Everything You Need To Know About Family Winter Sun Holidays In Dubai

Dubai is the perfect destination for a family winter holiday.

While your friends, colleagues and neighbours brave the cold at home, you’ll be enjoying sun-drenched days, thrilling activities and exhilarating attractions. Instead of shivering in the snow, you’ll be playing on the soft sands of the beach, and instead of sheltering from the rain you’ll be splashing in the warm sea water. Dubai is a true winter wonderland and the ideal place to escape to when the weather at home takes a turn for the worse or to add an extra sparkle to your Christmas or New Year celebrations. Let Destination2 tell you everything you need to know about family winter sun holidays in Dubai.

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What’s so special about winter in Dubai?

Dubai family holidays are always special. However, when winter arrives at home, the wonder and warmth of this dazzling destination is even more welcoming. Being able to enjoy around eight hours of sunshine per day and average temperatures of 24°C definitely brightens up winter days. You’ll be able to discover all of Dubai’s sensational attractions, along with some seasonal extras, without worrying about rain ruining your plans. You’ll also find the weather conditions much more suitable for outdoor activities than during the peak summer months, when the heat means lazy days and visits to air-conditioned indoor attractions are much more appealing. Winter holidays in Dubai during the festive period also allow you to join in the Emirate’s celebrations and enjoy the city at its glistening best, with decorations all around. Alternatively, an enriching cultural experience can be expected if you choose to visit during the month of Ramadan, which is expected to begin around February 8.

Winter activities in Dubai

Winter in Dubai is the perfect time for family activities, and especially ideal for outdoor adventures. You can explore the desert on a 4x4 safari, spotting unique wildlife along the way, then show off your dune surfing skills, experience life in an authentic Bedouin village and sample traditional delicacies cooked on the camp fire. Older kids can even enjoy quad biking and dune buggy rides. If aquatic adventures float your boat, you’ll find an array of sightseeing cruise trips to choose from, as well as water sports galore. Kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing are on offer during a visit to Hatta Dam, in the Hajar Mountains, while these activities, along with jetskiing, snorkelling and scuba diving can be enjoyed in the Arabian Gulf. Indoor action is also in abundance, and you’ll even find pursuits more in keeping with the season, with Ski Dubai and Dubai Ice Rink, which is located at Dubai Mall, providing winter-themed fun for families.

Winter attractions in Dubai

If you’re looking for a family winter holiday destination packed with unforgettable attractions, you won’t find anywhere better than Dubai. You can discover awe-inspiring landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, as well as the stunning Burj Al Arab and The Dubai Fountain. You’ll also have the chance to visit legendary theme parks including IMG Worlds of Adventure and Dubai Parks and Resorts, comprising Motiongate Dubai, Riverland Dubai, Real Madrid World, Neon Galaxy and Legoland Dubai. You’ll also find slides, chutes and rides galore at Aquaventure Waterpark, Legoland Water Park and Grand Hyatt Dubai Waterpark, all perfect for when you want to cool off in the warm sun. The winter months also bring about the opportunity to discover Dubai’s Global Village. Open from October to April, this unique multi-cultural extravaganza offers entertainment, shopping, dining and attractions that showcase traditions, cuisines and experiences from more than 90 countries around the world.

Christmas in Dubai

A family Christmas in Dubai will be remembered forever. The sparkling lights and decorations around the city will get you in the spirit as soon as you arrive, while you’ll find treats on tap wherever you go. Santa’s Grotto, a towering Christmas tree, fairground, live shows and activities are among the delights to enjoy in Winter City at Expo City Dubai. Global Village also adds a little Christmas magic to proceedings at this time of year, showcasing a host of fun-filled festive traditions from around the globe. You’ll also find Christmas markets in Dubai Harbour, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Cityland Mall and the Golden Mile Galleria, while Dubai Shopping Festival, from December to January, is a must for bargains, fun, fireworks and entertainment. If it’s Christmas food you’re craving, traditional festive fare is on the menu in many of Dubai’s restaurants. Dubai’s hotels and resorts also host extravagant Christmas day gala dinners, with music, activities, competitions and fireworks adding to the excitement.

