As the UAE’s summer sun blazes and school holidays stretch on, families across the Emirates are searching for ways to keep children engaged, inspired, and out of the heat. This season, the country’s museums are stepping up as vibrant playgrounds for young minds, blending hands-on learning with immersive fun. Here’s a feature look at ten standout museums where kids can embark on unforgettable adventures, discover new passions, and make the most of their summer break.

1. Louvre Abu Dhabi

Step into a world where East meets West beneath the iconic “rain of light” dome. The Louvre Abu Dhabi isn’t just about art—it’s a journey through human creativity, with galleries that juxtapose ancient artifacts and modern masterpieces. The Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits at a child’s eye level, encouraging hands-on exploration and creativity. Family workshops and treasure hunts make every visit a new adventure.

2. Museum of the Future, Dubai

This architectural marvel is more than a photo opportunity. Inside, kids can dive into futuristic worlds, design cities, and interact with AI-powered displays. The “Future Heroes” zone is dedicated to children, where they can play, build, and solve eco-challenges, earning digital badges along the way.

The annual Future Heroes Summer Camp, running from July 21 to August 7, 2025, immerses children ages 6 to 13 in weekly themes of sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Activities range from robotics and 3D printing to real-world problem-solving, all designed to empower the next generation of changemakers.

3. Dubai Museum (Al Fahidi Fort)

Housed in Dubai’s oldest building, this museum brings the city’s transformation to life. Kids can wander through recreated souks, pearl diving expeditions, and desert scenes, all brought to life with life-sized dioramas and authentic artifacts. It’s a hands-on history lesson that contrasts the city’s humble beginnings with its modern skyline.

4. Sharjah Science Museum

Curiosity comes alive here with interactive workshops on everything from color theory and sound to space, AI, and chemistry. Children can experiment, tinker, and even try their hand at perfume-making. The museum’s summer camps, running in late July and early August, are designed to build critical thinking and a love for discovery through hands-on experiments and group activities, with sessions tailored for different age groups.

5. OliOli, Dubai

Dubbed the “anti-boredom zone,” OliOli is a hands-on laboratory of curiosity. With eight immersive galleries, kids can climb, splash, and experiment with air cannons, water channels, and more. The Future Park zone uses projection mapping to turn children’s doodles into animated creatures, while Arabic storytelling sessions add a cultural twist.

6. Museum of Illusions, Dubai

Prepare for mind-bending fun! This museum is packed with optical illusions, brain teasers, and interactive exhibits that challenge perception and spark laughter. The Vortex Tunnel and Ames Room are favorites, and the smart playroom lets kids compete and learn through puzzles and games.

7. Sharjah Maritime Museum

Dive into the UAE’s seafaring heritage with traditional dhows, pearl diving equipment, and navigation tools. Kids can join “Maritime Adventures,” a summer camp from August 4 to 14, where they’ll try fishing, cook Emirati dishes, and make scented herbal candles—all while learning about the region’s deep connection to the sea.

8. Etihad Museum, Dubai

Located at the historic site where the UAE was founded, this museum’s interactive exhibits and holographic displays bring the nation’s story to life. Children can design their own passports, explore the Union Vault, and even film mini-documentaries, making history both accessible and exciting.

9. House of Wisdom, Sharjah

This ultra-modern library and cultural center fuses architecture, light, and technology. The “Little Reader” zone features AR books, sound domes, and LEGO robotics kits, while the Sculpture Garden outside offers a creative space for picnics and play. Summer camps here blend reading, science, and art in a futuristic setting. The Al Jazari FabLab, for kids aged 6 to 15, introduces AI, 3D printing, and coding through storytelling, while the Kalila wa Dimna camp brings classic Arabic fables to life with shadow theatre and puppetry.

