Planning a family holiday across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah gives you the chance to experience the UAE’s famous attractions, cultural landmarks, beaches, and family-friendly activities in one trip. The key is to choose the right travel dates, divide your time between the three emirates, and plan transport around your children’s ages and your family’s interests. With a practical itinerary, you can explore Dubai’s major attractions, discover Abu Dhabi’s cultural and entertainment destinations, and enjoy Sharjah’s museums and waterfronts without rushing from place to place.
1. Choose the Best Time for Your Family Holiday
The weather plays an important role when planning a family trip across the UAE. The cooler months generally make sightseeing and outdoor activities more comfortable, while summer requires more indoor attractions and careful planning around the heat.
- November to March: Consider these months for beach visits, outdoor attractions, desert experiences, and waterfront walks.
- April and October: These months can suit families who want a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities, although temperatures may still be high.
- May to September: Plan more indoor activities, use air-conditioned transport, and schedule outdoor sightseeing during cooler parts of the day.
Check school holidays, public holidays, hotel prices, and attraction opening times before booking. Popular destinations can become crowded during major events and school breaks, so advance reservations may help your family avoid long queues.
2. Decide How Many Days to Spend in Each Emirate
A family holiday across three emirates needs enough time for sightseeing, meals, rest, and travel between destinations. Trying to visit every major attraction in a few days can make the trip tiring, especially for families travelling with young children.
For a balanced itinerary, consider spending six to eight days in the UAE.
| Emirate | Suggested stay | Main family experiences |
| Dubai | 3 days | Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, beaches, and family attractions |
| Abu Dhabi | 2–3 days | Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, and waterfront areas |
| Sharjah | 1–2 days | Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Al Noor Island, and Al Majaz Waterfront |
These durations are starting points rather than fixed rules. Families interested in theme parks may want an extra day in Abu Dhabi, while those who enjoy museums and cultural experiences may prefer to spend longer in Sharjah.
3. Start Your Holiday in Dubai
Dubai offers a convenient introduction to the UAE, with major landmarks, shopping centres, beaches, and attractions suitable for different ages. Group nearby destinations together to reduce travel time and give children enough opportunities to rest.
Day 1: Explore Downtown Dubai
Start with Downtown Dubai, where several major attractions sit close to each other.
- Burj Khalifa: Visit the observation decks for panoramic views of the city. Book tickets in advance if you plan to visit at a popular time.
- Dubai Mall: Explore the shopping centre, indoor entertainment options, and Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, subject to current opening arrangements.
- Dubai Fountain area: Check the current fountain schedule and viewing arrangements before planning an evening visit.
Allow time for meals and breaks rather than trying to fit every attraction into one day. Families with younger children may find it easier to choose one major paid attraction and leave the rest of the day flexible.
For official attraction details, opening information, and visitor guidance, consult Visit Dubai’s official tourism guide.
Day 2: Enjoy Beaches and Outdoor Attractions
Spend the second day exploring Dubai’s coastal areas or family-friendly outdoor destinations.
- Kite Beach: Enjoy the beach atmosphere, food options, and outdoor activities when the weather permits.
- Jumeirah: Explore the coastal neighbourhood and view the Burj Al Arab from suitable public viewpoints.
- Dubai Marina: Take a walk along the waterfront or consider a family-friendly boat trip.
- Palm Jumeirah: Explore the island and choose an attraction that matches your family’s interests and budget.
Check beach conditions, activity age restrictions, and ticket prices before visiting. During hot weather, schedule outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Day 3: Choose an Activity for Your Family
Use the third day for an attraction that matches your children’s ages and interests. Families who enjoy marine life can consider an aquarium, while those seeking rides and interactive experiences can explore a theme park or indoor entertainment centre.
If your family prefers culture, visit Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood to learn about traditional Emirati architecture and Dubai’s history. You can also explore local markets and take an abra ride across Dubai Creek, subject to operating conditions.
Choose one main activity for the day and keep additional plans optional. This approach gives everyone more time to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.
4. Travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi offers a different side of the UAE, combining cultural landmarks, waterfront areas, museums, and large entertainment destinations. The drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi often takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your starting point, destination, and traffic.
