As summer approaches in the UAE, many outdoor attractions in Dubai may close for the season. However, there’s no need to worry about being stuck at home; the city is packed with year-round attractions that ensure fun for the whole family, even in the heat. Here’s a detailed look at ten must-visit spots that will keep your summer exciting.

1. Ski Dubai

Experience the thrill of winter in the heart of the desert at Ski Dubai, located in the Mall of the Emirates. This indoor ski resort offers a stunning winter wonderland, complete with real snow, snowboarding, and skiing opportunities.

Visitors can enjoy activities like tobogganing and interacting with penguins in a unique setting. It’s an ideal getaway from the soaring temperatures, allowing families to relish in a chill atmosphere and even plan for winter escapades ahead of time.

• Location: Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha
• Price: Approx. AED 250 for a full-day pass
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 12 AM
• Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and penguin encounters.

2. IMG Worlds of Adventure

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, IMG Worlds of Adventure is the ultimate indoor theme park. Featuring attractions based on beloved characters such as Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, and Marvel superheroes, this venue caters to thrill-seekers of all ages.

With exhilarating roller coasters and even a haunted house, it promises endless fun throughout the hotter months. Interactive experiences and themed dining options enhance the adventure, making it a full-day outing.

• Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
• Price: Approx. AED 299 for adults, AED 249 for children
• Opening Hours: Daily from 12 PM to 10 PM
• Activities: Thrilling rides, live shows, and themed attractions based on popular franchises.

3. The Green Planet

A unique blend of nature and comfort, The Green Planet in City Walk offers an immersive experience into a tropical rainforest. Home to over 3,000 species of plants and animals, including birds and reptiles, this indoor ecosystem features the world’s tallest manmade tree.

Educational programs and animal encounters are available, providing a fantastic learning opportunity for families while enjoying a lush environment without the outdoor heat.

• Location: City Walk, Al Wasl
• Price: Approx. AED 120 for adults, AED 90 for children
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 7 PM
• Activities: Guided tours, animal encounters, and interactive exhibits about rainforest ecosystems.

4. KidZania

If you’re looking for an engaging yet educational experience for your children, KidZania in Dubai Mall is perfect. This interactive city allows kids to explore various professions and activities, from being a firefighter to a surgeon, all while having fun. The venue is designed to be both entertaining and informative, making it a great way for children to learn about the world around them while escaping the summer heat. The hands-on activities foster creativity and teamwork.

• Location: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
• Price: Approx. AED 170 for children, AED 70 for adults
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 10 PM
• Activities: Role-playing various careers, interactive games, and learning experiences.

5. AYA

For a visually stunning experience, head to AYA at Wafi Mall. This interactive space features cutting-edge lights, sounds, and visuals across 12 different zones, each telling its own story. Visitors can immerse themselves in a digital art experience that engages all the senses. It's a fantastic spot to capture Instagram-worthy moments and engage with innovative art installations, providing a perfect blend of entertainment and creativity.

• Location: Wafi Mall, Oud Metha
• Price: Approx. AED 75 per person
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 10 PM
• Activities: Interactive art installations and immersive experiences across 12 unique zones.

6. Dubai Parks and Resorts

Home to several renowned theme parks like Motiongate and Legoland, Dubai Parks and Resorts offers a thrilling escape from the summer heat. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, from Lego structures to exhilarating water slides, making it a fantastic choice for families and friends looking for adventure. Seasonal events and themed festivals often enhance the experience, ensuring that there’s always something new to discover.

• Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, near Palm Jebel Ali
• Price: Approx. AED 295 for a single park, AED 495 for a multi-park pass
• Opening Hours: Varies by park (generally 10 AM to 10 PM)
• Activities: Roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions.

7. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Located in Dubai Mall, this aquarium provides a mesmerizing experience where visitors can walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks and stingrays. The facility includes interactive exhibits and educational talks about marine conservation, inviting visitors to engage with the wonders of the ocean. Whether observing marine life from a distance or diving in for an up-close encounter, this attraction promises a captivating adventure for sea enthusiasts.

• Location: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
• Price: Approx. AED 100 for adults, AED 70 for children
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 12 AM
• Activities: Tunnel walkthrough, shark diving experiences, and animal encounters.

8. Bounce

For those wanting to stay active, Bounce is the perfect solution. This indoor trampoline park allows visitors to jump, bounce, and engage in various activities like dodgeball and zip-lining, making it a fun way to get some exercise while escaping the summer sun. Special sessions for younger children and fitness classes are also available, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

• Location: Al Quoz, near Mall of the Emirates
• Price: Approx. AED 90 for a one-hour session
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 10 PM
• Activities: Trampoline jumping, dodgeball, slam dunk zones, and a ninja warrior course.