10. Al Shindagha Museum, Dubai

Explore Dubai’s roots in this museum’s “Living Off the Sea and Land” pavilion, where interactive floor projections and scent stations immerse kids in old Emirati life. The Summer Camp, running mid-July, transforms children into young archaeologists—digging for fossils, exploring ancient trades, and learning about Dubai’s transformation from fishing village to global city through hands-on workshops and crafts

Tips for Visiting UAE Museums with Kids

• Stay Cool: Most museums are fully air-conditioned—perfect for escaping the summer heat.
• Check Schedules: Many offer extended hours and special summer programs; early registration is often required due to limited slots.
• Dress Modestly: Especially important at museums focused on Islamic culture.
• Photography: Allowed in most museums, but check for restrictions.
• Combo Tickets: Look for joint passes to save on multiple visits.

This summer, let the UAE’s museums be your family’s passport to discovery, creativity, and endless fun. Whether your child dreams of exploring ancient civilizations, coding robots, or building the cities of tomorrow, these museums promise stories and memories that will last long after the school bell rings again.

Qatar Aeronautical Academy (QAA) and Qatar Airways have formalized a significant cooperation agreement, signed during the Paris International Air Show in France, aimed at advancing aviation training and professional development in Qatar. The agreement, accredited by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), was signed by QAA’s Director-General, HE Sheikh Jabor bin Hamad Al-Thani, and Qatar Airways Group CEO, Eng. Badr Mohammed Al Meer.

Under this partnership, QAA is set to train approximately 750 students over the next five years, opening new avenues for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the development of national talent in the aviation sector. The initiative is designed to provide outstanding opportunities for young individuals aspiring to join the aviation field, aligning with Qatar’s broader goals for workforce development and the Qatar National Vision 2030.

QAA, established in 1977, is recognized as the Gulf region’s leading provider of aviation training, offering accredited programs for pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers, meteorologists, and other aviation professionals. The Academy’s mission is to produce highly qualified cadres by employing the latest training systems and maintaining strong ties with both regional and international institutions. This ensures that students are prepared according to the highest international standards.

Qatar Airways, which has recently been recognized as the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax, views this agreement as a reflection of its ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals. The airline is investing in future operations by partnering with leading institutions and supporting young talent to obtain the necessary training and opportunities to succeed in the industry.

Senior Vice President of Operations at Qatar Airways, Captain Khalid Issa Al Hammadi, emphasized that this collaboration supports innovation, knowledge sharing, and long-term career growth in the advanced aviation sector.

The agreement also complements Qatar Airways’ broader strategy of forming global partnerships and investing in state-of-the-art technologies and training programs, as evidenced by its other recent initiatives announced at the Paris Air Show. These include multi-crew pilot license training programs and partnerships with international training providers, further reinforcing Qatar’s ambition to become a global center of excellence in aviation.

Additionally, QAA is undergoing a major facilities upgrade, with a $45 million project slated for completion by late 2027, ensuring that the Academy remains at the forefront of aviation education and training infrastructure in the Middle East. This cooperation agreement not only enhances the educational and professional landscape for aviation in Qatar but also supports the sustainable growth and global competitiveness of the country’s aviation industry.

Qatar Airways has signed a landmark strategic agreement with Barzan Holdings and Satys Aerospace to establish a state-of-the-art widebody aircraft painting facility at Dukhan Air Base, marking a major advancement in the region's aviation infrastructure.

The agreement, announced by Qatar Airways, is part of a long-term collaboration aimed at strengthening Qatar’s aviation ecosystem through capability building, technology transfer, and innovation. The new facility will be the first of its kind in the region to utilize next-generation digital aircraft painting technologies, positioning Qatar as a regional hub for specialized aviation services.

Set to support commercial, VIP, and military aircraft, the project includes two widebody paint bays and a multipurpose hangar capable of handling light maintenance tasks. The facility is designed to reduce aircraft downtime by eliminating the need for overseas ferrying for repainting or livery changes and will cater to airline operators across the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent.

Featuring cutting-edge digital systems and future-ready robotic painting technologies, the facility will implement environmentally sustainable practices, including energy-efficient paint booths and advanced waste management solutions. It will also support dual-use operations in both civil and defense aviation, in alignment with Qatar’s strategy to localize high-value services and nurture local aerospace expertise.

