Dubai's top 10 summer attractions for kids

Named after the Hawaiian word for joy, OliOli encourages curious little minds to learn with play. The inspiring venue features eight galleries packed with over 40 exhibits that have been crafted by leading educators, artists and developmental psychologists. The result is an interactive museum that is a treat for both parents and children. Don’t miss the colourful Toshi’s Net by Japanese textile artist Toshiko Horiuchi Macadam – part trampoline and part playground, this giant hand-strung creation helps kids develop their fine motor skills.

With two theme parks, one waterpark and two hotels, Dubai Parks and Resorts offers a thrilling experience. Enjoy adrenaline-fuelled rides and attractions at Motiongate Dubai, the region's largest Hollywood-inspired theme park, while at Legoland you can choose from a fun-packed theme park or an action-packed waterpark, both built around the famous bricks. Also don't forget to stop by Riverland Dubai, home to JumpX, the world's largest inflatable park, and the space-themed indoor playworld Neon Galaxy.

From the moment you enter this sprawling 40,000 square foot space in Wafi City Mall, you're surrounded by high-tech sound, lights and graphics with 12 distinct zones that together comprise the AYA universe, each telling a different story. As you're escorted through the different areas, enjoy everything from the tranquility of the slope in Drift to the gravity-defying droplets of Falls, with hidden doorways to be discovered. A one-off experience in Dubai, AYA is not to be missed.

This shopping mall is home to exciting thrills for all ages. There's The Storm Coaster, a roaring indoor roller coaster that combines a white-knuckle vertical drop for the brave, while little ones will love the Adventure Park with 11 different play areas. Think a jump zone with enormous trampolines, climbing walls, incredible slides and even a cave maze. You'll easily spend hours here. Best of all? You can combine the adventures with shopping and dining at this sprawling mall.

Think you’ve seen and done it all? Think again. With over 30 game-changing adventures, Play DXB at Dubai Mall is an exciting distraction for the whole family. The world’s largest indoor virtual reality venue lets everyone's imagination come to life with zones aimed at kids of all ages. From toddlers to teens and the young at heart, there is something for everyone, from soft play areas to Transformers-themed video games and an arcade.

Who says you can’t ski during the summer? Treat your family to a day at Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East. With 22,500sqm of snowy terrain, complete with five slopes, a snow park and a resident colony of penguins, this place has to be experienced to be believed. Hone your skills on ice with lessons led by experts, or go sledding with the family and play in the snow. Just don't forget to indulge in a steaming cup of hot chocolate afterwards at the chalet.