9. Wild Wadi Water Park

Situated near the iconic Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi Waterpark offers a refreshing retreat with its array of thrilling rides. Families and friends can enjoy over 30 attractions, including exhilarating slides and lazy rivers. The park also features dining options, ensuring visitors can refuel after a day of fun. Special events and discounts often occur during summer, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.

• Location: Jumeirah, near Burj Al Arab
• Price: Approx. AED 336 for adults, AED 280 for children
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
• Activities: Water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.

10. Dubai Hills Mall

Adrenaline seekers can find excitement at Dubai Hills Mall, which features the city’s fastest indoor rollercoaster, The Storm. Additionally, the Adventure Park offers a range of play areas for kids, complete with trampolines, rock climbing, and slides. With various dining and shopping options available, families can easily spend an entire day enjoying the amenities.

• Location: Dubai Hills Estate
• Price: Free entry; pay for individual attractions
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 12 AM
• Activities: Indoor rollercoaster, adventure park, and shopping.

Tips for a Fantastic Summer Experience

1. Plan Ahead: Check the official websites for opening hours and any special events or promotions. Booking tickets in advance can often save you time and money.
2. Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Try to visit attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
3. Stay Hydrated: Always carry water with you, especially when visiting indoor attractions. Many venues have hydration stations, but it’s good to have your own supply.
4. Dress Comfortably: Wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be walking a lot. Layering can help, as indoor venues can be cool.
5. Check for Discounts: Look for family packages, group discounts, or combo tickets that include multiple attractions for better value.
6. Use Public Transport: Dubai’s metro and tram systems are convenient and can save you the hassle of parking. Plus, they’re air-conditioned!
7. Explore Dining Options: Many attractions offer unique dining experiences. Take time to enjoy a meal or snack at the venue to enhance your visit.
8. Capture the Moment: Bring a camera or smartphone to take photos. Many attractions feature Instagram-worthy spots perfect for capturing memories.
9. Stay Updated: Follow the official social media pages of the attractions for real-time updates on events, promotions, and any changes in operations.
10. Plan for Breaks: Schedule downtime to relax and recharge, especially if you’re visiting multiple attractions in one day.

Dubai’s 2025 summer lineup guarantees a dynamic mix of innovation, adventure, and culture-all tailored to beat the heat in style. Whether you’re chasing thrills, culinary delights, or educational gems, the city delivers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Thailand’s tourism sector is facing significant challenges as the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict disrupts travel from key Middle Eastern markets. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) warns that arrivals from five countries Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria could drop by as much as 50%, with early signs of decline already evident in popular destinations like Phuket due to airspace closures.

Thapanee Kiatphaibool, governor of the TAT, explained that several major airlines flying to Thailand including Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Flydubai, Air Arabia, Oman Air, and SalamAir have rerouted flights to avoid conflict zones. Tehran-based Mahan Air has temporarily suspended its Bangkok and Phuket routes, causing the Iranian market to effectively vanish during this period.

These five countries represent about 7% of Middle Eastern visitors to Thailand, with the region (excluding Israel) accounting for 100,781 travelers in June 2024. The timing of the conflict coincides with the Eid al-Adha festival, a peak travel period that last year brought 7,165 tourists from these markets. This year, arrivals are expected to fall sharply to between 3,500 and 5,000 as tourists and airlines postpone trips amid uncertainty.

The TAT is also monitoring potential longer-term impacts on larger Middle Eastern markets such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain, which together contribute 80% of Thailand’s Middle East tourism. Concerns over air travel safety could further dampen demand, affecting hotels in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, which are popular with Middle Eastern visitors.

If the conflict is resolved soon, arrivals may begin to recover in July. Some airlines, including Royal Jordanian Airlines, plan to launch new routes, such as the Amman-Bangkok service starting in August. However, a full recovery depends on how long and severe the conflict’s effects prove to be.

The TAT aims to attract 1.06 million visitors from the Middle East in 2025, an 11% increase over last year, and generate approximately 86 billion baht in revenue. As the situation evolves, Thailand’s tourism industry remains cautiously optimistic but vigilant about the challenges ahead.

Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has reiterated that fees paid for exit and re-entry visas are strictly non-refundable, even if the visa is canceled—a policy that has been reconfirmed as thousands of expatriates plan their summer travel. This clarification was issued following a public inquiry from a resident, to which Jawazat responded unequivocally: “If the exit and re-entry visa is cancelled, the fees are non-refundable”.

