Travelling to Dubai with children can be an exciting and memorable experience. Known for its futuristic skyline, world-class attractions, and family-friendly activities, Dubai is one of the best destinations for families to explore. However, planning a trip with children requires some extra consideration. From applying for your Dubai Visit Visa to ensuring a smooth travel experience, it's essential to be prepared.
1. Apply for a Dubai Visit Visa Early
Before you begin planning your trip, ensure you have the right travel documents. For international tourists, obtaining a Dubai Visit Visa is a crucial first step. The visa application process is straightforward and can be completed online, making it convenient and hassle-free.
How to Apply for a Dubai Visit Visa: Visit the official website or use a reliable online visa service to submit your application. Ensure you apply at least two weeks in advance to avoid delays. A tourist visa is typically valid for 30 days.
Documents Required: Ensure you have valid passports for all family members, passport-sized photographs, and a flight booking.
2. Choose Family-Friendly Accommodation
Dubai offers a variety of family-friendly hotels, resorts, and apartments. When travelling with children, it's important to pick accommodations that cater to your family’s needs.
Resorts with Kids’ Clubs: Look for hotels or resorts that offer kids’ clubs, where your children can enjoy supervised activities while you take some time to relax. Popular resorts like Atlantis The Palm and Jumeirah Beach Hotel offer great amenities for families.
Kid-Friendly Amenities: Ensure your accommodation offers services like babysitting, child-friendly dining options, and access to pools or kids' play areas.
Proximity to Attractions: Choose a location that is near major family attractions like theme parks, malls, and the beach. Staying centrally located will save you time and make travelling around the city much easier.
3. Plan Your Itinerary Around Kid-Friendly Attractions
Dubai is full of exciting attractions that cater to children of all ages. From theme parks to aquariums and beaches, there is something for every child. Be sure to include these popular family-friendly spots in your itinerary:
a. Dubai Parks and Resorts
Dubai Parks and Resorts is a massive entertainment complex featuring several theme parks, including Motiongate Dubai, Legoland Dubai, and Bollywood Parks. These parks are perfect for families with children, offering thrilling rides, interactive activities, and live shows.
b. The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Located inside The Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world. Children will love seeing a variety of marine life up close, including sharks, rays, and other aquatic species.
c. Jumeirah Beach
For some downtime, head to Jumeirah Beach, a perfect spot for families. It offers soft sands, clear waters, and plenty of recreational activities. The beach is ideal for a relaxed day out with the kids, enjoying the sun and the water.
d. KidZania
KidZania is an interactive indoor city that allows children to explore various professions through role-play activities. Located in The Dubai Mall, it’s a fun and educational experience for children aged 4 to 16.
e. Dubai Dolphinarium
Another great place for kids is the Dubai Dolphinarium, where children can watch exciting dolphin and seal shows. This venue provides a unique opportunity for children to interact with marine animals in a safe environment.
4. Pack Essentials for a Comfortable Trip
Travelling with children requires a little more preparation. Here are some essential items you should pack to ensure a comfortable trip:
Snacks and Drinks: Keep your children hydrated and satisfied with healthy snacks and drinks, especially during long flights or while visiting attractions.
Comfort Items: If your children have favorite toys, blankets, or comfort items, be sure to pack them for the journey. These familiar items can help them feel more at ease in a new environment.
Sunscreen and Hats: The UAE can be hot, especially during summer, so make sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your children from the sun.
Light Clothing: Comfortable and breathable clothing is a must, as the temperature can soar. Dress your kids in lightweight clothing and pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.
5. Consider Transportation and Getting Around Dubai
Dubai offers an efficient public transport system, but when travelling with children, private transportation might be more convenient. Here are a few options to consider:
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services: Taxis in Dubai are safe and affordable. If you’re travelling with children, it might be easier to use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem. These services often allow you to request a car that suits your needs.
Metro: Dubai’s metro system is clean, efficient, and cost-effective. However, during peak hours, it can get crowded, so consider using the metro for short distances or when travelling with older children.
Car Hire: If you plan on exploring beyond the city, renting a car might be the best option. Ensure your rental includes car seats for younger children.
6. Be Prepared for the Weather
Dubai’s climate can be intense, especially during summer months. Be prepared for hot temperatures, particularly from June to September. Here’s how to stay cool and comfortable:
Stay Indoors During Peak Heat: The heat is most intense between 11 AM and 4 PM. It’s advisable to plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Indoor Activities: Fortunately, Dubai offers plenty of indoor attractions like shopping malls, aquariums, and entertainment complexes that are air-conditioned, providing a cool respite from the heat.
7. Understand Local Customs and Etiquette
When travelling with children, it’s important to respect local customs and practices. Here are a few things to keep in mind while in Dubai:
Dress Modestly: Dubai is a relatively liberal city, but modest clothing is expected, especially in public spaces and religious sites. Be sure to dress your children accordingly, with light, modest clothing.
Public Behavior: It’s important to be mindful of public behavior. Avoid loud talking or displays of affection in public, as these are not typically accepted in Emirati culture.
8. Stay Safe and Healthy
Dubai is one of the safest cities for tourists, but it’s still important to take precautions, especially when travelling with children.
Medical Services: Dubai has excellent healthcare facilities, but it’s wise to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies. Know the location of nearby hospitals and clinics in case of an emergency.
Emergency Numbers: The emergency number in Dubai is 999. Ensure that your family knows how to contact emergency services if necessary.
9. Keep Children Entertained During the Journey
Long flights and travel times can be challenging for young children. To make the journey smoother, pack a few items to keep them entertained, such as:
Tablets with Games and Movies: Load up your tablet with educational games, cartoons, and movies to keep your children busy during the flight.
Books and Toys: Pack their favorite books and small toys to keep them occupied. It helps to have a mix of activities to prevent boredom.
10. Take Advantage of Special Offers for Families
Dubai offers a range of family deals and discounts during peak seasons. Many theme parks, attractions, and malls offer discounts for children under a certain age, making it easier to plan a budget-friendly trip.
Conclusion
Dubai is an incredible destination for families with children. With its world-class attractions, family-friendly accommodations, and endless activities, you’re sure to create lifelong memories. By following these top tips for travelling with children to Dubai, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Don't forget to apply for your Dubai Visit Visa in advance and plan your activities accordingly to get the most out of your stay.
FAQs
Do I need a Dubai Visit Visa to travel with children?
- Yes, you will need a Dubai Visit Visa for all visitors, including children. Apply for it online before your trip.
What are the best child-friendly attractions in Dubai?
- Some of the best child-friendly attractions include Dubai Parks and Resorts, KidZania, and the Dubai Aquarium.
What should I pack for my children when visiting Dubai?
- Essential items include snacks, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, toys, and a light jacket for evenings.
Is it safe to travel to Dubai with children?
- Yes, Dubai is very safe for tourists, with excellent healthcare facilities and low crime rates.
How can I get around Dubai with kids?
- Taxis, ride-hailing services, and the metro are all convenient options, but renting a car may be more comfortable for families with young children.
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