In a city where descriptors are commonplace, it should be no surprise that Dubai consistently ranks among the world's best places to spend time with your family in the United Arabs Emirates.
Some of the characteristics that contribute to Dubai being the ideal spot for a family vacation include family-friendly hotels, family attractions and beaches, and overall safety.
Therefore if you are planning for a family holiday to Dubai, you don’t have to worry about time because there is UAE Tourist Visa Extension option; hence can spend all the time you need to explore as many places in Dubai as possible.
Here I'll share why to opt for a long Vacation to Spend with Your Family in Dubai, UAE. You can take this as your quick guide to a long holiday in Dubai for your family.
About UAE in Short
Abu Dhabi is the federal capital.
Currency: Dirhams of the United Arab Emirates (DH 1 = €0.24)
Time zone: UTC+4
Languages: Arabe (official) and English
Political system: Constitutional monarchy
How to prepare for your trip to the United Arab Emirates
It is advisable to ask yourself the appropriate questions before embarking on a journey to a foreign nation with your entire family. I've developed a list of questions and answers to assist you in planning a good family vacation in Dubai. Please review the list below.
When is the best time to visit the United Arab Emirates?
The best time to visit the UAE is in the middle of the year. The weather is mild, warm, and pleasant during this time, making it ideal for children. You should avoid traveling during the summer because the heat will be uncomfortable for you and your family.
How to get to the United Arab Emirates
If you want to travel to the United Arab Emirates, you have two choices: the UAE as a transit destination or the UAE as a final destination.
Indeed, several airlines provide two-stop trips that include a lengthy layover in Dubai. Even though this massive city cannot be explored in its entirety in a few hours, it is feasible to discover some of the most exquisite gems it offers.
What are the requirements for a visit to Dubai (visa, passport)?
It is quite simple to travel to the United Arab Emirates for a short period (less than 30 days).
You will need a valid passport with an expiration date that is more than six months after your arrival in Dubai to do this.
If you are in your country/state for more than 30 days, we recommend that you visit the UAE embassy in your country/state (in London, New York, Ottawa).
As a final precaution, make sure to protect your children and yourself from exotic diseases by getting the required vaccinations.
Why should you choose this as your travel destination?
Dubai is a safe and fascinating place that provides the right comfort level for families with young children.
Despite its reputation as a city of excess, Dubai (and Abu Dhabi) offers a diverse choice of activities and attractions that may be enjoyed with your family at complete discretion.
Attractions for Long Family vacation in Dubai
It's likely the most apparent reason, but its importance nonetheless deserves to be mentioned. There is simply too much to do in Dubai for families to take advantage of.
Weekends in the Bahamas are never dull, thanks to attractions such as Aquaventure Atlantis, one of the world's largest waterparks, kid-friendly theme parks, and many soft play centers. Never in a million years will it be boring.
The United Arab Emirates, which is almost entirely deserted, comprises seven emirates with vastly varied landscapes. Abu Dhabi, which occupies nearly the entire land, is flanked by Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Qawaiwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, and Fujairah, which together cover the remaining territory.
Aside from the delusions of grandeur associated with the world's most famous metropolises, the rest of the land is divided between an oasis, palm groves, and sebkhas.
A melting pot of nationalities
Even if the term "melting pot" is often overused, Dubai is a fantastic example of a cauldron of diverse cultures and ethnicities that can be found nowhere else.
If you go around any lively public location, you will hear samples of various languages coming from all directions.
The Mountains
The areas of Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah, both of which are surrounded by spectacular rocks, are explored on guided tours from Dubai, as it is not suggested to wander off the well-traveled path on your own.
If you didn't know, the United Arab Emirates government had planned to construct an artificial mountain to encourage some rain to fall in the surrounding area.
However, even though the plan has since been scrapped, it demonstrates the country's aspirations.
The Rub AL-Khali Desert
Rub al-Khali, widely regarded as one of the world's largest deserts, extends mostly throughout the territory of Saudi Arabia and equally encroaches on the territories of the United Arab Emirates and the territories of Yemen and Oman, among other countries.
This reddish-orange ocean of sand is unfriendly and unpleasant, and it harbors a slew of threats as a result. Fortunately, certain areas of the desert are alive, with the sounds of inhabitants, dromedaries, and gazelles roaming freely.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi
From the frantic race to the largest retail malls to the record-breaking numbers, insane constructions and designs, and spectacular sports facilities, the capital of the nation of black gold will never fail to astonish visitors.
Intending to dazzle your children and ensure that you have a great stay, we've put together the finest of the best: a travel guide for your vacation to Dubai that is 100 percent kid-friendly.
The Dubai Marina by night
The Dubai Marina, a highly expensive residential zone by the water, is a vibrant place where the mood is at its best. It will be hard for you to become bored with the abundance of outdoor eateries, sandy beaches, elegant cafes, and luxury boutiques.
Stride through the Marina at night after an excellent day spent strolling through the streets of this neighborhood, and be astounded by the skyline that lights up to create a dazzling spectacle for you.