Families can travel between the two cities by car, intercity bus, or other available transport services. Check the current route, schedule, and fare before travelling, particularly if you are carrying luggage or travelling with young children.
If you plan to visit attractions spread across Yas Island, the Corniche, and Saadiyat Island, having a flexible transport arrangement can make it easier to manage your itinerary.
Day 4: Visit Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Landmarks
Begin with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of Abu Dhabi’s most recognised landmarks. Its white marble architecture, courtyards, and decorative details make it an important stop for families interested in architecture and culture.
Before visiting, review the mosque’s official guidance on visitor registration, opening hours, dress requirements, and photography rules. Choose clothing that meets the site’s modest dress requirements.
Continue to the Corniche if time and weather allow. The waterfront provides space to enjoy city views, take a relaxed walk, or spend time near the beach in designated areas.
Day 5: Discover Museums or Yas Island
Choose between a cultural day and an entertainment-focused day, depending on your family’s interests.
Option A: Saadiyat Island
- Louvre Abu Dhabi: Explore its galleries, architecture, and exhibitions. Check which exhibitions are available during your visit.
- Saadiyat Island: Enjoy the island’s coastal setting and look into beach access arrangements if you want to spend time by the sea.
Option B: Yas Island
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Consider this destination if your family enjoys motorsports, rides, and indoor entertainment.
- Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi: Explore themed attractions and rides suited to different age groups.
- Yas Waterworld: Choose this option for a water-based family outing when the park is operating.
A theme park can occupy most of the day, so avoid scheduling several major attractions on the same date. Check height restrictions, ticket packages, operating hours, and maintenance notices before booking.
Use Experience Abu Dhabi’s official visitor guide to research attractions, events, and practical visitor information.
5. Continue to Sharjah for Culture and Family Activities
Sharjah provides an opportunity to explore museums, heritage areas, art, and waterfront attractions at a more relaxed pace. Its cultural sites can add variety to a holiday that already includes Dubai’s modern landmarks and Abu Dhabi’s major attractions.
The journey from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah can take approximately two to three hours by road, depending on traffic and the locations you choose. Plan extra time during peak commuting periods, especially if you need to check into a hotel or collect children from an attraction before closing.
Day 6: Explore Sharjah’s Museums and Heritage
Start with Sharjah’s cultural attractions and choose destinations that match your family’s interests.
- Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: Discover Islamic art, scientific achievements, historical objects, and cultural exhibits. Check current exhibition details and opening hours before your visit.
- Heart of Sharjah: Walk through the heritage district to learn about traditional architecture, local history, and the emirate’s past.
- Sharjah Art Museum: Consider a visit if your family enjoys art exhibitions and cultural experiences.
Museums offer a useful alternative to outdoor sightseeing during hot weather. However, younger children may enjoy shorter visits, so select a few galleries rather than trying to explore every exhibit.
Day 7: Enjoy Sharjah’s Waterfront and Green Spaces
Spend your final full day exploring outdoor areas or choosing a relaxed family activity.
- Al Noor Island: Explore its landscaped spaces, art installations, and other available visitor attractions. Check current access arrangements before travelling.
- Al Majaz Waterfront: Enjoy the waterfront atmosphere, dining options, and views around Khalid Lagoon.
- Sharjah Aquarium: Consider this option if your children enjoy marine life and indoor educational attractions.
If your flight departs from Dubai International Airport, allow sufficient time to travel from Sharjah to the airport. Traffic can vary considerably, so check live navigation estimates before leaving your hotel.
6. Plan Transport Between the Three Emirates
Transport affects how much your family can comfortably see each day. Public transport works well for some routes, but families visiting multiple attractions across different areas may prefer the flexibility of travelling by car.
