Dubai is known as one of the most attractive destinations for a family, so it’s no wonder that it’s a popular choice for a family holiday. This city combines excitement, convenience, and discovery all in one place. From climbing to the top of the world’s tallest building to strolling through bustling souks, Dubai tourism has something for everyone. It’s the perfect place to create unforgettable memories together.

However, to make the most of your family trip, careful planning of a family vacation is key.

In this blog, we’ll introduce some of the best family destinations to visit in Dubai, share budgeting and travel tips, and discuss the most convenient options for getting around the emirate.

Planning a Family Vacation: Destinations For a Family and Places to Visit on a Family Tour

It’s practically impossible to list all the holiday destinations and places in Dubai that you can visit with your family, as there are simply too many. To make it easier, we’ll break down three main categories of vacation packages, presenting the most popular choices in each.

Thrilling Adventures

For families seeking adventure, Dubai offers an endless array of thrilling experiences and family holiday packages. Its diverse environment means you can find almost any activity you can imagine.

Start your Dubai trip with a desert safari, where dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding create unforgettable memories for both children and adults.

Theme park lovers can spend the day at IMG Worlds of Adventure or Motiongate Dubai, each filled with rides, shows, and attractions to get your adrenaline pumping.

For those who love water fun, Atlantis’ Aquaventure Waterpark features record-breaking slides and the chance to swim with dolphins, while Wild Wadi Waterpark combines fun with stunning views of the Burj Al Arab.

Alternatively, you can climb impressive heights for breathtaking views. Perhaps the most obvious option in the city is the Burj Khalifa, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

If you’re more interested in nature, you can visit Jebel Jais for mountain hiking and adrenaline-pumping zipline rides.

For those seeking extreme activities and water sports, the city also offers options like skydiving and bungee jumping, although these activities are only suitable for adults.

The exciting side of Dubai ensures that every adventure is full of energy, laughter and lifelong memories.

Tourism air beach jump

Cultural Immersions

A family trip to the UAE isn’t complete without exploring its cultural side. Many holiday tour packages allow you to include these experiences in your itinerary, ensuring an ideal family getaway.

Start with a visit to the Al Fahidi Historical District, which has been preserved for centuries and offers a glimpse into the ancient life of the locals.

There are also many other museums and exhibitions in the city. One of the most famous of these, the Dubai Museum in the Al Fahidi Fort, offers interactive exhibits that bring the city’s past to life for young visitors. If you happen to visit the neighboring emirate, make sure to stop by the Museum of Islamic Civilization in Sharjah.

Those who love art galleries should also consider heading to Abu Dhabi and visiting the Louvre.

For a more vibrant holiday trip, stroll through the bustling souks. The Gold Souk and the Spice Souk are especially fun for children, with their colors, scents, and treasures. A traditional abra ride along Dubai Creek is another simple but memorable activity that connects the entire family with the city’s heritage.

To get a better idea of the local religion, you can admire some of the most beautiful mosques in the United Arab Emirates. The list includes the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum Mosque in Dubai, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, the Al Noor Mosque in Sharjah, and the Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid al Nuaim Mosque in Ajman.

These cultural immersions allow families to connect with Dubai’s history and traditions while making the trip more meaningful.

Family-Friendly Activities

Most of the places listed are already family-friendly, but if you’re looking for ideas that will please everyone on your trip, there are a few options to choose from. Family travel packages often include resorts and beaches, perfect for a relaxing family trip to Dubai. For a little extra excitement, you can also visit the water parks and theme parks.

For a touch of nature, packages include a visit to Dubai Miracle Garden, where colorful floral displays create a magical atmosphere, or Dubai Safari Park, home to animals from around the world. Families can also enjoy international wildlife packages for a broader experience.

For theme park fun, Dubai tour packages offer Motiongate Dubai, LEGOLAND Dubai, and IMG Worlds of Adventure, each features rides and activities tailored to different age groups.

Water lovers will enjoy Aquaventure Waterpark and Wild Wadi Waterpark, included in many family packages, guaranteeing hours of fun with slides, pools, and wave machines.

A visit to the Dubai Mall is about much more than shopping. It includes the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, an Olympic-sized ice rink, and endless attractions for kids. Outside, the Dubai Fountain show captivates both children and adults with music, lights, and dancing water.

