Category: Travel

The Middle East is a landscape that enjoys some of the finest weather, with the sun shining all year round. And of course, one of the most rewarding things to do on a holiday somewhere warm is to jump headfirst into your hotel’s pool to cool off! We’ve compiled a list of the Top 7 Swimming Pools in the Middle East to help you find the perfect pool to take a dip in after a hard day of sunbathing in the Middle Eastern sunshine.

The Address Downtown Dubai, Dubai

Both modern and chic, the Address Downtown Dubai is the perfect place for anyone in search of contemporary luxury. Hosting a plethora of amenities such as a spa and fitness centre, the hotel also features an expansive swimming pool which overlooks the city. Prepare to be spoiled by utterly gorgeous views of Dubai as you splash into one of the Middle East’s most wonderful pools.

Hilton Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi

The Hilton brand name is known throughout the world, offering its guests unparalleled luxury in modern yet homely surroundings – and the Hilton Abu Dhabi is certainly no exception. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to staying at this hotel, which is brimming with multiple bars and restaurants, not to mention their wellness facilities. However, it is the expansive swimming pool which really stands out. The curvy pool is the perfect place to jump into after a good sunbathing session, or get fit practicing your laps.

Armani Hotel Dubai, Dubai

It will surely come as no surprise that the Armani Hotel Dubai oozes decadence. Nestled in the world’s tallest building – the Burj Khalifa – you will be treated to a one of a kind stay here. Boasting a huge spa and retail outlets, you can while away the hours without ever having to step foot out of the hotel. The hotel’s swimming pool carries on the theme of extravagance, as it expands into the horizon. Practice your laps whilst drinking in the surrounding views of Dubai’s skyscrapers – there’s no other view quite like it.

The Chedi Muscat Oman, Oman

Oman is renowned for its natural beauty, which is emphasised at the Chedi Muscat Oman resort. Every facet of this hotel is designed to perfection, from its luxurious spa and fitness facilities to the array of dining options on offer. But the cherry on top is without doubt the two swimming pools which are available to guests, both of which are framed by the beautiful palm trees. In the day you can swim in the calm and refreshing waters, or admire the pools at night as they elegantly light up.

Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay, Turkey

At the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay in Turkey you can enjoy a variety of activities, with the hotel boasting both a diving school and plenty of water sports. Carrying on this theme, the hotel’s indoor and outdoor infinity pools are a joy to swim in. Not only are they beautifully sculpted, but they both overlook the ocean, providing unforgettable views as you dive headfirst into bliss.

Dubai has become an increasingly popular holiday destination for families over the years.  Only six hours flight from the UK and with year round warm temperatures you can see why parents with young children are choosing Dubai. Coupled with this the locals love children and young ones are very well catered for with a wealth of attractions to see and do.

When my husband and I decided to take our first holiday abroad with our boy of nine months, Dubai was an immediate attraction for a number of reasons.

Firstly, the flight of six hours did not feel an unreasonable length of time for a flight and the possibility of a night flight made the journey a lot easier. Secondly, the year round warm temperatures made it very appealing although I would not recommend a visit during the very hot summer months! Finally, with a newborn I wanted to ensure that all facilities would be very clean and help on hand should we need emergency medical care. I had heard that Dubai is a very family focused place with hotels and activities all set up for parents and children. We were not proved wrong and there are an abundance of activities available.

Water parks

If you have a water baby the water parks in Dubai are fantastic. Aquaventure water park in Atlantis The Palm is the number one water park in the Middle East and Europe. Wild Wadi is also a great option for the whole family. Both have rides to thrill older children and adults alike whilst the bathing pools and shaded areas are perfect for the younger ones.

Local Parks

If you need to shelter from the midday heat there are a number of local parks available for a stroll including Jumeirah Beach Park, Creekside Park and Za’abeel Park.

Shopping Malls

Dubai is famous for its magnificent shopping malls and if you want to shelter from the sun they are perfect.  The Dubai Mall is great for young children.  We visited the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, which Jack loved!

