20-Day Ultimate Family Journey through the United Arab Emirates
Embark on a magnificent 20-day journey across the United Arab Emirates, a land where tradition meets tomorrow. This itinerary is specifically designed for families who want to experience the grandeur of the Emirates without the rush, focusing on stroller-accessible routes, engaging activities for children, and comfortable intercity travel.
From the shimmering skyscrapers of Dubai to the cultural heart of Sharjah and the lush greenery of Al Ain, you will discover a country that is incredibly welcoming to families. With a focus on value and local experiences, this epic journey proves that the UAE can be both luxurious and accessible for those traveling with little ones.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Settling into Dubai
Arrival at DXB Airport
Land at Dubai International Airport. The airport is highly accessible with dedicated family counters and stroller assistance available at all terminals.
Check-in & Unpack
Head to your family-friendly apartment in the Al Barsha or Downtown area, chosen for its proximity to the Metro and supermarkets.
Stroll at Kite Beach
Take a relaxed walk along the cushioned running track. The kids can enjoy the playground while you watch the sunset behind the Burj Al Arab.
Casual Dinner by the Sea
Enjoy a laid-back meal at one of the many food trucks at the Salt complex, famous for its family-friendly atmosphere.
Day 2: Dubai - Downtown Icons
Dubai Mall Aquarium
Observe the massive shark tank from the mall for free, or enter the tunnel for an immersive underwater experience perfect for toddlers.
Lunch at Time Out Market
Located in Souk Al Bahar, this food hall offers a variety of cuisines that cater to even the pickiest eaters in a vibrant setting.
Burj Khalifa Views
Head to the 'At The Top' observation deck. The elevators are fast, and the views across the desert are breathtaking for school-aged kids.
Dubai Fountain Show
Watch the world's largest choreographed fountain system. It's free, stroller-accessible, and takes place every 30 minutes in the evening.
Day 3: Dubai - Old World Charm
Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
Wander through the narrow lanes of old Dubai. The sand-colored buildings and wind towers provide a great backdrop for family photos.
Abra Ride across Dubai Creek
Take a traditional wooden boat (Abra) for just 1 AED per person. It’s a short, exciting boat ride that kids absolutely love.
Spice and Gold Souk
Explore the vibrant markets. It's a sensory experience, though keep strollers light as the paths can be busy.
Dubai Frame
Visit this architectural landmark in Zabeel Park. It offers a bridge between the old and new Dubai with a glass floor for the brave.
Day 4: Dubai - Sun, Sand, and Play
Aquaventure Waterpark
Spend the morning at Atlantis The Palm. The 'Splashers' area is specifically designed for younger children and toddlers.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium
A myth-themed aquarium that is cooler and quieter, providing a nice break from the midday sun.
Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk
A wide, flat path perfect for strollers with views of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline.
Dinner at The Pointe
Enjoy a meal overlooking the fountains at The Pointe, which is much less crowded than the Downtown fountain shows.
Day 5: Dubai - Parks and Recreation
Dubai Miracle Garden
Walk through the world's largest natural flower garden. It’s incredibly colorful and features a massive floral Emirates A380.
Global Village
An outdoor cultural park with pavilions from around the world. It’s perfect for late afternoon and evening exploration with kids.
Carnival at Global Village
The dedicated kids' zone features rides and games that are suitable for various age groups.
Street Food Dinner
Sample snacks from around the world at the various kiosks within Global Village—affordable and fun.
Day 6: Transit to Sharjah - The Cultural Hub
Drive to Sharjah
A short 30-40 minute drive from Dubai. Sharjah is the UAE's cultural capital and offers a more traditional atmosphere.
Check-in at Al Majaz
Choose a hotel near the Al Majaz Waterfront for easy access to parks and evening entertainment.
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
A beautifully curated museum housed in a former souk. It’s air-conditioned and stroller-friendly.
Al Majaz Waterfront Park
The park features a splash pad, mini-golf, and a beautiful fountain show that is very popular with local families.
Day 7: Sharjah - Discovery and Nature
Sharjah Discovery Centre
Specifically designed for children aged 3 to 12, this interactive center allows kids to learn about science and technology through play.
