Dubai Police Issues Urgent Travel Warning for UAE Families: Don’t Leave Children Unattended This Summer

06 Jul 2026

Published: 6 Jul 2026, 2:53 pm IST

As thousands of UAE residents prepare for summer holidays, Dubai Police have issued an important travel warning for parents and guardians travelling with children. Authorities are urging families not to leave minors unattended in airports, shopping malls, hotels, public transport, or any unfamiliar location during their vacations. The advisory comes as international travel increases during the school break, with officials reminding parents that even a few moments of distraction can place children at serious risk. Dubai Police say responsible supervision is one of the most effective ways to protect children while ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone.

Why Has Dubai Police Issued This Travel Warning?

According to Dubai Police, the summer holiday season sees a significant rise in family travel, both within the UAE and internationally. Busy airports, crowded tourist attractions, hotels, and transport hubs can make it easier for children to become separated from their parents.

Officials stress that children may wander away out of curiosity or become lost in unfamiliar surroundings. In addition, leaving minors alone in hotel rooms, vehicles, or public places can expose them to safety risks and may even lead to legal consequences depending on local regulations.

Dubai Police are encouraging parents to plan and remain alert throughout their journey.

What Parents Should Do Before Travelling

Preparation plays an important role in ensuring child safety. Dubai Police recommend that parents discuss safety rules with their children before leaving home.

Families should:

Keep recent photographs of their children.
Teach children their full name and parents’ contact number.
Carry emergency contact information.
Explain what children should do if they become separated.
Agree on a meeting point in crowded places.

These simple steps can make a major difference during emergencies.

Child Safety Tips During Summer Travel

Dubai Police have shared several practical safety measures for parents travelling this summer.

Always Supervise Young Children

Children should never be left alone, even for a short period. Parents are advised to supervise them closely at airports, beaches, shopping centres, parks, and tourist attractions.

Hold Hands in Crowded Areas

Busy public places can become confusing for young children. Holding hands or using child safety harnesses for toddlers may help prevent accidental separation.

Keep Identification Ready

Children should carry identification cards or emergency contact information whenever possible.

Stay Alert at Hotels

Parents should ensure children understand hotel safety rules, including avoiding elevators alone and never opening hotel room doors to strangers.

Monitor Water Activities

Swimming pools and beaches require constant adult supervision. Even experienced swimmers should never be left unattended.

Why Leaving Children Alone Can Be Dangerous

Dubai Police warn that even a brief absence can create unexpected situations.

Children left alone may:

Become lost.
Experience medical emergencies.
Encounter strangers.
Enter unsafe areas.
Feel frightened or anxious.

Authorities say these incidents are preventable through responsible supervision and proper planning.

Legal Responsibility of Parents

Dubai Police remind families that parents have a legal and moral responsibility to protect their children during travel.

Many countries have child protection laws that prohibit leaving young children unattended in vehicles, hotel rooms, or public spaces. Failure to supervise children appropriately could result in police intervention or legal action depending on local regulations.

Officials advise UAE residents travelling abroad to familiarise themselves with the child safety laws of their destination before departure.

Summer Travel Safety Beyond Child Supervision

Dubai Police also encourage travellers to take additional precautions during their holidays.

Recommended safety practices include:

Secure passports and travel documents.
Avoid sharing travel plans publicly on social media.
Stay aware of local emergency numbers.
Keep mobile phones fully charged.
Follow local laws and cultural guidelines.
Monitor weather conditions and travel advisories.

These measures help reduce risks and improve overall travel safety.

Why This Advisory Matters

The UAE is one of the world’s busiest international travel hubs, with millions of residents travelling abroad during the summer break. As airports and tourist destinations become increasingly crowded, authorities believe proactive awareness can prevent avoidable incidents involving children.

Dubai Police continue to promote community safety through awareness campaigns that encourage parents to remain vigilant throughout their journeys.

Their message is straightforward: a safe holiday begins with responsible parenting and continuous supervision.

Dubai Police’s latest travel advisory serves as an important reminder for families preparing for summer vacations. While holidays are meant to create lasting memories, child safety should always remain the highest priority. Careful planning, constant supervision, and awareness of local laws can help parents avoid unnecessary risks and ensure a stress-free journey. Whether travelling within the UAE or overseas, families are encouraged to follow Dubai Police’s guidance, stay alert in busy public places, and never leave children unattended. A few extra moments of attention can make all the difference in keeping every family member safe throughout the holiday.

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FAQ’s

Why did Dubai Police issue this travel warning?
- The warning aims to remind parents travelling during the busy summer season to supervise children closely and avoid leaving them unattended in public places or accommodation.
Can parents leave children alone in hotel rooms?
- Dubai Police advise against leaving children alone. Local laws in different countries may also prohibit it.
What should children do if they become lost?
- Children should remain calm, approach a trusted authority such as police officers or airport staff, and use the emergency contact information provided by their parents.
Are airports considered high-risk locations for children?
- Yes. Airports are crowded environments where children can become separated quickly if not properly supervised.
What are the most important child travel safety tips?
- Parents should supervise children at all times, carry identification details, teach emergency contact numbers, and prepare children before travelling.