With a balmy, tropical climate cooled by constant sea breezes, temperatures in Dubai run fairly high throughout the year. The emirate is at its most appealing between September and April when there’s rarely a cloud in the sky and temperatures remain at an almost constant 26 degrees centigrade. During the hotter months when temperatures can exceed 50 degrees centigrade and the humidity soars, air conditioned buildings provide a welcome relief and present a fantastic opportunity to make full use of the hotels fabulously five-star facilities; cool off at the Atlantis The Palm's Aquaventure Water Park; relax at the Health and Beauty Institute at the One&Only Residence & Spa or head to the Burj Khalifa which houses the world's highest swimming pool, on floor seventy-six, and the world's highest mosque on floor 158. If you would like to experience this phenomenal building, which can be seen up to seventy miles away, purchase an 'At The Top' ticket which will take you up to the 124th floor. This isn't actually the top of the tower, but the dizzying heights and impressive views are sure to induce an adrenaline-fuelled high. Prices are 100 dirhams for adults and 75 dirhams for children (approximately £17 and £12.50 respectively). Open from 10am to 12am daily.

Alternatively, head to the shopping malls, for some world-class retail therapy or, in the case of the gargantuan Mall of the Emirates, a spot of skiing. Ski Dubai is a uniquely Alpine-themed attraction complete with an indoor ski slope and real snow; other family options include the Magic Planet family entertainment area and a 14-screen multiplex cinema.