⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Due to active military hostilities and the threat of missile and drone strikes targeting urban centers, government agencies (including CA, USA, UK, AU, IE, and NZ) advise travelers to avoid all travel or do not travel to the United Arab Emirates. The security situation is volatile, with emergency alerts and airspace closures reported. Families are strongly urged to consult their own government's official travel advisory before considering a trip, as circumstances and risk assessments vary.
Rising from the sands of the Arabian Peninsula, the United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates that feels like a journey through time. While Dubai and Abu Dhabi grab headlines with their gravity-defying architecture and luxury, the country's soul resides in its warm hospitality and desert heritage. For families, it is a destination of stark contrasts: you can spend the morning haggling in a spice souk and the afternoon skiing indoors or sliding down water rides. The infrastructure is ultra-modern, making travel with children exceptionally easy, though the current security climate requires extreme caution.
Beyond the glitz of the cities, the rugged Hajar Mountains in Ras Al Khaimah and the golden beaches of Fujairah & East Coast offer natural escapes. The cultural heart of the nation beats in Sharjah & Northern Emirates, where museums and heritage sites preserve the stories of a people who thrived in the desert long before the oil boom. Whether it's a 4x4 safari into the dunes or a quiet walk through an ancient oasis, the UAE promises memories that are both thrilling and educational.
Key Attractions
No trip is complete without witnessing the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, which offers staggering views of the city and desert beyond. At its base, families can watch the captivating The Dubai Fountain shows. For a dive into history, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood provides a glimpse of old Dubai with its traditional wind-tower architecture and winding alleyways.
In the capital, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is an architectural masterpiece that presents art in a way that is accessible and fascinating for children, with a dedicated children's museum. Nearby, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi thrills older kids with the world's fastest rollercoaster, while Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi offers cooling relief. For a peaceful retreat, the Al Ain Oasis showcases the ancient falaj irrigation system amidst thousands of date palms.
Nature lovers should head north to Jebel Jais for mountain adventures and cooler temperatures. In Sharjah, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization offers a brilliant educational stop, while the Aquaventure World in Dubai remains one of the planet's most impressive water parks.
Practical Advice
Best Time to Visit: The winter months (November to March) are ideal, with pleasant temperatures suitable for outdoor exploration. Summer (June to September) is scorching, often exceeding 40°C (104°F), forcing most activities indoors.
Visas: Citizens of many Western countries (including UK, USA, EU, Australia) receive a free visa on arrival (30 or 90 days). Always check the latest entry rules as they can change.
Health: Healthcare facilities are world-class but expensive; comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Stay hydrated, as dehydration is a major risk even in winter.
Food & Drink
Typical meal times: Lunch is usually served from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm, and dinner is a late affair, typically from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm, though malls and family restaurants serve continuously.
Typical meal costs: AED 60–120 (approx. $16–33 USD / €15–30 EUR) per person for a mid-range meal. Fine dining can easily exceed AED 500 ($136 USD / €125 EUR) per head.
Dietary requirements: Excellent. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, especially in cities. Halal food is the standard. Nuts and sesame are common, so notify staff of allergies.
Family-friendly dining: Children are welcomed everywhere. Highchairs are standard, and kid-friendly menus are available in almost all restaurants. Friday Brunch is a massive family tradition with lavish buffets.
Signature dishes:
- Machboos – A fragrant spiced rice dish with meat (usually chicken or lamb) and dried lemon, similar to biryani but with distinct local spices.
- Luqaimat – Crunchy sweet dumplings deep-fried and drizzled with date syrup, a favourite treat for children.
- Harees – A porridge-like dish made of wheat and meat, slow-cooked until smooth; a comfort food staple.
- Shawarma – Marinated meat shaved from a rotating spit, wrapped in flatbread with garlic sauce and pickles.
Safety
Security Risks: The current security environment is extremely dangerous due to regional conflict. Missile and drone attacks have targeted civil infrastructure in major cities. Air raid sirens may sound; if this happens, seek shelter in windowless rooms or lower floors immediately. Avoid all military installations and potential strategic targets.
Public Order: Strict laws govern behaviour. Public displays of affection, aggressive language, or rude gestures can lead to fines or deportation. During Ramadan, eating or drinking in public during daylight hours is restricted, though hotels often have screened areas for non-Muslims.
A family of four can expect to spend around AED 1,800–2,800 (approx. $490–760 USD / €450–700 EUR) per day including mid-range hotel accommodation, meals, attraction tickets, and taxi transport. Dining in food courts and using the Metro can lower costs, while theme parks and beach clubs will significantly increase the budget.
Age Suitability
Did you know? United Arab Emirates welcomes approximately 11.5 million international visitors per year. Most visitors come from Middle East.
Explore Regions
5 Regions
Abu Dhabi
Island thrills, desert silence, and cultural wonders 🦅
Dubai
Where the impossible becomes the family playground ✨
Fujairah & East Coast
Mountains meet the ocean on the quiet side ⛰️🌊
Ras Al Khaimah
Peak adventures and pristine beaches 🧗♂️🏖️
Sharjah & Northern Emirates
Culture, history, and family fun 🕌📚
Click on a region marker to explore details. Use the dropdown to color regions by activity suitability.
