Dubai boasts something for everyone at all times of the year. From art lovers to nighttime clubbers, the selection of world class exhibitions, sporting facilities, nightclubs, bars and restaurants means that no matter what your age, your visit to Dubai will be as fun packed and active or as relaxing as you want it to be.

As temperatures start to soar, Dubai life starts to change and many move indoors, however outdoor and beach life remains pleasant in the early morning and late afternoon, so  for those visiting Dubai to top up the tan, so all is not lost. Just make sure that your factor 20 is packed and ready for use.

A visit to Dubai during our summer can be a rather steamy affair, however there is a lot more to do than just the predictable mix of beach breakfasts, daytime air-conditioned mall strolls, afternoon tea and evening dining in some of the most impressive eateries in the world. Why not try something a little different.

Kids
During the time the little ones need entertaining there are a myriad of activities to choose from.  Visit Ski-Dubai. With skiing, snowboarding and snowballs, the biggest indoor ski dome in the world is a must for winter sports enthusiasts and those who just want to play in the snow.  Definitely do not miss this fun packed and cool afternoon of indoor snow fun – children from four years can enjoy playing in the snow park (adults to accompany of course).  Ski Dubai is located at Mall of the Emirates – no prior booking necessary. Tip – Avoid Friday’s as extremely busy.

For the budding Beckham in your brood, why not enroll them for the weekly 75-minute lessons from Manchester United Soccer School www.muss.ae where world class coaches develop fitness, skills, technique and tactics. Courses are available for kids aged seven-18.

The one thing you will notice about Dubai is the service excellence and that, as a destination, it is incredibly child friendly. If you are visiting the Emirate with Children, many of the better hotels provide you with in-house babysitting services and daytime childcare facilities so that you can enjoy a little down-time from the family on your luxury break.

Sailing
The ocean is a far nicer place to be than the town when it’s hot. If you would like to escape the air-conditioning and enjoy the freedom and sea breezes of the Gulf waters, Bluesail, based on the Creek near the British Embassy, organizes courses from novice right through to advanced Yacht Master Certificates. Bluesail +971 4 374 4145.
Alternatively you can sit back and let someone else do the work. Enjoy the El Mundo Friday Fun In The Sun cruise. Dhs185 gets you four hours on the boat, which includes four drinks, unlimited soft drinks, banana boat rides, snorkeling and a drink in the Barasti Bar afterwards – which sounds like a very good way to spend the weekend.  El Mundo +971 50 452 3202

Cars
At Dubai Autodrome you can indulge in your wildest speed fantasies to your heart’s content on their outrageously powerful karts – the top speed is a whopping 90kph. Dhs100 gets you a 15-minute race round the 1,205-metre circuit, and if you have a party of 10 to 30 people, you can pay Dhs290 per person for two races and a practice session. Children are also welcome for the morning sessions where a professional will instruct them – presumably on how to beat the adults. Dubai Autodrome +971 4 367 8744

Golf
Dubai boasts some of the finest golf courses on the planet at equally impressive prices. Click here for details www.dubaicityguide.com

Hot air balloon ride
If you’re ever lucky enough to have seen the desert from the sky, you’ll know just how beautiful and varied the landscape is in the emirates. The best way to experience this magical scene has to be by hot air balloon. Enjoy the thrill of floating gently 1,000 feet above land watching the sun come up. Contact Blue Banana (+971 4 369 7378) who organise trips for Dhs880 per person. The pick up time is 4am, but you’ll be back home by 9am. www.bluebanana.ae

Al Fresco Eating - recommended
The Boardwalk - Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club  (+971 4 295 6000).
Open daily Sun-Thu 5pm-2am, Fri 5pm-2am, Sat 6pm-2am.

Beach Bar & Grill  (+971 4 399 9999).
The One & Only Royal Mirage
Open daily 12noon-3.15pm, 7pm-11.30pm.

Al Qasr  (+971 4 316 1111)
Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa
Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7.30pm-12.30pm.

Pierchic (+971 4 366 8888).
Al Qasr
Open daily 12 noon-3pm, 7pm-11.30pm.

La Veranda (+971 4 248 0000).
Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Open daily 11am-10.30pm.

Al fresco drinks
Trilogy Rooftop
Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Road. (+971 4 366 6917).
Taxi: Madinat Jumeirah. Open 9pm-3am.

Rooftop Terrace
Arabian Court, The One&Only Royal Mirage Hotel, Al Sufouh Road (+971 4 399 9999).
Open 5.30pm-1am Mon-Sat. Admission free.

Head for the Beach
Le Meridien Mina Seyahi  +971 4 399 3333
The Mina Beach club is a big favourite with Dubaians, mainly thanks to its casual ambience – something that is sadly lacking at most other five-star resorts. That said, it’s not short on luxury, with four pools to swim in, 850 metres of beach to lie on and large expanses of landscaped greenery to duck into for shade. Dhs200 gets you access to the beach and pools, plus you get a free lunch

Oasis Beach Hotel  +971 4 399 4444
Try the Oasis Beach Hotel. Dhs85 per day, or Dhs140 at weekends, gets you access to the pool, beach, tennis courts, sauna, jacuzzi and gym. Oh and there’s even a table tennis table as well, plus you get a 25 per cent discount at the food outlets.

One & Only Royal Mirage  +971 4 399 9999
If you’re after unbridled luxury, the lengthy strip of sand at the Royal Mirage takes some beating. For Dhs175 you get beach and pool access for the day, allowing you to laze away under a parasol.

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa  +971 4 883 6000
The Jebel Ali complex is the elder statesman of beachfront hotels. Refined, elegant and less showy than its newer five-star rivals, it makes for an ideal day out from town. Entrance is Dhs200 from Thu-Sat, including a barbeque, and Dhs120 in the week, but you’re advised to book a week in advance.

Al fresco nightlife
Residents’ Night
360°, June 8  Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Jumeirah, (+971 4 406 8744). Entry free.
Set on its own pier 300 metres out to sea, with panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline, 360° offers a cool sea breeze, a gorgeous crowd and the best underground music this side of Europe.

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