The weekend is here and we’ve lined up seven magnificent ways to keep the whole family smiling this weekend.
Book a thrilling family staycay
If you prefer your family-friendly staycations more thrill than chill, then we’ve got just the ticket. Book yourself a mini break with the kiddos where theme park and water park access is included. From Motiongate passes to a day at Laguna, there is something for every adrenaline junkie. You can literally stay and play at any of these six resorts. So, what are you waiting for? Make that booking.
Celebrate Ramadan with the whole gang at a family-friendly Iftar
Looking for somewhere to enjoy a traditional Iftar? Or maybe you’d prefer something a little different. Either way, we’ve rounded up some top spots around the UAE where you can break your fast or just immerse yourself in the local culture. Best of all, all 12 of the suggestions are family-friendly so grab the kids and go enjoy an Iftar at one of these cool eateries. https://www.timeoutdubai.com/kids/465107-12-family-friendly-iftars-to-tr…
Get up close and personal with loads of new animals at Sharjah Safari Park
Sharjah Safari has welcomed over 100 new animals that kiddos can get up close and personal with. The enormous animal park within the Al Bridi Reserve in the city of Al Dhaid, has received a load of new cute, furry, creepy and scaly residents. The new arrivals make up some 121 different types of mammals, reptiles and birds including gazelles, African wild turtles, crocodiles, African rock pythons and flamingos. Sharjah Safari Park has a focus on preserving the environment and biological diversity, protecting and breeding endangered animals and contributing to environmental sustainability.
Al Dhaid, Sharjah.
Release your inner soldier at BattlePark in Ajman
A cool new entertainment park has opened in Ajman that we can’t wait to check out. BattlePark is a 5,700 sq m entertainment zone in Ajman’s Zorah area where families can get stuck into some serious gaming and release their inner soldier. Take on the kiddos in a range of brilliant combat games, including paintball. As well as paintball, the new gaming zone has two fully-immersive new games developed by BattlePark that little warriors can get stuck into. X-Battle is a speed shooting game, and I-Battle combines a live-shooting experience complete with all the sounds to make it more believable.
Marina 1, Al Zorah, Ajman, www.battlepark.ae (055 971 1113).
Sign the kids up to a ninja skills course at BOUNCE
If your little ones spend their time at home bouncing off the walls and your furniture, sign them up to a cool course at BOUNCE UAE where they can channel their inner ninja and learn the art of parkour, cool! There are parkour and freestyle programmes on offer for kids aged eight and above, while tiny tots aren’t forgotten with a Mini BOUNCE Squad will learn everything from self-expression and confidence, to fundamental movement skills.
Various locations across the UAE, including Al Quoz, Dubai; Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi; Remal Mall, Al Ain, www.bounce.ae (04 3211 400).
Try Aventura Parks in the dark
Throughout Ramadan, Dubai’s Aventura Parks is extending its opening hours until midnight. Until May 12, big kids and little kids will be able to get their Tarzan on every day from 5pm to midnight. And, if you’re alright with letting the littlest family members stay up past their bedtime, it’s the perfect time to get the little ones out and about to burn off some energy and enjoy some fresh air when it’s cooler. The region’s largest zip line park is enabling families to enjoy some al fresco fun under the stars including loads of brilliant activities and things for the kids to do such as free arts and crafts.
Apr 13-May 12 5pm-midnight. Mushrif Park, Gate 1, Dubai, www.aventuraparks.com (052 178 7616).
Whip up your own Ramadan treats at home
Kids love cooking? Channel their passion and flair by getting them in the kitchen creating their very own Ramadan masterpieces (with a little help perhaps). Our cookery columnist, Clare Levin, shares her easy-to-make Ramadan dishes with two savory and two sweet options to try out. Happy cooking.