The best option depends on your budget, group size, luggage, accommodation locations, and the number of stops in your itinerary.
| Transport option | Suitable for | Points to consider |
| Public buses and metro | Families visiting accessible routes and major urban areas | Check connections, walking distances, service hours, and fares |
| Taxis and ride-hailing services | Short journeys and direct trips | Costs can increase when you make frequent stops |
| Rental car | Families visiting attractions across several areas and emirates | Budget for fuel, parking, tolls, insurance, and rental conditions |
| Private transfers | Airport transfers and planned intercity journeys | Confirm the route, waiting time, luggage capacity, and total price |
If your itinerary includes beaches, museums, theme parks, and several hotel changes, a vehicle can make luggage handling and daily travel easier. Families comparing vehicle options can explore SUV rentals in Dubai or review suitable vehicle categories through Great Dubai before deciding what fits their group.
An SUV may offer extra luggage space for a larger family, while an economy car can suit a smaller group travelling with limited bags. Choose based on passenger capacity, child-seat needs, parking convenience, and the actual distances you plan to drive rather than vehicle size alone.
7. Choose Family Accommodation Carefully
Your accommodation locations can influence travel time and the overall cost of your holiday. Rather than selecting hotels only by price, compare their locations with the attractions you intend to visit.
Where to Stay in Dubai
Consider Downtown Dubai if you want access to major city attractions, Dubai Marina if you prefer a coastal setting, or another well-connected neighbourhood that fits your budget.
Families should check room occupancy limits, breakfast options, laundry facilities, parking fees, and access to public transport.
Where to Stay in Abu Dhabi
Downtown Abu Dhabi and the Corniche can suit visitors interested in central attractions and waterfront walks. Yas Island may be more convenient for families planning to spend significant time at its theme parks.
Where to Stay in Sharjah
Central Sharjah can provide convenient access to museums and cultural sites, while waterfront areas may suit families seeking a quieter evening environment. Compare the location with your onward travel plans, especially if you will return to Dubai for your flight.
For a multi-emirate holiday, consider whether changing hotels is worth the time and effort. Families who prefer fewer check-ins can stay in one city for longer, but they should account for the additional travel required for day trips.
8. Prepare a Realistic Family Travel Budget
Your budget should cover more than flights and hotels. Attraction tickets, meals, transport, parking, and small daily purchases can add up during a week-long holiday.
Plan your main expenses before booking, then keep a reserve for unexpected costs.
| Expense | How to plan for it |
| Flights | Compare dates, baggage allowances, and airport options |
| Accommodation | Check total prices, taxes, breakfast, and parking |
| Food | Mix restaurant meals with affordable cafés and casual dining |
| Attractions | Compare official ticket prices and family packages |
| Transport | Include fares or rental charges, fuel, parking, and applicable tolls |
| Travel essentials | Budget for mobile data, travel insurance, and other necessary items |
Look at the official websites of major attractions before purchasing tickets from third-party sellers. Family packages can offer savings, but compare the included activities and restrictions rather than assuming every package is cheaper.
If you plan to drive between emirates, read the rental agreement carefully and confirm mileage limits, insurance coverage, deposits, additional-driver rules, toll arrangements, and cross-emirate travel permissions. Ask the provider how tolls and parking charges are handled so you can budget accurately.
9. Check UAE Driving Rules and Rental Requirements
Families planning to drive should confirm that the driver meets the applicable licence, age, and rental requirements before collecting the vehicle. Requirements can vary according to nationality, residency status, licence type, and rental company policy.
Before travelling, verify the following:
- Whether your driving licence is accepted in the UAE and whether an international driving permit is required.
- The rental company’s minimum age and documentation requirements.
- Whether the agreement permits travel between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
- Whether the vehicle includes the required insurance and what excess or deductible applies.
- Whether child seats are available and appropriate for your children’s ages and sizes.
- How Salik tolls, parking payments, fuel, and fines are charged.
Follow posted speed limits, use seat belts, and secure children in appropriate restraint systems. Never assume that a rental price includes every fee or that a vehicle can be taken across all emirates without checking the agreement.
For official traffic and transport information, consult the UAE Government portal.
10. Pack for Children and the UAE Climate
A thoughtful packing list can help you manage long sightseeing days and changing weather conditions.
Include:
- Lightweight clothing for warm weather and comfortable walking shoes.
- Modest clothing or an additional layer for religious and cultural sites.
- Sun protection, including hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
- Reusable water bottles and regular hydration breaks.
- Any necessary medicines, prescriptions, and basic first-aid supplies.
