Reopening in Dubai: 6 Kid-friendly hotspots we’ve missed since lockdown

WESTIN MINA SEYAHI REOPENS WITH FAMILY STAYCAY DEAL: The Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina will be welcoming families back from Thursday 1 October with a fab, all-inclusive staycation deal. Get accommodation for two adults and two children up to 14yrs, breakfast in Mina’s Kitchen, lunch and dinner in any of the resort’s restaurants (inclusive of two drinks per person), as well as complimentary minibar access and non-motorized water sports, all for Dh1,299 per room. Bearing in mind that this five-star property boasts a stunning pool and beach, as well as iconic restaurants like Fish and Bounty Beets, this is a great-value way to reacquaint yourself with one of the Marina’s best-loved family hotels. 04 399 4141.

DUBAI SAFARI REOPENS WITH NEW ATTRACTIONS: Dubai Safari Park is back and bigger than ever from 5 October 2020, with new additions to its menagerie of wild and wonderful creatures, including elephants and giraffes. Serving both as an animal reserve and an educational centre, the new Dubai Safari includes a wide range of new interactive, educational and entertainment experiences for visitors of all ages. From gorillas to hyenas, lions and tigers to hippos and lemurs, kids can marvel at the majestic wildlife relaxing on the eco-friendly facility’s specially cooled rocks, while learning about their habitats and conservation. Dubaisafari.ae.

MOTIONGATE REOPENS WITH 2-FOR-1 OFFER: This immersive, Hollywood-inspired theme park reopened on 23 September and is mega kid-friendly, with zones dedicated to children’s animated classics such as Madagascar, Shrek, The Smurfs and How to Train Your Dragon. With much of the park located inside there’s no need to worry about it being too hot, and there’s a good range of activities for littler ones – as well as some thrilling rides too – with the Smurf Land’s soft play and playground. The launch 2-for1 ticket offer has been extended until October 31, so you can purchase park entry for Dh275 for two people (under 3s go free). Dubaiparksandresorts.com.

LAPITA RELAUNCHES WITH UAE RESIDENTS' PACKAGE: A stone’s throw from Motiongate, Polynesian-themed resort Lapita is all about families, with a generous kids’ pool, lazy river and kids’ club, all of which are currently functioning as well. Having opened on 23 September, it is currently running a special offer for UAE residents on accommodation, which includes park access: two adults and two children can stay in a deluxe room from Dh900 per night, including free entry to Motiongate and a half-board package. Call 04 449 0868 or email lapita.dubai.reservations@autographhotels.com using promo code D3Q.

PICNIC PANTRY BRUNCH REBOOTS AND IS NOW FREE FOR U-12S: Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City’s hugely popular picnic pantry brunch is back with a socially distanced twist. Still offering its delectable walk-in pantry, BBQ stations, live music, kid’s activities, as well as all-day pool access, and stunning views of the city skyline, it makes for a fun-filled family day out. Dh245 or Dh345 (house beverages) including pool access, children under 12 are free. Dubaifestivalcityhotels.com, 04 701 1111.

RIPE MARKET REOPENS WITH REVAMPED KIDS’ ACTIVITIES: From October 16 Ripe Market will be reopening at The Dubai Police Academy Park in Umm Suqeim once again, but this time its offering is bigger and better than ever. As well as the farmers’ market, street food trucks and artisan crafts stalls, there will be a full program of activities put on by Dubai Police - including pony rides, marching bands and Mascot Mansour - plus an expanded sports academy by Just Play, including football pitches, paddle tennis courts and basketball. Animal Care Centre’s Mini Animal Kingdom will be there with locally rescued animals and an array of workshops and activities for little ones, alongside arts and crafts activities and live music. Ripe Market Open every Weekend – Friday (9am-7pm) & Saturday (10am-7pm) at Police Academy Park, Umm Suqeim.