Mid-term school breaks are the perfect time to explore the UAE's world-class family attractions - without the summer heat. Whether your family loves theme parks, wildlife, cultural landmarks, or desert adventures, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have something for everyone. With Selfdrive UAE, you can seamlessly traverse between cities and experiences, creating a stress-free itinerary tailored to your family's mood and pace.
In this guide, we cover 10 top family adventures, with detailed insights and tips, and explain how Selfdrive makes your mid?term break unforgettable.
1. LEGOLAND® Dubai (Dubai Parks & Resorts)
A dream destination for families with children under 12, LEGOLAND® Dubai offers over 40 rides, shows, and block-building experiences - plus a water-park zone to cool down. It's ideal for little ones to let their creativity and energy flow.
Tip: Arrive early for popular rides, grab lunch at themed cafes, and pack swimwear for the water park.
2. IMG Worlds of Adventure
A fully air-conditioned indoor theme park, IMG Worlds features six zones - Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley, and more - making it perfect for a hot-day escape.
Tip: Buy tickets online ahead to avoid lines, and plan your schedule around your children's favorite themes.
3. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at Dubai Mall
Inside the iconic Dubai Mall, this aquarium features a 48?m walk-through tunnel and over 75 species, including massive sand tiger sharks.
Tip: Book an early morning slot to coincide with mall opening for fewer crowds and better photos.
4. Desert Safari & Sonara Camp (Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve)
A family-friendly evening out includes dune-bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and a desert campfire dinner. At Sonara Camp, kids can enjoy archery and entertainment while adults relax under the stars.
Tip: Dress comfortably, bring a light jacket, and let Selfdrive drop you off at the meeting point.
5. Dubai Miracle Garden
The Dubai Miracle Garden is an Instagram-worthy attraction featuring 50 million blooms in creative designs. Although currently closed in summer, check its reopening, as it runs October to April.
Tip: Pair a visit with the nearby butterfly garden for a full floral experience.
6. Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi (Yas Island)
Warner Bros - Located on Yas Island, this indoor theme park features 29 rides in six zones - including DC Comics and Looney Tunes - ideal for families seeking cooler outing options.
Tip: Split Yas Island into two days - one for Ferrari World or Yas Waterworld, and another for Warner Bros.
7. Ferrari World & Yas Waterworld
Also on Yas Island, Ferrari World offers Formula Rossa (the fastest rollercoaster in the world), while Yas Waterworld includes surf waves and family-friendly slides.
Tip: Combine both parks with Warner Bros. for a three-park Yas Island adventure.
8. Reem Central Park & Dolphin Park (Abu Dhabi)
In the Eastern Mangrove area, Dolphin Park offers pony rides, playgrounds, and mangrove walks. Nearby, Reem Central Park is a lush spot ideal for picnics and strolls.
Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the temperature is cooler. Bring picnic gear and walking shoes.
9. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque & Cultural Highlights
A marvel of design, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque welcomes families for free tours - children are intrigued by the intricate architecture and open spaces. Explore cultural heritage at Qasr Al Hosn or the Louvre Abu Dhabi too.
Tip: Dress modestly, wear comfortable shoes, and consider renting a cultural guide for children to spark their curiosity.
10. Jebel Jais (Ras Al Khaimah)
Though outside Dubai/Abu Dhabi, a day trip to Jebel Jais offers mountain adventures like the world's longest zipline, mountain coaster, and scenic walking trails.
Tip: Plan a half-day trip. Use Selfdrive SUVs for the mountain terrain and enjoy a cooler climate and scenic lunch.
Why Choose Selfdrive for Your Family Trip?
Traveling with kids can be unpredictable - planned routes often change, and public transport isn't always practical. That's why Selfdrive UAE is an ideal partner:
- Convenience: Reserve your vehicle online at Selfdrive.ae and pick up from your preferred location.
- Variety: Choose from compact cars to spacious family SUVs.
- Flexibility: No limitations on drop-off times or locations - modify your return as plans evolve.
- Cost?effectiveness: Avoid ride-hailing surge prices and waiting times.
Imagine traveling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi's Yas Island, discovering mangroves, then heading up to Jebel Jais - all in comfort and style with Selfdrive.