- Snacks, entertainment, and essential items for younger children.
- Travel documents, hotel confirmations, attraction tickets, and driving documents if renting a car.
Carry clothing suitable for air-conditioned indoor spaces, where temperatures can feel cooler than outdoors. Check specific venue requirements before packing, especially for religious landmarks and water-based activities.
11. Follow a Flexible Daily Schedule
A family itinerary works best when it balances sightseeing with rest. Plan one major attraction in the morning, allow time for lunch and a break, and add a second activity only if everyone has enough energy.
A practical daily routine might look like this:
- Morning: Visit the main attraction before the busiest period where possible.
- Midday: Have lunch and choose an indoor activity or return to the hotel to rest.
- Afternoon: Explore a nearby attraction or enjoy a relaxed family activity.
- Evening: Choose a waterfront walk, a casual meal, or an early night.
Keep travel time between destinations in mind when making bookings. A museum visit followed by a distant theme park may look manageable on a map, but traffic, queues, meals, and children’s needs can make the day much longer than expected.
12. Respect Local Customs and Check Visitor Information
The UAE welcomes visitors from many backgrounds, but families should respect local customs and follow the rules at each destination.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites, ask permission before photographing people, and follow instructions at cultural landmarks. Public behaviour rules and venue-specific restrictions may differ, so check current guidance before your trip.
Keep passports and important documents secure, use official ticketing channels where practical, and save your hotel addresses for easy reference. If you travel during Ramadan or a public holiday, check restaurant hours, attraction schedules, and local event arrangements because operating patterns may change.
13. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Three Emirates
Avoid these planning mistakes to make your holiday more comfortable:
- Packing too many attractions into one day: Choose fewer destinations and allow time to enjoy them.
- Ignoring traffic: Check travel estimates before booking timed tickets or airport transfers.
- Changing hotels too frequently: Compare the convenience of moving accommodation with the time required for day trips.
- Underestimating the heat: Prioritise indoor activities during the hottest hours and maintain hydration.
- Booking without checking restrictions: Confirm age limits, dress requirements, opening hours, and ticket conditions.
- Forgetting transport costs: Include parking, fuel, tolls, and additional rental charges in your budget.
- Leaving airport transfers until the last minute: Allow a suitable buffer for traffic and airport procedures.
A little flexibility makes a meaningful difference, particularly when travelling with children. Keep one optional activity available each day so you can adjust the plan if the weather changes or the family needs extra rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are enough for Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah?
Six to eight days can provide a balanced introduction to all three emirates. Spend around three days in Dubai, two or three days in Abu Dhabi, and one or two days in Sharjah, adjusting the schedule to your family’s interests.
Is it practical to visit all three emirates on one family holiday?
Yes. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah can fit into one trip if you plan travel times, choose suitable accommodation, and avoid scheduling too many major attractions in a single day.
Is a rental car useful for a family holiday across the UAE?
A rental car can be useful when your family plans to visit attractions spread across several areas or travel with luggage and children. Public transport, taxis, and private transfers may be more practical for shorter trips or itineraries concentrated in central locations.
Should families stay in one hotel or change hotels between emirates?
Staying in one hotel reduces check-ins and luggage handling, but it can increase travel time for day trips. Changing hotels can make a longer itinerary more convenient when your attractions are spread across the emirates. Compare total journey times before deciding.
What is the best way to keep children comfortable while sightseeing?
Choose age-appropriate activities, schedule breaks, carry water and snacks, and avoid spending too long outdoors during hot weather. Keep the daily itinerary flexible and check each attraction’s age restrictions and facilities before visiting.
Final Thoughts
Planning a family holiday across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah becomes easier when you divide the trip into manageable days, select attractions that suit your children’s interests, and organise transport around your accommodation. Dubai provides major landmarks and entertainment, Abu Dhabi combines cultural experiences with large family attractions, and Sharjah adds museums, heritage, and waterfront activities.
Book important tickets in advance when needed, check official visitor information, and leave enough time for meals, rest, and travel between destinations. With a balanced itinerary and realistic budget, your family can explore three distinct sides of the UAE without turning the holiday into a race against the clock.
