Whilst there’s plenty to keep the family busy in Dubai for at least a week, there’s also much more to see and do in the rest of the United Arab Emirates.

Our city experts guide you through the top 5 Dubai Day Trips and experiences that we know visiting families to Dubai (and expat families that live in Dubai!) absolutely love and will really make your Dubai family trip complete.

Abu Dhabi cultural tour

What to expect: Neighbouring Abu Dhabi is only 160km away, and when you’re whisking along the freeway at 140kms an hour – doesn’t take long!

In Abu Dhabi you will find the UAE’s biggest architectural and cultural sites (we just think Abu Dhabi doesn’t brag as much as Dubai!!) Come to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr al Watan Presidential Place and Qasr al Hosn for a touch more Bedouin history brought to life.

Will the kids get bored on a “culture tour”? Although these are more grown-up activities, we still think this is a highly engaging day for the kids. You won’t get a super in-depth look at Abu Dhabi if you try and fit all the highlights in on one day, but these architectual wonders will wow kids as much as adults, definitely don’t dismiss a cultural as uninteresting for the kids.

You can tune in to our interview with co-editor Keri talking all about Abu Dhabi with kids here on our City Travel with Kids podcast.

How to book it: You can choose to either self-drive to Abu Dhabi (see a detailed guide to how this is done here), or book with an organised tour group or private driver.

Top Tip: Look carefully at inclusions when comparing Abu Dhabi tour packages from Dubai. You ideally want a door-to-door service and not all will include a designated meal stop or all 4 of the “top Abu Dhabi cultural attractions” that we mention here. It’s a lot for one day so you may want to prioritise your favourites.

Looking to spend a little longer in Abu Dhabi? Look at these transit options for getting between the two cities and staying in Abu Dhabi.

• Dubai to Abu Dhabi private transfers (max 7 people)
• One Way transfer DXB to Abu Dhabi

Where should I stay in Abu Dhabi? Family hotel ideas to suit all budgets.

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Theme Park Day

What to expect: There are now 3 spectacular theme parks to choose from on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, just off the freeway between the two cities so expect it to take about a one hour drive from Dubai.

(Tackle this as a separate day trip to the Abu Dhabi cultural attractions above, you won’t get time for both)

Yas Waterworld is home to over 40 water-based rides and attractions. The water park is beautifully set out with an Emirati theme and includes all the classic experiences you’d want from a water park that suits all age groups from tots to adults. The Cinesplash 5D theatre is a great new touch.

Warner Bros World opened in 2018, here you can find all your favourites from Gotham City through to Cartoon Junction brought to life with 29 rides and attractions. It’s a highly interactive theme park, entirely indoors to beat the heat and unless you hit it on a peak holiday, very limited queuing for such a spectacular day out.

Ferrari World, of course, is full of the extremes you would expect from the UAE including the World’s fastest roller coaster! Based mostly indoors, except for the coasters that escape outside, this is the place for your teens and adrenaline junkies.

How to book it: You definitely get the best value by booking a multi-park pass, however, on a day trip from Dubai you should realistically look to pick a favourite or you’ll be too rushed.

• Ferrari World Tickets with Dubai Shuttle
• Yas Waterworld with Dubai shuttle
• Warner Bros. World with Dubai Shuttle

Top Tip: fitting all 3 theme parks in one day simply won’t do it justice. We recommend you stay in one of the nearby Yas Plaza hotels or the beautiful Yas Hotel that straddles the Yas Marina Grand Prix Circuit if you wish to visit all 3 and spread your time out.

Looking for transfers to get you to Yas but have your theme park tickets already?

• Try this Dubai to Yas Island Shared Transfer Service.
• Private Transfers to Yas Island From Dubai, best for groups

A road trip to the Musandam Peninsular

What to expect: pack your passport you heading over the border to Oman! Yes, still manageable as a day trip from Dubai, the tiny Omani enclave of Musandam sits on the very north-eastern-most tip of the Arabian Peninsula, jutting into the Strait of Hormuz.

Here you can take a traditional dhow boat cruise from regional capital Khasab out into the azure waters and experience “the Norway of Arabia” – stunning khors that mark the end of the Hajar Mountains plunge to the ocean beneath.

The waters are home to much sea life, including pods of dolphins who love to play with the boats. Enjoy a traditional Omani meal on board and soak in one of the most unique Arabian experiences.

Check out this great detailed experience in Musandam with kids

How to book it: get ready for an early start! Although it can be a self-drive trip, if you are unfamiliar with the windy roads and border crossing process it’s best to go with a registered tour operator who can pick you up from your Dubai hotel and take care of all the details.

Top Tip: Trips described as being to Dibba will still take you on a spectacular journey over the mountains and through the khors but will not involve a border crossing which can save time. We do recommend getting all the way to Khasab though for that true Omani flavour!

A trip to the Hajar Mountains

What to expect: Head to the Northern Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, and up into the mountains (yes, it’s not all desertscape, the UAE has mountains!) you will find the country’s tallest peak Jebal Jais where you can take on the world’s longest zipline Via Ferrata.

How to book it: If you’re not keen on the self drive through UAE traffic and the hilly roads (driving in the Dubai and beyond has its moments!), it’s definitely one to take a tour guide and driver with you. Why not try these options:

• RAK Zipline Adventure from Dubai
• RAK Mountain picnic (if you’d prefer to skip the zipline but love the views!)

A morning desert safari in Dubai

What to expect: If dune bashing and outdoor sports in the sand don’t sound like quite your thing but you are still keen to experience the Dubai desert, why not try a more sedate morning desert safari experience.

Escape the city pre-dawn so you can catch the desert at its quietest and avoid the heat of the day.

How to book it: You will most definitely need guides to take you out into the Dubai desert. The local Emirati’s are familiar with the dunes and will provide you with the best desert experiences. We love Platinum Heritage for their focus on sustainability and desert conservation in vintage open-top Land Rovers. For a unique experience, why not also try:

If you’d still like the motorsports experience in the desert but can’t fit it into an evening itinerary, these tours now all operate morning slots too, ideal in the cooler winter months.

• Morning Quad Biking Experience
• Morning Desert Safari with Camel rides, sandboarding & brunch
• Morning Desert Safari with Orient Tours

Top Tip: Not everything will operate in the desert during the hottest part of the year May to October, check what exactly is on the program when booking. Also, check out our guide for appropriate dress code taking on a desert safari in Dubai.

Still want to self-tour? Check out car hire pricing & options

We hope you’ve enjoyed this taster of Dubai Day Tour ideas. Don’t forget to check out our complete guide to family things to do in Dubai.

Take me back to the Dubai Family Guide home page

Please note: This page contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The post Top 5 Dubai Day Tours ideas for families appeared first on Little City Trips.

Often overshadowed by its glitzy neighbour Dubai, Abu Dhabi is here to share the limelight with its stunning azure waters & blue skies, cultural attractions, amazing architecture, theme parks and majestic desert.

With the help of our Little City expert Keri, an Abu Dhabi-based expat and Editor of Family Travel in the Middle East, we’ve picked out the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi in 3 days.

You can listen to an interview between our editor Marianne and Keri on our City Travel with Kids Podcast below – full show notes for the podcast can be found here.

Day 1 Abu Dhabi Itinerary with Kids

Morning

Start your trip with a visit to the simply superb Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It is free to enter, and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Try to get in before the crowds with opening at 9am. Grab yourself an eGuide or join a guided tour at 10am or 11am.

After the Mosque, head over the road to Wahat al Karama, a war memorial to read about the country’s martyrs, and also spectacular views back to the mosque.