Under current regulations, a single exit and re-entry visa costs 200 Saudi riyals and is valid for up to two months, with an additional 100 riyals for each extra month, provided the resident’s permit (iqama) remains valid. For multiple exit and re-entry visas, the fee is 500 riyals for up to three months, and 200 riyals for each additional month.

Notably, for residents who are already outside the Kingdom and need to extend their visas, the extension fees are doubled—200 riyals per month for a single visa and 400 riyals per month for a multiple visa.

The process for issuing, canceling, or extending these visas is managed digitally through the Absher platform. To cancel a visa, users must log in, access “Services for Sponsors,” select the relevant individual, and confirm the cancellation; however, the fee remains non-refundable regardless of the reason for cancellation.

Recent regulatory updates have also introduced higher fees for expatriates outside Saudi Arabia, including doubled extension charges and increased costs for renewing residency permits (Iqama) abroad. Penalties for not using or canceling a visa within the allowed time can be steep, starting at 1,000 riyals for the first offense and rising to 3,000 riyals for repeated violations. Overstaying outside Saudi Arabia after a visa expires incurs a fine of 100 USD per month.

These rules apply to all visa holders, including professionals, domestic workers, and dependents, and are part of broader changes to residency and travel regulations aimed at streamlining processes and ensuring compliance. Authorities urge residents to carefully plan their travel and visa applications, as changes or cancellations will not result in a refund of paid fees.

Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is showing promising signs of recovery, with a 33% year-on-year (YoY) increase in tourist arrivals during the first 10 days of June 2025. The island welcomed 43,962 visitors compared to 33,017 in the same period last year.

The daily average number of tourists also rose significantly, reaching 4,396 visitors per day, up from 3,302 during the first 10 days of June 2024. This uptick is encouraging, especially given that June is traditionally an off-season month for travel to Sri Lanka.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) projects 177,257 arrivals for the entire month of June. However, industry stakeholders remain cautious due to a shortfall in arrivals during the first five months of 2025. From January to May, tourist arrivals missed projections by a cumulative 279,452 visitors, underscoring ongoing challenges in converting interest into actual visits despite improving macroeconomic conditions.

Between January 1 and June 10, 2025, Sri Lanka welcomed over 1.07 million tourists, marking a 16% increase compared to 927,196 visitors during the same period in 2024. Notably, arrivals in January, February, and May 2025 exceeded pre-pandemic levels seen in 2018, highlighting Sri Lanka’s renewed appeal as a travel destination.

Despite these positive trends, consistent growth remains elusive. A key hurdle has been the delay in launching a global tourism campaign, which has not been updated in 16 years. The much-anticipated ‘Nation Branding’ campaign, set to launch on June 26, is expected to boost Sri Lanka’s visibility in key markets and drive higher arrivals during the lucrative winter season.

In June 2025, India, the UK, and Bangladesh emerged as the top source markets, contributing 12,362, 3,740, and 2,717 tourists respectively. Year-to-date, India leads with 216,422 arrivals, followed by Russia (111,285) and the UK (100,014). These markets remain central to Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery strategy.

Sri Lanka aims to attract 3 million tourists and generate $5 billion in tourism revenue by the end of 2025. To meet this target, the industry needs to draw approximately 1.93 million visitors 64.2% of the annual goal during the remaining months of the year. So far, the sector has generated over $1.54 billion in revenue in the first five months, with $3.46 billion still needed to reach the target.

In 2024, Sri Lanka’s tourism revenue reached $3.16 billion, a substantial 53.2% increase from $2.07 billion in 2023, reflecting the sector’s strong recovery momentum.

Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming Nation Branding campaign and further developments in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry.

Starting July 1, 2025, residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) holding valid residency permits will be able to enter Armenia without a visa, marking a significant expansion of Armenia’s visa-free travel policy. Previously, only UAE nationals enjoyed visa-free access, while expatriate residents had to obtain visas on arrival.

The new policy applies to residents with residency permits valid for at least six months and allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, leisure, or business purposes.

This change is part of a broader Armenian government initiative to enhance tourism, investment, and economic ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, which include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. The policy also aligns with Armenia’s visa-free arrangements for residents of the European Union, the Schengen Area, and the United States.

The Armenian cabinet approved this reform in May 2025 to facilitate easier travel for expatriates living in these economically significant regions and to boost Armenia’s attractiveness as a destination for short-term visitors and business travelers.

