Destination: Dubai

One of the seven emirate states of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is a stunning example of modern architecture blended with traditional culture, and with fantastic weather and a desirable beachside location to enjoy this is a truly fabulous destination for any family holiday. Many of the hotel resorts offer kids clubs and crèches, and some go even further by providing swimming lessons for young children which is a great way to keep them entertained and safe at the same time.

Dubai is a wealthy country and the hotels are equally as luxurious. There are plenty of activities to enjoy from dune buggy safaris to camel treks. The fabulous Gulf of Oman is the perfect place to explore the underwater mysteries of the ocean, and luxury boats are waiting to take you and your family on a surface tour of the surrounding area.

The landscape in Dubai is as you’d expect – sandy – and bears a strong resemblance to popular tourist destinations like Egypt. Despite the sands, there are some wonderful nature reserves, such as the 600 acre Mushrif National Park which lies just outside Dubai City.

When to visit Dubai with kids.

The climate in Dubai is usually warm, and the hottest months are through the summer when temperatures can become unbearable. The winter months of November to April are milder, but still have an average temperature of around 20 degrees. This is one of the better times to take a holiday to this part of the world, particularly if you’re travelling with children.

Things to do in Dubai with kids

Kids will love the chance to enjoy a desert safari, and heading off on a jeep into the outlying dunes is a great adventure. You can enjoy a few hours of exhilarating adventure, followed by a trip on the back of a camel and a BBQ at a traditional Bedouin campsite. Most of these tours include pick up from the local hotels and in air conditioned vehicles. Children are welcome from the age of three years.

Head into Dubai for a shopping tour extravaganza in some of the country’s most fabulous shops. The whole family will be delighted at a guided trip into the local markets and souks, and the chance to try their haggling skills. There are plenty of local gifts to delight tourists, but the main shopping areas are also home to some well known brand stores.

Hop aboard a traditional ship and sail off into the sunset for an evening Dhow dinner cruise with the whole family. These traditional boats offer a great way to see the bright lights of Dubai at night while enjoying a peaceful cruise down some of its main waterways. A fabulous feast is also on offer. Children below two years old must be seated on their parents lap, but are still very welcome. More details...

Dolphin Bay offers guests and visitors the chance to spend a day with these fantastic creatures in one of two adventures. Swim with your new friends or pet them in the water. These friendly animals are a delight for all children and adults. The age limit is dependent upon which adventure you choose but most children are catered for. More details...

Recommended family friendly hotels in Dubai

The Jumeirah Beach is a large 5-star luxury hotel with its own private beach and features 20 dining options, 5 pools and a climbing wall. It may be more expensive than some, but what an experience! This hotel has thought about everything for the little ones, not just the kids club, but free food for under 4s, and kiddies toiletries and dressing gown in the bedroom. The Wadi Water Park located next door, is also free to guests. Two children under 11 years stay free of charge when sharing with adults. More details...

The newly opened Atlantis Dubai, situated on Dubai’s famous Palm Jumeirah Island offers beautiful views over the Persian Gulf, an underwater aquarium containing over 65,000 fish and marine life, and an extensive water park full of fantastic thrill rides, water cascades, slides and river-ride action. More details....

Occupying a prime location on Jumeirah Beach, the Westin Dubai features a spectacular resort pool, a 1200-metre private beach, luxurious rooms and 8 restaurants. Guests can relax at the Heavenly Spa whilst the children can enjoy the kids club. More details...

All these hotels can be booked with Virgin Holidays and Kuoni Holidays.

For a cheaper option, Oasis Beach apartments offer spacious accommodation where each apartment includes an LCD TV, free Wi-Fi, luxury furnishing, and a fully equipped kitchen. This can also be booked with Virgin Holidays.