Planning your first UAE family holiday can feel equal parts magical and overwhelming. As a mum of three and a Family Lifestyle Publisher who has travelled with toddlers, pre-teens and teenagers (all with very different energy levels), I know how important it is to find destinations that blend comfort, safety and unforgettable moments. The UAE is one of those rare places that truly delivers it all. Warm hospitality, luxury touches, kid-friendly attractions and smooth transport options that make family travel feel effortless.

This guide breaks everything down so you can enjoy a trip that feels organised, elevated and still full of adventure. From where to hire hire a Rolls-Royce from renty to the best first stops in Dubai, here’s how to make your UAE holiday feel calm, seamless and genuinely fun for the whole family.

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Travel Arrangements

Your first point of business is to make sure you have a good ride to take you places. Public Transport is well-known in the UAE and easy to use. However, it can be a lot more convenient to have your vehicle to take you places and may end up cheaper in the long run.

Fortunately for you, it is easier than ever to get yourself a car when visiting Dubai. The car rental market is the largest centre of automobile excellence in the whole world. Even if it’s just for rentals, there is no better place to find the fanciest cars on the market. 

Visit any major car rental website and you’ll instantly see just how much choice Dubai offers. A family road trip gives you the perfect excuse to try brands like Mercedes-Benz or Rolls-Royce. Choose a spacious four-seater to keep everyone comfortable, and take advantage of the built-in navigation so you stay on track without stress. The rear-seat monitors also keep the kids entertained for hours, making every journey feel calmer and more enjoyable.

The interior design is made with long travel times in mind. You can be on the road for hours and suffer no faults or damages. The kids themselves can even be entertained with video support in the back seats. 

Where to Go First?

The moment you arrive and have transport sorted, it’s go time. Your first point of contact should always be the main centre of Dubai. The Burj Khalifa is also known as one of the world’s tallest buildings. At the bottom, you can visit the Dubai Mall. This grand metropolitan oasis has plenty of stores to keep you distracted. Take a bite when you can to enjoy the top food brands in the many courts scattered around. 

Near the Burj Khalifa is also an incredible water park. Imagine the numerous slides and splish-splash activities in warm water. There are also several aquariums to visit. The UAE is home to a myriad of sea creatures found nowhere else. Children will get to witness life in the ocean that will be remembered forever.

Travel Beyond

The UAE is filled with wonders you don’t want to miss. Epic memories for the whole family are waiting for you. Below are a few places to tick off your tour guide checklist for an unforgettable road trip: 

If you ever run the risk of a breakdown during your road trip, you can always call up the national service helpline to fix any potential problems. A few car rentals even come with insurance to make sure any potential damages are covered. 

For further safety, be sure to memorise the numbers of helpful services to resolve potential issues. The number 800 555 can be rung for any queries you may have. This will then forward you to any emergency numbers should they be needed. 

Ready for a proper road trip? The UAE has incredible landscapes outside the city.

Hatta

Outdoor activities perfect for families:

• Kayaking
• Rock climbing
• Hiking trails
• Ziplining

Liwa Oasis

Located in the Rub’ al Khali desert. Stunning dunes and peaceful scenery.

Khor Fakkan

A relaxing coastal spot with:

• Beautiful beaches
• A historic amphitheatre
• Incredible sunrise views

Road to Abu Dhabi

The journey itself becomes an attraction:

• Theme parks
• Family restaurants
• Scenic desert views

Before You Go

Your first UAE family holiday doesn’t have to feel hectic. With a little planning and the right transport, Dubai and beyond become the dreamiest mix of luxury, fun and calm family moments. Whether you’re splashing through water parks, exploring mountains, or cruising between cities, this trip will be one your kids talk about for years. Enjoy every sun-soaked moment.