Have lunch at the Venetian Village, in the Ritz Carlton complex opposite the Mosque. There’s a selection of restaurants here to choose from, overlooking the Grand Canal.

Afternoon

Head to Umm al Emarat Park to let the kids run around in Abu Dhabi’s largest park. It includes botanical gardens, playparks, a petting zoo and a wadi where kids can cool off.

Next, we’re headed to the far end of the city to take in some amazing views at Observation Deck at 300, part of the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers hotel complex. Look over the Emirates Palace hotel beneath, and admire the new Presidential Place, Qasr al Watan (now open to the public for tours).

Advance purchase your observation deck tickets here.

Evening

We’re headed to the Eastern Mangroves for sunset and dinner. There is a natural wetlands reserve here which you can observe up close by hiring a kayak or an eco donut boat, before enjoying dinner on the Eastern Mangroves Promenade.

Where to Stay – Family Hotels in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi doesn’t exactly do budget family hotels, but they do luxury extremely well, and often very reasonably priced for what you get. Almost all accommodation comes with a pool for cooling off after a long day of sightseeing.

There’s no ideal place to stay as attractions are dotted around over the city, so Keri recommends you could try:

Yas Island – if you are after a theme park based holiday, and think you will be daytripping to Dubai.

• Luxury Pick: Yas Hotel
• Budget Pick: Centro Yas

Saadiyat Island if you are blending in beach and relaxation. All are luxury picks! Best for families try:

• Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas
• The St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

Grand Canal if sightseeing and convenient location are your priority:

• Luxury Pick: The Ritz Carlton
• Budget Pick: Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri by Shangri-La

As a budget pick in town, we recommend the very reasonably priced Holiday Inn Downtown Abu Dhabi

We have a detailed guide to Abu Dhabi family hotels for all budgets here

Day 2 Abu Dhabi Itinerary with Kids

Morning

Start the day at the Louvre Museum on Saadiyat Island, one of the city’s most spectacular buildings. The Louvre takes you on a journey through the history of humanity. At the end, children will be rewarded for their patience with a dedicated children’s museum, as well as experiencing the spectacular domed roof of the Museum that musically groans in the breeze.

Late morning, head to Qasr al Hosn, the oldest building in the city. The old fort has been refurbished and this central site takes visitors on a journey from humble beginnings as a fishing village through to present-day Abu Dhabi.

Afternoon

For a truly unique UAE experience, next, we’re headed to the Falcon Hospital on the outskirts of the city. You will get a two hour guided tour of the facilities and a fascinating insight into Emirati heritage – not just falconry but the Bedouin way of life (pre-booking required by phone, no advance online tickets).

Evening

In the late afternoon, head off into the desert sands beyond the city for a desert safari. Most operators will offer a pickup service from your city hoel and drive approximately an hour into the desert.

Abu Dhabi Desert Safaris can involve dune bashing (not for you under 6’s or pregnant), camel rides, quad bikes, henna painting, fat bikes and sandboarding through the dunes. (Beware the sand will get everywhere for days!!!)

Your evening will be completed with a traditional Bedouin meal under the stars and live entertainment.

Some desert camps give the option to spend the night (for example Arabian Nights Village is worth the splurge on a Bayt – traditional house), but most tours will head back and take you to your city-based hotel.

Day 3 Abu Dhabi Itinerary with Kids

Theme Park Day! Spend all day on Yas Island

We’re heading to Yas Island for a full day dedicated to theme park fun. You can enjoy the choice of Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World (the later two are both entirely indoors).

We recommend you choose only 2 per day. Yas Waterworld and then choose which indoor park you’d like best. Younger kids are probably better of at Warner Bros World – kids over 110cm can do almost every ride.

Ferrari World suits more your teens and adrenaline junkies – with the world’s fastest roller coaster the Formula Rossa, you will see why!.

Evening

Enjoy open track nights at Yas Marina circuit on a Sunday or Tuesday (Wed ladies only). Free to enter, just register and you can do laps of the track by foot or by bike; perfect for wannabe Grand Prix champions or just to claim you’ve done a lap of a real GP circuit!

Alternatively, on any other night of the week head around to Yas Marina for dinner, enjoy overlooking the yachts of the rich and famous and the lit-up dome roof of Yas Hotel over the Grand Prix track.

Further Family Activities in Abu Dhabi

If you have a little longer to stay in Abu Dhabi (ideally allow a week if you want to see the whole Emirate) then you could add on one of these ideas:

• Day Trip to Al Ain – the country’s historic centre and known as the Oasis City.
• Visit the large open plan Al Ain Zoo and the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, really great educational and fun place – for all ages!

• Day trip to Dubai Parks & Resorts, just over the Dubai border
• Take a city highlights tour of Dubai, pick up from your Abu Dhabi hotel and a guided tour around the famous sites of the glitzy neighbour (or you can follow our detailed guide here how to self-drive or take the Intercity bus).

• Head into the Empty Quarter – enjoy the vastness of the Liwa Desert, and stay in the luxury resort Qasr al Sarab, a serious spoil yourself desert resort.

• Head west of Abu Dhabi city to the remote Sir Bani Yas Island. A short ferry takes you to this nature reserve, stay overnight in the luxurious Anantara Resort.

You can see our complete guide to family things to do in Abu Dhabi here.

How to get around in Abu Dhabi

As a visitor to Abu Dhabi, you are most likely to get around by taxi – they are quite reasonably priced. You could also use a Careem or Uber.

There is really not much in the way of public transport, only a small network of local buses. There’s no train or Metro system.

Keri only recommends self-driving if you are a confident driver as the traffic is very fast-moving, and although better than many other Middle Eastern countries, can be erratic.

We have a full guide on how to get around in Abu Dhabi here.

What to pack for Abu Dhabi

It is hot but you need to dress modestly. We have a detailed guide here to help understand the dress code in Abu Dhabi.

Our top packing suggestions include long loose cotton clothing, and ladies may want to consider a scarf or a wrap. A pullover or cardigan may be handy too even in the peak of summer to deal with the airconditioning. Sandals or flipflops for your feet is fine.

We have a complete packing list for Abu Dhabi here.

Sign up to receive the Little City Newsletter

Remember to pop on over and listen to the podcast if you would like to learn more about all the places we mention from Keri & the Little City team.

Take me back to the Abu Dhabi Family Guide

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post 3 days in Abu Dhabi: A family itinerary appeared first on Little City Trips.

Looking to tackle both Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the same trip? It can be done! In this City Insider Guide, we share with you all the transport options for getting between these two bustling Middle East cities, that sit just 160kms apart in the UAE.

To get between Abu Dhabi and Dubai – and vice versa – you can:

• Drive your own car or hire a car
• Take a public bus
• Hire a driver or taxi
• Use a free airline bus
• Join a guided tour

What you cannot do is take a train, there is no passenger train line (yet) between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Let’s look at each of these transport options between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in more detail.

Driving your own car between Abu Dhabi and Dubai

This is by far the easiest and quickest way between the two cities, allowing you flexibility and to get to the exact location you want without needing to navigate the public transport systems.

Driving in the UAE can be challenging though if you are not used to right-hand driving, nor the speed traffic moves at! The freeways can be 4 to 8 lanes wide and move at incredibly high speed so only choose this option if you have a confident driver.

Check out rental car options here:

How to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by bus

There is only one government-owned bus service, the Intercity Bus. It costs 25AED one way per person.

There are now three routes.

