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For a stress-free family vacation in Dubai, choose hotels in Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, or Palm Jumeirah for easy access to attractions and amenities.
Quick answer
Dubai offers a range of family-friendly areas, each with its own unique character and attractions. For a relaxing stay, consider the Palm Jumeirah or Dubai Marina, which offer calm beaches and scenic views. Alternatively, Downtown Dubai provides easy access to popular attractions like the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa.
When booking a family hotel in Dubai, consider the following:
- Check the hotel's policies on children, including any age restrictions and extra bed charges.
- Look for hotels with a kids' club or children's play area to keep little ones entertained.
- Ensure the hotel offers a range of room types, including family suites or connecting rooms, to accommodate different family sizes and needs.
- Check the hotel's dining options, including any children's menus or high chairs.
- Consider a hotel with a pool or water park to keep everyone cool and active during the hot Dubai summer months.
What makes a hotel family friendly
When choosing a family-friendly hotel in Dubai, consider the amenities and services that cater to your children's needs. A hotel that offers a kids' club or play area can be a great option, providing a safe space for your little ones to socialize and have fun while you relax.
Safety and supervision
Look for hotels with a good security record, secure entry and exit points, and a 24-hour staff presence. This will give you peace of mind while your children are playing or exploring the hotel premises.
Activities and entertainment
Some hotels offer a range of activities for families, such as game rooms, movie nights, and outdoor games. Check if the hotel has a pool or a waterslide, which can be a great way to keep your kids entertained.
- - Babysitting services or childcare facilities - Kids' menus and meal options - Family-friendly rooms or suites with separate living areas and extra beds - Access to nearby attractions and theme parks, such as those in Dubai's popular areas, as suggested in Where to Stay in Dubai With Family: Best Areas and Neighbourhoods
Room types for families
Interconnected rooms
Some hotels offer interconnected rooms, ideal for families with young children. These rooms allow parents to keep a close eye on their kids while still having some independence. Interconnected rooms can be adjacent to each other, often with a shared door or a connecting corridor.
Suites and villas
Suites and villas are popular options for families, offering a spacious living area and separate bedrooms. These accommodations often come with additional amenities like a kitchenette, dining area, and sometimes even a private pool or garden. Some hotels also offer villas with multiple bedrooms, ideal for larger families or groups.
- Look for hotels with rooms that can accommodate your family's needs, such as cribs, high chairs, or baby monitors.
- Check if the hotel has a minimum age restriction for children in the villas or suites.
- Consider hotels with outdoor spaces, like balconies or patios, for family relaxation time.
- Some hotels offer family-friendly amenities like kids' clubs, game rooms, or playgrounds within the room or nearby.
- Always check the hotel's policy on extra beds or rollaway beds for larger families.
Location tips
When choosing a family-friendly hotel in Dubai, consider the location to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable stay for all. Here's insider knowledge on the best areas to stay in Dubai for families.
Beachside Living
Dubai's beaches are a major draw for families, with many hotels offering direct access to the sand and sea. The Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina are popular areas for beachfront hotels, with many offering kids' clubs and water sports facilities. Look for hotels with a private beach or a short walk to a public beach.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Dubai has plenty of kid-friendly attractions, including the Dubai Miracle Garden, Dubai Mall, and Legoland Dubai. Consider staying in areas like Downtown Dubai or Business Bay, which offer easy access to these attractions. You can also check out our guide on 7 Things to Consider When Booking a Family Vacation for more tips on choosing the right hotel for your family.
Parks and Green Spaces
Dubai has several parks and green spaces that are perfect for families, including the Dubai Autism Centre and the Al Barsha Park. Look for hotels in areas like Al Barsha or Al Sufouh, which offer easy access to these parks.
- Consider the proximity to Dubai International Airport for easy airport transfers
- Look for areas with a range of dining options and kid-friendly restaurants
- Check the hotel's proximity to public transport links for easy access to attractions
Safety and comfort checks
Child-friendly facilities
When booking a family hotel, it's essential to check if the hotel provides child-friendly facilities that cater to your family's needs. Look for hotels with a kids' club or play area, providing a safe space for your little ones to play and socialize. Some hotels may also offer childcare services, babysitting, or even kids' entertainment programs.
Safety features
Ensure the hotel has safety features in place, such as: - CCTV cameras in public areas and corridors - Secure entry and exit points, including door locks and swipe cards - A 24-hour front desk and security personnel - A first-aid kit and emergency response plan in place - Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in all rooms and public areas
Accessibility and comfort
Check if the hotel has rooms and facilities that cater to families with special needs, such as: - Wheelchair-accessible rooms and public areas - Baby-friendly amenities, like cribs, high chairs, and baby bathtubs - Family-friendly room layouts, with extra space for children's beds or cots - Laundry facilities and services for families with young children
Family hotel booking checklist
When booking a family-friendly hotel in Dubai, consider the following factors to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all family members.
Age of children and children's facilities
Consider the age of your children and what facilities are essential for them. Some hotels may have kids' clubs, playgrounds, or game rooms that cater to specific age groups.
Room layout and amenities
Think about the layout of the room and whether it can accommodate your family's needs. Look for hotels with interconnecting rooms or suites that can accommodate extra beds or cribs.
- Check if the hotel offers amenities like high chairs, baby bathtubs, or baby monitors.
- Ask about the availability of extra beds or cribs and any associated costs.
- Consider the location of the hotel's pool and whether it's suitable for young children.
Dining and meal options
Research the hotel's dining options and whether they cater to families with young children. Some hotels may offer children's menus or have a kids' buffet.
- Check if the hotel offers a kids' menu or buffet.
- Ask about the availability of baby food or formula.
- Consider the hotel's proximity to family-friendly restaurants or cafes.
Additional services and activities
Think about the activities and services that are essential for your family. Some hotels may offer additional services like babysitting or entertainment options.
- Check if the hotel offers babysitting or childcare services.
- Ask about the availability of kids' activities or entertainment options.
- Consider the hotel's proximity to attractions and activities suitable for families.
For more information on planning a family-friendly trip, check out our guide on A Family Trip to Paris: Where to Stay and What to Book.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best areas to stay in Dubai with family?
Consider staying in Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, or Palm Jumeirah for easy access to attractions and amenities. These areas offer a range of family-friendly hotels and activities. You can also explore nearby theme parks and attractions.
What should I look for in a family hotel in Dubai?
When booking a family hotel in Dubai, consider the hotel's policies on children, kids' clubs, room types, dining options, and pool facilities. This will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for your family.
Do family hotels in Dubai offer babysitting services?
Some family hotels in Dubai offer babysitting services or childcare facilities, allowing you to enjoy some time for yourself while your children are cared for. Check with the hotel in advance to confirm availability.
What are the benefits of staying in a hotel with a kids' club?
A hotel with a kids' club or play area provides a safe space for your children to socialize and have fun while you relax. This can be a great option for families with young children.
Can I find family-friendly rooms or suites in Dubai hotels?
Yes, many Dubai hotels offer family-friendly rooms or suites with separate living areas and extra beds. This can be a convenient option for families with multiple children or for those who prefer more space.
Are there any water parks or pools in family hotels in Dubai?
Some family hotels in Dubai have pools or water parks, providing a fun and refreshing way to keep your kids cool and active during the hot summer months.