These family fun activities ensure that there is always something interesting to do, no matter your children’s age or interests.

Whether you prefer shopping, thrill rides, history, or outdoor fun, this lux city offers countless places to visit that make family trips memorable.

Dubai miracle garden with over 45 million flowers

Family Holidays in Dubai

A successful family vacation in Dubai starts with careful planning. Trying to make decisions on the spot can be a waste of time, as many attractions, such as Ski Dubai or Burj Khalifa require advance reservations to fully enjoy. Without a plan, you may find yourself rushing from one activity to the next instead of enjoying the experience.

Book family packages is the best way to avoid wasting time and long queues. Reserve as much as possible in advance, or at least make more or less specific plans for each day of your visit.

Pre-booking essential services, such as car rentals and tickets to popular attractions, can save both time and stress. Finding a car rental company requires some research, while lines at popular attractions can be quite long during peak tourist season. By planning ahead, your family vacation will be more relaxed, enjoyable, and memorable for everyone.

If you’re worried about crowds of other visitors, check out our article on the best time to visit Dubai.

Budgeting for a Dubai Family Package Trip

Setting a budget is important to avoid overspending. Start by setting a clear budget for key expenses, such as airfare, accommodation, car rentals, and sightseeing tickets. These typically make up the largest portion of your expenses, so comparing options and booking in advance can help you secure the best deals.

Daily expenses, such as dining, shopping, and transportation, should also be considered. While Dubai is known for its luxury, there are plenty of affordable restaurants, family-friendly hotels, and free attractions like public beaches and parks. Balancing high-quality experiences with budget-friendly activities will give your family a complete experience without breaking the bank.

Luxury car rental services

Always set aside a small portion of your budget for unexpected expenses. It can be an unplanned excursion, souvenirs, or emergencies. Even those travelling on a solo trip can benefit from careful planning and cost management to enjoy a fulfilling travel experience. Here are some tips and tricks to save money and make the most of your visit.

Setting a Realistic Budget for a Family Trip

First things first, it’s vital to understand your budget. Knowing how much spare funds you have is necessary to determine which international family vacation packages are suitable for you, and which destinations you will be able to visit.

Those who are especially tight on cash can check out our list of free things to do in Dubai. Otherwise, the best approach is to:

  1. Select the places you really want to visit.
  2. Approximately calculate the remaining funds.
  3. Try to schedule as many other activities as possible within the remaining budget.

Saving Strategies for Book Family Packages

The most obvious way to make your family vacation cheaper is to book everything as early as possible. Hotels and flights tend to increase in price the closer you get to your desired date, so booking your tickets a few months in advance will definitely save you a lot of money. Browsing other popular holiday packages or bundle deals often offers better value than booking everything separately.

The same rule applies to some other destinations, as many companies are willing to offer discounts to early arrivals. And while you’ll have to spend the money upfront, the overall cost of your trip will be significantly more affordable.

Consider renting a car to get around, which can be more affordable than booking a taxi for the family. It also gives you the freedom to navigate at your own pace.

Look for online discounts for attractions, combination tickets, or family passes, which can significantly reduce the cost of admission to theme parks and water parks.

Choose The Right Accommodation and Holiday Destination

Finding the right accommodation is one of the most important steps in planning a family trip to Dubai, and the choice should be made taking into account all personal preferences.

The city has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts with full amenities to budget hotels and serviced apartments. Your choice should depend on your family’s needs, the length of your stay, and the overall budget.

For active travellers who plan to visit natural attractions and neighboring emirates, it makes sense to look for a cheaper accommodation option that will serve as a good starting point for further trips.

In contrast, visitors who intend to spend a relaxing family trip and don’t plan to leave the hotel often should look for a better resort.

Families who prefer more space and flexibility can choose serviced apartments, which often have kitchens and laundry facilities, great for longer stays.

Of course, it’s also wise to have an idea of the places you want to visit before choosing a hotel, as this will help you select the best location. Booking accommodation in advance not only helps to secure better prices, but also ensures availability during peak seasons.