Getting There & Around
Getting There
- By Air – Dubai International (DXB) and Abu Dhabi International (AUH) are major global hubs connecting to every continent. Note: Due to the current conflict, flight cancellations and airspace closures are frequent. Check status immediately before travel.
- By Road – The border with Oman is a common entry point for regional road trippers, though security checks are currently heightened.
- Entry Requirements – Many nationalities receive a visa on arrival. Check your government website for the latest visa requirements, or use the IATA Travel Centre entry-requirements checker.
Getting Around
- City Transport – Dubai has an excellent driverless Metro system. Children under 5 travel free. Purchase a Nol Silver Card for best value. The Gold Class carriage offers panoramic views for double the price.
- Taxis – The most convenient option for families. Apps like Careem and Uber work well, or you can hail beige municipal taxis. Prices are metered and reasonable, starting around AED 5–12 (approx. $1.35–3.25 USD / €1.25–3.00 EUR).
- Car Hire – Essential for visiting Abu Dhabi or exploring the mountains of Ras Al Khaimah. Roads are wide and high-quality, but driving styles can be aggressive. An International Driving Permit is often required.
- Buses – Inter-emirate buses connect major cities comfortably and cheaply, though they can be slower than driving.
Packing List
Malls and cinemas have freezing air conditioning; also useful for modesty in souks.
Plastic bottles get hot instantly in the sun; keeps water cold during day trips.
You will frequently remove shoes at mosques, desert camps, and some traditional majlis.
Walking through hotel lobbies in swimwear is frowned upon; a kaftan or cover-up is essential.
Wet snap-towels provide immense relief from the intense heat when queuing outdoors.
Activities & Best Times
Adventure & Nature
Very GoodHiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Boasts significant biodiversity at Sharjah Safari and Al Zorah Nature Reserve, plus unique desert archeology at Mleiha. Optimal for exploration during the cooler winter season; the summer heat is extreme and limits outdoor exploration.
Features unique desert landscapes in Liwa and the historic Al Ain Oasis for authentic exploration. Winter months provide the only safe and comfortable window for desert trekking and wildlife viewing at Al Ain Zoo.
A unique landscape where the Hajar Mountains meet the sea, featuring diverse hiking trails and mangrove ecosystems. Winter months are essential for safe, comfortable exploration of the rugged terrain and bird-watching.
City & Cultural
Very GoodUrban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
Sharjah is a globally recognized cultural hub with authentic heritage districts like the Heart of Sharjah and world-class museums. Winter is perfect for walking tours, while extensive indoor facilities make the shoulder seasons manageable for families.
Home to world-class cultural institutions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Qasr Al Watan. The cooler months are essential for enjoying the city's architecture and outdoor heritage sites without the oppressive summer heat.
Home to the UAE's oldest mosque at Al-Bidyah and significant heritage forts that offer an authentic cultural experience. Best visited during the cooler winter when outdoor heritage villages and archaeological sites are accessible.
Sports & Active
Very GoodSport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
World-class facilities like CLYMB and the Al Wathba cycle track cater to serious athletes and active families. Outdoor sporting activities are physically demanding and require the cooler temperatures of the winter season.
Features internationally recognized infrastructure including the Ghaf Summit Trail and Bear Grylls Explorers Camp. Extreme summer temperatures restrict high-intensity outdoor sports to the cooler winter and transition months.
Boasts world-class cycling infrastructure at Al Qudra and dedicated mountain bike trails in Hatta that attract international athletes. High-exertion outdoor sports are perfectly suited to the mild winter climate but become physically impossible during the extreme heat of the Arabian summer.
Theme Park & Entertainment
Very GoodAmusement parks, family entertainment venues
Home to globally recognized waterparks like Aquaventure and massive indoor parks like IMG Worlds of Adventure that appeal to international families. Outdoor facilities are optimal in winter, while the vast indoor parks extend the shoulder seasons, though peak summer remains too intense for travel between venues.
Features well-maintained water parks and indoor family entertainment centers like Pearls Kingdom. Peak periods align with warm but not extreme temperatures ideal for water activities, while summer heat renders outdoor parks unsuitable.
Yas Island hosts globally recognized indoor parks like Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World, offering world-class family entertainment. While indoor, the overall travel experience is significantly better during the cooler half of the year.
Beach & Sea
GoodBeach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Offers high-quality coastal recreation at Ajman Corniche and Khorfakkan, though lacking the extensive reef systems of global leaders. Winter months provide ideal temperatures, while summer humidity and heat make beach activity uncomfortable.
Offers high-quality beach experiences at Saadiyat and the Corniche with world-class facilities. Peak season avoids the extreme summer heat and humidity, providing comfortable sea and air temperatures for families.
Offers the UAE's best diving and snorkeling around Snoopy Island with Indian Ocean biodiversity. Peak months avoid the extreme summer heat while maintaining warm water temperatures ideal for families.