New Year in Dubai

You’ve seen the spectacular images, now experience New Year’s Eve in Dubai for yourself, with all your family there to share in the wonder. Watch the show-stopping fireworks and laser show light up the Burj Khalifa, or catch thrilling displays at the Burj Al Arab or the Global Village, among other venues. A host of exclusive ticket-only destinations offer a front row seat for the action, or you can watch for free on the beach or from your hotel balcony. Many of Dubai’s 5-star resorts also host glittering New Year’s Eve parties. Atlantis, The Palm’s annual gala dinner is renowned for being the hottest ticket in town with a celebratory feast, fireworks display and superstar entertainment. Past performers include Robbie Williams, Kylie Minogue, Sting, Maroon 5 and Lionel Richie. Children are not forgotten, with a kids’ party zone where they can enjoy food, fun, games and much more besides.

Grand Hyatt Dubai Resort & Waterpark

Stay in the heart of Dubai’s bustling city centre for the ultimate action-packed holiday that’s full of thrills. This hotel is an oasis of fun for the whole family, with plenty to keep you all entertained. Stroll through the lush gardens, enjoy indulgent treatments at the Ahasees Spa, or lounge by the pool while the little ones splash and play at the waterpark. The multiple dining venues means there are delicious dishes available to suit all tastes, with options for every occasion.

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Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection

Soak up the sun at the beachside resort that’s located conveniently close to the renowned Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach. The 5-star Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection is a superb sanctuary for family holidays as well as relaxing getaways with friends or as a couple. Enjoy a pamper session in the spa with an array of treatments on offer, dine in style choosing from a variety of international restaurants, and rest in comfort in the plush surrounds of your stylish room or suite.

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Delano Dubai

A serene haven of style and sophistication awaits on the idyllic beachfront of Bluewaters Dubai at this chic 5-star sanctuary. Just moments away from the heart of the city and Palm Jumeirah is a world of modern luxury, where state-of-the-art amenities fill elegantly-appointed living spacious and gastronomic delights are served in exquisite dining destinations. Other sublime features to discover include glistening pools, a gym, the Banyan Tree Spa, a sports club and a children’s club.

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Atlantis The Royal

The ultimate luxury holiday experience awaits at this magnificent 5-star haven of opulence, elegance, and comfort on the famous Palm Jumeirah. You’ll spend divine nights in lavish accommodation, dine in top-class celebrity restaurants and be treated like royalty right throughout your stay. Opportunities for rejuvenating beach days await, while you’ll enjoy spa and wellness sessions, or unwind and socialise in stylish bars and elegant lounges.

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One&Only One Za’abeel

Take your Dubai escape to new heights with a stay at the One&Only One Za’abeel, a 5-star haven of luxury located in a prime spot for discovering the city of superlatives. Expect complete comfort in your sumptuous room, suite, loft or villa, where you can rest, unwind and recuperate after days of exploration and exhilaration. Gourmet dining experiences add to the appeal of this exceptional retreat, while other highlights include advanced wellness facilities, a rooftop infinity pool, a garden pool and the exclusive N53 lounge, looking out over the distinctive Dubai skyline.

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Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah

Embrace luxury beachfront living at this majestic 5-star haven on the blonde shores of the iconic Palm Jumeirah. Here you’ll enjoy indulgent treatment sessions and soothing massages in the spa, workout in the 24-hour gym and swim in the refreshing waters of the glistening pool. Lively evening entertainment and a fabulous kids club also await, as well as a host of inspiring dining destinations and exquisitely-appointed rooms or suites.

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Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Find serenity in the wave-shaped 5-star Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Promising exceptional family holidays, you can look forward to outstanding entertainment and endless fun. Get active at the gym, lounge by the pool or have a friendly game of tennis. The Talise Spa is an idyllic retreat where you can experience divine therapies and wellness treatments. All rooms and suites come with unparalleled views, as well as every essential amenity needed for a blissful stay.

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