Dubai is an Arab miracle that in just 50 years has transformed from a sun-baked desert into one of the world's most important business centers, attracting people from more than 70 countries. This city is associated with luxury, skyscrapers and good living. This is what tourists from all over the world come here for.
In this article we will tell you how to prepare for a trip here – what you need to take with you and where to rent a car at the best prices in order to move around the city in comfort.
Preparation
Preparing for a trip to Dubai is pretty much the same as traveling to any other country with a hot climate. Well, with a few nuances. More on that below.
Luggage
First, decide whether you will be traveling with checked or carry-on baggage. Check allowances with your airline in advance so you can pack everything you need and leave room for shopping and souvenirs.
Necessary Things to Take with You
Be sure to bring this with you on your trip:
- High SPF sunscreen – especially if your skin isn't used to the high temperatures you're encounter in Dubai.
- Sandals – sand heated by direct sunlight can be very hot. It can often even be hotter than the air and it is even dangerous to walk barefoot on it as you can burn yourself.
- A light fabric cape – this one is for women. You will need this to cover your shoulders from the sun, or in strict areas where open clothing is frowned upon by the citizens.
- A small backpack (preferably light-colored, so that it is less heated by the sun) – the best solution for the necessary minimum like a bottle of water, documents and wallet.
- Plug adapters – different hotels may have different types of plugs: Indian, British and European, so a universal adapter will come in handy. Yes, you may be able to get one at the reception, but not in every place.
- Copies of documents (and the originals, or course) – make copies of everything: plane tickets, passports, health insurance, etc.
Rent a Family Car in Dubai
The easiest way to get around Dubai is to rent a car. It is much cheaper than taking a taxi and much more convenient than public transportation.
You can rent a sedan, SUV, crossover, sports car or even a luxury car from many companies. Discover more 7 and 8 seaters and family cars at Octane.rent.
Assess Your Family's Travel Needs
The first thing to do when choosing a rental car is to determine why you need it in the first place. Below we will explain which class of vehicle to choose based on cost and feasibility.
Explore Family-Friendly Car Rental Options
The ideal option for a family of 3-5 people is the SUV. Definitely. It is the record-holder in terms of space. The next place is shared by two – sedans and crossovers. They are still suitable for a large family, although in some cases you will have to make reasonable compromises. By the way, many sedans are also made for emphasizing status – they are mainly rented for this purpose. The fact is that in the UAE, cars like Mercedes Benz S500, Mercedes Benz E-Class, Audi A6 and others are topping the list.
They are less suitable for family travel than, for example, crossovers or SUVs.
And they do generally cost a lot more.
So your choices are Chevrolet Captiva, Kia Sorento and others.
Select the Best Car Rental Service for Families
You should choose one based on reviews. You can find them on the Internet, but it is much better to be recommended by friends or acquaintances.
Understand Typical Rental Costs
Rental prices vary greatly from place to place, so it makes sense to work with average market cost.
Let's take Octane as an example. Their prices are among the lowest on the market – about 10-15% lower than the average. For example, you can easily rent a Peugeot 3008 from them for just over $60 per day. With a club card (which is quite common in Dubai), the cost is as low as 50 bucks.
Crossovers and SUVs are about in the middle of costs. Sedans are also there (excluding top-tiers like Maserati Ghibli, Mercedes S500, BMW M5 and others).
Sports and luxury cars are a different story. The average rental price for them is around 350 USD per day, but it can easily reach 500 and even 1000 USD.
Book Family-Friendly Accommodation
One of the best family hotels in Dubai is definitely the Damac Maison Aykon City. It is located just a couple of miles from the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, so you will have plenty to see! Of course, it is quite expensive, costing $100 USD for a 24 hour stay, but it is worth it.
You can also check out the Expo Village Serviced Apartments if you don't like the hotel concept. These are comfortable homes with perfect cleanliness and quality service. The airport is close by and the price is only about 40 USD per night.
Accommodation Options to Fit Your Budget
If you want to save even more, no problem. Take a closer look at hostels. Especially WeStay Hostel. A day's stay there costs 15 US dollars.
Avoid Pitfalls
Be careful about drinking alcohol and smoking tobacco. This is very strict in Dubai. Also check the list of permitted medicines, as many painkillers and sleeping pills are banned.
And, of course, take care of your appearance. Inside the hotel, you can dress openly, but in crowded places, you must follow a closed dress code.
Must-Visit Family-Friendly Places
These are the Burj Khalifa, the local MusicalFountains, the Emirates Towers and the Al Bastakia. These are places that the whole family can (and should!) visit together. Also, be sure to visit the luxurious beach and green gardens of Joumana Beach Club, Oceanarium in Downtown, and the IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park.
Kid-Friendly Attraction
For kids, the best places to go is the Motiongate Dubai amusement park. Definitely.
Family-Friendly Attraction
You can also take your kids to the ski resort (yes, you heard it right!) It's located in the heart of the Mall of the Emirates.
Etc...
And yes, don't miss the Dubai City of Gold Market and the Dubai Wildlife Sanctuary.
Dubai is a beautiful country. We hope our little guide has helped you prepare for your trip to this paradise on earth. We wish you the best of luck!
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