Travel Tips for Families in Dubai Family Package

  • Start by planning your itinerary, especially for popular attractions that require tickets or reservations.
  • When traveling with children, make sure to bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles, as the weather can be quite hot. It’s also helpful to pack some snacks and entertainment for young children on long walks.
  • Dubai is family-friendly but culturally respectful, so dress modestly in traditional settings and always check local customs before visiting certain places.

Cultural norms and dress codes

When visiting Dubai with your family, it’s important to be aware of local customs and traditions. The city is modern and welcoming, but it places great emphasis on respecting cultural norms, especially in public spaces. Families should remember that modest clothing is recommended in shopping malls, markets and cultural venues. Casual attire, such as trousers or shorts with a T-shirt, is acceptable for men, while women are advised to cover their shoulders and knees in traditional settings. Swimwear is permitted at beaches, swimming pools and water parks, but should not be worn outside of these areas.

Public displays of affection are best kept to a minimum, as Dubai maintains a family-friendly atmosphere.

Another important thing to remember is the month of Ramadan, which is a significant cultural event among locals. Tourists aren’t required to follow all the rules and participate in its celebration, but violating these rules during this period is considered highly disrespectful.

Dress code sign in sheikh zayed grand mosque

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is an important step when planning a trip to Dubai and is well worth the extra expense. It provides peace of mind by covering medical emergencies, flight delays, lost luggage or cancellations that could otherwise ruin your vacation.

Families traveling with children should also check whether the policy covers childcare and any pre-existing conditions.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you should act irresponsibly after purchasing insurance. Dealing with unforeseen situations will still take time away from your family trip to Dubai, even if the financial losses are eventually compensated.

Car Rental Considerations For Your International Family Getaway

Renting a car is much more cost-effective than paying for a tour to get you to your destination. It allows to be completely flexible and free. Thanks to the well-developed infrastructure, the trip will be a pure pleasure. But there are a few key points to remember before booking.

  • First, consider the size and comfort of the car. Families often opt for SUVs, minivans or spacious sedans, which provide enough space for luggage and comfortable seating for everyone.
  • Safety features such as child seats should also be arranged in advance.
  • For large families or groups traveling together, renting a 7- or 8-seater car in Dubai can make the trip more pleasurable. These vehicles offer spacious seating, extra luggage space, and flexible seating arrangements, perfect for families carrying strollers, shopping bags, or travel gear.
  • Compare rental prices, insurance options and fuel policies between different companies to find the most competitive price.
  • Booking in advance usually provides better prices and ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.
  • Make sure you check what documents are required: usually a passport, a visa, a valid driver’s license, an international permit if necessary and a credit card as a deposit.
  • Finally, familiarize yourself with local driving regulations. Dubai’s roads are modern and well-maintained, but speed limits are strictly enforced, and parking regulations vary across the city.

Read more about family-friendly car rental tips in our previous article.

Just fun and the road ahead

Advantages of Renting a Car

Renting a car during your family vacation in Dubai has many advantages that make your trip more enjoyable and productive.

  • One of the biggest advantages is flexibility. You can travel on your own schedule, navigate to attractions outside the city center, and make spontaneous stops without relying on taxis or public transportation.
  • Renting a car also adds comfort and convenience. Having extra space for suitcases, strollers, and shopping bags makes it easier to get around, while air conditioning and child safety seats add to the comfort of your trip.
  • In many cases, renting a car is also affordable. The cost of multiple taxi rides or private transfers can quickly add up.
  • It also makes day trips to nearby emirates easier.

Although we recommend learning more about parking in Dubai before your journey, as the zones and areas might be confusing at first.

Choose the Right Rental Company

Start by researching companies online, comparing prices, available vehicles, insurance options, and customer reviews. A reliable rental company will provide transparent terms, competitive pricing, and responsive customer support.

Look for agencies that offer family options, such as 7 or 8 seater vehicles, child safety seats, and cars with large trunk space. Booking in advance not only ensures you get the car you need but also often comes with better prices.

Check insurance coverage and policies carefully. Some companies include full insurance in the rental price, while others offer it as an additional fee. Knowing fuel policies, mileage limits, and deposit requirements will help you avoid unexpected charges.

Enjoy and make the most of your visit to the United Arab Emirates.