Itinerary Suggestions
Option A: Theme Park Marathon
- Day 1–2 (Dubai): Begin at IMG Worlds, follow up with LEGOLAND® Dubai and the Aquarium.
- Day 3 (Abu Dhabi): Head to Yas Island's Warner Bros., then explore Ferrari World.
- Day 4: Cool down at Yas Waterworld; wrap up with a stroll at Reem Central Park.
- Day 5: Jebel Jais zipline climb or desert safari at Sonara Camp.
With Selfdrive, you're free to tailor the days - extend time at favorite spots or squeeze in a beach play session.
Option B: Cultural + Adventure
- Day 1: Visit Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi.
- Day 2: Relax at Dolphin Park and mangrove walk.
- Day 3: Drive to Jebel Jais for outdoor adventure.
- Day 4: Explore Dubai Miracle Garden and desert safari in the evening.
Your Selfdrive rental gives you full control - minimizing logistics and maximizing discovery.
Smart Travel Tips
- Book in Advance – Especially for theme parks - tickets can be discounted online and attract long queues otherwise.
- Start Early – Beat crowds and heat by visiting attractions early in the morning or late afternoon.
- Pack Essentials – Bring water bottles, hats, comfy shoes, and swimwear if needed.
- Check Opening Times – Some venues close midday in summer; plan lunch or indoor rest during this time.
- Stay Informed – Follow official sites like Visit Abu Dhabi and Dubai Calendar for updates and events.
- Extend the Comfort Beyond the Break: Selfdrive Long-Term Rentals
Your mid-term break may end, but the convenience doesn't have to.
Selfdrive UAE offers long-term car subscriptions on cars like Suzuki Ciaz, Nissan Kicks, JAC J7, Exeed LX, etc - ideal for families seeking cost-effective, private transport solutions for school runs, work commutes, and weekend getaways. Choose a car, subscribe for a month or more, and enjoy fixed monthly pricing with zero maintenance hassles.
Explore Subscription Options
Benefits:
- No hidden costs
- Wide range of cars from hatchbacks to 7-seaters
- Flexible upgrade or downgrade anytime
Choose OTO
While Selfdrive UAE provides all the flexibility for your mid-term adventures, once the break ends, OTO's School Rides ensures your daily family transportation needs are equally hassle-free. Whether it’s commuting to school, sports practice, or weekend getaways, OTO is your trusted partner for convenient and safe rides.
You don’t need to own a car to enjoy daily mobility. With OTO's School Rides and Selfdrive's long-term car subscriptions, you can enjoy complete flexibility in your family’s transportation needs all year round.
Smart Mobility for School Days
Looking for a safer, more flexible alternative to traditional school transport?
OTO's School Rides offer private, tailored for student safety and parent convenience - vetted chauffeurs, and flexible scheduling, it's the ideal solution for working parents or families without daily car access.
Visit OTO School Rides
Why parents prefer OTO:
- Emergency contact access
- Affordable subscription pricing
- Consistent drivers assigned to your child
The UAE's mid-term break is a golden opportunity to bond over exhilarating rides, cultural immersion, and scenic escapades. From the thrills of Yas Island to serene mosque views and mountain air, there’s a perfect family adventure waiting.
Visit Oto or Call/ Whatsapp us at +971 4 573 3533 to book your Premium Chauffeur Service in the UAE, Qatar & Bahrain. Because with oto, whether it's red-carpet vibes or VIP convenience, Oto ensure you arrive in total comfort and class.
And whether you're cruising to theme parks, desert dunes, or mountain peaks, Selfdrive UAE ensures your ride is as enjoyable as the destination. Easy booking, flexible schedules, and family-sized vehicles mean you can focus on laughter, discovery, and priceless memories.
Plan your next family holiday with confidence - book with Selfdrive UAE today and let the mid-term magic begin.
Download the SelfDrive App or Visit our Website to book your vehicle today. For assistance, call us at +971 45733500, our dedicated team will ensure a seamless rental experience.
Disclaimer: Attractions and their opening hours are subject to change - please check the official event or venue websites before visiting. Always ensure you have the latest travel advisories and health precautions.