Family Friendly Hotels Dubai: Top Picks

Discover the top family friendly hotels in Dubai offering incredible experiences for all ages, ensuring a safe and memorable holiday.

Key Takeaways

• Book family-friendly hotels in Dubai for dedicated kids’ clubs.
• Explore hotels with spacious family suites for comfort.
• Choose resorts offering engaging activities for all ages.
• Look for hotels with excellent dining options for picky eaters.
• Prioritize safety features and convenient locations for families.
• Consider hotels with family pools and water park access.

Planning a family vacation to Dubai? You might be wondering where to stay to keep everyone happy. Dubai is a city that truly caters to families, offering world-class entertainment and attractions. However, choosing the right accommodation can feel overwhelming with so many options. You want a place that’s not just a bed for the night, but an experience that adds to your holiday. You need a hotel where children are welcomed, entertained, and safe, while parents can also relax and enjoy themselves. We understand this need for clarity and ease. This guide will walk you through the best family friendly hotels in Dubai, making your planning straightforward. Get ready to discover perfect stays for your unforgettable Dubai adventure.

Why Dubai is a Family Travel Hotspot

Dubai has rapidly evolved into a premier destination for family travel, and it’s easy to see why. The city boasts an incredible array of attractions designed to captivate visitors of all ages. From the thrill of theme parks likeIMG Worlds of Adventure and Motiongate Dubai to the educational wonders of Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and the iconic Burj Khalifa, there’s never a dull moment. Beyond the major sights, Dubai offers pristine beaches perfect for sandcastle building and swimming, and expansive parks for picnics and playtime. The emirate’s commitment to safety and order, a hallmark of Dubai Police’s dedication to public well-being, further enhances the sense of security for families. This creates a relaxed atmosphere where parents can focus on creating cherished memories with their children. The city’s infrastructure is also exceptionally well-developed, making it easy to navigate and access various points of interest.

Furthermore, Dubai’s cultural landscape offers enriching experiences that go beyond entertainment. Visits to traditional souks, camel rides in the desert, and exploring historical districts like Al Fahidi provide glimpses into Emirati heritage. These activities, combined with the city’s modern marvels, offer a balanced and educational holiday. The availability of family-specific services, from child-friendly dining to readily accessible medical facilities, ensures that every aspect of your trip is catered for, making Dubai a stress-free and enjoyable destination for families worldwide. The proactive approach to public safety by entities like the Dubai Police ensures a secure environment, allowing families to explore and enjoy the city with peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Family Friendly Hotels in Dubai

When selecting family friendly hotels in Dubai, several key factors come into play. It’s about finding a balance between luxurious comfort, engaging entertainment, and practical amenities that cater to the unique needs of a family. Think beyond just the room; consider the entire experience the hotel offers.

Key Considerations for Family Stays:

• Kids’ Clubs and Activities: Look for hotels that offer supervised kids’ clubs with age-appropriate activities, creative workshops, and play areas. This gives children a chance to socialize and have fun while parents enjoy some downtime.
• Room and Suite Options: Spaciousness is key. Family suites, interconnecting rooms, or rooms with sofa beds provide essential extra space and privacy. Check for amenities like mini-fridges for snacks and drinks, and sufficient bathroom facilities.
• Swimming Pools and Water Fun: A great swimming pool is a must. Many family friendly hotels feature dedicated children’s pools, splash pads, and even on-site water parks or slides, offering endless hours of enjoyment.
• Dining Variety: Picky eaters can be a challenge. Hotels with multiple dining venues, children’s menus, and flexible dining options (like all-inclusive packages) are a big plus. Buffet restaurants are often a hit with families.
• Location and Accessibility: Proximity to major attractions, beaches, and public transport can significantly simplify your daily excursions. Consider how easy it is to get around with strollers and tired little legs.
• Safety and Childproofing: While Dubai is renowned for its safety, it’s reassuring to know hotels have child safety measures in place, such as secured balconies and attentive staff.