• Route 100 leaves from Abu Dhabi Central Bus station, it makes two stops on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi and terminates at Al Ghubaiba in Bur Dubai where you can connect to the Dubai Metro and Dubai local bus services. This service runs every 10-20 minutes and takes about 2 hours.
• The 101 will take you from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Ibn Batutta Mall, this is on the Jebel Ali side of Dubai where you can connect to the start of the Dubai Metro System. Runs every 20 to 30 minutes and takes about 110 minutes.
• Route 102 (new) takes you from the Abu Dhabi suburb of Mussafah, Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station to Ibn Battuta. It runs once per hour on the half-hour and takes about 1 hour 45 minutes.

You can pay for the intercity bus using cash or a Nol card, but Nol does not work on the Abu Dhabi bus system. Not sure how to get around within Abu Dhabi? Check out this guide.

All the routes stated above also run in reverse from Dubai back to Abu Dhabi.

Hire a Driver from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

If you don’t want to drive in the UAE traffic but like the convenience of door-to-door (believe me with kids, in the heat, it’s certainly preferable) then you can hire a private driver or a taxi from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. This option works best if you have a group.

• A taxi from Abu Dhabi island to Dubai International Airport will cost you approximately 350AED ($95USD). Pre-ordering and larger taxies for groups will cost more.

In comparison, a private hire company may charge you 400AED ($110USD), or much more depending on the size of the vehicle – up to 550AED ($150USD) for a 7 passenger vehicle with luggage. Check out these options:

• One Way Transfer to/from DXB to Abu Dhabi
• Private Transfers One Way for up to 7 passengers
• Private Transfers AUH to Dubai City

You can also use popular ride-sharing apps Uber and Careem. Their rates are generally higher for this journey than a public taxi.

Free Airline buses Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Now before you get too excited, this service is ONLY for passengers in transit. Either passengers arriving on Etihad who ultimately want to be in Dubai straight after their flight, OR passengers departing Abu Dhabi going straight to the airport and flying Emirates or code share.

Etihad Free Transfer Service to Dubai

After arriving at Abu Dhabi airport, head to the Etihad Luxury Coach in arrivals (you can see the timetable here). Your journey to Etihad’s Downtown Dubai office (NB not to DXB) will take about 1.5 hours. You will need to make onward connections then from Downtown Dubai – refer to our Dubai transport guide. This service must be pre-book with Etihad at least 24 hours in advance.

Emirates Free Transfer service from Abu Dhabi

If you are departing the UAE from Dubai, then you can catch the Emirates free transfer coach from the Emirates office on the Abu Dhabi Corniche.

The coach will depart 6 times per day and will drop you to Terminal 3 at DXB. You must have a pre-booked ticket and allow a minimum connection time of 2 hours.

A great trick if you are out in the UAE for a while and want the best of both worlds squeezing in a Dubai & Abu Dhabi city break is to pay your bus fare or taxi/driver one way between the two cities, but use the free transit bus at the end to get you directly to your airport.

Only want to spend one day in Dubai?

Based in Abu Dhabi but just want to see the highlights of Dubai? There are several companies that will offer you a combo of tours and tickets:

• Full day tour of Dubai from Abu Dhabi with coach transfer & live guide
• Full day in Dubai with coach from Abu Dhabi, audio guide
• Full Day tour of Dubai with hotel pick up and live guide(best priced with Klook)

See more city insider guides for Abu Dhabi

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post How to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai appeared first on Little City Trips.

Only got a one-day stopover in Dubai?  Let us take you on a lightning tour of our favourite Dubai attractions that you mustn’t miss on a short stopover.

Got a little longer? Check out our complete family guide to visiting Dubai here

Morning: One Day in Dubai

Start your Dubai itinerary with a trip to Old Dubai. Visit the Dubai Museum (entry only 3dhs!), then take a wander through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood for a taste of what Dubai used to be like before the mass tourism and skyscrapers.

Keep on the move and take a traditional dhow boat from Bur Dubai across to the Deira side of Dubai to visit the Gold and Spice Souks.  They won’t be as busy in the mornings but this will give you a great taster. 

Then take a short taxi to Zabeel Park and the Dubai Frame, the perfect way to transition yourself from Dubai’s past to it’s present. The Frame takes you on a visual journey with interactive displays on the ground floor, before launching you to the frame’s top and taking you over a glass bridge with commanding views of the city.

Don’t fancy tackling this one alone? This half-day Dubai heritage tour will pick you up from the airport/your hotel and cover the same highlights.

Lunch: One Day in Dubai

Head in a taxi over to Downtown Dubai.  Here you’ll find Dubai Mall and the spectacular Burj Khalifa.  Take a walk around and admire the size of this place – from the giant indoor aquarium to the Olympic-sized ice rink and the life-like kids’ city of Kidzania.

Grab yourself a front-row seat at one of the Dubai Mall restaurants that face out on to the water to catch the 1pm and 1.30pm water fountain extravaganza outside.  Those on a budget in Dubai will find plenty of food options in the giant food court.

Is it worth goint to At The Top Burj Khalifa? Yes and no.  It is iconic for sure, but only got 1 day? You don’t want to spend the entire time queuing. If you do want to visit the Burj on a tight itinerary, make sure you pre-book your time slot and select a FAST TRACK ticket – tickets cost a lot more to buy at the door!

Afternoon: One day in Dubai

We’re going to divide the afternoon into two choices, depending on your groups ages and interests (and the weather! If you’re visiting Dubai in Summer, you’ll want to stick to indoor choices).

Option 1: Extend your time at Dubai Mall by taking on the Burj Khalifa and/or the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Then skip straight down to the evening activity below – it starts early so you won’t have time to squeeze in another location.

Top Tip: If you combine a ticket to At The Top (levels 124/125) and an aquarium day pass it’s much cheaper – here’s how you book it)

Option 2: Enjoy one of Dubai’s amazing theme parks or water parks!

There are A LOT to choose from! You need to consider your kid’s ages and the weather a lot in making this choice.

• In the very peak of summer (July/August), we recommend the entirely indoor IMG World of Adventures.

• In Dubai’s shoulder seasons (May/June & September/October) it’s best to take on one of the water parks. The big three to try:
  • Aquaventure at Atlantis & the Lost Chambers Aquarium
  • Wild Wadi at Jumeirah Beach for your thrill-seekers
  • Legoland Dubai Water Park with under 10’s

• In the cooler months (November through to April), our favourite place to be is at Dubai Parks & Resort. Here you will find Legoland Dubai, Motiongate Dubai and Bollywood theme park. A 2-park pass is the best value, but with only an afternoon, you’ll likely only fit in one park.

Evening: One day in Dubai

If you took option 1 above, your evening activity is one of Dubai’s iconic desert safaris! They come in all shapes and sizes but normally involve some sort of dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, henna tattoos, followed by and an evening of entertainment and traditional Bedouin hospitality to enjoy under the stars.

If you have under 6’s, the dune bashing isn’t appropriate but there will still be experiences you can enjoy on a modified program. Most operate throughout the year but we’d recommend against this with small children during the hottest months June to September – take itinerary option 2.

If you took option 2 above for your afternoon, we suggest enjoying one of Dubai’s waterfront entertainment areas for your evening:

• At Dubai Parks and Resorts, you can stay on and enjoy the evening entertainment at Riverland.
• Closer to town, we recommend you check out JBR The Beach and The Walk, you may just catch a sunset camel ride or enjoy all the plentiful restaurants and street stalls.
• Le Mer is a great new outdoor area in the cooler months with funky street eats and entertainment.
• If you didn’t spend long at Dubai Mall, you can head back for the evening fountains and sound and light show beneath Burj Khalifa.

