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Dubai
Family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children aged 8 and 11)
27 December 2026 – 3 January 2027 · 7 nights · Departing from Heathrow
The summary
Christmas in Dubai is peak season. We found the apartment-and-flights split saves significantly on long-stay families, while the JBR beachfront hotel is the best balance of cost and location.
Three options compared
Cheapest
Emirates flights + serviced apartment in Marina
Two bedroom apartment with pool and gym, walking distance to the Metro. Best for families happy to self-cater for breakfast.
£3,490
Emirates flights x4£2,360
Marina apartment (7 nights)£780
Metro and transfers£90
Food and attractions£260
Best value
BA Holidays package at Rixos Premium JBR
Beachfront hotel, breakfast included, transfers covered. ABTA protected with the BA flight bundle.
Saves £710 vs booking each element separately
£4,180
BA flights x4£2,140
Rixos JBR (B&B)£1,720
Private transfers£90
Attractions budget£230
Premium
Atlantis The Palm with waterpark access
Aquaventure waterpark included for the full stay. Underwater rooms available if you want the splurge.
£6,440
Premium flights x4£2,600
Atlantis The Palm (B&B)£3,420
Transfers and extras£420
Worth knowing
- Hotels with a beach are worth the small premium with kids
- Burj Khalifa tickets are 40 percent cheaper if booked for non-sunset slots
- The Metro is air conditioned, cheap and great for older kids
Watch out for
- New Year's Eve dinners at the Marina are pre-paid and expensive, book in advance or skip
- Taxis from the airport are fine, pre-booked transfers are usually a rip-off
- Most beach clubs charge per adult for day passes, factor £60-£100 in if you fancy one