Educational & Exploratory
GoodLearning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
A high density of purpose-built learning facilities including the Sharjah Science Museum and Discovery Centre makes this a strong regional educational destination. Most sites are indoor and climate-controlled, though general tourism demand peaks in the cooler winter months.
Includes destination-level educational facilities like the National Aquarium and the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre. These purpose-built sites provide sophisticated scientific engagement, best enjoyed during the main tourist season.
Top-tier educational attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and OliOli Children's Museum offer sophisticated learning experiences for well-travelled families. Most facilities are indoor and climate-controlled, but visitation aligns with the broader tourism peak when city exploration is comfortable.
Road Trips & Scenic
GoodScenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
The Sharjah-Khor Fakkan Highway offers dramatic mountain scenery and world-class road infrastructure for scenic drives. Best visibility and comfortable stop-off conditions occur in winter; summer haze and heat significantly degrade the experience.
Boasts the Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road, a world-renowned scenic drive with exceptional engineering and vistas. Driving is most pleasant in winter to avoid extreme engine strain and heat-related haze.
Boasts spectacular scenic drives through the Hajar Mountains and along the Indian Ocean coastline on the E99. Winter provides the best visibility and comfortable temperatures for frequent stops at mountain viewpoints.
Festivals & Seasonal
MarginalEvents, celebrations, seasonal attractions
Hosts internationally significant events like the Sharjah International Book Fair and the Sharjah Biennial. Peak months are dictated strictly by the major event calendar which typically avoids the hottest summer months.
The Sheikh Zayed Festival is a significant international-scale cultural event showcasing Emirati traditions. The event runs exclusively during the winter months, making the rest of the year unsuitable for this type.
The Dubai Shopping Festival in January and February is a major international event featuring city-wide festivities and fireworks. Outside of this and the immediate shoulder periods, the region lacks internationally-scaled seasonal festivals that would serve as primary travel motivators.
Relaxation & Wellness
MarginalSpa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
Features the unique Green Mubazzarah hot springs at the foot of Jebel Hafeet. This natural wellness feature is most appealing in winter when the cooler air complements the thermal waters.
Natural thermal hot springs at Ain Al-Madhab provide a unique restorative experience rooted in local history. The high ambient temperature of the region makes these thermal baths suitable only during the coldest winter months.
Anchored by the traditional thermal waters of Khatt Springs, though it lacks the concentration of world-class destination spas found in global wellness hubs. Best visited when the surrounding climate supports outdoor relaxation.
Public Holidays & Calendar Next 12 months
Public holidays, festivals, cultural celebrations, and seasonal natural phenomena coming up in United Arab Emirates over the next 12 months.
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Climate & Weather
Abu Dhabi
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Dubai
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Fujairah & East Coast
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Ras Al Khaimah
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Sharjah & Northern Emirates
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Travel Advisory
Due to a tie between high-risk levels among major agencies, the advisory is set to the most severe status. The region is currently experiencing active military conflict, including missile and drone strikes. Travel is strongly discouraged, and those present should seek immediate shelter.
Safety Topics
Traveller Advice (3 groups)
Same-sex relationships are strictly illegal and punishable by law. Travellers with passports that indicate 'X' in the gender field are currently barred from entering or transiting through the UAE.
Conservative dress is expected in public. Be aware that victims of sexual assault can face legal challenges in the UAE, particularly if they have consumed alcohol, due to strict local laws and requirements for proof.
Travellers currently in the UAE should confirm the status of their flights before heading to the airport and be prepared to shelter in place during security incidents. Ensure your travel insurance remains valid, as some policies may be voided by high-level government warnings.
Agency Summaries
Smartraveller advises against all travel to the UAE due to the highly unstable security environment and recent military strikes. Australian citizens in the country should prioritize their safety, monitor local media, and consider leaving if safe commercial options are available.
Ireland advises its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the UAE following a series of strikes and military activity in the Gulf. Those already in the region are told to adopt a shelter-in-place strategy and maintain constant contact with their travel providers.
The UK government advises against all non-essential travel to the UAE. British nationals currently in the country are encouraged to stay indoors and seek cover in reinforced structures during alerts, particularly to protect against falling debris from intercepted projectiles.
Global Affairs Canada recommends avoiding all travel to the United Arab Emirates due to active military operations in the region. Canadian citizens are advised to shelter in safe locations, stay away from military sites or U.S. government facilities, and prepare for departure once commercial flights are available.
The U.S. State Department has raised the advisory to Level 3, urging citizens to reconsider travel plans because of the threat of terrorism and armed conflict. On March 2, 2026, the department ordered the departure of non-emergency government personnel due to the potential for drone and missile attacks targeting the region.
New Zealand's SafeTravel portal advises against all travel to the UAE, citing reports of missile strikes in major cities such as Dubai. Kiwis in the region are urged to leave as soon as it is safe and to be prepared for further flight disruptions.
Information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute travel, safety, medical, or legal advice. Conditions may change. Users are responsible for independently verifying information before travel.