Where to stay one night in Dubai

A lot of people recommend Atlantis the Palm, especially for families, but if you’ve only got one day, you’re more likely to be out and about then relishing in the facilities. So unless Aquaventure & The Lost Chambers was your afternoon stop, we’d stay somewhere more convenient to the airport – it’s quite a drive from the end of the Palm.

In the JBR area, we love Doubletree by Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Beach if you like a bit of space and a great location, or enjoy the fabulous beach facilities at Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi.

Wonderful and central, as well as kind to the pocket, we recommend Rove Downtown Dubai (or any of the Rove Hotels in Dubai represent exceptional value and funky fun – like a very upmarket backpackers!).

If you want to be super close to the airport and ready to go, try Le Meridien Dubai where you’re only minutes away from the airport (and the most scrumptious morning breakfast offering to prepare you for your onward flight!!)

You can find all the best Dubai family hotels here

24 hours will only give you a taster of Dubai but this one day in Dubai itinerary will help you narrow down the choices.

Staying longer? Then check out our Top 10 things to do in Dubai.

Our City Insider: Keri Hedrick

Keri is a long-time UAE resident with 3 children. You can read more about Keri and all our City Insiders here.

Want to be our next city insider? We all recruiting insiders from around the globe to help provide details from the best place to eat to where to pick up bargains or the best way to avoid the crowds! You can apply to be a Little City Insider here.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post How to see the best of Dubai in One Day appeared first on Little City Trips.

Dubai might be best known as a glamorous city, with its glitzy hotels and high-end shopping malls.

But is it possible to visit Dubai on a budget?

Our City Insiders have been on the case looking at how you can save your dirhams in the United Arab Emirates largest city, but still enjoy your Dubai family holidays.

We look at where to find the best affordable hotels in Dubai, our pick of the best budget hotels in Dubai for families, how to get around Dubai on the cheap, cheap attractions in Dubai… and even some free things to do in Dubai.

So if you are looking for ways to save on your Dubai vacation cost, read on for all our insider tips.

Where to find the best Dubai budget hotels

There is always going to be a compromise when you are looking for cheap accommodation in Dubai.  Yes, you can stay at some glamorous hotels here, but if the beach is not your priority, or you’ll be busy sightseeing rather than sitting by the pool, why pay extra to stay at a resort?

• The closer you are to the beach, or the major shopping malls, generally speaking, the more you pay.
• The older areas of the city nearer to the airport such as Deira and Bur Dubai have the best choice of cheap rooms in Dubai.
• To save money off your Dubai trip cost, we recommend you look for accommodation that is well located to the Metro.  This will mean saving money on taxis and having the city easily within your reach (you can learn more on how to get around Dubai here).
• We recommend comparing the best Dubai hotel deals on Hotelscombined.

Our top picks for the best budget family hotels in Dubai

Here we share our pick of where to stay in Dubai on a budget. All of these hotels are well suited to families, with plenty of space, good locations and family-friendly facilities. You can read our full pick of the best family hotels in Dubai here.

Ramada Chelsea Al Barsha

Not too far from the Mall of the Emirates in an area called Al Barsha, this hotel accommodation in Dubai includes a rooftop pool, family-sized suites or interconnecting rooms and on-site dining options.

Check prices here or read our full review of this hotel.

Premier Inn Dubai IBN Battuta

This low price hotel in Dubai has great sized rooms and offers immediate access to Ibn Battuta Mall. It is located to the west of the Jumeirah area of Dubai, so quite far from the airport but accessible by Metro. It’s a great location if you also want to visit Dubai Parks & Resorts and Abu Dhabi as part of your trip.

Check prices here or read our full review of this hotel.

Savoy Park Hotel Apartments

Based in the Bur Dubai part of town these cheap hotel apartments in Dubai represent really good value. They include a small kitchenette for self-catering, as well as being nearby to the green line of the Metro.

Check prices here or read our full review of this hotel.

Things to look out for with Dubai hotel prices

Don’t let your Dubai budget suddenly turn out more than you expected. Keep your eye out for extra TAXES!

Be warned that not just your actual hotel room, but any services you buy within a hotel are subject to extra tax in Dubai.  Check before booking your hotel whether the quoted Dubai hotel rates include:

• Municipality fee 7%
• Property service fee 10%
• VAT 5% (should be included by law)
• Per night room fee 10dhs (getting a room with multiple beds rather than two connecting rooms will reduce this charge)

These taxes are correct as of July 2018

You can save on these added hotel costs in Dubai by either self-catering or dining out at restaurants that are not attached to a hotel.

You can see all our Dubai Family Hotel recommendations to suit every budget here.

Getting around Dubai on a budget

The days of ultra-cheap fuel and taxis in Dubai is well and truly gone, but we still have some top tips for saving money on your Dubai trip budget.

Taxis are still a convenient way to get across town if you have a group and luggage, but consider your distances. Catching the Metro may well be the cheapest way to travel in Dubai, although note that you have to pay for all people in your group aged 5 and up.

If you know you will be taking several Metro or bus journeys during your stay in Dubai, get a NOL Silver instead of NOL Red the first time you buy a ticket at a Metro station.

This will cost you 25dhs but comes come pre-loaded with 19dhs in fares. Every fare you pay will then be cheaper than buying a single ticket NOL Red (fares per journey vary from 3AED to 7.50AED on NOL Silver).

You can see our complete guide on using the Metro, NOL cards and how to get around Dubai here.

Other ways you can save on your Dubai travel budget include taking a traditional dhow or Abra to cross Dubai Creek rather than paying for an expensive cruise, and taking advantage of FREE airport transit buses if you are transferring between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Free and cheap things to do in Dubai

It’s undeniable there is A LOT to do in Dubai! And while some of it is glamorous and expensive, there is still a good selection of things to do in Dubai on a budget. Here are just a few suggestions of cheap fun things to do in Dubai:

Seeing the Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa

While it’s costly to head up the Burj Khalifa (and can involve extensive queueing at times), it’s totally free to see it from outside and enjoy the nightly light and sound show that occurs in Downtown Dubai, outside Dubai Mall.

Timings for the sound and light show are currently 1pm & 1.30pm, then every 30 minutes between 6pm and midnight. There are many great restaurants where you can grab a bite in the Dubai Mall and adjacent Souk al Bahar with brilliant views.

However if you are on a Dubai budget trip you can always grab yourself a takeaway from the food court and set yourself up with your own picnic outside to enjoy the show.

Enjoy the Beaches

Whilst hiring deck chairs and taking camel rides along the beach might cost, most beachfronts in Dubai outside of the resorts themselves are completely FREE.

You can try Sunset Beach (Jumeirah Public Beach) for the famous views of the Burj Al Arab, or why not try The Beach in JBR, or the fairly newly open La Mer in Jumeirah 1.

Bathroom and change facilities are free but of course, there are plenty of cafes and vendors along these stretches of beach vying for your attention. Come prepared with towels from your hotel and a picnic lunch or dinner to avoid the temptation to spend more.

Explore Old Dubai

Enjoy the historic al Fahidi neighbourhood, the Dubai Museum and take an abra ride over Dubai Creek to Deira “Old Dubai” to see the spice souk and the gold souk.

Stroll the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk

In the cooler months, explore one of the cities newer outdoor spaces.

Take a taxi (avoiding the obscenely expensive Monorail) out to the end of Palm Jumeirah, marvel at the amazing Atlantis the Palm (you can sneak a peek at the start of the giant aquarium, The Lost Chambers, for free) then set out to explore the new boardwalk that curves around 11kms of the outer crescent of the Palm.

