Planning a magical New Year celebration in Dubai with your kids? That is an excellent idea for sure. I visited Dubai Marina with my family including kids on New Year’s Eve in 2025 Dec month, so here are 5 places I would suggest for families.
1. Marina Walk
We really love the atmosphere around Marina Walk. The water was clean and clear. Was able to watch the fireworks view, it was just awesome, never saw such fireworks in life. Beyond imagination. One thing didn’t like was the crowds. The crowd rush all of a sudden increased just after 11 pm and getting back was a hectic task just because of traffic. Its better to reach the spot early and smartly plan your return journey as well. Nobody wants that back and forth after long hours of celebration.
We arrived at approx 6 PM. One thing that I would like to recommend is to take the metro to avoid traffic and parking hassles. This will save your time and make journey more memorable. We ate at a nearby restaurant, had biryani and it was mouth watering.
We kept water and some snacks handy and looked for restrooms around the area because we were visiting with kids. What I suggest is to reach early. Find a spot close to a restaurant or any public facility. And leave a few minutes early before the crowd rush begins if your kids get tired.
2. New Year’s Eve Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina
A dhow cruise is also a great option for families seeking a more comfortable experience. We arrived the place early to enjoy 2 things, the Marina walk and new year dinner cruise. We really enjoyed a New Year’s Eve dhow cruise in Dubai Marina, specially kids love the environment. The buffet had vegetarian options too. The sky was decorated with laser show that was looking awesome. Strongly recommend to book New Year dhow cruise Marina specially if going with family. Far away from Crowd and add memories.
We had boarded close to Dubai Marina and had reserved our spot early as it can get very busy on New Year’s Eve.The price was higher than a regular cruise because of new year. But the dinner and entertainment was of next level. For a family of four, I’d budget around AED 600-1,200 for a dhow cruise, depending on the package.
3. JBR Beach
A good tourist spot with plenty of space. Offer clear waterfront views. I would recommend it for families and group travellers who want to avoid rush and crowd. Make sure to occupy little space so that it won’t get crowded near midnight and be humble with other tourists.Confirm the local access rules for the night before you just go ahead for the beach. On NYE, crowd management rules remain very strict and chances are your entry may be affected.
4. Bluewaters Island
Strongly recommended this place. Perfect for having great views, restaurants are there although little expensive. It’s a great place to enjoy the evening on new year.Have a family meal early. If you have your children with you, check for seat availability and book ahead. Keep extra time to walk between dining spots and viewing areas. It’s also worth checking the event schedule. You will get a clear idea about which areas may offer incredible fireworks scenes.
5. The Beach, JBR
A good family option with plenty of dining choices and places to relax. Based on its family-friendly facilities, one may consider for dinner before the celebrations.
My Biggest Tip for Families
Better do not try to catch the fireworks in more than one place on 31st Dec. Find a spot that isn’t too busy. Go somewhere that has lots of young families and children!I would recommend to go for Marina dhow cruise for number of reasons. Not over crowded, far away from the city, silent, no noise, great dinner and amazing fireworks views. One common mistake is arriving too late and underestimating traffic and crowds.
FAQs
Which is the best New Year option in Dubai Marina for families with kids?
I would recommend to go for Marina dhow cruise. Not over crowded, silent, no noise, great dinner and amazing fireworks views.
What time should we reach Dubai Marina on New Year’s Eve?
We arrived at approx 6 PM. Crowd became quite heavy after 11 PM, so better to arrive early.
What is the best way to reach Dubai Marina on New Year’s Eve?
Hop on a metro to avoid traffic or if you don’t really want the parking hassle. Keep in mind to leave early because its very hard to walk through the traffic during the festive evening.
How much does a New Year dhow cruise cost for a family?
For a family of four, I’d budget around AED 600-1,200 depending on the package. The price is higher than a regular cruise because of new year.
Is there vegetarian food on the New Year dhow cruise?
Yes, the buffet had vegetarian options too.