“This partnership delivers strategic aviation infrastructure that serves both our national and regional ambitions,” said Eng. Badr Mohammed Al Meer, Group CEO of Qatar Airways. “Together with Barzan Holdings and Satys, we are building capabilities that define the future of Qatar’s aerospace sector and empower local talent.”

Eng. Mohammed Bader Al Sadah, CEO of Barzan Holdings, added: “This agreement strengthens our commitment to Qatar’s defence and aerospace capabilities. The facility will establish Qatar as a centre of excellence in the region, advancing local industry and supporting the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.”

Christophe Cador, CEO of Satys Aerospace, emphasized the company’s dedication to the project, stating: “Since our partnership began in 2021, we have remained committed to delivering top-tier services in quality, innovation, and turnaround time.”

The new painting facility is expected to play a pivotal role in elevating Qatar’s status as a global leader in aviation services and technology.

Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Doha has implemented a major upgrade to its e-gate system, now allowing children to use this advanced, automated immigration technology, significantly improving the travel experience for families.

According to Captain Ali Ahmed Al-Kuwari of the Airport Passports Department, children aged seven and above and measuring between 120 and 130 centimeters in height are eligible to use the e-gates, provided their passport or Qatar ID contains a clear, system-registered photo for facial recognition.

This move is part of HIA’s broader strategy to create a smart, secure, and family-friendly travel environment, reflecting Qatar’s commitment to world-class passenger service and technological innovation.

The e-gates, located in both departures and arrivals, utilize state-of-the-art biometric technology, including iris scanning, ten-print fingerprinting, and facial recognition, enabling a fully automated process that eliminates the need for manual checks and dramatically reduces waiting times. The system is contactless, enhancing hygiene and convenience, and is especially beneficial for frequent travelers and families who can now bypass traditional immigration queues.

For young travelers, only the second-row e-gates are operational, and airport staff are present to assist families, ensuring a smooth and safe process. Parents or legal guardians must secure travel authorization for their children via the Metrash mobile application before travel, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and seamless processing at the e-gate.

Officials recommend that children pass through the e-gate first, followed by their parents, to maintain an orderly and safe flow, particularly during busy travel periods.

The introduction of e-gate access for children is a strategic step in Qatar’s vision to become a global leader in smart travel and digital transformation. HIA, recognized as the World’s Best Airport in 2024, continues to set new standards in passenger convenience and efficiency, with the e-gate system standing out as a key innovation that supports faster, safer, and more efficient border control.

If any biometric scan fails, airport staff are readily available to assist, and travelers can be directed to manual immigration if necessary, ensuring that the process remains smooth for all passengers.

This initiative not only streamlines the immigration process but also underscores HIA’s dedication to leveraging technology for a superior travel experience, making it easier and more enjoyable for families to travel through one of the world’s leading airports.

Qatar Airways is preparing for a prominent appearance at the 55th Paris Air Show, which will take place from June 16 to 22, 2025, at the Parc des Expositions de Paris-Le Bourget, the world’s largest aerospace event. The airline will join 2,500 exhibitors from 48 countries, with more than 150 aircraft on display and 3,000 attendees expected, underscoring the global significance of the show.

One of the headline attractions from Qatar Airways is the UEFA Champions League livery Boeing 777, specially dedicated to Paris Saint-Germain’s triumphant return as European champions. This aircraft not only celebrates the airline’s partnership with PSG but also highlights its commitment to sports and global connectivity.

In a major industry milestone, Qatar Executive—the airline’s private jet charter division—will present the Gulfstream G700, marking the first time this ultra-long-haul, fuel-efficient jet is operated in commercial aviation. The G700 is renowned for its exceptionally spacious cabin and advanced technology, reflecting Qatar Airways’ focus on luxury and innovation in private air travel.

Qatar Airways will also unveil the Qsuite Next Gen, the latest version of its award-winning business class product. Show attendees will be able to step inside the reimagined Qsuite and experience a variety of customisation options designed to offer a highly personalised and premium journey.