You can see our full list of Dubai family activity suggestions here.

What you should splurge on in Dubai

A trip to Dubai is not complete without getting beyond the big city and seeing some of the UAE Desert. So although there are plenty of cheap places to visit in Dubai, if you are going to splurge your budget on one thing, we would recommend a desert safari.

There are A LOT of Dubai desert tours on offer these days of varying quality and mixture of experiences. Our favourite providers include:

Bedouin Culture Safari with Platinum Heritage

Taking you on a morning safari to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve in the back of old-school Land Rovers, these programs are more focused at the desert itself and the wildlife than dune bashing and desert sports.

Evening Sunset Dune Bashing and Desert Camp

With several pick up locations across town and flexible itineraries to suit your interests, the Al Khayam Camp takes you through the Lehbab desert. Run by OceanAir, they have a strong reputation for providing excellent service.

When to Visit Dubai

The busiest time to visit Dubai is during the cooler winter months, however, this is also when Dubai hotel prices are at their most expensive and there are few discounts to be had.

If you are prepared to put up with the heat, you will find the best Dubai accommodation deals over the hotter summer months and during Ramadan when hotel occupancy can be much lower.

Check out our full guide on when it’s best to visit Dubai here.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Take me back to the Dubai Family Guide Homepage

By City Insider Keri Hedrick

Keri is a long-time UAE resident with 3 children and a passion for all things Middle East!  You can read more about Keri and all our City Insiders here.

Want to be our next City Insider? We all recruiting insiders from around the globe to help provide details from the best place to eat to where to pick up bargains or best way to avoid the crowds! You can apply to be a Little City Insider here or visit our Little City Insiders Facebook Group to join the conversation.

The post Can you really see Dubai on a budget? appeared first on Little City Trips.

The best time to visit Cape Town is in the southern hemisphere summer months when there are glorious hours of sunshine and the best beach weather.

Cape Town and its surrounds are pleasant year-round if you are visiting out of season but you will get the most out of the outdoor lifestyle and the least chance of rain in the summer months November to March.

Here we highlight what to expect at different times of year in Cape Town.

Summer in Cape Town

As well as experiencing the best weather in December and January, it’s also the busiest time of year so hotel prices are likely to be higher. (See more of our tips on picking a family-friendly Cape Town hotel here). If you visit in February-March you can avoid local school holiday times, meaning good weather and fewer crowds.

Click Here for the official South African Government school holiday calendar 

Note that although it is warm in December to January, you may also be treated to the notorious south-easterly winds.  When the winds are strong, the beaches can be unbearable and the Table Mountain cable car is closed. This weather clears from February through to April and you should get mild pleasant days.

Beach Weather?

The Atlantic Coast beaches are indeed beautiful, but make no mistake even for the hardiest they can still be on the cool side even in mid-summer! Families may prefer the Indian Ocean beaches in False Bay where waters are much warmer – sometimes by as much as 10c!.

For more on Cape Towns best beaches see our things to do in Cape Town guide.

Winter in Cape Town

Although the winter months bring with them more wind, rain and cooler temperatures, there are still some perks to visiting Cape Town and the Western Cape in the winter.

• Whales can be spotted in False Bay from late August to early September.
• Those looking to connect through to Kruger will find, although cool overnight, its an excellent time of year for game spotting after the dry winter.
• The later you come into the winter the better, from early September you will be treated to a wildflower spectacular throughout the Cape peninsular.

Daytime temperatures are usually between 10-20c, so you will need to come wrapped up warm. At this time of year there’s still a good chance you will get some great views and clear visibility at popular locations such as Table Mountain and Cape Point.

Cape Town is one of those cities though like Melbourne, Australia that can be known to experience 4 seasons in one day!

Be sure to pack all the right things you will need to cope with the Cape Town weather, see our Cape Town Packing List 

Click here to go to the Cape town family visitors guide 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

What is the weather like in Cape Town, what is the best time to visit? Find all the answers in this guide to the best time to visit Cape Town as a family

The post When is it best to visit Cape Town? appeared first on Little City Trips.

How to dress in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

If you are visiting the Middle East for the first time it can certainly be confusing knowing what information to follow on the Abu Dhabi and Dubai dress code.

Our Insider Guide is here to help you make the right packing decisions for you and your family and understand what to wear in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

What to wear in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for women and men

The United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country, but not as conservative as some of its Middle East counterparts. There are, however, minimum standards expected of tourists, and the Emirates dress code can vary depending on what situation you are in.

Private resort settings are treated differently to public spaces like malls or the theatre. Likewise the Dubai mall dress code is going to be very different to the dress code for an Abu Dhbai mosque, for example.

Read on for all our tips for dealing with the dress code in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Dressing in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for religion and the heat

Although daytime temperatures are warm to hot (to stinking hot!) for most of the year (see our guide to the best time to visit), it’s important to remember that you are in a Muslim country.

You will see that most locals dress in a traditional regional outfit – that is a long white kandurah and gutrah (headpiece) for men and a long black abaya with a Shayla (head covering) for women. Some women will wear the burka, but these days it’s not as common.

However the Abu Dhabi and Dubai dress code for female tourists is by no means expected to be the same, nor are you expected to have your head covered.

We do however suggest at a minimum you should look to cover from shoulders down to your knees and avoid over revealing or clingy clothes, especially during Ramadan.

For women, carrying a shawl or pashmina with you is always a good idea to cover up if you feel awkward – and for a bit of sun and dust protection! If you are entering the Grand Mosque or any religious or government building you will need to hire a full-length abaya and cover your head.

Women can wear leggings under a dress – a great solution if your dress is a little short, but avoid tight, revealing bottoms and showing too much cleavage. Cut off shorts, midriff tops and spaghetti straps are all wardrobe no-nos when it comes to clothes to wear in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

For men, you will find that despite the heat nearly all gents wear full-length trousers. Bringing some light chinos is a good idea, or if you do wear shorts, try and make them knee length.

The best thing to bear in mind is “am I dressed with modesty?” If in doubt, a helpful hotel concierge may be able to guide you.

What should I wear to the beach in Dubai?

If you are at the beach or waterpark in the UAE some women will wear full-length burkinis, while others will strip down to fairly skimpy bathers.

To be comfortable and not offend those around you, we suggest you stick somewhere in the middle for your Dubai beach dress code – a one-piece or bikini that fully covers your bottom.

Some beaches or pools will explicitly state the minimum standard of dress needed – such as t-shirts on adults, and this is strictly enforced (such as Jumeirah family beach).

If you are asked by security to cover up a little, do so without argument. Security are well within their right to call the police if you do not cooperate when it comes to clothing rules.

Topless bathing is strictly not allowed – in fact, it’s illegal! Equally avoid wearing thongs, even at a resort. As soon as you leave a pool or beach area, make sure you are covered up again.

What are children expected to wear?

Prepubescent children should feel free to wear what they please when it comes to dressing in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Once they are teenagers however, they have the same dress requirements as adults.

For more ideas on what you should be packing for the UAE, don’t forget to check out our Abu Dhabi Packing List and our Dubai Packing List.

Our City Insider: Keri Hedrick

Keri is a long-time UAE resident with 3 children. You can read more about Keri and all our City Insiders here.

Want to be our next city insider? We all recruiting insiders from around the globe to help provide details from the best place to eat to where to pick up bargains or best way to avoid the crowds! You can apply to be a Little City Insider here.

The post Dubai and Abu Dhabi Dress Code Advice appeared first on Little City Trips.

The city of Cape Town is relatively easy to navigate with several options, from walking in the daytime to reliable public transport and shuttle services in the evening.

