Reading Time: 8 minutes
Best-Family Movies on BBC-iPlayer-in-UAE

Looking for what are the best family shows on BBC iPlayer in UAE? With a huge selection of shows available to stream online, BBC iPlayer is a fantastic source of top-notch family entertainment.

In addition, families may use it as a chance to bond, discover new things, and have fun. It’s a good way to enjoy some soothing entertainment while getting away from the stresses of everyday life by watching family shows together.

BBC iPlayer is geo-blocked and inaccessible in UAE due to licensing and distribution rights. Therefore, you must use the best VPN like ExpressVPN, to access BBC iPlayer in UAE and stream your favorite shows.

Now that you know you can access BBC iPlayer in UAE, what are the best family shows to watch on iPlayer?


What are the Best Family Shows to Watch BBC iPlayer in UAE?

You are in luck if you’re looking for what to watch on BBC iPlayer? We have a list of the best BBC iPlayer family shows in UAE. Here are some of the best family shows available on BBC iPlayer which you can watch with the best BBC iPlayer VPN in UAE.

1. Superman & Lois (2021)

Superman

Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama

Directors: Gregory Smith, David Ramsey

Cast: Tyler Hoechlin, Alex Garfin, Elizabeth Tulloch,

Runtime: 42 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: season 2, 30 episodes

Release date: February 23, 2021

The show revolves around Clark and Lois, who return to Smallville with their two sons, Jonathan and Jordan. Here, Clark must balance his responsibilities as Superman with those of a husband and father while also dealing with new threats to Metropolis and the world.

While this is happening, Lois, an accomplished journalist, is looking into Edgecorp, a shadowy organization with connections to Smallville’s and the Kent family’s past.

2. Pokemon – Sun and Moon (2023)

pokemon

Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure

Directors: Kunihiko Yuyama, Masamitsu Hidaka, Norihiko Sutô

Cast: Veronica Taylor, Eric Stuart, Rachael Lillis

Runtime: 24 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 22 seasons, episode 147

Release date: September 8, 1998

The show takes place in the tropical region of Alola, which is based in Hawaii, and follows Ash Ketchum and his Pikachu as they explore the area, make new friends, and face new challenges.

In addition to introducing new Pokémon and characters, the Sun and Moon series has a distinctive art style that differs from that of the earlier series.

3. The Beaker Girls (2021)

the-beaker-girls

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Family

Directors: Suri Krishnamma, John McKay, Meg Campbell

Cast: Dani Harmer, Chi-Megan Ennis-Mclean, Emma Maggie Davies

Runtime: 27 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 2 seasons, 17 episodes

Release date: December 13, 2021

The Beaker Girls is a show that is based on Jacqueline Wilson’s novel. Its storyline revolves around Tracy Beaker and Jess, two half-sisters. While Tracy is a flamboyant and outgoing TV personality, Jess is a shy young woman raised in foster care.

Tracy turns to Jess for assistance when she learns she has a daughter. To assist Tracy’s daughter, who is having a hard time figuring out where she fits in the world, the two sisters must work through their complicated family dynamics.

4. Dragons: The Night Realms (2023)

dragons

Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure

Directors: Mandy Clotworthy, Andrew Collins

Cast: Jeremy Shada, Aimee Garcia, Ashley Liao

Runtime: 23 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 5 seasons, 32 episodes

Release date: December 23, 2021

Dragons are now only a myth in the modern world, 1,300 years after the events of “How to Train Your Dragon.” Scientists worldwide gather at a new research facility to investigate the mysterious phenomenon that occurs when a geological anomaly opens a massive, miles-deep fissure in the Earth’s surface.

Soon after, a group of outcast children discovers the location of the dragons, a secret they must maintain to preserve their discovery. Will they?

You can also discover how to download the BBC iPlayer app in UAE and enjoy watching family shows on your Android, no matter where you are.

5. The Next Step (2022)

the-next-step

Genre: Drama, Family, Romance

Directors: Derby Crewe,  Marni Banack, Shelagh O’Brien

Cast: Victoria Baldesarra, Alexandra Beaton, Briar Nolet

Runtime: 30 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 8 seasons, 237 episodes

Release date: March 8, 2013

The series primarily focuses on the highs and lows experienced by the dancers as they work to improve themselves in the highly competitive world of dance. The plot revolves around the A-Troupe, the studio’s most elite group of dancers.