Armenia’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, combined with its rich cultural heritage—including UNESCO World Heritage monasteries like Geghard and Khor Virap—and natural attractions such as Lake Sevan and Dilijan National Park, makes it an appealing destination for UAE residents, particularly expatriates.

The country is accessible via direct flights from Dubai and other UAE cities through airlines such as flydubai, Air Arabia, and Wizz Air. Armenian tourism officials expect the visa-free entry for UAE residents to increase tourist arrivals, strengthen economic relations, and promote business engagements between Armenia and the GCC.

Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairperson of Armenia’s Tourism Committee, emphasized that this milestone reflects Armenia’s commitment to making the country more accessible to regional travelers seeking meaningful cultural and leisure experiences. The visa waiver is also expected to encourage more frequent travel and investment flows, with officials optimistic about a rise in direct flights and business cooperation.

In summary, from July 1, 2025, UAE residents with valid residency permits will benefit from visa-free entry to Armenia for up to 90 days, a move designed to enhance tourism, business, and bilateral relations between Armenia and the GCC region.

In 2025, the world’s cleanest countries are not just global leaders in environmental health—they are also innovators in climate policy, renewable energy, and sustainable development. These nations have earned top rankings through rigorous assessment by the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) and the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), which together provide the most authoritative and data-driven evaluations of national environmental performance.

The EPI, developed by Yale and Columbia Universities, uses 58 indicators across 11 categories—ranging from air and water quality to biodiversity and climate policy—to rank 180 countries on how well they meet sustainability targets. The CCPI, meanwhile, evaluates 63 countries and the EU, covering over 90% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and assesses performance in GHG emissions, renewable energy, energy use, and climate policy.

These indices are vital tools for policymakers, businesses, and communities, offering a granular view of each country’s strengths and weaknesses, helping to set targets, track trends, and identify best practices for a sustainable future. High-ranking countries benefit from advanced regulatory frameworks, greener infrastructure, and new market opportunities for sustainable technologies. Here’s a closer look at what sets each of the top 10 apart in 2025:

1. Estonia (EPI Score: 75.3)

Estonia leads the world in cleanliness and sustainability, thanks to its extensive forest cover, effective use of bioenergy, and a strong focus on natural resource management. The country has set ambitious climate goals, including a 70% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050.

Estonia achieved an 11.3% emissions reduction in late 2024, outpacing the rest of the EU, even as its economy grew. The capital, Tallinn, has become a beacon of urban sustainability, winning the ITB Earth Award 2025 for its zero-waste Song and Dance Celebration, which drastically cut single-use plastics and promoted circular economy practices.

Estonia’s environmental policies have also led to Europe’s cleanest air and ongoing investments in wind, solar, and energy storage. However, the country faces challenges in fully phasing out fossil fuels and balancing biomass production with forest conservation.

2. Luxembourg (EPI Score: 75.0)

Luxembourg stands out as a small nation with outsized environmental achievements, earning an EPI score of 75.0 in 2024 and a 4.1-point rise over the past decade. The country leads the world in water management, boasting a near-perfect score of 90.6 in Water Resources and an astounding 99.8 in Sanitation & Drinking Water. Over 55% of Luxembourg’s land is protected, contributing to a top-tier biodiversity score of 84.8.

The nation’s capital has pioneered green investments, while advanced wastewater treatment and strict EU-aligned standards keep pollution low. While Luxembourg excels in ecosystem vitality and heavy metal pollution control, it continues to work on reducing per capita greenhouse gas emissions and curbing tree cover loss.

3. Germany (EPI Score: 74.6)

Germany ranks third globally with an EPI score of 74.6 in 2024, marking a 4.4-point improvement over ten years. The country treats 100% of its urban wastewater, achieving a high 89.1 in Water Resources, and protects a significant share of its land and seas, reflected in its 82.4 Biodiversity & Habitat score.

Germany’s robust environmental policies are complemented by massive investments in green infrastructure and renewable energy. The nation’s cities are recognized for clean air, efficient public transport, and progressive urban planning. Germany’s approach demonstrates that sustainability can go hand in hand with industrial progress, though ongoing industrial emissions remain a challenge.

4. Finland (EPI Score: 73.7)

Finland secures the fourth spot with a 2024 EPI score of 73.7, though this reflects a slight decrease from its 2014 score. The country is a global leader in public health, scoring a perfect 100.0 in both Sanitation & Drinking Water and Heavy Metals. Finland’s well-managed forests, protected natural areas, and clean air contribute to its strong ecosystem vitality.

The nation’s deep cultural connection to nature is evident in its policies, which seamlessly integrate sustainability into daily life. Finland’s challenge lies in maintaining its high standards amid growing urbanization and climate pressures.