By focusing on these elements, you can narrow down your choices and find a hotel that truly enhances your family’s Dubai experience, ensuring both fun and relaxation for everyone involved.

Top Family Friendly Hotels in Dubai: Our Top Picks

Dubai offers an exceptional range of hotels designed to cater to families, ensuring an unforgettable stay for every member of your clan. Here are some of our top recommendations, chosen for their outstanding family amenities, engaging activities, and overall value.

Atlantis, The Palm

An iconic Dubai landmark, Atlantis, The Palm is synonymous with family fun. This sprawling resort offers an unparalleled array of activities for all ages, making it a top choice for families seeking adventure and relaxation.

• Why it’s great for families: Home to Aquaventure Waterpark, one of the largest in the world, featuring thrilling slides and a lazy river. The Lost Chambers Aquarium showcases over 65,000 marine animals. The resort also boasts a dedicated kids’ club (Atlantis Explorers) with daily supervised programs, a marine animal encounter program, and numerous pools.
• Room types: Offers standard rooms, spacious suites, and the opulent Royal Bridge Suite. Many rooms offer stunning sea or palm views.
• Dining: A multitude of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining, with plenty of child-friendly choices.
• Location: Situated on the crescent of the Palm Jumeirah, offering a unique island experience with easy access to some city attractions.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

This sail-shaped hotel is a beloved Dubai classic, renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and direct access to the beach, offering spectacular views of the Burj Al Arab.

• Why it’s great for families: Direct access to a pristine private beach. The Wild Wadi Waterpark, one of Dubai’s most popular water parks, is readily accessible for hotel guests. The hotel also features a dedicated kids’ club, Sinbad’s Kids’ Club, offering a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities.
• Room types: Family rooms and suites are available, many with balconies and sea views. Cribs and extra beds are readily provided.
• Dining: A diverse selection of restaurants catering to various tastes, including family-friendly buffets and themed nights.
• Location: Prime beachfront location on Jumeirah Beach, close to major shopping malls and attractions.

Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites

Offering an all-inclusive concept on a prime stretch of Palm Jumeirah’s beachfront, Rixos provides a hassle-free and luxurious family holiday experience.

• Why it’s great for families: Features dedicated kids’ clubs for different age groups (4-12 years) with engaging activities. The resort boasts multiple swimming pools, including a dedicated kids’ pool. The all-inclusive nature means food and drinks are covered, simplifying budgeting and meal planning for families.
• Room types: Offers spacious suites and apartments suitable for families, providing more space and home-like comforts.
• Dining: Several high-quality à la carte restaurants and buffets, ensuring varied culinary experiences for all family members.
• Location: Situated on the East Palm Crescent, offering beautiful sea views and a tranquil escape.

Legoland Hotel Dubai

For families with younger children, especially Lego enthusiasts, the Legoland Hotel is an immersive and exciting choice, located within the Dubai Parks and Resorts complex.

• Why it’s great for families: Themed rooms, interactive Lego activities, creative workshops, and direct access to Legoland Park and Legoland Water Park. Bricks are everywhere, making for a truly playful environment.
• Room types: Themed rooms, including Pirate, Adventure, Kingdom, and Lego Friends themes, all designed for children’s delight.
• Dining: Family-friendly dining at its Bricks Family Restaurant, with plenty of kid-approved options.
• Location: Within Dubai Parks and Resorts, offering unparalleled convenience for visiting the theme parks.

Aloft Dubai South

While not exclusively a family resort, Aloft Dubai South offers excellent value and modern amenities that appeal to families looking for a comfortable and well-equipped stay, especially those interested in aviation.

• Why it’s great for families: Features family rooms, a lively pool area, and a relaxed atmosphere. Its proximity to Dubai World Central (DWC) airport and attractions like the Expo City Dubai makes it a convenient base for exploring. The hotel often has promotions that appeal to families.
• Room types: Modern rooms with comfortable bedding and ample space. Family rooms are available upon request.
• Dining: Offers casual dining options and a vibrant bar, with a focus on easy, accessible food.
• Location: Located in Dubai South, offering a slightly different pace from the city center, with good road links to major attractions.

