May in Dubai is a special time for families. The days are longer, the evenings still bearable, and the city continues to offer ways for people to come together. It isn’t peak season, but there’s still plenty happening for those who want to make the most of their weekends.
This is when community events start to feel more grounded. You’ll find outdoor markets winding down, indoor play areas coming to life, and local festivals catering to families who prefer shared experiences over screens. These events aren’t large-scale productions. They’re simple and meaningful, often built around connection, culture, and creativity.
Dubai’s neighbourhoods play a big role in this. Parks, community centres, shopping malls, and small event spaces come alive with activity. It’s a good time to explore what’s happening nearby, especially with kids who are eager to move, learn, and play.
In the list below, we’ve highlighted family-friendly events taking place this May. Some are seasonal, others are long-time favourites. All of them offer a reason to step out and spend time with the people who matter.
Family Brunch at Jebel Ali Recreation Club
Date: Every Saturday
This brunch isn’t about luxury or over-the-top buffets. It’s about good food, a laid-back setting, and a space where parents can relax while kids stay entertained. The Clubhouse offers shaded outdoor seating, casual vibes, and a family-style menu that covers all tastes. Kids under ten eat free, which adds to the appeal for larger families or group outings.
Live acoustic music plays in the background while little ones explore face painting booths, balloon twisting stations, and supervised games on the lawn. It’s the kind of weekend plan that doesn’t require much effort but ends up being a highlight of the month. The Clubhouse at Jebel Ali has always been known for its community feel, and this brunch reflects exactly that.
Time: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: The Clubhouse, Jebel Ali Recreation Club
Pricing: Packages start from AED 249 per adult
Town Mouse and Country Mouse – Live Theatre
Date: Saturday, 10 May – Sunday, 11 May 2025
Families looking for something indoors and imaginative will enjoy this gentle retelling of the classic Aesop’s fable. Town Mouse and Country Mouse is a live stage performance designed for children aged 4 and up. It blends simple props with vibrant costumes, light music, and audience interaction that keeps kids engaged throughout.
The play focuses on themes like friendship, lifestyle choices, and curiosity. It's not overly flashy, which works in its favour—it gives children space to think, laugh, and even ask questions during the Q&A at the end. Parents who’ve taken their children to Theatre by QE2 before know the space is intimate and well-managed, with easy parking and refreshments available on board.
Location: Theatre by QE2, Port Rashid
Tickets: AED 135 per person
Summer Fair at Step by Step Nursery
Date: Saturday, 17 May 2025
Step by Step Nursery is hosting its annual Summer Fair, a delightful event designed for young children and their families. The fair offers a variety of activities including arts and crafts, interactive games, and live entertainment suitable for toddlers and preschoolers. It's an excellent opportunity for parents to engage with educators and explore the nursery's offerings in a relaxed setting.
Time: 9:30 am onwards
Location: Villa 31, 13th Street, Al Safa 1, Jumeirah
Admission: Free
Dubai Restaurant Week
Dates: 9 to 25 May 2025
Dubai Restaurant Week returns this May with more than 100 restaurants participating in a 17-day celebration of the city’s dining culture. The event is designed to help food lovers explore different parts of Dubai through curated menus, with options ranging from upscale venues to hidden gems.
Families looking to enjoy a special lunch or dinner together will find great value here. Each restaurant is offering a set menu: two-course lunches at AED 125 and three-course dinners at AED 250 per person. While the focus is on adult dining, many venues are family-friendly and include options for children or offer kids' menus separately.
It’s a good chance to revisit favourite spots or try places that usually feel out of budget. Because tables fill up quickly, advance reservations are recommended. Bookings can be made through the official partner, OpenTable.
Tip: Browse restaurants based on location, cuisine, or availability before planning a meal with family
Price:
- A two-course lunch for AED 125 per person or
- A three-course dinner for AED 250 per person.
Location: 100+ restaurants across Dubai
Alserkal Avenue Art Exhibitions
Dates: Ongoing in May 2025
Alserkal Avenue, Dubai's contemporary art hub, offers interactive exhibitions and workshops throughout May. Families can immerse themselves in creative activities, fostering artistic expression among children and adults alike. The space provides a unique opportunity to engage with local artists and participate in hands-on art sessions, making it an enriching experience for the whole family.
Location: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz
Admission: Free
Family Picnic Evenings at The Sustainable City
Dates: Every Friday in May
The Sustainable City hosts casual family evenings every Friday, encouraging residents and visitors to unwind on the green lawns with picnic baskets, community games, and local food stalls. There’s a dedicated play area for younger children, as well as interactive booths that change weekly—past editions have included upcycled crafts, petting farms, and storytelling circles.
These events tend to attract a friendly crowd, and the vibe is relaxed and neighbourly. It’s an easy way to meet other families, support local vendors, and enjoy the outdoors before summer sets in fully.
Time: 4:00 pm onwards
Location: Central Green Spine, The Sustainable City
Admission: Free entry; food and activities paid per stall
Tip: Bring your own mat or low chairs for comfort
Dubai Dolphinarium – Dolphin & Seal Show
Dates: Daily shows throughout May
The Dubai Dolphinarium offers an indoor, air-conditioned venue where families can enjoy live performances by dolphins and seals. The shows are designed to be both entertaining and educational, highlighting the intelligence and agility of these marine animals. Children and adults alike can witness the animals perform various tricks and routines, providing a memorable experience for all ages.
Location: Dubai Dolphinarium, Creek Park, Bur Dubai
Tickets: Prices vary; check the official website for details
Ski Dubai – Snow Park Experience
Dates: Open daily in May
Ski Dubai provides a unique opportunity to experience snow in the desert. The Snow Park offers various activities suitable for families, including snow slides, tobogganing, and the chance to interact with penguins. It's an ideal escape from the heat, allowing children and parents to enjoy winter-themed fun indoors.
Tickets: Prices vary based on activities; check the official website for details
Location: Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates
OliOli – Interactive Children's Museum
Dates: Open daily in May
OliOli is an interactive museum designed for children, offering hands-on exhibits that encourage learning through play. The museum features various galleries focusing on different themes such as air, water, and creative arts. It's a space where children can explore, experiment, and engage their curiosity in a safe and stimulating environment.
Location: OliOli, Al Quoz 1
Tickets: Prices vary; check the official website for details
Dubai doesn’t slow down, even in the quieter months. What changes is how the city connects with people. In May, families have the chance to enjoy events that are smaller in scale but rich in experience. These moments—picnics in the park, indoor storytelling sessions, local theatre shows—create a rhythm that feels more personal.
Community events offer something deeper than entertainment. They encourage people to step out of routines, explore what’s happening nearby, and spend time together in ways that feel simple and meaningful. For parents, they’re a way to keep kids engaged without screens. For children, they’re a chance to play, move, and feel part of something.
As summer approaches, this month offers a window to experience Dubai with fresh eyes. Whether it’s watching a dolphin leap from the water or walking through a creative space with your child’s hand in yours, these are the moments that stay with you.
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