10 of the best family hotels in Dubai for a trip that appeals to all ages
People are often surprised that the fast-paced and futuristic city of Dubai is family-friendly. But when you consider the fact that nearly 90 per cent of its population has resettled there from abroad, and that a vast chunk of that percentage has either moved there with the aim of improving their children’s quality of life, or are sending the majority of their salaries back home to provide, it makes more sense. Family is the lifeblood of the emirate, and it’s reflected, firstly, in the service. We’ve seen wait staff dance around restaurants trying to entertain our little one, experienced teams of doormen who remembered their name every day and restaurants that adapted menus to suit their young palate. It’s also obvious in the way many Dubai hotels are designed, with adjoining rooms and imaginative water parks and kids’ clubs. That’s not to mention the year-round sunshine, which helps make everything easier – or the world-class air-conditioning and well-positioned shaded areas, for those more nervous of the hotter times.
When you’re not off on a desert safari, on a sandy public beach, riding Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, or charging around one of the city’s other unique attractions such as the Dubai Parks and Resorts or IMG World of Adventures theme parks – these family hotels are where you should be, as selected by ourselves, along with dozens of local Dubai parents.
Editor's picks
- For luxury: Bvlgari Resort Dubai
- For a beach location: Atlantis the Royal
- For water slides: Atlantis the Palm
Our top tips for family holidays in Dubai
- Car seats are available in taxis when you arrive, though if you’d rather not be faced with having to fit it yourself, head for the slightly more expensive pink Dubai Taxis, driven by women.
- For the journey back to the airport, download the Careem taxi app which works like Uber but easily allows you to book a car with a kids’ seat.
- Always ask if the hotel can have your room ready with swim nappies, bottles, creams and other suitcase-filling paraphernalia – typically in these hotels, they can.
How we choose the best family hotels in Dubai
Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveller journalist who knows the destination and has stayed at that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider both luxury properties and boutique and lesser-known boltholes that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination. We’re always looking for beautiful design, a great location and warm service – as well as serious sustainability credentials. We update this list regularly as new hotels open and existing ones evolve.


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