Dubai Through the Ages - My Fam Trip Adventure

A few months ago, in May, I had the incredible opportunity to join Visit Dubai - formally known as the Dubai Culture & Tourism Authority - on their “Through the Ages” familiarisation (fam) trip.

For those who don’t know, fam trips are a chance for travel agents to experience hotels, attractions, airlines, and cultural offerings first-hand. The idea is simple: when we’ve lived the experience ourselves, we can sell it authentically to our clients, giving personalised recommendations and insider insights that go far beyond brochures or websites.

Flying in Style with Royal Brunei

Our journey began with Royal Brunei Airlines. On the outbound leg, we experienced the airline’s business class seats, which are 11% larger than most other business class seats - fully reclining into flat beds with plush duvets and pillows. It was like being tucked into a first-class hotel bed at 35,000 feet! The in-flight entertainment system kept me entertained for hours. 

On the return flight, we flew economy, and I was genuinely impressed with the spacious seats, excellent legroom, and diverse in-flight entertainment system. Even economy travel felt comfortable and relaxing and was a great reminder that good experiences don’t have to come at a premium.

Day 1 – Arrival and Family Fun 

Our first stop was Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, and I have to say it was incredible. The rooms here are super spacious, some with full kitchens and balconies overlooking the sea. Their breakfast was exceptional, and the hospitality? Absolutely unmatched. Fun fact: we can get you amazing room deals for this property; give our team a call on 0208 819 0531 for a custom quote.

Our first sightseeing stop in Dubai was Dubai Parks and Resorts, and I’ll admit, I was a bit hesitant at first. I’m in my 20s and don’t have kids, so I thought, “what am I doing here?” but as soon as I stepped in, I was pleasantly surprised - your inner child really does come out here! It’s such a wonderful way to spend quality time with your kids, especially if you want to spoil them with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. When you book with Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, you get access to all the surrounding parks - Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and Legoland Waterpark. Trust me when I say, it’s genuinely made for families: your kids will have the time of their lives, and you’ll enjoy it too.

Dinner that evening was at Byron Bathers on Palm West Beach, the perfect mix of relaxation and style, right by the sea - a great way to unwind after a full day.

Day 2 – Yachts, Skyline Views & Pure Vibes

If Day 1 was for families, Day 2 was definitely my day. This one was made for people in their 20s and 30s - I honestly had the time of my life.

We kicked off with a three-hour yacht trip that included all-you-can-eat food and drink. The sunshine, the music, the views of Dubai from the water - it was a total vibe. If you’re travelling with a group of friends, this is the activity I’d recommend. Prices vary, but at around £100 per person for three hours with food and alcohol included, I’d say it’s an absolute steal.

Later, we had a tour of the SLS Hotel, which has such a unique, upside-down concept - their lobby actually starts on level 74! The highlight is their rooftop infinity pool. It’s absolutely breath-taking, with a full view of Dubai’s skyline and, right in the centre, the world-famous Burj Khalifa. The kind of place that makes you stop, take a deep breath, and think wow, I’m really here.

Dinner that evening was at Baoli, J1 Beach, which wrapped the day up with pure glamour - stylish vibes, amazing food, and the perfect spot for anyone who loves a lively atmosphere.

Day 3 – Souks, Sands, and Desert Magic

The morning started with a wander through the Madinat Souks, where winding alleyways, lantern-lit shops, and the smell of spices made it feel like stepping into another world. After that, we explored Jumeirah Al Qasr, one of Dubai’s most stunning hotels. Built in traditional Arabian architecture, it’s like something out of 1001 Nights or even Aladdin. The rooms feel fit for royalty, and the views of the iconic Burj Al Arab are nothing short of magical.

After lunch and a bit of downtime, it was time for the highlight of the day — a luxury desert safari. We started with an interactive falconry experience, where we learned just how important falcons are in Emirati culture. Fun fact: falcons in the UAE actually have their own passports, and when they travel abroad, they often get their own private planes. Of course, they travel in style!

As the sun set, we rode through the dunes in classic Land Rovers before arriving at a Bedouin-style camp. Dinner under the stars, surrounded by the stillness of the desert, was unforgettable. And stargazing with no city lights around? Pure magic.

Day 4 – Iconic Hotels and Cultural Gems

We kicked off the day with breakfast and a tour of Atlantis The Royal, and honestly, it was surreal. The design, the sheer scale, the luxury - it’s the kind of place that makes your jaw turned imagination into reality.

Later, we spent time at Madinat Jumeirah, which feels like stepping back in time. With its traditional Arabian architecture, winding waterways, and charming abra boats, it’s the perfect reminder that Dubai isn’t just skyscrapers and malls. It’s also a city that celebrates culture, heritage, and world-class hospitality all at once.

Day 5 – Old Dubai Meets the Future

This day was a personal highlight. We explored Old Dubai - the gold souks, Al Fahidi District, and even took a traditional abra across Dubai Creek. Lunch at Arabian Tea House was a delicious immersion into Emirati flavours.

In the afternoon, we jumped forward in time at the Museum of the Future, a truly mind-blowing space that showcases innovation, technology, and sustainability in ways you can actually interact with. It’s not just about looking at exhibits - you feel like you’re stepping into the future yourself. Tickets start from around AED 145 (roughly £32), which is a small price for such a unique experience.

We wrapped up the day at Burj Khalifa for those iconic skyline views, followed by dinner at Gerbou, a farm-to-table Emirati restaurant - the perfect way to close out an unforgettable trip.

Reflections on Dubai

What struck me most on this trip was the city’s contrasts - one moment you’re sipping mint tea in a centuries-old courtyard, the next you’re walking through a futuristic museum or lounging on a rooftop infinity pool. Dubai is a city of experiences, and this fam trip showed me just how diverse those experiences can be.

A huge thank you to Visit Dubai and Royal Brunei Airlines for hosting such a thoughtfully curated and inspiring familiarisation trip.

And for anyone daydreaming about their next getaway, we have unbelievable deals on Royal Brunei flights starting from just £475 per person, and holiday packages to Dubai starting from £599 per person. Check them out at brightsun.co.uk or call us on 0208 819 0531.

All prices mentioned in this blog were correct at the time of publication and are subject to change and availability.