In the movie Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol, Tom Cruise's character Ethan Hunt rappels from the top of Dubai's Burj Khalifa in one of the movie's many absurd action sequences as he attempts to save the world (again) in the face of insurmountable odds. The iconic tower that the actor scales, however, remains a poignant reminder of how far the Gulf city has come in such a short space of time, as it has developed into a metropolis that offers everything for the casual traveler looking for a city break. Characterized by its numerous skyscrapers, lavish malls, souks, beaches and restaurants, it is near impossible to get bored. What is probably not so obvious is what is available for the traveler visiting with a young family. However, thanks to our friends at Holiday Inn, Saudi Gazette was able to get an insight into the more family-oriented activities available in this bright city. Try to secure a stay in Dubai's downtown area, as it places you within the vicinity of landmarks such as the aforementioned Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. It also gives you the opportunity to mingle with the rich mix of expatriates from various nationalities that make up the heart and soul of the city thanks to the area's offerings of numerous cheap eats restaurants and cafes, boutiques and souks. The Holiday Inn Downtown Dubai, near Al-Rigga Street, is a great option for those travelers on a mid-range budget and with families. It offers very comfortable beds, pretty bathrooms, a terrific breakfast buffet and very attentive staff who will do everything possible to solve any issues you may have. This includes a friendly and helpful travel receptionist who will help you book any excursions you may want to enjoy during your stay. The hotel is also located near a Dubai Metro station, allowing you to travel efficiently throughout the city for inexpensive prices. As for things to do, Dubai Mall is a great starting point as it offers a variety of shopping and eating options under one roof in addition to recreational facilities such as the Dubai Aquarium and Discovery Centre, the Sega Republic indoor theme park and a cinema. It also has the famous fountain displays that run every 30 minutes and never fails to attract large crowds. If the kids are craving something a bit more exciting, then consider taking a trip to Wild Wadi Waterpark (AED275 per adult, AED215 per child under 1.1 meters), located near the Burj Al-Arab in the Jumeirah Beach area. The park offers a variety of slides and other rides that cater to a variety of ages, ranging from the high-speed, high-thrill Tantrum Alley to the markedly gentler Juha's Journey. There is also the Juha's Dhow and Lagoon play area for younger children to get lost in. Adults might finish all the best rides in little over 90 minutes, but children will love the park. It is advisable that you take towels with you because rental charges can be quite expensive. If you do not mind hanging out with gaggles of tourists, another popular option is to go on a desert safari, where you will initially be taken on a topsy-turvy tour of the sand dunes (it is not advisable to go just after eating), before being taken to a camp to enjoy a hearty buffet while taking in the laughably bad belly-dancing sequences. But such excursions do remain a staple of the Dubai tourism scene and it does offer the kids a break from the norm when it comes to finding activities that they can enjoy. Wrap up your stay with a trip to the souks, located in the heart of Dubai's Deira downtown area and a stone's throw away from the picturesque creek. If for nothing else, go there to experience the atmosphere and architecture of the old city areas. The spice souk offers a wide array of common and not so common products for reasonable prices (as long as you are willing to bargain with the shopkeepers). However, it must be said that a lot of the well-known spices can be found for less in your local supermarket, so bear that in mind. The gold souk, on the other hand, is a spectacular looking paradise for jewelry lovers with numerous shops displaying their various wares. Be prepared, however, to be accosted at every corner by the rather irritating traders trying to sell you fake watches. There are plenty of other options for the family to enjoy as a whole. A notable mention must go to the Dubai Marina, which offers The Walk, almost two kilometers of walking facilities for visitors in addition to rows of shops and restaurants to relax in. This is in addition to the Ski Dubai resort at the Mall of the Emirates and an opportunity to go to the top of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world at the time of writing. While Dubai is huge and the number of attractions is great, covering all the highlights mentioned above and enjoying a satisfying break with your family should require no longer than a week. Also, bear in mind that things can be rather expensive so make sure you have enough cash, but that is a fair price for a taste of luxury in arguably the Middle East's most exciting city.