The dancers must keep up with the demanding training and competition schedule to stay on the team.

The dancers have to manage their personal and professional relationships, deal with setbacks and disappointments, and push themselves to new levels of performance. They learn important lessons about teamwork, dedication, and perseverance as they compete in dance battles and attend various competitions.

6. Malory Towers (2022)

malory-towers

Genre: Drama, Family

Directors: Bruce McDonald, Tracey Rooney, Gary Williams

Cast: Ella Bright, Beth Bradfield, Danya Griver

Runtime: 30 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 4 seasons, 44 episodes

Release date: March 23, 2020

Malory Towers, set in post-World War II Britain, follows 12-year-old Darrell Rivers as she leaves home to enroll in an all-girls boarding school. While there, she must navigate the challenging social dynamics and academic standards of Malory Towers.

Darrell learns crucial lessons about loyalty, bravery, and perseverance as she makes new friends and enemies. This series depicts a thoughtful and compelling depiction of the difficulties faced by young women during this period, touching on topics such as bullying, academic pressure, and family relationships.

7. The Dumping Ground (2022)

the-dumping-ground

Genre: Drama

Directors: Diana Patrick, Sallie Aprahamian, Sean Glynn

Cast: Stacy Liu, Sarah Rayson, Kia Pegg

Runtime: 30 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 10 seasons, 208 episodes

Release date: January 4, 2013

Many difficult challenges come with growing up in a care facility, but the children at Ashdene Ridge are aware that if they stick together, they can overcome anything life throws at them.

The Dumping Ground portrays the experiences of children in foster care honestly and sensitively, as well as for its engaging and relatable characters. The series explores important themes like identity, belonging, and the value of a supportive community.

8. His Dark Materials (2019)

his-dark-materials

Genre: Adventure, Drama, Family

Directors: Amit Gupta, Jamie Childs, William McGregor

Cast: Dafne Keen, Ruth Wilson, Kit Connor

Runtime: 1 hour

Number of seasons/episodes: 3 seasons, 23 episodes

Release date: November 4, 2019

One of the best pieces of imaginative fiction for children and adults in the 20th century is “His Dark Materials.” Lyra, an orphan who lives in a parallel universe where science, theology, and magic are intertwined, is introduced in Northern Lights.

Lyra’s search for a missing friend leads to discovering a sinister scheme involving kidnapped children and a quest to understand the mysterious phenomenon known as Dust. The series delves into complex philosophical concepts with depth and nuance, all while providing thrilling action and adventure.

9. Lagging (2023)

lagging

Genre: Drama

Directors: Theresa Varga, Sami Abusamra

Cast: Seyi Andes-Pelumi, Armandas Martin Gilys, Yoni Bronks

Runtime: 24 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 2 seasons, 20 episodes

Release date: January 5, 2021

The show Lagging revolves around five gamers, Leah, Sol, Mo, Ray, and Cedric, who are best friends online and offline. The team encounters difficulties as the series continues, both in their personal lives and in the virtual world.

They must navigate the ups and downs of friendship, romance, and growing up while striving for gaming success. Will team SMoRCLe be able to overcome the obstacles?

10. Jamie Johnson (2016)

jamie-johnson

Genre: Family, Sport

Directors: Joe Talbot, Julian Kemp

Cast: Louis Dunn

Runtime: Patrick Ward

Number of seasons/episodes: 7 seasons, 83 episodes

Release date: June 8, 2016

“Jamie Johnson” is a British children’s television series that debuted in 2016. It follows Jamie Johnson, a young footballer, as he experiences the highs and lows of pursuing his dream of becoming a professional player.

It’s many young boys’ dreams, but Jamie has the skills to make it a reality. If only he could keep his cool and pay attention to his potential rather than what is happening around him.

Will Jamie find a way to deal with his issues and concentrate on his talent?

