch this space as we will be bringing you reviews of all the bestsellers and award-winners in our Books section in Time Out UAE Kids, as well as at timeoutdubai.com/kids.
Brunch, brunch and more brunch
The UAE is awash with family-friendly brunches already and new ones are coming to the scene all the time. All you have to do is keep your eyes glued to for all the latest brunch news. In the meantime, here are some top brunches where the kids are not only allowed, but welcomed with open arms (not to mention plenty of fun activities to keep them entertained).
Expo 2020
The world had its eye on Dubai in hot anticipation of Expo 2020. But it was another major global event that fell by the wayside. However, a shift to 2021 means just another ten months to wait until we can find out what its all about. The delay has only added fuel to the anticipation and we are expecting the mega show to be even bigger and better than it was going to be in 2020.
Oct 1-Mar 31. www.expo2020dubai.com.
New family-films coming to the cinema
2020 had some big releases when it came to family films, but a lot went straight to the streaming channels. Hopefully, this year, we will get to see some of these promising movies on the big screen with a huge tub of popcorn. Watch out for Cruella, Minions: The Rise of Gru, Peter Rabbit 2 and Sing 2 among others.
Riding new rollercoasters
We are so spoiled when it comes to adrenaline-inducing rides and attractions. But feel like you’ve done them all and need more? You’re in luck. Fans of high-speed, white-knuckle rollercoasters will be able to hop aboard two new rides at Motiongate next year, when the expansion of the Lionsgate Zone opens. The new rides are based on the movie franchise John Wick – the popular films starring Keanu Reeves – as well as Now You See Me. John Wick: Open Contact is a 4D free spin coaster while The Now You See Me movie-inspired rollercoaster is set to be the world’s fastest single-car spinning coaster reaching speeds of up to 70km per hour.
Coming 2021. Dubai Parks and Resorts, www.motiongatedubai.com (800 262 9464).
The launch of Time Out Market
Set to house some of the city’s best-loved restaurants and chefs, Time Out Market Dubai will open in Downtown Dubai in early 2021. Keep your eyes on timeoutdubai.com to see which big names are heading this way. The brand-new market – the seventh market location globally for the Time Out Group – will be housed in Dubai’s Souk Al Bahar, so not only can you expect cracking grub, but fantastic views of the world-famous Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa, too. So watch this space and start getting excited.
Opening Q1 2021. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, www.timeoutmarket.com.
Looking for all the inside info on what’s happening across the UAE for families?
Footie fans
Little ones have a love of the great game? 2021 could well be the year to sign them up for a football club. We’ve got some good suggestions here.
Little divas
Ballet, jazz, modern and more. If your kiddos want to take to the stage then click here to find out how to start.
Make a splash
The weather is perfect for a day cooling down in the water. And if you want to add an adrenaline rush to your cool down, check out these awesome places to do it.
