Find Your Dubai: The Areas Made for Families, Couples, Beach Lovers and More

For some, Dubai is the buzz of the Marina. For others, it’s the stillness of the desert. The beauty is that Dubai can be both, so no two travellers leave with quite the same story. 

Whilst you might come for the record-breaking waterpark, the iconic landmarks, or the luxury hotels, where you stay in Dubai shapes your whole trip. We asked our Middle East Product Manager, Stuart, who has been over 15 times, which areas he would suggest for each type of traveller.

Dubai for Families

Easy days, calm waters, and something new around every corner… that’s what a Dubai family holiday is all about. Here’s where Stuart would base a family holiday: 

Palm Jumeirah: Few things beat a family holiday to Palm Jumeirah. It’s where you’ll find the thrills of Aquaventure World, the wonder of The Lost World Aquarium, and incredible views from The View at The Palm. Pair this with the 11km boardwalk and calm waters of the Palm Crescent, and it’s easy to understand why our Middle East Specialists often suggest a family holiday here. Stuart’s hotel picks for families are Atlantis, The Palm and Fairmont The Palm.

Jumeirah Beach Residence: Then, there’s Jumeirah Beach Residence. Morning walks, beachfront lunches and days on Bluewaters Island set the pace in JBR. Stuart’s favourite family day out is TR88house, which he calls ‘the ideal family day out on Bluewaters Island’. For families staying in JBR, Address Beach Resort is a fantastic choice.

Dubai for Couples & Honeymooners 

Find time for two in Dubai, where days start slowly and evenings end with a view. For a romantic trip to Dubai, these are the areas made for two:

Downtown Dubai: Nothing quite prepares you for the magic of Downtown Dubai. Wherever you turn, you’re greeted with another landmark. From the Dubai Mall to Burj Khalifa to the Dubai Fountain, this is a place designed for shared moments and the city’s best sights. For couples in Downtown Dubai, Stuart recommends Palace Downtown.

Jumeirah: Stay by the beach but keep the city close at hand. Jumeirah is an excellent choice for romance in Dubai, where unhurried days, wellness retreats, and sunset dinners take centre stage. For romance in Jumeirah, you cannot go wrong with a stay at One&Only Royal Mirage. 

Dubai Desert: Retreat, unwind, and enjoy stillness after the buzz of the city. A stay in the Dubai desert is made for romance and perfect for a honeymoon. Think golden horizons and private pool villas at the likes of Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai.

Dubai for Beach Lovers

City stay or beach break? In Dubai, you don’t have to choose. Here, warm waters, soft sands, and the buzz of the city are never far apart. But for those looking for a beach-first escape, these are our go-to spots:

Jumeirah Beach Residence: For many, JBR is the first choice for a Dubai beach holiday, and for good reason. The 1.7km stretch of shoreline makes for a great day out, and when it comes to Dubai beach hotels, you will not be disappointed by The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai.

Jumeirah: Another destination that spoils you for choice is Jumeirah. Whether it’s the Burj Al Arab views on Jumeirah Beach, the relaxed coastline of Kite Beach, or the secluded shores of Nessnass Beach, each one delivers something different. For Stuart, a Dubai beach hotel that cannot be missed is Jumeirah Beach Hotel Dubai.

Palm Jumeirah: For those who would rather be barefoot by 10am, Palm Jumeirah is where you want to be. Here, the waters are calm, the watersports are brilliant, and the Palm Crescent (the 11km shoreline) is ideal for families. One of Stuart’s favourites on Palm Jumeirah has to be Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites for its private beach overlooking the Arabian Gulf.

Dubai for First-timers & Stopovers

Step out of your hotel and within minutes, watch the wonders of Dubai unfold. For first-timers or quick city stopovers, you’ll want the city’s best-known sights close by. For this, we suggest:

Downtown Dubai: Ask our team about Downtown Dubai, and they’ll tell you it’s the perfect pick for travellers who want it all. With the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Fountain all within reach, the possibilities are endless, and Stuart loves Jumeirah Emirates Towers Dubai for its central location and iconic design. 

Dubai Marina: Dubai Marina makes an impression from the moment you arrive. Waterfront walks, five-star dining and, if you’re brave enough, Skydive Dubai are all on your doorstep. Grosvenor House is the hotel that gets Stuart’s vote on where to stay for its central location. 

Dubai for Foodies & Social Travellers

If you’re planning your day around what you’ll see and eat next, this one’s for you. With lots to do and dinners worth dressing up for, here’s where to book your table (and hotel): 

Downtown Dubai: Once you’ve been to Downtown Dubai, you’ll truly understand why it’s often called the culinary centre. From coffee shops to fine-dining restaurants, this is the spot where flavour-filled dishes come with guaranteed views. To make the most of the five-star dining, and to try some of the best Thai food at Thiptara, Stuart recommends basing yourself at Palace Downtown.

Palm Jumeirah: On the Palm, you’ll find Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, home to Michelin-starred dining, celebrity chef restaurants, and the record-breaking Aquaventure World. For those who want it all, Palm Jumeirah certainly has it.  

Your Dubai Holiday Questions, Answered By Our Middle East Specialists

Is Dubai good for a family holiday? Yes, Dubai is an excellent family holiday destination for its family-friendly resorts, interactive experiences, calm seas, and dining experiences.

Is Dubai a good honeymoon destination? Yes, Dubai is a brilliant honeymoon destination. If you’re looking for somewhere to make your stay extra special, our Middle East Specialists recommend a private pool villa retreat in the desert or a beach escape in Jumeirah. 

What are the best beaches in Dubai? There are plenty of great beaches in Dubai, but some of the most highly-rated are Kite Beach, Sunset Beach, and Nessnass Beach. 

Is Dubai a good stopover on the way to the Maldives? Yes, Dubai is an excellent stopover destination on your way to the Maldives and one of our most popular multi-centre holiday choices. It’s a great way to experience the city before retreating to an overwater villa in the Indian Ocean. 

Book Your Dubai Holiday With Kenwood Travel

However you choose to experience Dubai, our team of Middle East Specialists at Kenwood Travel are here to help. Whether it’s an All Inclusive Dubai holiday, a romantic escape for two, or a beach getaway, we’ll tailor every detail to the Dubai you want to find. Send us a holiday enquiry or call us on 0203 993 3099 to speak with one of our Middle East Specialists today.