Beyond the Suites: Exploring Family Activities in Dubai

Dubai is a playground for families, offering experiences far beyond the hotel grounds. Integrating these activities into your itinerary can transform your holiday from enjoyable to extraordinary. The city’s commitment to public safety, orchestrated by entities like the Dubai Police, ensures that these adventures are undertaken in a secure and well-managed environment, allowing families to fully immerse themselves in the fun.

Theme Parks and Entertainment Zones

Dubai boasts some of the world’s most thrilling theme parks. These venues are designed with families in mind, offering attractions for all ages and thrill levels.
For the ultimate aquatic adventure, Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm, is a must-visit with its record-breaking slides and lazy rivers. IMG Worlds of Adventure offers an indoor theme park experience with zones dedicated to Marvel, Cartoon Network, and more. Motiongate Dubai, also part of Dubai Parks and Resorts, brings Hollywood blockbusters to life with themed lands inspired by DreamWorks Animation, Lionsgate, and Sony Pictures. Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park are perfect for younger children, offering hands-on building fun and water-based excitement.

Cultural and Educational Experiences

Introduce your children to the rich culture and heritage of the UAE. The Dubai Culture & Arts Authority often hosts family-friendly events and workshops. Explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Old Dubai) with its traditional wind-tower architecture and narrow alleyways. Visit the Dubai Museum (located in Al Fahidi Fort) for a glimpse into the emirate’s past. The Children’s City at the Dubai Creek Park offers interactive exhibits designed to educate and entertain young minds. The newly opened Museum of the Future, while not strictly a children’s museum, offers fascinating futuristic exhibits that can ignite imaginations.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature

Dubai offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. A visit to the Dubai Miracle Garden during its season is a visual delight with its stunning floral displays. For a unique desert experience, consider a family-friendly desert safari with dune bashing (suitable for older children, with options for gentler experiences), camel rides, and traditional entertainment. The Dubai Safari Park provides a chance to see a wide variety of animals in carefully designed habitats. Many beaches, like Kite Beach and La Mer, offer playgrounds and water sports suitable for families.

Shopping and Entertainment Centers

Dubai’s malls are more than just shopping destinations; they are entertainment hubs. The Dubai Mall houses the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, an Olympic-sized ice rink, and KidZania, an interactive indoor city where children can role-play various professions. Mall of the Emirates features Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort and snow park. These centers provide a welcome respite from the heat and offer a plethora of activities for the whole family.

Family Room and Suite Features to Look For

When booking your family friendly hotel in Dubai, the room itself plays a crucial role in ensuring comfort and convenience. Beyond just square footage, specific features can make a significant difference in your stay. Understanding these can help you make an informed choice and avoid potential inconveniences.

Spacious Layouts and Sleeping Arrangements

Standard hotel rooms can feel cramped with a family. Look for options that offer more space, such as family rooms, suites, or interconnecting rooms.

• Family Rooms: Often larger than standard rooms and may include configurations with separate sleeping areas or sofa beds.
• Suites: Typically feature a separate living area, offering more privacy and space for families to relax. Some suites include kitchenettes, which are incredibly useful for preparing snacks or light meals.
• Interconnecting Rooms: Booking two rooms that connect via a door provides the benefit of separate bathrooms and living spaces while keeping the family together.
• Sofa Beds: A common feature in family rooms or suites, providing a comfortable sleeping space for children.

Essential Amenities for Families

Certain amenities can significantly enhance a family’s stay by adding convenience and addressing common needs.

• Mini-Fridge: Crucial for storing milk, baby food, snacks, and drinks, saving money and providing immediate access.
• Kettle and Tea/Coffee Making Facilities: Useful for preparing warm drinks or sterilizing baby bottles.
• Microwave: Particularly helpful for warming up baby food, children’s meals, or snacks. Not all hotels offer this in-room, but some suites do, or it may be available upon request.
• Ample Storage Space: Sufficient wardrobe and drawer space means you don’t have to live out of suitcases.
• Bath Amenities and Hairdryers: Standard, but always good to check if they are provided. Some hotels offer children’s bathrobes and slippers.
• Blackout Curtains: Essential for ensuring children can sleep soundly, even with the bright Dubai sunshine outside.

