JA The Resort Dubai Review: Hidden Gem That's Perfect for Families

If you’re looking for a Dubai hotel that offers space, luxury, beachfront access and proper family facilities, without costing the earth... then let me introduce you to a bit of a hidden gem: JA The Resort.

I’d booked it a few times for clients and always had great feedback, so we finally decided to try it as a family and we’ve been back twice. That says everything.

A Proper Resort (Which is Rare in Dubai!)

Most hotels in Dubai are vertical, glitzy and in the thick of it. JA The Resort is the opposite. It’s low-rise, lush and spread across 128 acres on the beachfront in Jebel Ali, so it feels more like a holiday resort you’d find in Europe or the Caribbean, but with that unmistakable Dubai service and sunshine.

It’s actually made up of three hotels in one:

• JA Beach Hotel – modern, bright, great for families

• JA Lake View Hotel – newer, a little more contemporary

• JA Palm Tree Court – my personal favourite, right on the beach, with huge suites and direct access to the sand

  
  

The Rooms – Palm Tree Court is the One

We stayed at the Beach Hotel on our first trip and really liked it. It's modern, comfy and well placed near the pools and restaurants. But second time around, we booked Palm Tree Court for a more beachy vibe and we loved that even more!

The rooms are incredibly spacious, with garden or sea views, large balconies or terraces and plenty of space for families. It felt luxurious, relaxed and perfect for unwinding after a day in the sun.

So Much to Do – Equestrian, Watersports & More

This is where JA really stands out. It’s one of the only true all-inclusive resorts in Dubai, which is rare and so appreciated.

There's seven pools, including family, infinity and adults-only options.

They have a kids’ pool with a shaded canopy (absolutely perfect for hot days — Jax spent ages there).

A kids’ club with daily activities and play zones.

An equestrian centre with horse riding and pony experiences.

A 9-hole golf course.

Tennis courts, padel, mini golf, shooting range, watersports and even a marina.

It’s basically Dubai’s answer to a European mega-resort, but with camels on the beach and that iconic skyline off in the distance.

Food & Drink – Loads of Variety, All Tasty

There are over 25 restaurants and bars across the three hotels... from beach bars to fine dining and casual buffets to seafood grills.

We tried a mix and were really impressed each time. The service was great and being able to go all-inclusive in Dubai is a big win, especially with kids.

A few standouts:

• White Orchid – Asian fusion

• La Fontana – International buffet with themed nights

• Captain’s Restaurant – beachside dining, great for lunch

  
  

How Was It for Jax?

Both times we stayed, Jax absolutely loved it. The pools, the wide-open space, the animals, the playgrounds... it has so much to offer.

The vibe is relaxed and welcoming and the grounds are huge so there’s room to move and explore. It’s ideal for SEN families who want to avoid the busy city chaos.

What’s the Catch? (If Any…)

It’s not actually a downside for me, but it’s worth knowing: JA The Resort is located in Jebel Ali, about 20–25 minutes from JBR/The Marina.

So if you want to be right in the middle of the city and hop to the mall or Burj Khalifa every day, this isn’t your spot. But we loved being slightly removed from the hustle, with more space, greenery and beach. Then we'd jump in a taxi to go into the city when we wanted to.

Who’s It For?

• Families who want a relaxed, activity-packed resort

• Clients who usually do European beach resorts but want to try Dubai

• Horse-mad kids or anyone who’d love the equestrian centre

• Anyone looking for all-inclusive Dubai without the mega price tag

  
  

Final Thoughts – One of My Favourite Family Hotels in Dubai

JA The Resort delivers space, sunshine, service and genuine value in a city not known for being low-key. It’s one of those places you don’t just visit... you go back. And we have.

It’s my go-to recommendation for families, especially those who want all-inclusive ease, plenty for the kids to do and still want those dreamy Dubai views and luxury touches.