Family Holidays in Dubai

Why take a family holiday in Dubai?

Dubai works well for families because the city is designed around comfort and entertainment. Attractions are slick, transport is straightforward, and many hotels are set up to keep children busy while parents get a proper breather.

• A huge choice of family attractions across the city
• Beaches, waterparks and indoor entertainment in the same destination
• Family-friendly hotels with kids clubs and activities
• Plenty to do for different age groups, from toddlers to teens

What are the must-do family attractions in Dubai?

If you want a “highlights” itinerary, these are the big names that often shape a family trip:

• Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building
• Ski Dubai, the world’s biggest indoor skiing facility
• Mall of the Emirates, a major shopping and entertainment hub
• Aquaventure Waterpark, known for its huge scale and family thrills
• LEGOLAND® Dubai, designed with younger children in mind
• Palm Jumeirah, the biggest manmade island, visible from space

Families also often add a few extra activities to keep the trip varied:

• Dolphin Bay for a special “once on the trip” day
• Kartdome at Dubai Autodrome for fast, high-energy fun
• iFly Dubai for indoor skydiving-style excitement

Where should families stay in Dubai?

Choosing the right hotel can make the whole trip easier. Many family-friendly hotels in Dubai run kids clubs and daily activity schedules, so you can build downtime into the holiday without feeling guilty.

Some well-known hotel options include:

• Burj Al Arab, often described as the only seven 5-star hotel in the world
• JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, the tallest hotel in the world
• Palm Jumeirah Beach Hotel
• Atlantis, The Palm, popular with families for its resort-style facilities

What activities suit families beyond the big attractions?

Beach days and water sports

Dubai’s white sand beaches have a friendly atmosphere for all ages. The warm water is ideal for a simple swim-and-sun day, and older kids often enjoy trying water sports such as parasailing, diving and snorkelling.

A glimpse of Dubai’s culture

If you want more than theme parks and malls, it’s easy to add a cultural day without making the itinerary feel heavy.

• Explore Emirati heritage and Bedouin culture through guided tours
• Visit the Bastakiya Quarter in Bur Dubai, one of the most visited heritage areas
• Browse the Gold Souk in Deira, known for its glittering displays

Dinner with a view and a desert day

Two experiences that families often enjoy because they feel different to the rest of the trip:

• A Dhow Dinner Cruise on Dubai Creek, which works well as an evening activity
• A Desert Safari, where you can learn more about Bedouin culture and add a dose of adventure in the dunes

How to plan and book family holidays in Dubai with Southall Travel

Southall Travel can help you bring the trip together in one plan, from flights and hotels to the right mix of attractions for your family. If you want a holiday that feels exciting for the kids but still manageable for parents, we’ll help you balance the big-ticket days with beach time and pool downtime.

• Family holiday packages designed around your dates and priorities
• Help choosing the best family-friendly hotel base, including kids club options
• Speak to our travel advisors at Southall Travel to grab a special offer on family holidays in Dubai and start planning your trip