Young people are at the heart of the UAE’s ambitions for the future, and on International Youth Day, the country’s leadership has highlighted the role of the next generation in shaping the nation’s continued growth.

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the UAE remains confident in its young people and praised their contribution to the country’s development, particularly through innovation and leadership.

Dubai’s leadership echoed the message, with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, emphasising the importance of youth to the country’s future ambitions.

Meanwhile, Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council, described young Emiratis as future-makers and highlighted the limitless potential of their ambitions.

The powerful tributes from the UAE’s rulers serve as a direct call to action for every young resident and visitor across the Emirates. The national vision isn’t just about high-level policy, it translates directly into how the youth approach their everyday lives, challenges, and personal growth:

And for Dubai’s younger residents and visitors, International Youth Day can also be an opportunity to get out. Why not try something different and spend time with friends to mark this day.

From paintball battles and climbing walls to go-karting and futuristic laser tag, here are four places to consider:

1. Action Park

Best for: Groups looking for several activities in one place

If your idea of celebrating involves a little bit of everything, Action Park offers a mix of indoor and outdoor entertainment.

Groups can challenge each other to paintball or go-karting, while those looking for something more unusual can head to The Smash Room.

The venue is located at The Last Exit on Sheikh Zayed Road, on the Abu Dhabi-bound side.

Opening hours: 11am–11pm
Price: Varies by activity
Location: The Last Exit, Sheikh Zayed Road

2. Paintball Dubai

Best for: Competitive groups and strategy fans

For groups that would rather turn the day into a tactical competition, Paintball Dubai offers scenario-based outdoor games.

Players can take part in different missions, including Capture the Flag, Elimination and Save-the-Hostage, putting teamwork and strategy to the test.

The venue is at Jebel Ali Shooting Club in Mina Jebel Ali.

Opening hours: 10am–10pm
Price: From Dh65
Location: Jebel Ali Shooting Club, Mina Jebel Ali

3. Rock Republic Dubai

Best for: Anyone who wants a physical challenge

If climbing is more your speed, Rock Republic Dubai offers a large bouldering space with more than 400 square metres of climbing area and over 150 routes.

The facility caters to different experience levels, so beginners can give bouldering a try while more experienced climbers can work on tougher routes.

Professional instructors are also available to help climbers develop their skills.

Opening hours: 3:30pm–10pm
Price: From Dh100
Location: Dubai Investment Park

4. Thrill Zone

Best for: Fans of futuristic games and team battles

For something that feels more like stepping into a sci-fi game, Thrill Zone offers an interactive laser-tag experience.

Its 15-minute Jurassic-themed arena puts teams against each other in a fast-paced combat-style game where coordination and teamwork can make the difference.

Once the laser-tag battle is over, visitors can also try the venue’s 6D simulator cinema.

Opening hours: 10am–10pm
Price: From Dh95
Location: Oasis Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road

Pick your challenge

Whether your group prefers speed, strategy, climbing or high-tech games, Dubai has plenty of options for turning International Youth Day into an active day out.

And while the UAE’s leaders use the occasion to recognise the contribution of young people to the country’s future, these experiences offer a more hands-on way to celebrate, by getting together, trying something new and taking on a challenge as a team.