Do note that although Cape Town is considered a relatively safe South African city to visit, there are basic safety precautions we recommend you take. See advice in our Cape Town family travel guide for recommended precautions that apply to all travellers.

Public Transport in Cape Town

My Citi

Cape Town’s public bus system is reliable and cheap. Every passenger needs their own myconnect card loaded with money, except for children under four years old and less than one metre tall, who travel free. Cash is not accepted on the buses.

Always remember to swipe on and off to get charged the right amount. You can find out more about fares and routes here.

Cape Town Taxis

Taxis are the most expensive way to get around Cape Town, but are still a lot cheaper than you would expect to pay in many other major cities. Metro taxis can be either flagged down, taken from a taxi stand (popular spots in town include Greenmarket Square or either end of Adderley Street) or pre-booked with numerous different taxi companies.

Although taxies are metered, it is recommended that you always ask for an estimated price before you go. The meter rate varies between R10-R20 per kilometre. From the city centre to the V&A Waterfront, expect to pay approximately R50-R70.

Uber

Uber is an increasingly popular way to get around Cape Town, and by all reports is a safe and easy option. Using the app you can order uberBlack and uberX to your exact location with fares taken from your credit card, and you are able to track the driver’s movements on the app.

Other Transport Options in Cape Town

City Sightseeing Bus

A city sightseeing bus is a tourist favourite in cities worldwide, and Cape Town is no exception. These open top buses can be a great way to get orientated with the city, with commentary provided. See more on how to book City Sightseeing Bus tickets and save money on our Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Cape Town page.

Hotel Shuttle

Many hotels will offer a free shuttle service, particularly those hotels located outside of the main tourist areas and hotels will often insist you take their free hotel shuttle rather than walking at night. You may be restricted in your timings, but it will save you a few rand on a taxi!

Hotels may also have recommended drivers that they trust and be able to book a private car service for you. Always enquire at your hotel as to the best and safest way to get about; your hosts will know current safety conditions and reputable companies.

Hiring a Car in Cape Town

Hiring a car is our best suggestion for getting around Cape Town and the Western Cape with a family. It will give you flexibility for taking day trips as many of Cape Towns top attractions are not centrally located and many hotels include parking for free.

It’s the perfect option if you’re heading onwards from Cape Town to explore the Garden route, you can pay a one-way fee to leave the car in Port Elizabeth.

A few things to note/be aware of:

• South Africa is a left-hand drive country (so the steering wheel is on the right!).
• Distance and speed are marked in kilometres.
• Petrol stations are full service. You should have a few rand spare for your ‘petrol jockey’.
• Parking in the centre of Cape Town can be notoriously difficult. There are official and unofficial traffic wardens/guards – and it’s not always easy to tell. Many will expect a tip to ‘look after your car’, which given the small cost involved, even when it’s free parking, is normally your easiest option. Keep a few rand in your pocket for this too.

Getting from Cape Town Airport to the city

The most common way to arrive in the city is via Cape Town International Airport (CPT), located 20 kilometres from the city centre.

The cheapest way to get from the airport into Cape Town is using the My CitiBus service, which costs around 90 rand. The bus will drop you at the Civic Centre on Hertzog Boulevard in central Cape Town. Services run from between 05:00 until midnight, and travel time is approximately 30 minutes.

The Public Transport Plaza is directly opposite the Central Terminal Building entrance and can be accessed using the subway under the main road. Tickets can be purchased here.

If you are travelling with a family, you may prefer the convenience of taking shuttle services offered by your accommodation (pre-booking is advised) or hire a car.

Take me back to the Cape Town City Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Insiders’ tips on how to get around Cape Town and discover the city with ease

The post How to get around Cape Town appeared first on Little City Trips.

Being in the heart of the Middle East, expect long hot summers and mild winters. This means that the best time to visit Dubai is from late October through to late April. The UAE doesn’t really follow regular seasons of the year – just mild, hot, very hot and OMG!!!

What to expect during Summer in Dubai

Peak summer temperatures can be as high as 50c (122F). Life really moves indoors over the hot summer months as daytime temperatures can be unbearable – even too hot to sit by your hotel pool or beachside (July/August).  You’ll find there is more life and activity late in the evenings where temperatures drop to the low 30’s and its bearable (just!) to be outside.

The heat really starts to kick in from early April and this lasts through until late October, depending on your tolerance levels! The end of summer brings more humidity too.

What to expect during Winter in Dubai

Dubai in the winter is full of festivity. A sign it is getting cooler is when the outdoor Ripe Markets return to Dubai’s popular parks and a number of seasonal attractions open their doors again, such as Global Village, Dubai Garden Glow and Dubai Miracle Garden. (You can read more about them here).

National Day Celebrations occur on 2 December and the weeks leading up to this are full of festivity. You will likely see a lot of UAE flags draped over buildings, shopping malls, and even cars! This colour and excitement continues through to Christmas. Although a Muslim country, the retailers and hoteliers certainly don’t miss a trick with the captive tourist audience and you’re bound to find loads of Christmas Markets, Santas and Christmas trees wherever you turn!

Whilst the middle of winter (December/January) may not be the best time of year for visiting the beach, make the most of the cooler weather to try a number of outdoor activities. Favourite outdoor activities include desert safaris, sandboarding, zip lining – you name it, Dubai has probably got it!

Common questions about visiting Dubai

Does it rain in Dubai?

It is not unusual for it to occasionally rain over the cooler winter months – or it could stay dry all winter. We wouldn’t recommend packing an umbrella “just in case” as you will find if it does rain everyone hunkers down indoors – and the roads become utter chaos!

You may experience other atmospheric conditions though like fog (can play havoc on the airports especially during the cooler months) and sand storms are not an uncommon occurrence. On a windy day, you will notice a fine coat of sand on pretty much everything!

What should I wear in Dubai?

This can be an understandably confusing topic if you are new to the Middle East. There are different rules for different places and unfortunately, many tourists flaunt the rules. Jump over to our dress code in Dubai post to understand more about accepted standards for family dress.

If you are heading inland on a desert safari you will get cooler overnights in winter but probably no need for more than an extra wrap or sweater.

Click here for a full guide on what to wear and what to pack for Dubai

An important note on Ramadan in Dubai

It’s important to observe each year when the Holy Month of Ramadan will occur. The 9th month in the Hijri calendar (the start date changes by approximately 10 days on the Gregorian calendar each year) is a period of deep religious reflection for Muslims and is strictly observed.

The most important thing to observe is fasting with no eating in public allowed, but also no public displays of affection and ensure the modest dress code is strictly followed. It can be a little confusing for visitors to know exactly what to expect. We wouldn’t entirely advise against visiting at this time but you will have quite a different experience, joining in with iftar (the evening breaking of the fast) and overnight festivities.

The other thing you may observe is that many businesses and attractions are closed during the day and only open in the evening. If you are only in Dubai for a short stopover you need to be conscious of this or you may find yourself stranded in the heat with little to do!

Our Globetrotters have a detailed guide on what to expect during the Holy Month if you are looking for more guidance on the do’s and don’ts.

In 2018 Ramadan started on 17 May, and will end with Eid al Fitr celebrations (breaking of the fast) on approximately 15 June.  Exact dates are determined by moon sightings and confirmed only 24 hours beforehand.

Back to our Family Guide to Dubai

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

What is the weather like in Dubai and what should you expect? This guide reveals all you need to know to pick the best time to visit Dubai with kids

The post When is it best to visit Dubai? appeared first on Little City Trips.

