Destination Dubai

Sun, sea and sand

Dubai might not be the first place you think of as a holiday destination suitable for a young family, but, thanks to year-round warm temperatures, crystal clear blue seas and soft white-sand beaches, it's fast becoming a top tourist resort.
Amidst all the glamour and glitz of the high-rise buildings and iconic architecture are warm and welcoming hotels and facilities where babies, toddlers and parents are made to feel very special indeed.

Hotel heaven

For the ultimate in luxurious accommodation, fabulous children's facilities and menu choices from every corner of the globe, Dubai's top hotels take some beating.
All offer parents the chance to relax and enjoy their break, safe in the knowledge that their children are entertained and happy, and that they can take some time to unwind and enjoy all the facilities on offer.
Babyexpert.com took a look at what's available for families who want a destination that's only 6 hours flying time away, and is warm and sunny all year round.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Rising like a wave from the shore of Dubai's waterfront is the modern, gleaming Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Although this place has a luxurious look and feel, the facilities offer all ages the chance to relax and unwind. Whether your idea of a family holiday is spent on the perfect white-sand beach just outside the door, or a fun trip to the Wild Wadi Water Park next door, nothing at the Jumeirah Beach is more than a short stroll (or buggy push) away.
The Sinbad Children's Club has its own shaded and shallow swimming pool, and is staffed by professional carers in a cool and shady space which has lots to occupy both tiddlers and toddlers. MORE INFO

Madinat Jumeirah

A short hop away is the more traditional look and feel of the Madinat Jumeirah hotel. Despite being built to reflect authentic Middle eastern buildings, the Madinat is bang up-to-date with first class facilities and sumptuous rooms and restaurants - all with child-friendly menus and features.
Take a dhow trip around the lagoon that loops this complex for a view of all it has to offer, from a choice of restaurants including Italian, Indian, Japanese, Lebanese and American, to the re-created souk shopping area.
Choose from the pool or beach for some sun, sand and swimming, and relax with pancakes, cereals, and continental or cooked breakfast on the terrace each morning! MORE INFO

Grand Hyatt Hotel

The Grand Hyatt Hotel is big and beautiful. If you're only stopping over in Dubai for a few days its proximity to the airport (10 mins) makes it the perfect place for some downtime for you all. The beautifully landscaped gardens and pool area are a haven of tranquility, matched only by the stunning central lobby and restaurant, which is designed to look as though it's underwater! There's a great choice of family-sized rooms, with interconnecting doors providing important private space for adults and children. The children's club offers supervised fun and games out of the sun, and the many food court options will keep even the fussiest young eater happy. MORE INFO

Atlantis

For the ultimate family treat, nothing beats a visit to the Atlantis Hotel. Perched on the edge of the new Palm Jumeirah, overlooking the blue seas of the Arabian Gulf and dramatic, ever-changing Dubai skyline, the Atlantis has everything on site to make your holiday complete.
With an enormous, fascinating aquarium tank at its heart, and the Lost Chambers mini-aquarium to explore, along with shops and restaurants, there's really no need to venture outside the hotel's grounds, which also contain two pools and a beach. But if you fancy a stroll then head for the Aquaventure water park next door, and Dolphin Bay, for the chance to swim with dolphins. MORE INFO

Jebel Ali

For a quieter break, away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Dubai, try the resort of Jebel Ali with its lovely hotel set amongst peacock-strewn green lawns, right next to the beach.
The more relaxed look and feel of this friendly resort will suit many families who are looking for something for everyone. Right next door is a golf course for dad, with a spa on hand to soothe a mum's cares away. For toddlers there's a choice of either the temperature-controlled children's pool, a playground or children's club. The resort also operates a free shuttle bus in and out of Dubai city centre. With a minimum of five restaurants to choose from - you'll be spoilt for choice every mealtime! MORE INFO

Children's City

If you fancy exploring a bit more of what Dubai has to offer children outside of your hotel then head for Children's City, which is a haven of cool fun and games, guaranteed to have toddlers and babies entranced. It features lots of interactive displays and games designed to help children of all ages understand more about different worlds and cultures. MORE INFO

Wild Wadi

Cool down with a fun-filled frolic for all ages at the Wild Wadi Water Park, situated between the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the Madinat Jumeirah. Ride the waves for thrills and spills, or simply glide gently around in a rubber ring for a cooling soak. Kids will love it!

Information and booking

Babyexpert.com's trip was hosted by Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).
For further information about Dubai, contact the DTCM on 020 7321 6110, or email: dtcm_uk@dubaitourism.ae
or visit www.dubaitravelmarket.co.uk

TOUR OPERATOR: BestatTravel offers 2 nights at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and 2 nights at Madinat Jumeirah Mina A'Salam from £639pp including return flights with Royal Brunei from London Heathrow. For further information and to book visit www.bestatdubaiholidays.co.uk or call 0207 849 4186

DESERT SAFARI: Arabian Adventures offers a half day "sundowner" desert safari from £59 per adult and £53 per child. www.arabian-adventures.com

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