A highlight of the airline’s digital innovation is Sama, the world’s first AI-powered cabin crew, now enhanced to communicate in French, English, and Arabic. Sama will be available via WhatsApp, providing real-time, multilingual support for flight bookings, destination recommendations, and general passenger inquiries. This expansion is expected to connect with millions of French-speaking travelers and streamline customer interactions across key markets.

Visitors can further immerse themselves in the Qatar Airways experience at the specially designed L’Univers Qatar Airways Pavilion, located in front of Gate 0 near Hall 5. The pavilion features interactive exhibits, the latest Economy Class and Diptyque Business Class amenity kits, bespoke dining ware, and a celebration of PSG’s iconic victories. Guests can unlock exclusive gifts by scanning codes at key touchpoints, deepening their engagement with the airline’s offerings.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, emphasized the airline’s dedication to innovation and diversity, noting that the Paris Air Show provides a unique opportunity to connect with the global aviation community and showcase products that define the Qatar Airways passenger experience.

The airline’s presence at the Paris Air Show comes on the heels of a record-breaking financial year, with Qatar Airways Group reporting its strongest profits to date—QAR 7.85 billion (US$2.15 billion) for the 2024/25 fiscal year, reflecting its robust growth and leadership in the aviation sector.

With several new offerings yet to be revealed, Qatar Airways’ participation at the Paris Air Show is expected to set new benchmarks in passenger experience, digital innovation, and luxury travel, reinforcing its position as a global aviation leader

In a bold leap toward environmental leadership, Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RAK Airport) is integrating cutting-edge sustainable technologies as part of a major terminal expansion—becoming the first airport in the Middle East and Asia to adopt DYNAES’s revolutionary thermodynamic energy efficiency system.

This milestone initiative is more than a technical upgrade; it’s a statement of intent. With Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism and economy rapidly accelerating, airport authorities are ensuring that growth goes hand-in-hand with sustainability. The move reflects a broader commitment to reducing environmental impact while meeting rising air travel demands.

Cooling Innovation, Warming Planet's Hope

Recognizing that air conditioning systems account for some of the highest energy consumption in airport operations, RAK Airport—guided by consultants ARTELIA Airport and STG Contracting—has turned to DYNAES’s breakthrough technology, first unveiled at Dubai COP28. The system’s installation in the terminal extension marks a regional first.

“Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ras Al Khaimah Department of Civil Aviation, highlighted the vision behind the move: “RAK Airport joined the Retrofit Energy Program in 2023. Now, we are proving how even older infrastructure can lead the way in sustainability.”

Developed alongside leading scientific institutions including Mines Paris PSL, TÜV, and CNRS, DYNAES’s patented system enhances thermal performance without increasing compressor power or requiring complex electronics. It works by optimizing the interaction between refrigerants and lubricating oils in air conditioning systems—delivering improved reliability, maintainability, and energy savings.

Professor Assaad Zoughaib of Mines Paris PSL called the innovation “a major scientific breakthrough in the field of thermodynamics.”

Big Impact, Low Footprint

The environmental potential is massive. If deployed globally, DYNAES’s system could slash carbon emissions by up to 7%—equivalent to the total emissions from the internet and air traffic combined. At RAK Airport, the technology is supported by seasoned partners Airchal and Takyeef Factory, ensuring a strong foundation for its regional rollout.

This technology boost also aligns with RAK’s broader goals of economic diversification and sustainable development. With a 28% rise in passenger traffic last year, the airport is rapidly scaling up. Recent route expansions include Air Arabia’s new service to Uzbekistan and planned connections to Kenya, Georgia, and India via IndiGo.

A Model for Green Growth

RAK Airport’s ambitious blend of infrastructure growth and environmental responsibility is setting a new regional standard for sustainable aviation. As the airport continues to grow as a vital hub for tourism and trade, it is doing so with an eye firmly fixed on the future—one where economic and environmental priorities go hand in hand.

Ras Al Khaimah may be a smaller Emirate, but with RAK Airport leading the charge in clean technology, it’s making a big impact in global sustainability conversations.