BUR DUBAI. Across from plush Creekside Park, this tourist village was designed with traditional architectural styles in mind and aims to help visitors understand and appreciate the city's Bedouin traditions. Al Boom includes several terrific international restaurants, as well as a kid-friendly amusement park and a marina. Explore the wooden dhows, some of which are actually floating restaurants that serve flavorful Middle Eastern cuisine, or charter a seat on a cruise ship.

BUR DUBAI. To explore the Crystal Maze, ride an indoor roller coaster, or be scared out of your wits in a horror chamber, look no further than Wafi City's family-friendly Encounter Zone, which offers fun activities for kids of all ages and interests. Flip-out in the 360° virtual reality simulator, find out what adventures await you on the exciting world of Galactica ­ a few hours in the Encounter Zone, and you'll never want to return to your real world.

DEIRA. Located at the Deira City Centre complex, this fun play land features all sorts of rides and attractions, making it a great place for kids of all ages ­ and their parents. Purported to be the Middle East's largest such indoor complex, the colorful Magic Planet offers a mind-boggling collection of arcade games, a carousel, Clarence Camel's Adventure Zone, a bowling alley, miniature golf course, and even a kid's hairdresser. So don your play clothes, kids ... it's time to get down and explore the Bungle-Jungle.

GARHOUD. Encompassing nearly 20 hectares of fun water activities, Dubai's SpashLand is a favorite with adults and kids of all ages. This enormous fun park has scores of waterslides, a log flume, bumper boats and even inner tube hire. After having some family fun in the sun, head over to the Caribbean-style Main Street area, where a cafe, ice cream parlor and gift shop offer an hour's worth of rest before you hit the wave pool again. WonderLand features a variety of thrilling roller coasters and other rides.

JUMEIRAH. Wild Wadi Waterpark offers families an entire afternoon of thrills and water activities. This "hidden lagoon" features everything from waterfalls, soaring cliffs and hidden lagoons to swimming holes, a tidal pool and scores of waterslides. Best of all, Wild Wadi is only a short walk from some of Jumeirah Beach's finest hotels and resorts. Towel and locker rental are available for minimal fees.