Bathroom Considerations

The bathroom setup can also be a point of consideration for families.

• Number of Bathrooms: Suites often offer one and a half or two bathrooms, which is a huge advantage when multiple family members need to get ready.
• Bathtub: A bathtub is often preferred for bathing younger children, though many hotels have walk-in showers. Check if a bathtub is available if it’s a priority.
• Child-Friendly Toiletries: Some luxury hotels may offer mild, child-appropriate toiletries.

Balcony Safety

If your room has a balcony, its safety features are important.

• Secured Balconies: Ensure balconies have high, secure railings and are not easily accessible by young children. Some hotels may offer to secure balconies for families with very young children upon request.

By carefully reviewing the room descriptions and amenities, you can secure accommodation that feels like a comfortable home away from home, allowing your family to rest and recharge after busy days of exploring Dubai.

Dining with Children: Tips for Family Friendly Hotels

Meal times can be a highlight of any family holiday, but they can also present challenges, especially with picky eaters or varying dietary needs. Family friendly hotels in Dubai understand this and offer a range of solutions to make dining enjoyable for everyone.

Buffet Restaurants: A Family Favorite

Buffet restaurants within hotels are often a natural choice for families. They offer:

• Variety: A wide selection of dishes means even the most discerning child can find something they like. From international cuisines to local favorites, there’s usually something for everyone.
• Flexibility: Children can choose what they want to eat and take as much or as little as they like. This reduces pressure and encourages them to try new things.
• Speed: No waiting for dishes to be prepared. Families can eat when they are hungry, which is often on a child’s schedule.
• Kid-Friendly Stations: Many hotel buffets feature dedicated children’s sections with simpler, familiar dishes like pasta, pizza, fries, and desserts.

À La Carte Menus and Children’s Options

Beyond buffets, many hotels offer à la carte dining with dedicated children’s menus. These menus are often:

• Designed for Kids: Featuring popular dishes in smaller portions and at more affordable prices.
• Nutritionally Aware: Increasingly, these menus include healthier options alongside the usual favorites.
• Engaging: Some menus are presented in a fun, interactive way, perhaps with coloring activities included.

All-Inclusive Packages

For families seeking maximum convenience and budget control, all-inclusive packages can be a game-changer. These typically cover:

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in designated hotel restaurants.
• Drinks: A selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day.
• Snacks: Often includes afternoon snacks or poolside refreshments.

This eliminates the need to constantly settle bills, making it easy to manage expenses and enjoy spontaneous dining.

Dietary Needs and Special Requests

Family friendly hotels are generally well-equipped to handle dietary requirements. It’s always best to:

• Inform the Hotel in Advance: When booking or upon arrival, inform the hotel of any allergies, intolerances (e.g., gluten-free, dairy-free), or specific dietary needs (e.g., vegetarian, vegan).
• Speak to the Chef or Maître d’: Don’t hesitate to ask to speak with the restaurant manager or chef to discuss specific needs. They can often prepare custom meals or adapt existing dishes.
• Baby Food and Formula: Most hotels can provide basic baby food purees or hot water for formula preparation. Some may even be able to source specific brands if requested in advance.

Pro Tip:

If your children have very specific or limited preferences, consider booking a suite with a kitchenette. This allows you to prepare some of their favorite simple meals or snacks in the comfort of your room, ensuring they always have familiar food available.

Safety and Security in Dubai Hotels

Dubai is consistently ranked among the safest cities globally, and this extends to its hotel sector. The emphasis on public safety and order, strongly supported by the efficient operations of the Dubai Police, creates a secure environment for all visitors, including families. Hotels in Dubai adhere to stringent international safety standards and employ various measures to ensure guest well-being.

