Over the past five years that we’ve lived in Dubai we’ve seen the restrictions change over Ramadan and last year we experienced our most relaxed Ramadan to date. Of course whilst staying respectful, resort life continued which meant that we could really make the most of the early finishes and Ramadan hours. I’m hoping for the same for this year - especially as the weather is perfect for Privilee afternoons!
Schools out early
Schools finish early which is perfect for mid-week afternoon pool days. They’re entertained (and tired out) and I’m chilling or working from a sunbed which is a pretty perfect compromise. We base after-school Privilee’ing very much on location, close enough to whizz home without the risk of traffic jams or danger naps. Our favourites include Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club, The Els Country Club and Dubai Polo Club & Equestrian Club. The Polo Club has a big inflatable slide at the pool which the kids absolutely LOVE - there’s an associated surcharge to use the slide but it’s totally worth it. There are plenty of other venues a little further from us that include Nanny access and kids’ club, and again for the extra journey time, they are also worth visiting!
Shorter working hours
My next advantage of Privilee during Ramadan is the shorter hours, meaning less office and commute time. Lots of Privilee spots have great WiFi - whether that’s poolside or from nice restaurants and cafes. This makes them the perfect location for zoning out and working or hosting client meetings. Some of my favourite work spots include The Green Room at The Els Country Club, Dubai Polo Club & Equestrian Club and The Palace Downtown - which even offers amazing fully-powered cabanas with couches and plug sockets.
Self-care
We like to use this month of calm to reflect and focus on family time - it’s such a wonderful period and we don’t often get the opportunity to slow down the busy pace of life amongst work, school and everything else.
I also like to take a little time out for myself whilst the shorter working hours are in play. Time to unwind; enjoy some spa time, a gym session or a fitness class. There are so many options included with Privilee but some of my favourites include, Away Spa at the W Dubai Palm, Warehouse Gym Springs Souk and boxing classes at Final Round.
Family visiting over Ramadan
If like us you have visitors over Ramadan the Privilee Guest passes are such amazing value. A week's pass (AED 268) works out to less than a one-day pass at some resorts. Plus, each guest pass includes up to three children and the guests can use the membership without the key account holder - that means they can look after the kids if you have to work some days or need a break yourself!
Not to mention that they have access to all the Privilee perks too, from food and drinks discounts to gym access and more. It’s the perfect way to keep guests occupied during their stay. My Mum and Dad love it, Privilee makes them feel like they’re on holiday every day and also takes the stress away from me having to plan things for them to do whilst they are here - they can just browse the app and choose where they’d like to go.
Ramadan Kareem
However you decide to spend your Ramadan this year I wish you a happy and peaceful month of reflection and family time.
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