Children’s City

Based in Dubai this is an educational city where children from 2-15 years can learn and explore the world in which we live. It features lots of interactive displays and games designed to help children of all ages understand more about different cultures.

Hotels

The hotels in Dubai cater extremely well for families. Many have crèche facilities and well-established kids clubs to give parents a well-deserved break!

Atlantis The Palm

Is very popular with families with the water park, spa, aquarium, which is home to 65,000 marine animals, and choice of restaurants.

One&Only The Palm

is a family friendly luxury hotel with a heated outdoor pool supervised by a lifeguard. There is no crèche facility here but all little guests are welcome in the free Kids Only kids club.  With some notice it is also possible to arrange a babysitter.  Finally there is no need to pack a pram or pushchair as the hotel has its own available to borrow!

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Rising from the shore of Dubai’s waterfront this luxurious hotel has facilities for all ages to relax and unwind. The Sinbad Children’s Club has its own shallow swimming pool in the shade and is staffed by professional carers with lots to occupy little ones.

I would not hesitate in recommending Dubai as a place to visit with a young family, and now with another young one only 8 weeks old I think we will be paying another visit for our next holiday!

Although the city’s economy once depended on the oil industry, Dubai has now become a hub of international tourism.  Offering world class shopping, fabulous beaches, fascinating historical attractions and the man-made Palm Islands, this glittering gem in the desert has attracted travelers from all over the world.

But with so much to see and do, where do you even start?  Well, I’ll just tell you.

1). Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU)

My husband and I are both history geeks, so we always visit local museums when traveling.  Without a doubt, SMCCU is one of the finest I have ever seen.  With walking tours of historic districts and mosques, traditional meals, and fabulous cultural events, there is so much to experience at the SMCCU.  Be sure to look into the Iftars during the month of Ramadan.

2). Wild Wadi Water Park

It’s easy to lose track of time inside this massive waterpark.  Thrill seekers will enjoy the wide array of slides such as the Jumeirah Sceirah and the Master Blasters.  Those who like things on the more relaxing side will love Juha’s Journey (lazy river) and Breakers Bay (wave pool).  If you get hungry, there are three restaurants, two food stands and one café.  I recommend Ali’s BBQ!

3). Burj Khalifa

Even though I’m absolutely terrified of heights, I couldn’t resist the urge to visit Burj Khalifa and neither should you.  At 2,722 ft. (829.8 m), it is currently the tallest building in the world and has one of the most breathtaking views I have ever seen in my life.  Buy your tickets for the observation deck in advance to get a good price and avoid the lines.  Be sure to check out the Dubai mall and fountains while you’re there!

4). Dolphin Bay

Located at the Atlantis Resort and offering a wide variety of dolphin encounters and educational programs, this is another must see in Dubai.  All dolphin experiences offer a 15-minute orientation with a marine mammal specialist, 30 minutes in the water, beverages, same day access to Aquaventure Waterpark, and 25% off same day admission to The Lost Chambers Aquarium.   It’s a once in a lifetime experience!

5). Ski Dubai

How many people can say they’ve gone skiing in the desert?  Ski Dubai lets you do just that by offering skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing in a fabulous indoor setting.  You can even book an encounter with the penguins where you receive hot chocolate, photos, free souvenirs and an up close meeting with the penguins.

If you’re planning on visiting Dubai (and I hope you are) here are a few helpful cultural tips to remember.

• If you’re socializing with locals wait until a hand is offered to you for a handshake.
• If you’re dining with locals, do your best not to sit with the soles of your feet presented to another person, it’s considered rude.  Also, eat your food with your right hand, drink with your left.
• Visiting during Ramadan?  Make sure not to eat, drink or smoke in public from sunrise to sunset.
• Save tight clothing and swimsuits for the beach.  No thongs or topless sunbathing!
• Displays of affection in public, such as kissing, are considered indecent.  Keep your lips off your partner and you should be good.

Dubai is an absolutely stunning city and my husband and I had some amazing experiences while we were there.  I hope this guide inspires you to see it for yourself!