Top 9 Best Family Cars in Dubai | SUVs for Comfort & Adventure [Ultimate Guide]

Top 9 Best Family Cars in Dubai | SUVs for Comfort & Adventure [Ultimate Guide]
  • 2025/03/25
  • Omar Al-Zayani
  • 0

Introduction

Powerful SUVs that can handle everything from school runs to weekend trips to the desert without breaking a sweat are the best family cars in Dubai. The Nissan Patrol is tough as nails and great for off-road activities. The Cadillac Escalade, on the other hand, is like a fancy hotel room on wheels

They’re more than just cars; they’re like a trusted friend for your family, with enough room for everyone to be happy on long trips. No matter if you need a family car that can handle rough terrain, is full of toys to keep the kids busy, or just has enough space between seats so no one starts a back-seat war, family cars in Dubai have a wide range of options.

Top 9 Most Wanted Family Cars in Dubai

Here are the top 9 family cars in Dubai for you:

1- Nissan Patrol: The Unbreakable Desert Dominator

The Nissan Patrol is a tough 4×4 wagon with a strong V8 engine that does well off-road. It has more high-end equipment than the Toyota LandCruiser but costs about $30,000 less

The latest Y62 model has been around for more than 10 years, but it is still a good choice because it has plenty of space for 7 people and always works well.

SpecificationDetails
Price$96,100 (Ti), $113,300 (Ti-L), $115,500 (Warrior)
Engine5.6L V8 petrol (298kW)
Fuel Economy14.4L/100km
Fuel Tank140 liters
Fuel TypeMinimum 95 RON
RangeApproximately 972km
Kerb Weight2812kg (Ti), 2861kg (Ti-L)
Maximum Payload789kg (Ti), 742kg (Ti-L)
Dimensions5.2 meters length
Cargo Space468L (7 seats), 1413L (5 seats), 2632L (2 seats)

6 Main Features

  1. Strong Engine: The most powerful engine in its class, a 5.6-liter gasoline V8 with 298kW of power 
  2. Good Value: The Ti type costs around $96,100 to take away, which is a lot less than similar LandCruisers. 
  3. Big Space: With all seats up, there are 468 liters of storage space, and when the back seats are put down, there is 2632 liters thereof
  4. Ready to go off-road: It has terrain selection, low-range gears, and a strong 4×4 system for going over rough land. 
  5. Luxury Features: Leather seats, electric seat settings, dual-zone air conditioning, and a cooler box are all standard. 
  6. Safety features: Adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and blind spot alerts.

2- Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series: The Legendary Off-Road King

The Toyota LandCruiser 300 is a powerful 7-seat 4X4 that’s built tough for off-road adventures and heavy towing. This is the 13th version of Toyota’s famous off-roader, with over 10 million sold globally.

While it costs a lot, you get amazing reliability and great off-road skills, and it holds its value well. That’s why it’s one of the top family cars in Dubai.

SpecificationDetails
Price$105,600 (GX), $120,000 (GXL), $133,100 (VX), $151,500 (Sahara), $158,750 (GR Sport)
Engine3.3L twin-turbo V6 diesel (227kW/700Nm)
Transmission10-speed automatic
Fuel Economy8.9L/100km
Fuel Tank110L (80L primary + 30L sub-tank)
RangeApproximately 1236km
Kerb Weight2495kg (GX), 2580kg (GXL), 2630kg (VX/Sahara/GR Sport)
Maximum Payload785kg (GX), 700kg (GXL), 650kg (VX/Sahara/GR Sport)
Dimensions5 meters length, 2 meters width and height
Cargo Space175L (7 seats), 1004L (5 seats), 1131L (5-seat models)
Ground Clearance245mm
Approach Angle32 degrees

Top 5 Main Features

  1. Strong Engine: 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 diesel with 227kW/700Nm (more powerful than the old V8).
  2. Off-Road Ready: 245 mm of ground clearance, a 32-degree approach angle, and special drive styles for the roughest area.
  3. Heavy Hauling: Can tow up to 3500kg with 350kg towball weight – perfect for big trailers, boats, or caravans.
  4. Storage Space: 175L cargo room with all seats up, expanding to 1004L with third row folded and 1131L in five-seat models.
  5. Top Safety: 5-star ANCAP safety rating with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and 360-degree camera views.
  6. Tech Features: It has a 12.3-inch tablet, 4-zone climate control, and other high-end features for models VX and up.

3- GMC Acadia: The Versatile Family Hauler

The 2025 GMC Acadia is a big SUV with three rows of seats that starts at $44,295 and can fit up to eight people. 

