Family-Friendly Travel Hacks for the UAE: Insider Tips for a Stress-Free Trip

Planning a family holiday to the UAE? While the country is packed with incredible attractions, world-class hospitality, and year-round sunshine, navigating it with children requires a little extra planning. That’s where The Familierge Guide comes in – offering you exclusive, lesser-known travel hacks to make your UAE adventure smoother, more enjoyable, and stress-free.

1. Use InstaShop for Quick Grocery & Essentials Delivery

Need snacks, nappies, or baby essentials after a long flight? Skip the supermarket trip and use InstaShop to get groceries and household items delivered in minutes. Familierge can also assist by ensuring you receive the exact brands and products your family needs. Simply order in advance and pick up your groceries at the airport or near your accommodation—saving you from dragging tired little ones through the aisles.

2. Book Airport ‘Fast Track’ Services

Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports can be overwhelming, especially with kids in tow. Avoid long immigration lines by booking Marhaba or Al Majlis fast-track services, which provide priority clearance, buggy assistance, and even a lounge area while formalities are handled for you.

3. Get Your Baby Gear Delivered

Avoid excess baggage fees and the hassle of carrying bulky items by renting baby equipment locally. Companies like Familierge arrange for high-quality cots, strollers, car seats, and sterilisers to be delivered straight to your accommodation; so you can travel light without compromising on comfort.

4. Choose ‘Serviced Apartments’ Over Hotels

For longer stays or families needing extra space, serviced apartments are a game-changer. With separate bedrooms, kitchen facilities, and laundry services, they provide the flexibility and convenience families need. Familierge can help secure family-friendly serviced apartments tailored to your needs.

5. Visit Attractions at Off-Peak Times

Theme parks like Legoland, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and Aquaventure are best enjoyed in the morning when they open, as this is when crowds are smaller. Weekdays (especially Monday-Wednesday) tend to be quieter than weekends, offering shorter queues and a more relaxed experience.

6. Download the RTA ‘S’hail’ App for Hassle-Free Transport

Dubai’s public transport is excellent, but taxis can be the most convenient way to travel with kids. Instead of flagging one down, use Uber or Careem book taxis or compare different transport options. This ensures regulated fares, availability of car seats, and safer rides.

7. Find & Book Kid-Friendly Restaurants with Dining Discounts

Many top restaurants in Dubai and Abu Dhabi cater to families, but not all have play areas or kids’ menus. Apps like Eat App, Talabat, Zomato, and OpenTable allow you to filter for child-friendly restaurants, book a table in advance, and even explore menu options—so there’s no waiting around with hungry little ones. Alternatively, Familierge can suggest restaurants that cater specifically to your family’s needs and make every booking for you.

8. Find Free or Low-Cost Family Activities

Beyond the big attractions, the UAE has plenty of affordable or free family-friendly experiences:

Al Qudra Lakes – Enjoy a picnic while spotting flamingos.
Dubai Creek Park – A great spot for bike rides and outdoor fun.
Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Children’s Museum – Offers interactive exhibits designed for kids.
The Yard – A hidden gem with quirky art installations and a petting zoo.

9. Keep Kids Cool with Personal Cooling Gadgets

If you’re visiting between April and October, invest in wearable mini fans or cooling towels to keep little ones comfortable. You can easily find them at UAE stores like Daiso or order them online for convenience.

10. Take Advantage of Discount Passes & Loyalty Programmes

Make the most of your trip by using discount passes and loyalty cards that offer savings on top attractions, dining, and entertainment:

My Dubai Pass – Offers up to 60% savings on major attractions like Burj Khalifa, Aquaventure, and Dubai Parks & Resorts.
Global Village Family Fun Pass – Includes entry tickets, a Wonder Pass for rides, and other perks.
My Emirates Pass – Available for Emirates passengers, turning your boarding pass into a discount card for attractions, dining, and shopping.
Time Out Dubai City Card & Careem DineOut – Unlocks exclusive discounts on dining and entertainment across the city. Additionally, Careem DineOut offers discounts and cashback rewards at select restaurants, making dining out with kids even more affordable.

Familierge also has exclusive partner discounts for select events and attractions across the UAE, ensuring families get the best value on their experiences.

11. Use Familierge for Personalised Itineraries & On-Demand Assistance

The ultimate travel hack? Let Familierge handle the details! From arranging VIP attraction access and babysitting services to creating bespoke itineraries, we make family travel in the UAE effortless. Need last-minute childcare, transport, or recommendations? We’re just a WhatsApp message away.

Enjoy a Stress-Free UAE Holiday!

With these insider tips, your family’s trip to the UAE will be smoother, easier, and more enjoyable. Whether you need help planning or an extra set of hands while you’re here, Familierge is here to support you every step of the way.

📖 Looking for more expert travel advice? Contact us today and let us take the stress out of your family holiday.