Hotel Security Measures

Family friendly hotels in Dubai implement comprehensive security protocols:

• 24/7 Security Personnel: Hotels employ trained security staff who monitor premises, control access, and respond to any incidents promptly.
• CCTV Surveillance: Extensive CCTV coverage in public areas, corridors, and entrances provides constant vigilance.
• Key Card Access: Room access is typically restricted to key cards, which are deactivated daily or upon check-out, and specific floor access may be programmed.
• Secure Lobbies and Entrances: Hotels maintain controlled access points to their lobbies and public areas.
• Emergency Procedures: Staff are trained in emergency response protocols, including fire safety and medical emergencies. Clear evacuation plans and signage are in place.

Child Safety in Hotels

Specific attention is given to child safety within the hotel environment:

• Pool Safety: Lifeguards are often present at hotel pools, especially those with dedicated children’s areas. Pool depths are clearly marked, and fencing may be in place around sensitive areas.
• Balcony Safety: As mentioned previously, hotel management can often help secure balconies in family rooms if requested, ensuring childproof railings.
• Kids’ Club Supervision: Children participating in kids’ club activities are supervised by trained and vetted staff, maintaining low child-to-staff ratios.
• Childproofing Availability: Some hotels may offer cribs, bed rails, or even basic childproofing kits upon request.

Dubai Police Presence and Support

The visible and proactive presence of the Dubai Police contributes significantly to the overall sense of security. While you hope not to interact with them during your holiday, their role is crucial:

• Rapid Response: The police force is known for its swift response times to any reported incidents.
• Information and Guidance: For visitors seeking information on local laws, regulations, or tourist safety tips, the Dubai Police provide accessible resources. Their commitment to public order ensures a peaceful environment.
• Technology Integration: Dubai Police are at the forefront of utilizing advanced technology for crime prevention and public safety, further enhancing the secure atmosphere tourists experience.

This robust approach to safety allows families to relax and enjoy their Dubai holiday with confidence, knowing they are in a secure and well-managed environment.

Booking Your Family Friendly Hotel in Dubai

Securing the perfect family friendly hotel in Dubai is an exciting part of planning your trip. With a little preparation, you can ensure you get the best value and the most suitable accommodation for your family’s needs. Here’s a straightforward approach to booking.

Step-by-Step Booking Guide:

1. Define Your Priorities: Before searching, decide what’s most important for your family. Is it direct beach access, an on-site water park, proximity to theme parks, or a kids’ club? List your top 2-3 must-haves.
2. Set Your Budget: Dubai offers a range of hotels from luxury to mid-range. Determine a realistic budget per night, keeping in mind that family rooms or suites might cost more but can offer better value than booking multiple standard rooms.
3. Research and Shortlist: Use online travel agencies (OTAs), hotel comparison websites, and direct hotel websites to research options. Look at reviews specifically from families to gauge the experience. Compile a shortlist of 3-5 hotels that meet your initial criteria.
4. Compare Room Types: Once you have a shortlist, investigate the specific room types available for your dates. Pay close attention to the exact bedding configurations, square footage, and included amenities like sofa beds or kitchenettes.
5. Check for Family Packages and Deals: Many hotels offer special family packages that can include things like free meals for children, kids’ club access, or discounted park tickets. Look out for these promotions on hotel websites or through travel agents.
6. Read Recent Reviews: Focus on recent reviews from families. Look for comments on cleanliness, staff helpfulness, food quality, kids’ club satisfaction, and the overall family atmosphere.
7. Book Directly or Via Trusted Agents: While OTAs are convenient, booking directly with the hotel can sometimes yield better rates or more flexibility. Alternatively, use reputable travel agents who specialize in family holidays.
8. Confirm Inclusions: Before finalizing your booking, double-check exactly what is included. Is breakfast part of the rate? Is Wi-Fi free? Are there extra charges for cribs or rollaway beds?
9. Note Special Requests: If you have specific needs, such as a quiet room away from elevators, a room with a bathtub, or dietary requirements, make a note of these during the booking process or follow up with the hotel directly.

