As a mom living in Dubai, I can tell you that traveling with kids here is a unique experience—one that’s both exciting and a little overwhelming at times. Whether it’s a quick trip to the beach or an adventurous day out at a theme park, managing parenting while traveling in Dubai can feel like a balancing act. But after years of doing it, I’ve figured out a few tricks to make things run smoothly, so I want to share them with you. Trust me, these tips for traveling with kids in Dubai have made family trips way more enjoyable for all of us!
Dubai is an incredible place to visit as a family. It has everything—amazing attractions, kid-friendly hotels, and plenty of activities for children of all ages. The trick is to make sure you’ve planned ahead, packed wisely, and taken care of the little details that make family trips go off without a hitch.
The Power of Planning Ahead
When I first started traveling with my kids around Dubai, I didn’t realize how important planning would be. You can’t just hop in the car and expect things to go smoothly when you have little ones in tow. Dubai is an amazing city, but it’s big, hot, and sometimes overwhelming.
One of the first things I learned was that it’s best to plan outings either early in the morning or later in the evening. Dubai’s heat can be intense, especially during the summer, and the last thing you want is a grumpy kid melting in the middle of the day. I’ve found that mornings are ideal for trips to places like Dubai Parks and Resorts or Dubai Aquarium, where we can enjoy all the attractions before it gets too hot.
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It also helps to plan according to your kids’ needs. For example, we’ve learned to avoid crowded places during peak times, especially during weekends when Dubai’s tourist spots get super busy. Early mornings or weekdays are much more relaxed, which is a game-changer for us.
Packing Essentials for Kids on the Go
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that when you’re traveling with kids in Dubai, it’s all about packing smart. I’ve had a few “uh-oh” moments where I didn’t pack enough sunscreen or forgot the snacks, and trust me, you don’t want to be in a mall or theme park scrambling to find those things. So here’s what I always have in my bag:
- Sunscreen and Hats: The sun here can be intense, so I always pack sunscreen for each of the kids and a few hats to keep their faces shaded.
- Snacks and Water: My kids are always hungry! I keep a bag of healthy snacks (fruit, nuts, granola bars) and a water bottle for each of them. It helps prevent meltdowns in the middle of a fun activity.
- Hand Sanitizer and Wipes: Kids are messy, and sometimes there’s no water around. I make sure to have a pack of wipes and a small bottle of hand sanitizer with me at all times.
- Cooling Towels: The heat can be exhausting for little ones, so I carry a couple of cooling towels that I can wipe their faces with during outdoor activities.
- Stroller and Baby Carrier: If you have younger kids, a stroller is essential for navigating malls or large attractions. I also carry a baby carrier, especially when we’re going on outings like the desert safari, where strollers aren’t practical.
Finding Family-Friendly Activities in Dubai
Dubai is a dream for family vacations! From beaches and parks to thrilling attractions, there is something for everyone. But with so many options, it’s essential to pick activities that are suitable for your kids’ ages and interests.
Here are some of my favorite spots:
- Beaches: We love spending afternoons at Jumeirah Beach and La Mer. The kids can run around, swim, and there are always playgrounds nearby. The shallow water is great for young children, and we can easily take breaks in the shade.
- Dubai Mall: A trip to Dubai Mall is a must, especially on a hot day. It’s more than just shopping—it has an aquarium, an ice rink, and a VR Park. The kids love it! Plus, it’s air-conditioned, so it’s perfect for a day out during summer.
- Desert Safari: If you’re looking for something unique, a desert safari is an unforgettable experience. My kids loved riding camels and getting a taste of life in the desert. It’s a great way to break up the routine and have some family fun in a totally different environment.
- Theme Parks: If your kids are into rides, you can’t miss IMG Worlds of Adventure or Dubai Parks and Resorts. They have everything from roller coasters to themed attractions. But make sure to check the height requirements before you go so there are no surprises.
Timing Your Visits: Avoiding the Crowds
As much as we love Dubai, one thing I’ve learned quickly is that timing is everything. Traveling with kids means managing their energy levels, and nothing wears them out faster than waiting in long lines or dealing with crowds.
- Fast-Track Passes: If you’re visiting theme parks or big attractions, consider buying a fast-track pass. We’ve used them at Dubai Parks and Resorts, and they’re totally worth it if you want to skip the long lines and maximize your time there.
- Off-Peak Visits: I try to visit most attractions early in the morning or during off-peak hours. Weekends are super busy in Dubai, especially in tourist-heavy spots. I’ve found weekdays in the morning to be the best time to go.
- Book in Advance: Whenever possible, I book tickets online in advance. This saves time and sometimes even money, plus you avoid the hassle of waiting in ticket lines.
Keeping the Kids Safe and Healthy
Dubai is an incredibly safe city, but there are a few things you should keep in mind when traveling with kids. First, it’s always a good idea to keep a close eye on them, especially in crowded places like malls or tourist attractions. The city is full of amazing places to explore, but it’s easy to get separated in a busy setting.
- Emergency Numbers: It’s important to know the local emergency numbers, just in case. Dubai’s medical services are top-notch, and knowing how to reach them gives you peace of mind.
- Pharmacies and Health: We’ve had a few minor scrapes and bruises, and I always make sure to know where the nearest pharmacy is. Many malls in Dubai have pharmacies with English-speaking staff, so it’s easy to pick up anything you might need.
Accommodation: Where to Stay with Kids
Choosing the right place to stay is a big deal when traveling with children. Luckily, Dubai has plenty of family-friendly accommodations that make things easier for parents.
- Jumeirah Beach is home to some amazing family resorts, with pools, kids’ clubs, and direct beach access. We’ve stayed at a few places in the area and loved the proximity to the beach and parks.
- Dubai Marina is another great area with family-friendly hotels and apartments. It’s close to shopping, dining, and attractions like Bluewaters Island and The Walk at JBR.
- Downtown Dubai is ideal if you want to be near Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa. You’ll find plenty of family-friendly options with pools and easy access to the city’s top attractions.
Finding Time for Yourself
While traveling with kids in Dubai can be hectic, it’s important to carve out time for yourself too. Thankfully, Dubai offers plenty of ways for parents to unwind while the kids are entertained.
Many family-friendly resorts offer kids’ clubs or babysitting services, allowing you to relax at the spa, enjoy a meal out, or simply take a break. I highly recommend taking advantage of these services when you can. After all, you deserve a little self-care while managing all the chaos of parenting!
Final Thoughts
Managing parenting while traveling in Dubai isn’t always easy, but with a bit of planning and preparation, it can be incredibly rewarding. The city offers so much for families—whether you’re exploring cultural sites, hitting the beach, or enjoying thrilling adventures. So pack your bags, get ready for some fun, and don’t forget to enjoy the journey. Happy travels, fellow parents!