A family trip to the UAE allows you to match comfortable rest with amazing entertainment. For a stress-free vacation, it is best to think about valuable comfort points like the food and weather adaptation in advance. Transport also deserves special attention. Parents should rent Citroen in Dubai, which features a rather spacious cabin. It will easily accommodate from 3 to 5 family members, placing children in car seats behind you. Read on to cross out other things from your to-do list before travelling to the UAE.
Climate and child adaptation
The UAE is hot for a significant part of the year. First, it is worth choosing the right season for your trip:
From May to September, the temperature exceeds +40 °C. Humidity can be very high. This requires frequent stay-in pauses throughout the trip, plenty of water with you, and a comfortable rented car with air conditioning.
From November to March, the climate is milder and more comfortable for small children. You can walk outside longer or travel further in the rented car.
Whatever the season, it is also worth thinking about sun protection during walks. Parents need to bring sunscreen with a high SPF. Take hats and light cotton clothing with long sleeves with you on your trip.
Please note that it is best to avoid long walks and swimming at midday for the first 1-2 days. This will allow your child to acclimatise to the harsh Arabic climate.
Food and water
Although water in the UAE is considered purified and safe, only bottled water is recommended for children. Luckily, it is sold in any shop in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Always pack at least a liter of bottled water with you or have one in the backseat or the rental car.
As for food, families can find all kinds of restaurants and cafes that offer many familiar dishes, including European pizza and pasta. There are also children’s menus with first and second courses. However, for peace of mind, it is better to bring your child’s usual snacks with you. Avoid ordering highly spiced food or local hummus. Introduce new foods gradually.
Rules of conduct and safety
The UAE is a Muslim country. Modesty and respect for traditions are valued here. It is worth explaining the basic rules to children, and especially to teenagers:
- Making too much noise in public places is frowned upon.
- It is necessary to observe queues.
- Expressing intimacy in public is illegal.
- Drinking alcohol is only allowed in special areas for tourists.
- Follow the regulations signs when entering a religious building.
A useful tip is to use bracelets or tokens with parents’ contact information. This will help if the child gets lost.
On the beaches, you should always keep an eye on children. The waves and currents can be strong. At the same time, in some areas there are no lifeguards. Do not forget about the rules of decency on the beach. Girls and women should wear modest swimsuits in public areas. However, the rules are more relaxed in water parks and hotels.
How to get a rental car in the UAE for travelling with children
One of the key issues for families is transportation. In the UAE, the distances between attractions are significant. At the same time, the heat makes walking tiring. Therefore, a rented car is the most convenient solution for parents with children. Taxis are also available. But for daily trips, they are more expensive than renting a car. A car gives you freedom of movement and allows you to plan your trip at a pace that is comfortable for your child.
If you rent a vehicle, be sure to ask for a child’s car seat to be placed. In the UAE, children under 4 years are required to be in car seats while driving. Car rental companies often offer child seats as an additional service.
Drivers over 21 years of age can rent a car. Luxury cars are available from 25. A minimum of documents is required for renting. You need to show your national and international licenses.
The country has strict fines for speeding. You can’t use a phone without a headset while driving. Everyone in the car must wear a seat belt. This includes children. The country has high-quality and clear road signs. Therefore, you can rest assured that you will be able to get around easily in your chosen city or across the different emirates.
Plan your routes responsibly. Distances between the Emirates can be significant. The car must have insurance. It can be basic with a franchise or extended. Be sure to check whether insurance is included in the rental price. Use a satnav or a traffic app, which is also convenient for paying the tolls. Traffic in Dubai and Abu Dhabi can be very heavy during rush hour.
Health and safety
The UAE has a high standard of healthcare. There are pharmacies in almost every neighborhood. However, it is worth bringing a basic first aid kit with you: fever reducers, plasters, and antiseptics. Parents should keep an eye on their children at the beach.
Summing up
Traveling to the UAE with a child can be as comfortable when you are prepared. Take into account the peculiarities of the country. This concerns the hot climate and local laws. At the same time, the car rental service will greatly simplify the family’s travel and allow them to enjoy the trip without restrictions. The main thing is to take care of a child’s seat and follow the traffic rules.
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