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Last-Minute Family Fun in Dubai: The Best Things to Do Before School Starts

Looking for last-minute family fun in Dubai before the school holidays draw to a close? We have got you covered.

Before the new term begins, Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) is filling the city with indoor attractions, free family events and seasonal shopping offers that make it easy to enjoy one more memorable outing together. The final stretch of the school holidays is a great time to enjoy indoor attractions, family entertainment and memorable days out before the routine of the new term begins.

Spend the day at Modesh World

No DSS family guide is complete without Modesh World, which has returned to Dubai World Trade Centre until 23 August. Now in its 27th edition, the indoor attraction features more than 100 rides, games and family-friendly experiences, making it one of the city’s biggest summer destinations.

Children can enjoy carnival rides, arcade games, inflatable play zones and live entertainment throughout the day. This year’s programme also includes appearances from Baby Shark, alongside Dubai’s much-loved mascots, Modesh and Dana.

Best of all, entry is free, while rides and games can be accessed using a prepaid Tap Card.

Enjoy free entertainment at the Back-to-School Carnival

Looking for something that won’t stretch the family budget? The Back-to-School Carnival at Palm Jumeirah Mall takes place on 7 and 8 August as part of the DSS finale, with free entry for everyone.

Families can enjoy magic shows, the interactive Circus of Science, lively K-Pop dance performances, youth showcases and colourful roaming entertainers, including balloon artists and circus performers. Daily raffle draws add an extra layer of excitement, making it a fun stop while shopping for school essentials.

Discover indoor attractions across the city

Dubai’s malls continue to offer plenty of entertainment beyond shopping. At Mercato Shopping Mall, the popular Giant Slide has returned, giving children the chance to slide into a giant ball pit completely free.

Families looking for something more immersive can also visit House of Hype at Dubai Mall or AYA Universe at WAFI City. Both attractions offer interactive experiences that combine technology, creativity and plenty of photo opportunities, making them ideal for escaping the summer heat.

Tick off the back-to-school shopping list

If school shopping is still on your to-do list, the final weeks of DSS are a great time to get started. Hundreds of participating brands are offering seasonal discounts, while the popular DSS Daily Surprises continue to reveal limited-time deals at selected retailers across the city.

Many participating promotions also include raffle draws featuring shopping vouchers, school supplies and technology prizes, giving families even more value while preparing for the new school year.

With so much happening across Dubai, the final weeks of summer are the perfect opportunity to enjoy one last family adventure before classrooms reopen. There is still plenty of time to make the most of the school holidays, with family attractions, free entertainment and great shopping offers happening across Dubai.

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