Popular Booking Platforms:

You can explore options on platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda, or directly on the hotel’s official website. For package deals, consider specialists in UAE travel or larger travel agencies.

By following these steps, you can confidently book a family friendly hotel in Dubai that will serve as the perfect base for your memorable holiday.

Hotel Name	Key Family Feature	Best For Ages	Approximate Price Range (per night, family room)	Location Highlight
Atlantis, The Palm	Aquaventure Waterpark & Lost Chambers Aquarium	All Ages	AED 1500 – 4000+	Palm Jumeirah
Jumeirah Beach Hotel	Wild Wadi Waterpark Access & Private Beach	3+ Years	AED 1200 – 3500+	Jumeirah Beach
Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites	All-Inclusive & Dedicated Kids’ Clubs	2+ Years	AED 1000 – 2500+	Palm Jumeirah
Legoland Hotel Dubai	Themed Rooms & Legoland Park Access	2-12 Years	AED 800 – 2000+	Dubai Parks and Resorts
Aloft Dubai South	Modern Amenities & Value	All Ages (Good for transit/Expo City visits)	AED 400 – 800+	Dubai South

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are Dubai hotels generally safe for families?

Yes, absolutely. Dubai is renowned for its safety and low crime rates. Hotels across the emirate adhere to strict international safety standards, and family friendly hotels often have specific child safety measures in place. The Dubai Police play a significant role in maintaining public order and security, ensuring a safe environment for tourists and residents alike.

Q2: What are the best family friendly districts in Dubai?

Popular areas for families include the Palm Jumeirah for its resorts and water parks, Jumeirah Beach for its hotels and proximity to water parks, and areas around Dubai Parks and Resorts for theme park enthusiasts. Downtown Dubai also offers access to attractions like the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa.

Q3: Do most family friendly hotels in Dubai have kids’ clubs?

Many, but not all, of the larger resorts and hotels that market themselves as family friendly offer kids’ clubs. It’s essential to check the specific hotel’s amenities when booking. These clubs vary in age range and activities offered.

Q4: Is it easy to get around Dubai with children?

Yes, Dubai has a modern and efficient public transport system, including the Dubai Metro. Taxis are widely available and often have options for child seats upon request. Many attractions are also relatively close to each other, and hotels can assist with arranging private transport.

Q5: What dining options are available for picky eaters in Dubai hotels?

Family friendly hotels usually provide extensive options. Buffet restaurants offer great variety, and most hotels have dedicated children’s menus with familiar foods like pasta, pizza, chicken nuggets, and fries. Always ask about special dietary needs or requirements.

Q6: Are there hotels in Dubai with on-site water parks?

Yes, several iconic hotels feature on-site water parks or offer direct access to major water parks. Atlantis, The Palm (Aquaventure), and Jumeirah Beach Hotel (Wild Wadi Waterpark) are prime examples. Legoland Hotel also provides access to Legoland Water Park.

Q7: What should I pack for a family trip to Dubai regarding hotel stays?

Besides standard travel essentials and appropriate clothing for the weather, consider packing any specific comfort items for children, preferred snacks, basic first-aid supplies, and any personal toiletries your child might prefer. Many hotels offer cribs and high chairs, but confirming this in advance is wise.

Conclusion

Dubai truly shines as a destination that embraces families, offering a plethora of hotels designed to create memorable experiences for all. From the thrilling aquatic adventures at resorts like Atlantis, The Palm, to the themed immersion of the Legoland Hotel, and the classic elegance of Jumeirah Beach Hotel, your perfect family sanctuary awaits. We’ve explored the essential features that make a hotel family friendly, from engaging kids’ clubs and spacious suites to diverse dining and unparalleled safety measures. Remember, choosing the right hotel is key to unlocking a stress-free, fun-filled holiday. With our guide, you’re well-equipped to select a Dubai hotel where every family member, no matter their age, will feel welcomed, entertained, and cherished. Enjoy creating unforgettable moments in this magnificent city!