11. Holly Hobbie (2022)

holly-hobbie

Genre: Drama, Family, Music

Directors: Stefan Brogren, Sarah Glinski, Alison Reid

Cast: Ruby Jay, Hunter Dillon, Saara Chaudry

Runtime: 30 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 5 seasons, 50 episodes

Release date: November 16, 2018

Meet Holly Hobbie, a 13-year-old singer/songwriter who has spent all her years in the small town of Collinsville. Besides pursuing her career as a singer, Holly also dreams of changing the world.

Throughout the series, Holly looks into how she can improve her neighborhood, whether by putting together a concert to raise money for environmental causes or by speaking out against injustice and bullying.

Her close-knit family and a group of devoted friends all support her dreams.

It’s an interesting show that shows the importance of family, friends, and community in making a positive impact in the world.

12. Bluey (2023)

bluey

Genre: Animation, Family

Directors: Richard Jeffery, Joe Brumm

Cast: David McCormack, Rico Romaniuk, Melanie Zanetti

Runtime: 7 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 3 seasons, 169 episodes

Release date: September 30, 2018

In Bluey, the main character is a six-year-old Blue Heeler puppy named Bluey who lives with her dad, mom, and four-year-old little sister, Bingo. Bluey is lovable and never gets bored.

The show focuses on learning through play and imaginative play. The series follows Bluey and her family as they face the challenges of everyday life while also learning valuable lessons about friendship, teamwork, and creativity.

Bluey is one of the best family shows on BBC iPlayer in UAE.

13. Jo Jo & Gran Gran (2023)

jo-jo-and-gran-gran

Genre: Animation, Family

Directors: Ben Halliwell, Nick Clackett

Cast: Stephanie Filiadi, Cathy Tyson, Taiya Samuel

Runtime: 11 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 3 seasons, 95 episodes

Release date: March 16, 2020

JoJo & Gran Gran is one of the best BBC family shows. It revolves around a young girl named JoJo and Gran Gran, her grandmother, as they explore the world around them and learn important life lessons.

Each episode is about a different topic or activity, like baking, gardening, or visiting the library. JoJo and Gran Gran approach every new experience with excitement and curiosity, and they work together to solve any problems that come up.

14. Worzel Gummidge (2021)

worzel-gummidge

Genre: Family

Director: Mackenzie Crook

Cast: Thierry Wickens, Steve Pemberton, India Brown

Runtime: 1 hour

Number of seasons/episodes: 2 seasons, 7 episodes

Release date: December 26, 2019

The show revolves around a talking scarecrow named Worzel Gummidge. Worzel lives in a field and comes to life whenever kids are around.

He’s mischievous and gets into trouble a lot, but he has a kind heart and a strong sense of right and wrong. Worzel sets out on a series of adventures in the English countryside with his friends John and Susan, encountering different characters.

It’s one of the best BBC family drama series.

15. The Sarah Jane Adventures (2011)

the-sarah-jane-adventures

Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama

Director: Joss Agnew, Alice Troughton

Cast: Elisabeth Sladen, Daniel Anthony, Alexander Armstrong

Runtime: 1 hour

Number of seasons/episodes: 5 seasons, 55 episodes

Release date: January 1, 2007

The show revolves around Sarah Jane as she investigates strange and unusual occurrences in and around the town of Bannerman Road. Together, with the help of her neighbors, they find out about alien and supernatural beings and try to stop alien threats from putting Earth in danger.

The show is well-known for its mix of science fiction, adventure, and comedy, as well as its positive messages about friendship, courage, and working as a team.

The Sarah Jane Adventures is one of the best Sci-Fi shows on BBC iPlayer worth watching in UAE.

16. Pokemon: Black and White (2022)

pokemon-black-and-white

Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure

Director: Junichi Masuda

Cast: Sarah Natochenny, Aoi Yuki, Mamaru Miyano

Runtime: 21 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 16 seasons, 146 episodes

Release date: September 23, 2010

In Pokemon: Black and White, Ash Ketchum, his new friends Iris and Cilan, and his faithful Pikachu go on adventures in the Unova region.

