Dubai & Dunes Family Adventure

After touching down at Dubai International Airport, our assistant will be there to greet you at the arrival gate, holding a sign with your name on it to help you get through immigration, airport security and the fast track counter so you won’t have to stand in long lines after your flight. Private transfer will then get you to your accommodation in Dubai. After checking in, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps relaxing while soaking up spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf, taking advantage of the many facilities at your hotel or heading to the beach.

Join your expert guide for a private tour of Dubai with its ideal mix of soaring modern skyscrapers and traditional souks. Begin at one of the largest shopping malls in the world, the Dubai Mall, home to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. You’ll come face-to-face with stingrays, sharks, and many different fish species before heading to the Burj Khalif, the world’s tallest building which soars more than 2,722 feet. Whiz to the top in the high-speed elevator to gaze out at the 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the ocean, desert, and city. The final stop is the Dubai Marina District, bringing fantastic photo-ops.

A great time in the water is guaranteed with a full-day visit to Wild Wadi Waterpark, home to the Middle East’s largest wave pool, Breaker’s Bay, along with a wide range of attractions and 30 slides, located in front of the stunning Burj Al Arab Jumeira. It’s fun for all ages and was modeled after a character frequently referenced in Arabian folklore, Juha. Thrill-seekers will especially enjoy sliding down the Burj Surf and Tantrum Alley, while those looking for relaxation, can float along the lazy river. If you have little ones, there are moderate slide options and a water park just for the kids.

An exhilarating and memorable drive across the rolling dunes in a 4X4 will bring you through the magnificent Arabian desert. After reaching a popular stop for photos, you’ll see dune buggies lined up across the golden sands, ready and waiting to deliver the thrill of driving one yourself on a roller-coast ride into the dunes. You’ll get a safety briefing and then strap on your helmet and safety harness before travelling as a convoy. You’ll get to enjoy a sandboarding experience too. This board sport has become increasing popular and is similar to snowboarding, only you’ll ride down the sand dunes.

This morning it will be time to say farewell to Dubai. After checking out of your hotel, you’ll take private transfer to the Garden City of Al Alin, an oasis with palm groves and natural springs. It was once on the caravan route from the Sultanate of Oman to the current UAE, which is why you’ll see so many historic forts – in fact, it’s been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site. It’s also home to the UAE’s largest camel market. After getting settled into your accommodation, enjoy relaxing at the pool and then perhaps sampling a traditional Emirati dish for dinner.

You’ll have a full day to enjoy the many activities offered in Al Alin, just a few of which including camel riding, safari drives, and ziplining. If you want to learn about the city’s ancient history, cultural and heritage, visit the National Museum. It covers history here from the Stone Age through the foundation of the UAE and includes archaeological exhibits with jewellery, weapons, coins and pottery that were excavated from 4000-year-old tombs nearby. Get a glimpse into the life of a sheik by visiting the Al Ain Palace of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, which now serves as a museum.

This morning, your amazing family adventure in UAE concludes with private transfer back to Dubai International Airport. Of course, if a week isn’t enough our travel experts will be happy to help you find a way to extend your trip here or elsewhere. The Maldives has a reputation for being a honeymoon paradise, but its all-inclusive resorts and unspoiled beaches also make it great for kids. Sri Lanka is a fabulous family-friendly vacation destination with beaches, temples, jungle, wildlife, and outstanding surfing.