The Burj Khalifa
This massive tower is to Dubai what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris: it symbolizes the city. The Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest man-made structure, standing 828 meters above sea level.
Remember to make reservations in advance because this monument is a popular tourist destination: don't waste any time and purchase your ticket for a trip to the seventh heaven. You will be able to take in a magnificent view of Dubai from the top of the building.
The children would experience touching the clouds with their fingertips while standing on the tips of their toes.
Dubai Miracle Garden
This 72,000-square-foot floral park will provide you with an incredible sensory experience. The Dubai Miracle Garden is an unquestionable piece of art, composed of more than 109 million flowers strategically placed around the garden to produce exciting and surprising images that change every year.
The Dubai Butterfly Garden is also located inside the grounds of the garden, where thousands of butterflies flutter about for the enjoyment of visitors. Practical information: the store is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays, until 11 p.m. on Fridays, and until 10 p.m. on Saturdays.
The Dubai Fountain
One of Dubai's most popular tourist attractions is the Dubai Fountain, the largest water fountain in the world. It is possible to see the fountain displayed several times a day on the artificial lake located near the exit of Dubai Mall, at the foot of the Burj Khalifa.
You must attend it on your visit to Dubai! When it is illuminated, visit the tower in the dark, as this is the finest time to see it. It's quite enchanting to see the water jets do ballet to the beat of the music.
Between 18.00 and 23.00, the presentation takes place every 30 minutes (there are also a few during the day). There is no payment for using this service.
Get a good view of the fountain display if you want to get there as early as possible. The fountain show draws thousands of tourists each year. If you want to get up close and personal with the sound and light spectacle, you should rent an abra (traditional boat) and cruise around the artificial lake.
The Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is located in the city's heart, directly across from the Burj Khalifa. This massive shopping area is the most frequented shopping center on the planet!
As there are over 1200 shops and hundreds of eateries, you are guaranteed to find something that suits your taste and meets your budget. There's even more to it:
Apart from indoor waterfalls and an aquarium (more on that below), this shopping temple also has an indoor go-kart track, a flying simulator, and many theaters and arcade games to keep you entertained. The Dubai Mall is open from 10 a.m. until midnight every day of the week. Restaurants and the food court are open until 1 a.m. on weekends.
If you want to plan ahead of time, you can visit the official website to get a list of all the stores, restaurants, and attractions currently available.
Jumeirah Beach Park
Jumeirah Beach Park, described as "an oasis of freshness in the center of the metropolis," has been created to provide a respite for families looking for relaxation and comfort while visiting Dubai. Drinking establishments for adults, playgrounds for children, and barbeque places for the whole family, the park provides an excellent atmosphere for leisure, where you may be lulled to sleep by the murmur of the ocean waves.
Al-Mamzar Beach Park
Because of its tranquil seas and shady regions, Al-Mamzar Beach, located in the northern part of Dubai, is the most suitable destination for families with young children.
In this calm and family-friendly park near the beach, you'll find everything you need for a relaxing day by the water: swimming pools, showers, lifeguard stations, green picnic spots, play areas, and free parking.
Open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays through Wednesdays and from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursdays through Saturdays. Women and children are only permitted to attend on Mondays and Wednesdays. The entry price is 5 AED.
Kite Beach
Its moniker is self-explanatory. This renowned and well-known beach is particularly well-liked by those who enjoy water sports and other water activities.
A wide range of kitesurfing activities and banana boats, doughnuts, and kayak rides are available in this location. When combined with a gourmet break at one of the seaside restaurants, these activities will ensure that you have a vacation filled with great memories.
Open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays through Wednesdays and from 10 a.m. to midnight on Thursdays through Saturdays.
Where to eat with your family in Dubai
City Walk
This urban promenade, which serves as a fantastic shopping and dining destination, is family-friendly; mostly locals visit.
You will eagerly take your seats at the outdoor restaurants, where you will be able to take advantage of the moderate environment and a variety of cuisines from across the world to enjoy.
You will have no trouble finding the meal you desire in one of the 22 restaurants and cafes after a day of shopping or watching a movie in the area.
The shopping center is open from 10 a.m. to midnight every day, while the restaurant section is open from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. on the same days.
Madinat Jumeirah
Madinat Jumeirah, which resembles an Arabian mini-city in the middle of Dubai, has more than 50 restaurants, a private beach, and an excellent location on the edge of the Persian Gulf.
Abra cruising on the river waves to tour this oasis of lust and plenty will be a hit with families after a hearty supper shared with friends and relatives.
The shopping center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., and the restaurant section is open from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., Monday through Friday.
Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Café
Visiting the Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe, which TripAdvisor has given the Attestation of Excellence Laureate for four consecutive years since 2016, is a great way to immerse oneself in the local Arab culture.
The setting ensures that you will get authentic and delectable cuisine, resulting in an explosion of flavors on your palette. Open from 7.30 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.
About Author
ROBEENA BROWN: Travel blogger & destination expert living in UAE and works for local tourism companies like Arabiers. If you have been looking forward to touring Dubai, getting a visa, extending stays and exploring the city you can follow her on social media.