Although getting around Abu Dhabi is relatively easy, most visitors choose to take taxis rather than hire a car or take public transport when sightseeing in Abu Dhabi.

Here we share our top insider tips to help you figure out how to get around Abu Dhabi.

We also have a 3-day family-friendly itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi Public Transport

Abu Dhabi Taxi – TransAD

Taxi is often considered the best way to get around Abu Dhabi for visitors.

Although there are many different taxi companies, they are all regulated and booked via TransAD.

Taxis are in plentiful supply out the front of hotels and malls, although at large events can be more difficult to come by. Should you find yourself stranded or need to make an Abu Dhabi taxi booking, call this Abu Dhabi taxi number: 600 53 53 53 or use the TransAD Abu Dhabi taxi app.

Abu Dhabi taxi fares are relatively cheap, taxis are metered and (most) drivers understand the city’s grid system.

The ever-changing street names and numbering system can cause confusion, so if you’re taking a taxi in Abu Dhabi, it’s best to go by describing the landmark you are looking for and specify any preferred route, if known, rather than just giving the address.

Note that Uber is currently banned in Abu Dhabi, but the Careem ride-hailing app continues to operate.

Abu Dhabi Bus Service

There is a public Abu Dhabi bus service and many bus stops have air conditioning.

The Abu Dhabi bus system is cheap to use with most inner-city fares only costing 2AED. However, you will need to get each person a temporary Hafilat card, issued from the central Abu Dhabi bus station for 5 AED. Note though that getting this Abu Dhabi bus card can often be more hassle than its worth for a short visit.

You can see more on the Abu Dhabi bus timings and routes on the Department of Transport website.

Driving in Abu Dhabi – Hiring a Car

Driving in Abu Dhabi can be challenging for newcomers. Although the roads are wide and in good condition, traffic moves very fast and there are a lot of one-way systems as well as constant road works and trucks to contend with.

Only confident drivers should look to hire and self-drive in Abu Dhabi.

There are plentiful car hire companies at Abu Dhabi airport to choose from. Vehicles are left-hand drive and car seats for children under 4 in private vehicles were made compulsory on 1 July 2017.

To hire a car in Abu Dhabi, all you will need is a drivers licence from your home country written in English or Arabic.

Note that tolls are added to Abu Dhabi roads leading on and off the main island from October 2019. Your hire car will come fitted with a tag for tolls.

Walking in Abu Dhabi – Is Abu Dhabi Stroller friendly?

Sadly, in many places, Abu Dhabi it is not stroller friendly. Nor is it particularly accessible for wheelchair users.

There are lots of parks and long stretches, like the Corniche, where you can walk with a stroller uninterrupted. However, as soon as you head into downtown parts of Abu Dhabi, you’ll frustratingly find pavements to be high and inconsistent; down ramps with no connecting up ramps; lampposts or signage in the middle of footpaths; or even no sidewalk at all!

With the heat and these obstacles, its often easier to catch a taxi in Abu Dhabi, even if you are only going a few short blocks.

You can check out our full list of suggested items to pack for Abu Dhabi here.

Getting from Abu Dhabi Airport to the City

From the airport, the easiest way to get to town or your Abu Dhabi accommodation is with an Abu Dhabi airport taxi. (Please don’t take a limousine tout in the terminal – 99% of the time they are trying to rip you off, yet somehow still seem to be operating!)

• The official airport taxis in Abu Dhabi are well signposted at the exit and easy to identify black Mercedes vans.
• Abu Dhabi airport to city taxis charge an initial flag-fall of 25AED. To Yas Island, the total fare is only around 45AED ($12USD) and takes 10 minutes.
• To the Corniche your fare could be up to 100AED ($27USD) and take 30-40 minutes, maybe a little longer if you hit peak hour traffic on the freeway.
• If you download the taxi app there is an Abu Dhabi taxi fare calculator to work out approximate costs.

Another option for an Abu Dhabi airport transfer is the bus. This leaves from outside the lower level of Terminals 1 and 3.

Look for the Green and White A1 Abu Dhabi airport bus, which will take you past the main bus station (corner of Muroor Road and 11th) all the way to the Old Fish Market on Al Nasr Street.

Returning to the airport, you can catch any cab from the street, or arrange a transfer with a private airport transfer company.

Travelling with young children in Abu Dhabi

Taxis are not fitted with any sort of car seat. You will need to bring your own or book a private pick up service such as Careem Kids.

How to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Looking to head to Dubai? Currently, the only public transport from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is Intercity Buses.

You can catch this Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus at the Abu Dhabi bus station, and alight at either the IBN Battuta Mall or Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai. The cost is 25AED each way.

These services run fairly regularly throughout the day, but just be mindful that you will need to catch another bus or taxi to connect at either end.

With a family group, you may be better off getting a taxi to drive the Abu Dhabi to Dubai distance. This way you can get dropped directly at your destination. Another option to taking a taxi from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is hiring a private driver who can come with you for the day.

Expect the Abu Dhabi to Dubai taxi fare to be approximately 300AED ($80USD) for a standard taxi to Downtown Dubai, or 400AED+ ($110USD+) for a privately hired people mover.

You can read a comprehensive guide for getting between Abu Dhabi and Dubai here

If you are flying with Emirates there is a complimentary Emirates bus service from outside their Khalidiya office (near the Corniche) in Abu Dhabi to Dubai Airport. Note this only applies to passengers holding an Emirates ticket for that day of travel.

If you have arrived into Abu Dhabi International Airport with Etihad economy and connect straight to Dubai you can arrange a seat on the Etihad Coach for free, which will take you to the Etihad Travel Mall (Downtown Dubai) – see timetable here.

Take me back to the Abu Dhabi Family Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post How to get around Abu Dhabi appeared first on Little City Trips.

Dubai has become a large, sprawling city. Whilst in some ways it is easy to get around, you’ll find other times it can be a little unfriendly for families. Luckily, there are lots of different transport options that you can build in to be part of the Dubai experience.

You name a transportation type and Dubai has probably got it! The Hyperloop to Abu Dhabi is still a distant dream but in the meantime, here is a run through of all the different types of transport you can catch in Dubai, and what they are likely to cost.

Public Transport in Dubai

Note: the RTA (Roads and Traffic Authority) manages the overall public transport network in Dubai, but there are many different private providers. A “Nol” (Arabic for fare) card is required for many forms of transport. We explain this in detail below.

Dubai Taxi

The easiest way to travel in Dubai is by taxi. They don’t cost too much and they are in fairly plentiful supply at Dubai hotels, malls and attractions. The disadvantage of taking a taxi in Dubai is that it may take you longer than other forms of transport if you get stuck in Dubai’s gruelling traffic jams.

You can advance call a Dubai taxi on 04 2080808 or hail one from the street, as well as picking up from a taxi rank. A yellow light means the taxi is free and a red light means it is booked or occupied. The minimum Dubai taxi fare is 12 AED.

There are also ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem.  They will cost you more but may be quicker and more convenient if you are calling for a pickup or have a larger group.

Dubai Metro

The Dubai metro is by far one of the fastest and most convenient ways to get across town (assuming your destination is near a metro stop). These driver-less trains run every few minutes across the network, which consists of seven zones. Note though that queues for tickets can be lengthy, and the stations themselves a little cumbersome to get to.

Before your first ride, you will need to buy a Nol Card. You can pre-load it with an amount if you want to avoid queuing every time or just pay per ride.

