Where to Stay in Dubai with Family

Finding your home away from home in The Jewel of Arabia

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A young family looking at skyscrapers on a sunny day in Dubai, UAE

Here at Plum Guide, we are of the opinion that a holiday with the family (however many young children are involved) should be just as simple, exciting and, frankly fabulous as any other. We have a curated collection of immaculate properties across Dubai, located in some of the city’s prime neighbourhoods. This is a modern metropolis set up for families, with countless activities to keep everyone entertained, world-class culinary adventures, and iconic cultural sights. Getting around is fairly simple, so you have free rein when it comes to choosing where to stay in Dubai with family. Here, we’ve composed a list of our favourite family-friendly districts, so you can find the perfect home away from home in the City of Gold.

Palm Jumeirah

An aerial view of the famous Palm Jumeirah island, Dubai, UAE

An aerial view of the famous Palm Jumeirah island, Dubai, UAE

When you think of Dubai, the chances are the Palm Jumeirah springs to mind. Carved into the shape of a palm tree when viewed from above, this artificial archipelago is built from reclaimed land, and is home to some of the city’s most exclusive resorts. While it certainly has an allure for those in search of glittering nightlife and cosmopolitan temptations, this is a great option for families looking for high-octane fun in a clean, curated environment. Some of our most opulent locales can be found on the island, within strolling distance of the sparkling Palm Jumeirah Beach - perfect for lazy afternoons on the sand. You’ll also be a 13-minute drive from the lavish Dubai Marina.

Gold Medallion, Plum Guide home in Dubai

Gold Medallion, Plum Guide home in Dubai

Green Community Village

You may have guessed from the name - this is a family-centric, gated neighbourhood replete with luscious, landscaped grounds. It stretches across an area of 67 hectares, bursting with pristine parks, pools, and gardens - the sought-after neighbourhood lies on the outer edges of the inner city. This means you can easily access every Dubai has to offer, while enjoying a peaceful slice of family life during your downtime.

Marina Steel, Plum Guide home in Dubai

Marina Steel, Plum Guide home in Dubai

DAMAC Hills

Fancy stepping back a little from the buzz of the city centre? DAMAC Hills could be the spot for you. This polished neighbourhood is well connected to Downtown, but far enough away to feel like a breath of fresh air. Spread out over 4 million square feet, it is made up of clean, open gardens and lush green spaces - perfect for family picnics, wouldn’t you agree? This luxurious community district has gained a reputation as one of Dubai’s prime areas to raise a family, known for its opulent homes, elegant resorts, and proximity to the city’s best-known sights (you can get to Dubai Marina in just 25 minutes).

Falcon's Refuge, Plum Guide home in Dubai

Falcon's Refuge, Plum Guide home in Dubai

Dubai Creek Harbour

An arched sculpture overlooking the city skyline at sunset, Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai, UAE

An arched sculpture overlooking the city skyline at sunset, Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai, UAE

You’ll find this newly-completed neighbourhood on the historic banks of Dubai Creek. It’s quickly becoming one of the city’s most sought-after districts, and could just be the perfect choice when deciding where to stay in Dubai with family. You’ll find stunning views of Downtown Dubai, wonderfully peaceful surroundings, and plenty of opportunities for family-friendly al-fresco dining. For a day out with the kids, we suggest paying a visit to the nearby Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary - a lovingly-protected urban area brimming with wildlife.

Rosewater Creek, Plum Guide home in Dubai

Rosewater Creek, Plum Guide home in Dubai

Downtown Dubai

An aerial view of skyscrapers at sunset in Downtown Dubai, UAE

An aerial view of skyscrapers at sunset in Downtown Dubai, UAE

You may well be the kind of family that wants to experience Dubai at full throttle. If so, we recommend staying Downtown. There's an endless stream of things to do in the high-energy centre of the city, from celebrated fine dining and bustling markets, to architectural wonders, interactive sights, and dizzying skyscrapers. Pay a visit to the top of the Burj Khalifa, where you and the family can take in 360-degree views of Dubai from atop the world’s tallest tower. Dubai Mall should be your first stop if you’re in the market for a family shopping trip, and explore the manicured Burj Plaza - which leads you around the lake towards Burj Park. As for dining, there is something for everyone. Prepare for epicurean adventures, sizzling street food, and a few long, lazy family brunches.

Dubai Marina

A view of the Dubai Marina lit up at night in front of skyscrapers, Dubai, UAE

A view of the Dubai Marina lit up at night in front of skyscrapers, Dubai, UAE

Always a popular choice when looking for where to stay in Dubai with family, Dubai Marina serves up all the glamour and plenty of opportunities for family fun - lap up waterside feasts, waterside markets, kayaking trips, and long days at the beach. Covering two miles of glowing sand facing the Arabian Gulf, you’ll find glassy skyscrapers glistening in the sun while the beaches beg you to unwind in the soft sand. Hire bikes for the whole family and head to the canals of The Walk, an exclusive network leading you past some of the area’s most striking buildings. Or, while away a day on one of the area’s primary beaches.

Arabian Ranches

Another example of Dubai’s design prowess, Arabian Ranches is a lavish gated community within easy reach of the city centre. Known as ‘The Ranches’ to locals (and now you), it's home to the renowned Arabian Ranches Golf Club. Made up of landscaped open spaces, this was one of Dubai’s first suburban developments - and is still exemplary today. There are plenty of young families in the area, and for good reason. Enjoy tranquil surroundings, neighbourhood restaurants, ornate properties, and easy access to the golden sands of Jumeirah Beach.

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