Renowned for its high-end shopping, futuristic architecture, pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife, the city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is a firm favourite with holidaymakers across the world. It is also particularly popular with families due to its hot climate, clean beaches and high level of child-friendly services and amenities.
When it comes to all-inclusive resorts, Dubai is blessed with a huge choice – although for booking purposes such resorts are known as ‘full-board’. Most of the options are of the upscale variety, but prices tend to be pretty affordable, meaning you’re likely to find something offering better value than an equivalent resort in Europe or North America. Below is our pick of four of the best full-board Dubai resorts.
Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach
From $195/ night
Situated close to Dubai Marina and just a couple of minutes on foot from the beach, this upscale hotel features a whole range of amenities including a gym, an outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant and lounge offering stunning views of Dubai’s skyline. Guest rooms have large floor-to-ceiling windows, a living room with a dining area and a flat-screen TV, and a fully equipped kitchen. There’s a 24-hour supermarket nearby and the famous Mall Of The Emirates shopping precinct is a 10-minute drive away.
Wyndham Dubai Marina
From $156/ night
Another 4-star option, Wyndham Dubai Marina offers jaw-dropping ocean views. Amenities include two on-site restaurants, two bars, a coffee lounge, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, sauna and steam room, a gift shop and a concierge desk. There’s also 24-hour room service. Speaking of the rooms, they all come with a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a mini bar, a desk and a safety deposit box, while the bathrooms are equipped with a shower and a bath and offer free toiletries. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.
Grand Excelsior Hotel Deira
From $136/ night
This hotel is convenient for those arriving by air due to its proximity to Dubai International Airport. Amenity wise, it features a rooftop pool and a round hot tub with panoramic views, while food and beverage options include an Iranian Restaurant and Night Club, a Chinese Bar and Karaoke Lounge and a traditional Moroccan eatery. Standard guest rooms feature a minibar, flat-screen HDTV, bathrobe and slippers, and free WiFi. Other notable amenities dotted around the hotel include a wellness area with a sauna and steam room and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. There’s a complementary shuttle to most of Dubai’s major malls and shopping centres, as well as to Al Mamzar Beach.
Crystal Plaza Hotel
From $50/ night
If you’re seeking a budget option and are happy to be located just outside of Dubai, this hotel is hard to beat. Nestled in the heart of the city of Sharjah, about 25 minutes’ drive from Dubai, it is a short walk from the beach as well as a number of key regional landmarks including the Gold Souk, the Heritage Centre and Mega Mall. Amenities include an on-site restaurant serving international cuisine, a 24-hour coffee shop. Spacious guest rooms are designed in minimalist style with neutral colours and come with private bathrooms. Both Sharjah and Dubai International Airports can be reached in 20 minutes by road. The hotel also offers a limited amount of on-site parking.
Atana Hotel
From $62/ night
One of Dubai’s newest hotels, Atana boasts an array of superb leisure facilities including an outdoor swimming pool with a sun terrace and a fully equipped fitness centre. Dining options are varied, with three separate restaurants offering all day dining and a Piano Cafe Lounge. Modern guest rooms are bright and decorated in warm colours and are furnished with LCD TVs. Other notable hotel facilities include conference facilities, banquet hall, meeting rooms, and a shopping arcade on the entire ground floor. Mall of Emirates is a five minute drive away and Dubai internet city metro station can be reached in less than 10 minutes on foot.