Dubai hotels

Anything with the word ‘Lego’ attached to it will be a winner with the kids, and given the Legoland Hotel sits smack in the middle of the city’s entertainment and theme park precinct just adds to the excitement.

Just as you would expect, there are awesome rooms and suites all with a Lego feel, themed dining and fun activities for the whole family to enjoy as they stay and play. Knowing how ‘brick-mad’ so many youngsters are, you’ll need to be prepared for an excitement overload, but trust me it’s worth it.

Any hotel or resort with its own waterpark is a winner with holidaying families, and this entertainment wonderland doesn’t disappoint. Atlantis, The Palm has more than 100 water slides and is home to one of the largest aquariums on the planet. It also has a bowling alley and games arcade.

Sounds like a dream, right? Well, at least you know the kids won’t be whining that they’re bored – if anything they won’t want to leave.

Lapita, which is part of Dubai Parks and Resorts, exudes Polynesian vibes and is surrounded by Jebel Ali’s most popular attractions – Legoland, Motiongate and Real Madrid World. Guests get a free pass to the parks, which means flash mobs, roller coaster rides, water slide fun and entertaining stunt shows.

Quirky and comfortable yet affordable, Rove Downtown is ideally situated within walking distance of Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa and the Dancing Fountain. Rooms are on the small side and breakfast is more of an on-the-go experience, but the location is fabulous and the views great, plus the team offers a round-trip airport shuttle.

Design-wise it’s very cool, and it’s got a younger vibe. Basically, if you’re going to be out all day sightseeing and just want a place to lay your head and a coffee in the morning before doing it all again, Rove is for you.

This iconic 5-star property is dripping with luxury appeal – you can even watch the fish swim around from your bed! This so-called ‘Jewel of Jumeirah’ stands a whopping 1,053 feet tall and boasts 202 suites, along with nine signature restaurants and aquariums where you would usually find walls and windows.

Everything about this landmark sail-shaped hotel screams extravagance. From the gold-leaf laden throughout to the glamorous décor and its indulgent spa, the Burj Al Arab is the epitome of Arabian luxury. Be prepared to pay through the roof, though – a night at this diva of Dubai is on the high side, but it’s a bucket-lister for sure and so worth it for a special occasion.

Standing proud in Jumeira Bay and just a hop, skip and a jump from Dubai’s ‘Golden Mile,’ this 5-star resort serves up a Mediterranean village vibe. A unique development for the global brand, the property truly is an indulgent paradise.

Not only are there 101 rooms and 20 pool villas to choose from, but there is also a Yacht Club and Marina, a signature scent infused throughout the resort and you can expect to enjoy some of the most comfortable furnishings (made in Italy, of course). With sweeping views of the Persian Gulf and some of the best city skyline vistas directly in front of you, this is the spot for some R&R, delectable food and A-grade pampering.

If you’re familiar with the Raffles brand, you’ll know that it’s all about next-level luxury. The Dubai iteration, Raffles The Palm, is all that and a lot more.

Grandiose and lavish to a fault, this swanky seaside establishment that is set on 25 acres will please anyone with a penchant for the personalised service Raffles is renowned for.

You’ll no doubt lap up the 1,500-foot private beach and admire the opulent furnishings – not to mention the food and beverage offerings. From its position on the Western Crescent of The Palm, you would be forgiven for feeling like you’re a royal and this is your private palace.

Everything about this heritage property is Arabesque in its appeal and it doesn’t hurt that it’s located in the bustling district of Al Seef, on the banks of the Dubai Creek.

This neighbourhood is packed with winding alleyways, souk market stalls and Emirati restaurants and cafes; in the evening it comes alive with dancing, singing and contagious magical ‘Old Dubai’ feels.

The 190-room Al Seef Heritage Hotel is also within walking distance (temperature-allowing) of some of the old city attractions.

Known as the summer houses of Jumeirah, this Arabian-inspired resort is nestled within the popular Madinat Jumeirah complex. Considered one of the most intimate, exclusive offerings in the emirate, this 283-room property reflects the Arabian summer house of days gone by.

Traditional features include wind towers, known locally as barjeels; majlis, or group sitting areas; and majestic courtyards. Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf is just three minutes from the popular Jumeirah Beach and can be reached on foot or via an Abra, the traditional wooden boat.

XVA Art‘s position within the Al Fahidi Historical District, the oldest neighbourhood in Dubai, speaks volumes. With its roots dating back more than 100 years, in a country that is just 50 years old, it’s the Persian architectural heritage and design focus that set this property apart. The fact that it was once occupied by one of the UAE’s most prominent families only adds to the appeal.

Camelback rides, falconry displays and photo opportunities – not to mention desert sunsets and even a mini-golf course – Bab Al Shams is all about cultural immersion.

Whether travelling as a family or after a more intimate experience, this purpose-built heritage-focused resort is a nomadic reminder of days gone by. Embrace the shifting sands and enjoy some time outside of the city limits, acknowledging how far this relatively young nation has come.