It got bigger again after being rebuilt, with room for people in the third row and a lot of space for goods. Thus, it is a great choice for family cars in Dubai and also for residents who may need to carry the whole group and their stuff.

SpecificationDetails
Price$44,295 (Elevation), $56,085 (AT4), $58,785 (Denali)
EngineTurbocharged 2.5L inline-four (328 hp @ 5500 rpm, 326 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm)
Transmission8-speed automatic
DrivetrainFWD standard, AWD optional (standard on AT4)
Fuel Economy19-20 mpg city / 24-27 mpg highway
Acceleration0-60 mph in 6.5-6.7 seconds (estimated)
DimensionsLength: 204.0 inches, Width: 79.6-80.0 inches, Height: 71.0-72.0 inches
Wheelbase120.9 inches
Cargo Volume23 cu ft (behind 3rd row), 57 cu ft (behind 2nd row), 98 cu ft (behind 1st row)
Curb Weight4,550-4,950 pounds (estimated)
Warranty3-year/36,000-mile limited, 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain

6 Main Features:

  1. Strong Engine: Comes with a powerful 328-hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that delivers 326 pound-feet of torque.
  2. Modern Tech: Includes an 11.0-inch digital dashboard and a huge 15.0-inch touchscreen with Google built-in.
  3. Tons of Space: It has 23 cubic feet of room behind the third row (a real game-changer in this class) and grows to 57 cubic feet with the third row down. It has 98 cubic feet with all back seats folded.
  4. Serious Pulling Power: Every Acadia can tow up to 5000 pounds with the standard Trailering package that includes a proper hitch and heavy-duty cooling
  5. Safety First: Packed with helpful safety tech, including emergency braking, blind-spot warnings, and lane-keeping help, with optional Super Cruise for hands-free driving
  6. Off-Road Ready: The AT4 model adds special all-wheel-drive, higher ground clearance, off-road suspension, and protective plates underneath for weekend adventures

4- Kia Sorento: The Budget-Friendly Family Car in Dubai

The Kia Sorento is a roomy seven-seat SUV starting at $41,995 that’s perfect for family cars in Dubai and those shoppers who want quality without emptying their wallets. 

This big SUV earned an impressive 9/10 expert rating by combining comfort, technology, and Kia’s famous 7-year warranty in a package that feels much more premium.

SpecificationDetails
Price£41,995 – £57,025 (£39,563 with Carwow savings)
Engine Options2.2L Diesel, 1.6L Hybrid, 1.6L Plug-in Hybrid
PowerNot specified in source
Acceleration (0-60 mph)8.7 – 9.7 seconds
Fuel Economy38.2 – 176.6 mpg (diesel – PHEV)
Electric Range (PHEV)Up to 34 miles (25 miles real-world)
CO₂ Emissions37 – 174 g/km
Dimensions (L x W x H)4,815 x 1,900 x 1,695 mm
Boot Space179L (7 seats), 813L (5 seats), 1,996L (2 seats)
Towing Capacity2,500kg (diesel), 1,000kg+ (hybrids)
Warranty7-year/100,000-mile

6 Main Features

  1. Three Engine Choices: Available as a self-charging hybrid (costs 1,000 more), fuel-saving diesel, or plug-in hybrid that can drive up to 34 miles on electricity alone.
  2. Real Seven-Seat Space: Unlike many rivals, the Sorento has actual room for adults in all three rows, though the back row works best for shorter trips.
  3. Huge Storage Space: Offers 179 liters with all seats up, 813 liters with the third row down (beating both the Skoda Kodiaq and Land Rover Discovery Sport), and a massive 1,996 liters with all back seats folded.
  4. Loaded with Tech: Comes with dual 12.3-inch screens on better models, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto standard, and plenty of USB ports throughout.
  5. Top-Notch Safety: Earned a 5-star safety rating with high scores (87% for safety systems) and includes helpful features like collision prevention and lane keeping.

5- Cadillac Escalade: The Ultimate Luxury SUV

With a score of 9/10 from Car and Driver, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade is the best American luxury SUV and costs $89,590. Many Dubai residents looking for family cars love this big SUV because it looks tough and has cool tech. 

Although it’s very big, this newly remade Escalade moves surprisingly well. Plus, it has a bold style and the newest technology. 

