Is the Middle East safe for families with children?

Jordan and UAE are very safe for families. Jordan has low crime rates and welcoming locals. UAE has excellent infrastructure and security. Avoid regions with active conflicts and check current State Department advisories.

What should kids wear at religious sites?

Both boys and girls need long pants and shirts covering shoulders. Bring a light scarf for quick covering when needed. Many hotels provide appropriate clothing guidance for first-time visitors.

How much walking is involved in Petra?

Petra requires significant walking on uneven terrain. The Treasury is 1.2 miles from the entrance. Consider horse rides for young children for the initial stretch, and donkey rides for longer distances.

Can we drink the water?

Stick to bottled water in Jordan. UAE tap water is generally safe but bottled water tastes better. Most hotels provide complimentary water bottles daily.

How to Plan a Family Trip to the Middle East

Plan 10-14 days focusing on Jordan and UAE for families with kids. Start in Amman, visit Petra, then fly to Dubai for beaches and kid-friendly attractions. Book accommodations 2-3 months ahead and prepare for cultural differences around modest dress and prayer times.

Choose family-friendly destinations. Jordan and UAE work best for first-time families. Jordan offers Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. UAE provides Dubai's theme parks and beach resorts. Avoid Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and southern Lebanon. Israel-Palestine requires separate planning due to border complexities.
Plan your route. Fly into Amman, Jordan. Spend 3 days in Amman and Jerash, 2 days in Petra, 2 days in Wadi Rum and Aqaba, 1 day at the Dead Sea. Then fly to Dubai for 4-5 days of beaches, malls, and theme parks before flying home.
Book accommodations early. Reserve hotels 2-3 months ahead. In Jordan, stay at family hotels in Amman city center, desert camps in Wadi Rum, and resort hotels near the Dead Sea. In Dubai, beach resorts work best for families. Budget $120-200 per night for family rooms.
Prepare travel documents. Americans get Jordan visas on arrival for $40. UAE offers free 30-day tourist visas. Ensure passports are valid for 6+ months. Carry copies of all documents. Children need their own passports.
Plan for cultural considerations. Pack modest clothing for both parents and kids. Bring long pants and shirts that cover shoulders for mosque visits. Download prayer time apps - some attractions close briefly for prayers. Learn basic Arabic greetings.
Arrange transportation. Book private drivers in Jordan - public transport is limited with kids and luggage. Expect $80-120 per day for driver and vehicle. In Dubai, use taxis, metro, or rental cars. Book Petra entrance tickets online in advance.

Is the Middle East safe for families with children?: Jordan and UAE are very safe for families. Jordan has low crime rates and welcoming locals. UAE has excellent infrastructure and security. Avoid regions with active conflicts and check current State Department advisories.
What should kids wear at religious sites?: Both boys and girls need long pants and shirts covering shoulders. Bring a light scarf for quick covering when needed. Many hotels provide appropriate clothing guidance for first-time visitors.
How much walking is involved in Petra?: Petra requires significant walking on uneven terrain. The Treasury is 1.2 miles from the entrance. Consider horse rides for young children for the initial stretch, and donkey rides for longer distances.
Can we drink the water?: Stick to bottled water in Jordan. UAE tap water is generally safe but bottled water tastes better. Most hotels provide complimentary water bottles daily.