• Short-term visitors should purchase the Nol Red Ticket (2 AED + fare), whilst longer-term visitors and residents should purchase the NOL Silver Pass (25 AED – includes 19 AED in fares; best for 10 trips+).
• Fares on Nol Red are 4 AED to 8.50 AED depending on Zones travelled, or 20AED for a day pass. On Nol Silver, fares are from 3AED to 7.50 AED.
• There’s also a Nol Gold option (first class travel) which is the best option if you hate crowds!
• Everyone aged 5 and up must have their own NOL card.
• There is one carriage on each train set aside for women and children only.

Note in peak times it can be VERY busy. We advise against travelling with small children in these times as they can easily get lost in the crowd.

Dubai Tram

Currently, tram coverage is not extensive and is only really useful around the Dubai Marina area running from Al Souf to JBR. The Dubai tram is good for the novelty, but not one of the most useful parts of Dubai’s transport system.

Tip: Using your Nol card on a tram to complete your metro journey costs you no extra, but will you will pay for a standalone tram journey.

Dubai Buses

Dubai also has an extensive bus system that operates on the Nol card. The Dubai bus service is used more by locals than visitors but might come in handy for some of those harder to reach areas of town. You can use the RTA’s app Wojhati to work out your best routes around town.

Palm Jumeirah Monorail

The monorail connects the mainland to the palm from Palm Jumeirah station and has 3 stops. Currently, the monorail is still operating its own fare system and payment is only in cash. At the time of writing a single trip per person is 20 AED or return 30 AED (which makes a taxi from the station to the end of the Palm significantly cheaper if travelling in a group).

Water Bus, Water Taxis and Abras

A water bus operates within the Dubai Marina complex with 4 stops. It is a pleasant journey but not necessarily the fastest way to get around, though kids will no doubt love the experience! Tickets must be purchased for all passengers aged 5 and up and are between 3AED to 11AED depending how many stops you make.

If you are looking to cross the Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai to Deira or vice versa, you have a couple of options: to take a water taxi or sightseeing waterbus, or a traditional abra. At only 1AED per person per crossing, abras are an absolute steal and a lot of fun for the kids! You may also be able to rent one for sightseeing – expect to pay around 100 AED.

The latest addition to Dubai’s water transportation network is the Dubai Canal. You can take the Dubai Ferry from the Business Bay area to the Dubai Marina – currently operating 3 times a day at 10am, 12pm and 5.30pm.

Getting from Dubai Airport to the City

It is very straightforward to get a taxi from Dubai Aiport to any destination in the city. The taxi fare from Dubai Airport to the city is highly variable depending which part of town you are heading to. Dubai Airport to JBR area or hotels on the Palm, for example, might cost 100AED.

Alternatively, your hotel may offer a transfer service, which may be economical if you have more than 4 passengers and a lot of luggage that won’t fit in a standard taxi (a lot of taxis are fitted with LPG tanks, so have limited luggage space).

Parents with car seats in Dubai

A standard taxi leaving from Dubai International Airport is permitted to borrow car seats from the airport, which they later return. These come at no extra charge to you, but you may need to insist on asking for them. Careem also offers a family service that includes one car seat and larger vehicles to fit all your gear.

If you are planning on travelling extensively around town, you may need to bring your own car seats. You can see our full list of recommended kiddy gear to bring with you in our packing list for Dubai.

Getting from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Looking to head to Abu Dhabi? Currently, the only public transport system between the two cities is Intercity Buses which you catch from IBN Battuta Mall or Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai to the Abu Dhabi bus station (next to Al Whadha mall). It costs 25AED each way.

These services run fairly regularly throughout the day, but just be mindful that you need to catch a further bus or taxi to connect at either end.

With a family group, you may be better off getting dropped directly at your destination with a taxi or hiring a private driver who can come with you for the day. Expect to pay approximately 300AED ($85USD) for a standard taxi from Dubai airport to Abu Dhabi, or 400AED+ ($108USD+) for a people mover.

You can see a detailed guide on how to transit between Dubai and Abu Dhabi here

If you are flying with Emirates, they offer a complimentary transfer service to Abu Dhabi Corniche where you can then catch an onward connection. This only applies to passengers flying on Emirates presenting a valid ticket for that day. If you are connecting directly to an Etihad flight they offer a similar service.

Want to learn more about visiting Dubai with kids?  Click here to visit our Family Guide to Dubai

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Insider tips on how to get around Dubai with kids

The post How to get around Dubai appeared first on Little City Trips.

As Abu Dhabi is located in the heart of the Middle East, you can expect long hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is from late October through to late April.

Abu Dhabi’s Corniche beach is a favourite with tourists and locals alike

What to expect during Summer in Abu Dhabi

Peak summer temperatures in Abu Dhabi can be as high as 50c (122F). Life really moves indoors over the hot summer months as daytime temperatures can be unbearable – even too hot to sit pool or beachside. This is worth remembering when you are planning what to do in Abu Dhabi.

You’ll find there is more life and activity later in the evenings when temperatures drop to the low 30’s. Late summer can be humid as well.

The advantage of visiting Abu Dhabi in the summer is you may find many hotels with great special offers to attract customers – just check that swimming pools are temperature controlled!

Click here to see our pick of the best family hotels in Abu Dhabi.

The shoulder seasons of February to April and October to November are best for beach weather.

What to expect during Winter in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi really springs back to life over the cooler months. A great festive time to visit is around the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in late November when the city is full of concerts, markets and sporting events. This is closely followed by National Day celebrations on 2 December when the city becomes painted in the colours of its flag.

Festivities and decorations remain until around Christmas. Although not officially recognized in a Muslim country, retailers and hotels still get into the Christmas spirit.

It is not unusual for it to rain occasionally in Abu Dhabi over the cooler winter months. In fact, this has become a more common occurrence in recent years as offshore cloud seeding occurs. Don’t bother packing an umbrella, but do try and check forecasts a few days out. (You can see our full list of Abu Dhabi packing suggestions here).

Sandstorms and fog are also not unheard of in Abu Dhabi, but nothing you can really plan for. Fog can play havoc with flights landing into Abu Dhabi International Airport at times too.

If you are heading inland on a desert safari, you will get cooler overnights in winter but probably no need for more than an extra wrap or sweater. You will likely find that it’s too cold for ocean swimming in December to January but resorts should have heated swimming pools.

Our co-Editor Keri shares her favourite tips for exploring Abu Dhabi in the different seasons in this City Travel with Kids Podcast episode.

An important note on Ramadan in Abu Dhabi

It’s important to observe each year when the Holy Month of Ramadan will occur. The 9th month in the Hijri calendar (the start date changes by approximately 10 days on the Gregorian calendar each year) is a period of deep religious reflection for Muslims and is strictly observed.

The most important thing to observe is fasting, with no eating in public allowed. Also, ensure no public displays of affection and that the modest dress code is strictly followed. It can be a little confusing for visitors to know exactly what to expect. The advantage of visiting at this time of year is that you will experience joining in with iftar (the evening breaking of the fast) and overnight festivities.

Note during Ramadan, restaurant, shop and attraction times are likely to change, and these aren’t always well advertised. Most shopping malls now have a sectioned-off area where daytime eating is permitted and hotels will always have at least one of their restaurants open for guests’ convenience.

Our Globetrotters have a detailed guide on what to expect during the Holy Month if you are looking for more guidance on the do’s and don’ts.

In 2020 Ramadan will start on approximately 23 April, ending with Eid al Fitr celebrations (breaking of the fast) on approximately 23 May. Exact dates are determined by moon sightings and confirmed only in the 24 hours before Ramadan is due to start.

Take me back to the Abu Dhabi Family Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post When is it Best to Visit Abu Dhabi? appeared first on Little City Trips.