Top Eight Family-Friendly Staycation Deals Across the UAE for Half-Term

With demand for domestic getaways surging across the Emirates—highlighted by a 31 per cent increase in bookings reported by dnata Travel—families looking for a change of scenery this half-term have plenty of options. Here are eight UAE staycation choices tailored to different family interests.

For the theme parks

Dubai Parks and Resorts has reopened just in time for the holiday, making it a major draw, while Abu Dhabi's Yas Island remains a strong contender for its sheer variety of attractions.

• Rove At The Park, Dubai: Book direct through Rove Hotels until October 31 for Dh590 net for two, which includes two Dubai Parks and Resorts tickets and a complimentary extra night. Extra tickets are available at Dh295 per person.
• Yas Plaza Circuit, Abu Dhabi: Available via dnata Travel starting from Dh545 per person per night at this four-star Yas Island address, the package includes breakfast, theme park access, and complimentary stays and meals for two children under 11 in a Queen Family Suite Plaza View.

By the beach

For families prioritizing pools and shorelines, Fujairah offers a slower pace, while Dubai’s Centara Mirage combines a waterpark with a fifth-anniversary celebration.

• Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Fujairah: Available via dnata Travel from Dh95 per person per night with breakfast included, offering a calmer coastline with the Hajar Mountains as a backdrop.
• Centara Mirage Beach Resort, Dubai Islands: UAE residents can use the promo code UAERES until October 31 for discounted rates covering daily buffet breakfast, unlimited waterpark and beach access, and kids' club entry, alongside 25 per cent off rooms, dining, drinks, and spa treatments.

Family in the city

Families seeking a city escape without a long drive can explore options on Palm Jumeirah and in Sharjah.

• Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah: Offers a dnata Travel package starting from Dh545 per person per night, including breakfast and a complimentary stay and meals for children under 11.
• Vida Aljada, Sharjah: A new opening in Sharjah's Aljada district offering 20 per cent off best available rates for direct bookings until December 20, including early check-in, late check-out, and a room upgrade subject to availability.

Spacious escapes

For families desiring more space and privacy, private villas and nature reserves provide an alternative.

• Elara Villas, Dubai Creek Resort: Four-bedroom private villas featuring pools and golf course views starting from Dh4,200 per villa. Packages like the 36-Hour Escape and Weekend Villa Retreat include padel, mini golf, and kids' club access.
• Alzorah Beach Resort, Ajman: Located within protected mangroves and a white-sand beach, the Seaside Staycation package includes daily breakfast for two, a 20 per cent discount on dining and spa, and a complimentary Ocean View room upgrade.