In the series, Ash and his friends visit Unova’s many cities, towns, and landmarks. Along the way, they battle gym leaders and take part in tournaments. They also meet many new species of Pokemon, some of which have unique skills and traits.

As the series goes on, Ash and his friends get involved in a bigger fight with Team Plasma, a group of bad guys who want to liberate Pokemon from their trainers.

17. Merlin (2008)

merlin

Genre: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy

Directors: Jeremy Webb, Alice Troughton, David Moore

Cast: John Hurt, Bradley James, Colin Morgan

Runtime: 45 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 5 seasons, 65 episodes

Release date: June 21, 2009

The show is about Merlin’s early life when he moved to Camelot and worked for young Prince Arthur.

Throughout the series, Merlin has to hide the fact that he can use magic while he deals with Camelot’s dangerous and treacherous politics. He frequently finds himself in difficult situations, and to save the people he cares about, he must use magic and quick thinking.

Will Merlin use his powers to help the young Prince Arthur become a good king? Or will he hide his magical powers from him?

18. The Nine to Five with Stacey Dooley (2021)

nine-to-five-with-stacey-dooley

Genre: Reality TV

Directors: Jared Wright

Cast: Stacey Dooley

Runtime: 30 minutes

Number of seasons/episodes: 3 seasons, 15 episodes

Release date: February 8, 2019

For the ultimate work experience, Stacey Dooley puts five young people between 16 and 18 years old to work in industries that need young people.

They begin their journey in a Gordon Ramsay restaurant in London, where head chef Davide and front-of-house manager Roberto agree to mentor them over the course of two days while providing them with real-world customer experience.

Both of them have worked their way up in the restaurant business over the past 20 years. They love what they do and expect anyone who works with them to be reliable and have a strong work ethic.

How will the five teens deal with the chance to learn from such great mentors? The Nine to Five with Stacey Dooley is one of the best reality shows on BBC iPlayer worth watching with your family.

19. Ghosts (2019)

ghosts

Genre: Comedy, Fantasy

Directors: Tom Kingsley, Nick Collett, Simon Hynd

Cast: Lolly Adefope, Simon Farnaby, Mathew Baynton

Runtime: May 27, 2020

Number of seasons/episodes: 4 seasons, 27 episodes

Release date: May 27, 2020

The show centers on Alison and Mike, a young couple who inherit a sizable but run-down country mansion and plan to turn it into a luxurious hotel. But they quickly learn that the house is haunted by the ghosts of its deceased residents, who passed away in a variety of strange and humorous ways.

The ghosts, who are all different and odd, are determined to stay and make themselves known, which makes the people who live there. Ghosts is among the best comedy shows on BBC iPlayer.

20. Around the World in 80 Days (2021)

around-the-world-in-80-days

Genre: Adventure, Comedy, History

Directors: Steve Barron, Brian Kelly, Charles Beeson

Cast: David Tennant, Leonie Benesch, Ibrahim Koma

Runtime: 1 hour

Number of seasons/episodes: 2 seasons, 16 episodes

Release date: January 2, 2022

Phileas Fogg, a wealthy and careful Englishman, makes a bet with his fellow Reform Club members that he can travel around the world in 80 days or less. Fogg embarks on a thrilling and dangerous journey with his devoted French valet Passepartout, encountering many challenges and adventures.

Fogg and Passepartout use every means of transportation, including a steamship, a train, and even an elephant, to get from perilous seas to scorching deserts. They are, however, being pursued by Fix, a persistent police inspector who is determined to stop Fogg at all costs because he thinks Fogg is a bank robber.

Is Fogg really a bank robber? Around the World in 80 Days is one of the best crime shows on BBC iPlayer, worth watching with your family.


Wrap Up

BBC iPlayer is one of the best streaming platforms in the world. It has a wide variety of high-quality content, including the best family-friendly shows. Here, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy, whether you are interested in uplifting dramas, informative documentaries, or funny comedies.

So, if you are planning a night in with the family or looking for some clean entertainment for the kids, the above-mentioned top 20 family shows are guaranteed to keep everyone entertained.

To watch the best family shows on BBC iPlayer in UAE, you must use a quality VPN such as ExpressVPN.