Sharjah Aquarium
A smaller, more manageable aquarium than Dubai's, focusing on local marine life and very easy to navigate with small children.
Maritime Museum
Learn about the UAE’s pearl diving and fishing history in an engaging, visual way.
Al Noor Island
Visit the Butterfly House and enjoy the art installations in this peaceful island sanctuary in the middle of the city.
Day 8: Sharjah - Rain and Heritage
The Rain Room
An incredible installation where you walk through rain without getting wet. It’s a magical experience for children (booking required).
Heart of Sharjah
Walk through the heritage area, which is currently undergoing massive restoration to preserve the city’s oldest buildings.
Sharjah Art Museum
The largest art museum in the Gulf, offering a quiet and spacious environment for a relaxed afternoon.
Souk Al Arsah
One of the oldest souks in the country. It’s covered and peaceful, perfect for buying traditional handicrafts.
Day 9: Journey to Al Ain - The Garden City
Drive to Al Ain
A scenic 1.5-hour drive through the desert. Al Ain is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its oases and cooler temperatures.
Al Ain Oasis
Walk under the shade of thousands of date palms. The paths are wide, paved, and perfect for strollers.
Al Ain Palace Museum
The former residence of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It’s a great place to learn about the ruling family in a beautiful setting.
Jebel Hafeet Drive
Drive up the UAE's second-highest peak for stunning sunset views. There is a playground and park at the base for kids.
Day 10: Al Ain - Wildlife and Fun
Al Ain Zoo
One of the best zoos in the region. The giraffes' feeding station is a highlight for children of all ages.
Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre
Located within the zoo, this sustainable building features interactive exhibits about the desert environment.
Hili Archaeological Park
Combine history with play. The park contains Bronze Age tombs and a large grassy area with play equipment.
Dinner in Town
Al Ain offers many affordable, family-run Lebanese and Indian restaurants that are very welcoming to children.
Day 11: Al Ain - History and Relaxation
Al Jahili Fort
One of the UAE’s most historic buildings. It features a photography exhibition about the explorer Wilfred Thesiger.
Qasr Al Muwaiji
The birthplace of the late President Sheikh Khalifa. The museum is modern, interactive, and very stroller-accessible.
Al Ain Adventure
For older kids, this park offers whitewater rafting and kayaking. For younger ones, the swimming pool is a great spot.
Relax at Green Mubazzarah
Enjoy the natural hot springs and the large grassy hills at the foot of Jebel Hafeet.
Day 12: Transit to Abu Dhabi - The Capital
Drive to Abu Dhabi
A comfortable 1.5-hour drive. Abu Dhabi is more spread out than Dubai and has a more relaxed, regal feel.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the world's largest mosques. It is exceptionally accessible with moving walkways and elevators for families.
Check-in at Corniche Area
The Corniche is ideal for families, offering beach access and miles of parks and bike paths.
Corniche Beach Walk
Rent a family bicycle or just stroll along the water. There are numerous playgrounds along the entire length.
Day 13: Abu Dhabi - Art and Culture
Louvre Abu Dhabi
A world-class museum. The Children's Museum inside is specifically designed for kids to interact with art.
Lunch on Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Beach Club offers great family dining options with views of the turquoise sea.
Manarat Al Saadiyat
A cultural center that often hosts family workshops and art classes that are great for an hour of creative play.
Dinner at Yas Bay
A vibrant new waterfront destination with a massive variety of restaurants and great walkways for a stroller stroll.
Day 14: Abu Dhabi - Nature and Palaces
Jubail Mangrove Park
Walk on the floating boardwalks through the mangroves. It's peaceful and a great way to see local birds and crabs.
Qasr Al Watan
The Presidential Palace. It is awe-inspiring and very spacious, making it easy to navigate with a stroller.
Umm Al Emarat Park
One of the oldest and largest parks in Abu Dhabi. It has an animal barn, a botanical garden, and a great 'Children’s Garden'.
Emirates Palace Coffee
Visit the iconic hotel. While high-end, it's a beautiful place for a family photo and a treat of their famous gold-leaf coffee.
Day 15: Abu Dhabi - Island Adventure
Warner Bros. World
This entirely indoor theme park is perfect for families. The 'Cartoon Junction' area is ideal for younger children.
