Moving to a new home in Dubai can feel like an exciting new chapter — new space, new neighborhood, maybe even a better view of the skyline. But if you have kids or pets, you know it’s not as simple as just packing boxes and calling the movers.

For them, moving can feel confusing, tiring, or even a bit scary. The good news? With a little planning and care, you can make the transition much smoother for everyone — including your four-legged family members.

Here’s how

1. Talk to Your Kids Early (and Honestly)

Kids don’t love surprises when it comes to big changes like moving homes. Tell them about the move as early as possible and keep the conversation positive — talk about what’s exciting about the new place (a bigger park, a new school, maybe even a pool!).

Let them help with small decisions, like choosing their new room color or where to place their toys. It gives them a sense of control and makes them feel involved.

Pro tip: Show them pictures or a video of the new neighborhood before the move — it helps them imagine their new routine.

2. Keep a Routine During the Chaos

During moving week, it’s easy for routines to disappear under piles of boxes. But kids (and pets!) feel safer when things stay familiar.

Try to stick to regular mealtimes, bedtime routines, and walks as much as possible. Even if things feel a little hectic, keeping their daily rhythm will make the transition easier emotionally.

3. Create a “Comfort Kit” for the Move

Pack a special bag for your child or pet with their comfort items — for kids, that could be their favorite toy, blanket, or book. For pets, it might be their food, leash, treats, or bed.

Having familiar smells and favorite things close by helps them feel grounded even in a new environment.

If you’re moving across the city, keep these bags with you in the car instead of the moving truck — you’ll thank yourself later.

4. Prepare Your Pet for the New Space

If you’re moving with pets, the new environment can be overwhelming — new smells, new sounds, maybe even new neighbors with pets of their own.

Here’s what you can do:

• Let them explore one room at a time instead of the whole house at once.
• Keep their food and water bowls in a familiar spot.
• Make sure your new building or community is pet-friendly before you move in (many areas in Dubai have great pet facilities).

And don’t forget to update their microchip or ID tag with your new address and phone number.

5. Get Help When You Need It

Let’s be honest — moving while juggling kids or pets can be exhausting. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.

You can ask a family member or friend to babysit or pet-sit on moving day, or hire professional movers who understand how to handle moves efficiently and with care.

A smooth, stress-free moving day lets you focus on what really matters — making your new place feel like home.

A Little Reminder

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful, even when kids or pets are involved. With some planning, patience, and a few small adjustments, the whole experience can actually bring your family closer together.

After all, home isn’t just where you live — it’s where your favorite people (and paws!) are.