5. United Kingdom (EPI Score: 72.7)

The United Kingdom earns an EPI score of 72.7 in 2024, up by 2.1 points over the past decade. The UK has made significant progress in reducing carbon emissions, largely through aggressive wind energy deployment and expanded recycling programs. Urban green spaces and biodiversity conservation have improved city livability and environmental health.

The UK continues to update its climate policies to meet international targets, but faces ongoing challenges with air quality in some metropolitan areas and the need for further emissions reductions.

6. Sweden (EPI Score: 70.5)

Sweden ranks sixth with a 2024 EPI score of 70.5, showing a modest 1.6-point increase over ten years. The country’s energy mix is dominated by hydropower and wind, and it is a pioneer in negative emissions technologies.

Sweden’s cities are models of sustainable urban development, and the nation’s commitment to clean air, water, and biodiversity is unwavering. However, Sweden faces pressure to further reduce emissions from transportation and industry to meet its ambitious climate goals.

7. Norway (EPI Score: 70.0)

Norway holds the seventh position with a 2024 EPI score of 70.0, up 3.6 points over the last decade. The country boasts nearly universal access to clean drinking water and sanitation, and its electricity is almost entirely supplied by hydropower.

Norway’s proactive climate policies and investments in electric mobility and carbon capture have resulted in some of the world’s lowest per capita emissions. The country’s challenge is balancing oil and gas exports with its climate commitments.

8. Austria (EPI Score: 69.0)

Austria scores 69.0 on the 2024 EPI, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.3 points over ten years. The country excels in maintaining clean cities and countryside through strict agricultural and chemical regulations. Austria’s public transport system and urban planning support eco-living, while strong environmental laws ensure high water quality and effective waste management.

Austria’s challenge is to address areas of stagnation and reinvigorate progress on climate adaptation and emissions reduction.

9. Switzerland (EPI Score: 68.0)

Switzerland earns a 2024 EPI score of 68.0, up 1.8 points over the last decade. The country is renowned for its pristine landscapes, robust waste management, and advanced water treatment systems.

Switzerland’s environmental protection laws and public engagement in sustainability initiatives help maintain high living standards and ecological health. However, Switzerland must continue to innovate in renewable energy and reduce its ecological footprint to stay ahead.

10. Denmark (EPI Score: 67.9)

Denmark rounds out the top ten with an EPI score of 67.9 in 2024, a 1.7-point increase over ten years. The nation is a global leader in wind energy and urban planning that prioritizes cycling and green spaces. Denmark’s comprehensive recycling policies and low pollution levels make it a model for clean living. 

The country’s ongoing challenge is to further cut emissions from agriculture and transportation while maintaining economic growth.

How Are These Rankings Determined?

Environmental Performance Index (EPI):

• Uses 58 indicators across 11 categories, including air quality, water and sanitation, biodiversity, habitat protection, and climate policy.
• Weights environmental health (40%) and ecosystem vitality (60%) to reflect both immediate human well-being and long-term sustainability.
• Draws data from the WHO, UN, and other global agencies, providing a scorecard for each country and highlighting leaders and laggards.

Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI):

• Assesses four main categories: GHG emissions (40%), renewable energy (20%), energy use (20%), and climate policy (20%).
• Uses 14 indicators, combining quantitative data (from IEA, FAO, UNFCCC) and qualitative expert assessments of national and international climate policy.
• Covers 63 countries and the EU, representing over 90% of global GHG emissions.

These indices are not just academic—they guide policy, inform investment, and help countries benchmark progress toward sustainability goals. High-ranking countries typically have strong regulatory frameworks, transparent governance, and engaged civil societies, making them attractive for sustainable business and investment.

Why Does This Matter?

• Policy Guidance: Countries use EPI and CCPI data to set targets, track trends, and refine environmental policies.
• Business and Investment: High scores signal a favorable environment for green investment and sustainable business operations.
• Public Health: Clean air, water, and effective waste management directly improve quality of life and reduce healthcare costs.
• Global Leadership: These nations serve as models for others striving to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.

Summary point

As environmental challenges grow increasingly urgent worldwide, the achievements of these top 10 cleanest countries in 2025 offer both inspiration and a practical roadmap for sustainable development. Their success demonstrates that with visionary leadership, innovative technologies, and committed public participation, it is possible to safeguard natural resources, improve public health, and foster economic growth simultaneously.

By learning from their policies and practices, other nations can accelerate their own journeys toward a cleaner, greener, and more resilient future—ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come