Yas Marina Circuit
Take a tour of the F1 track. On some evenings, you can walk or cycle the track for free with the family.
Ferrari World (Photo Stop)
Even if you don't go in, the Yas Mall entrance offers a great look at the iconic red roof and Ferrari displays.
Dinner at Yas Mall
The mall has a massive food court and many sit-down restaurants that are very welcoming to families with strollers.
Day 16: Transit to Ras Al Khaimah
Drive to Ras Al Khaimah
A longer drive of about 2.5 hours. RAK is known for its rugged mountains and beautiful, quiet beaches.
Check-in at Marjan Island
This man-made island offers several family resorts with private beaches and excellent kids' clubs.
Beach Time
Enjoy the calmer waters of RAK. Most resorts here have shallow areas perfect for toddlers to splash safely.
Evening Walk on the Boardwalk
Marjan Island has a long, paved boardwalk perfect for a sunset walk with the stroller.
Day 17: Ras Al Khaimah - Mountains and History
Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park
Drive up the highest mountain in the UAE. The viewing deck park has several viewpoints and a café.
Jais Sledder
A fun mountain sled ride that allows for two people, so an adult can go with a child (minimum age/height applies).
Dhayah Fort
The only hilltop fort remaining in the UAE. It’s a steep climb (not stroller friendly), but the views are worth it for older kids.
Suwaidi Pearls Farm
Take a small boat to the pearl farm to learn about the region's pearling history. It's an educational and calm outing.
Day 18: Ras Al Khaimah - Coastal Relaxation
Flamingo Beach
A quiet public beach where you can often spot flamingos in the nearby mangroves. Great for a low-cost morning.
Lunch in RAK City
Try some local Emirati cuisine at a traditional restaurant like Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe.
Saqr Park
The largest public park in RAK. It features a large lake with pedal boats and plenty of space for kids to run.
Relaxed Resort Dinner
Enjoy the facilities at your hotel for a final night in the northern emirates.
Day 19: Return to Dubai - Final Finds
Drive back to Dubai
An easy 1.5-hour drive back to the city for your final night.
Dubai Festival City Mall
A less hectic mall for last-minute souvenir shopping. It also features 'Imagine', a spectacular light and water show.
Creek Park
A massive park along the water with a cable car that offers great views of the skyline without the Burj Khalifa prices.
Farewell Dinner in Deira
Enjoy an authentic, affordable meal in the heart of the city's oldest commercial district.
Day 20: Departure from Dubai
Breakfast by the Creek
Enjoy one last Arabic breakfast overlooking the water as the Abras begin their daily commute.
Last Minute Shopping
Pick up some dates or local spices at a neighborhood supermarket like Carrefour or Lulu for better prices than the airport.
Check-out and Transit
Head towards DXB Airport. Give yourself 3 hours for international flights with a family.
Flight Home
Safe travels back home with memories of an epic 20-day family adventure!
Best Time to Visit United Arab Emirates
The best time to visit the UAE is during the cooler months from November to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant (ranging from 18°C to 28°C), making outdoor activities and beach visits ideal. While it is the peak tourist season, the ability to walk outside comfortably is essential for families with strollers. April and October are shoulder months where it can get quite hot, while the summer months (June to September) are extremely hot, often exceeding 40°C, limiting activities to indoor air-conditioned spaces.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the UAE Dirham (AED), which is pegged to the US Dollar at a rate of approximately 3.67 AED to 1 USD. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, from high-end malls to small cafes. However, it is useful to carry some cash for small purchases in the souks or for tipping. Tipping is not mandatory but 10-15% is standard in restaurants if a service charge isn't already included. In taxis, rounding up to the nearest 5 or 10 dirhams is appreciated.
Getting Around United Arab Emirates
Intercity travel is best handled by renting a car, which offers the most flexibility for families with gear and strollers. The roads are world-class and well-signposted. Within Dubai, the Metro is efficient and stroller-friendly, though it can get crowded during rush hour. For travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, there are high-quality bus services (E100 and E101), though a private taxi or rental car is often more comfortable for a family. Taxis are plentiful and relatively affordable compared to other major global cities.
