Playcation: A little something for all the little ones

Staycations are a chance for the whole family to spend some time together, and unwind after bearing the stress of the last few challenging months. However, while it is easy to be tempted into booking a staycation with all the fabulous deals going around, many residents have to be extra careful in ensuring that their kids won't end up getting bored during the weekend retreat. This means finding a location that not only has play areas that are engaging and welcoming for kids, but also a list of fun activities that will appeal to little ones of all age groups. Here is a selection of staycation retreats that really left a mark with our readers and their families.

Rixos Bab Al Bahr
Situated on the pristine white sands on the peaceful Marjan Island of Ras Al Khaimah, the Rixos Bab Al Bahr has a beautiful beach, stylish accommodations, upscale restaurants, and breath-taking views. The resort also has a kids club called the Rixy Kids Club that lets your little ones enjoy a thrilling holiday full of new friends, fun and games. Activities offered at this kids club include the Rixy disco, musical games, cinema, treasure hunts, beach and pool games, talent shows and more. The resort also offers babysitting services that are subject to availability and require an advanced reservation.

JA Palm Tree Court
If you decide to book a Family Getaway at this award-winning beach resort, you will be delighted to hear that there are three swimming pools and three kids clubs for kids from the ages of 4 months to 17 years, as well as several leisure activities and sports facilities. More than a dozen restaurants offer a wide variety, as your family enjoys the perfect combination between casual luxury and heartfelt hospitality on the beachy sands of the Arabian Gulf. Babysitting services are also available for an additional fee.

Jumeirah Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah
Part of the luxurious Madinat Jumeirah resort in the heart of Dubai, with its beautiful network of canals flanked by tropical gardens, Jumeirah Al Qasr is as attractive for families as it is for couples. Along with family-friendly pools, a gorgeous stretch of kid-friendly beach, and even a rock climbing walls, all Jumeirah Al Qasr guests receive free access to the Wild Wadi Water Park nearby. Sinbad>s Kids' Club is another big perk, offering a variety of play areas and activities for young guests.

The Palace at One & Only Royal Mirage
This amazing property on Jumeirah Beach features an array of facilities for kids and adults. Amenities include four pools, 13 dining outlets, and a gorgeous spa with a hammam. All guests also receive access to facilities at the Palm Jumeirah. The Palace also offers swimming, tennis, and waterskiing lessons for kids. KidsOnly, which is the club dedicated to keeping the kids engaged, has several supervised activities plus two playgrounds.

Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
Le Meridien Mina Seyahi is a 5-star luxury resort that boasts several swimming pools situated amidst lush gardens and several dining and entertainment venues. Leisure facilities at the Mina Seyahi include a water sports centre and Club Mina fitness centre. Younger guests can enjoy and sign up for the Le Meridien Family Kids Club which offers activities programs, beach games as well as two separate kids' pools.

DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island
Another resort with a private white sandy beach, this resort features 13 restaurants including an all-day dining venue, four specialty restaurants, a lounge, coffee house, and night club. The property also has a newly renovated kids club with dedicated arcade areas for the teenagers and an outdoor playground. In addition, there is a Pirate Boat Aqua Zone with lots of water slides. The Resort boasts of the largest Tarzan boat in the Middle East, fitted with two trampolines, two high dive boards with the tallest being 14 foot high, water slide and large rope swing.