INTO MIDDLE EAST
Where to stay: bold but family-friendly V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton Perched over the Dubai Water Canal, this property is equal parts avant-garde architecture and family convenience. Families get the pool, kids’ club, and easy access to La Perle( the resident acrobatic water show). Business travellers get vast meeting space. Everyone gets air-con and views.
Smart spending hacks( because rands deserve respect)
• Attraction Passes: Bundle tickets and watch costs drop across big sites.
• Dubai Summer Surprises: From late June to August 2026, this city-wide festival slashes up to 75 % off shopping, with family shows and pop-ups thrown in.
• Free Gems: Fountains, abra rides, flamingos. Collect enough of these and your“ budget holiday” case writes itself.
Want proof? A family of four could spend a morning at the aquarium( free if you just marvel at the exterior tanks), grab shawarmas for lunch, cruise across the creek for R16, then watch the fountains at night. That’ s a full day of entertainment for less than what you’ d spend on parking at the Waterfront.
Heat survival: it’ s hot, not hopeless The Dubai summer isn’ t for the faint-hearted, but it’ s survivable. Do outdoors early or after dark. Keep the middle of the day for malls, pools, or naps. Sunscreen is a non-negotiable, as are hats and constant hydration( with water). Bonus tip: many malls host“ Beat the Heat” events, turning what would be sweat time into family playtime.
Sample itineraries
With Younger Kids: Morning: Stroll Dubai Mall, gawk at the aquatic life at the aquarium, maybe go for a spin on the ice rink. Lunch: At the Arabian Tea House, where little hands can rip bread. Afternoon: Aquaventure splash-fest. Evening: Fountain show – free, lively, and bedtime friendly.
With Teens: Morning: Museum of the Future( they’ ll pretend not to like it until they’ re filming content). Lunch: Quick bites at Dubai Mall food court. Afternoon: AYA Universe or Alserkal Avenue – lights or culture, both teen-approved. Evening: Dinner at Souk Madinat Jumeira, canalside – with Burj Al Arab views.
SUMMER 2025 / 26 • rovesa. co. za | 95