SpecificationDetails
Price$89,590 (Luxury), $98,790 (Premium Luxury), $99,390 (Sport), $118,390 (Premium Luxury Platinum), $118,890 (Sport Platinum), $161,990 (V-Series)
Engine Options6.2L V-8 (420 hp), Supercharged 6.2L V-8 (682 hp, V-Series only)
Transmission10-speed automatic
DrivetrainRear-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive available
Acceleration (0-60 mph)5.9 seconds (standard model), 4.3 seconds (V-Series)
Fuel Economy14/19/16 mpg (city/highway/combined, RWD), 11/16 mpg (city/highway, V-Series)
Dimensions (Standard)Length: 211.9 inches, Width: 81.1 inches, Height: 76.7 inches
Wheelbase120.9 inches (standard), 134.1 inches (ESV)
Cargo Volume26 cubic feet (standard), 43 cubic feet (ESV)
Curb Weight6,290 pounds (V-Series)
Warranty4-year/50,000-mile limited, 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain

6 Main Features

  1. Huge Digital Screen: Has a super wide 55-inch curved OLED display (bigger than the old 38-inch one) that goes across the whole dashboard.
  2. Strong Engines: Comes with a powerful 420-hp 6.2-liter V-8. Also, for those who want more speed, there’s the Escalade-V with a super-strong 682-hp engine that goes from 0-60 mph in just 4.3 seconds.
  3. Self-Driving Tech: Every model now has GM’s Super Cruise system, one of the best hands-free driving helpers you can get.
  4. Amazing Sound: Has either a 19-speaker sound system or an incredible 36-speaker system on the fancy Platinum models (up to 40 speakers with extra packages)
  5. Fresh New Look: It has an updated front with a bigger grille, new lights, an optional light-up grille, and huge 24-inch wheels.
  6. Size Choices: Available in regular or longer ESV version, with the longer one giving more space in the back seat and more room for luggage.

6- 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe: Box-Shaped Practicality With Modern Flair

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is a popular family car in Dubai because it looks great and has lots of useful features. 

It has three rows of seats that can fit up to seven people and has the smooth ride that makes Hyundai so popular.

SpecificationDetails
Price$35,615 (SE), $38,115 (SEL), $42,265 (XRT), $45,015 (Limited), $48,165 (Calligraphy)
EngineTurbocharged 2.5L inline-4 (277 hp @ 5800 rpm, 311 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm)
Transmission8-speed dual-clutch automatic
DrivetrainFWD standard, AWD available (+$1,715), AWD standard on XRT
Acceleration (0-60 mph)6.3 seconds (Calligraphy AWD)
Fuel Economy20/29/23 mpg (city/highway/combined, FWD), 20/28/23 mpg (AWD), 19/26 mpg (XRT)
Real-World Highway MPG24 mpg (tested)
Dimensions (L/W/H)190.2 × 74.8 × 67.7 inches
Wheelbase110.8 inches
Cargo Volume15 ft³ (behind 3rd row), 41 ft³ (behind 2nd row), 80 ft³ (behind 1st row)
Curb Weight4,416 pounds (Calligraphy AWD tested)
Safety Rating5-Star Overall (NHTSA)

6 Main Features:

  1. Zippy Engine: Has a strong 277-hp 2.5-liter turbo engine with 311 pound-feet of torque that gets you moving from 0-60 mph in a quick 6.3 seconds.s
  2. Big Storage Room: Fits five suitcases (15 cubic feet) with all seats up, 16 suitcases (41 cubic feet) with the back row down, and a huge 34 suitcases (80 cubic feet) with all back seats folded.
  3. Big Twin Screens: There are two 12.3-inch screens across the dashboard – one shows driving info, and the other controls music, navigation, and other features.
  4. Smart Family Features: Includes a special UV light box in the glovebox that kills germs, options for charging two phones without cords, and many clever storage spaces.
  5. Good Hauling Power: Can pull up to 3,500 pounds with trailer brakes (1,650 without), and the tougher XRT model can tow even more at 4,500 pounds.
  6. Top-Notch Warranty: Comes with Hyundai’s amazing 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile engine and transmission warranty.

7- Mazda CX-90: The Affordable Luxury Crossover

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 hits the nail on the head by offering luxury features at a price that won’t make your wallet cry. 

This SUV strikes a perfect balance between everyday practicality and premium feel.

SpecificationDetails
Price$39,300 (Select), $42,400 (Preferred), $47,855 (Premium Sport), $50,855 (Premium Plus), $54,405 (S Premium), $57,905 (S Premium Plus)
EngineTurbocharged 3.3L inline-6 with 48V hybrid system (280 hp/332 lb-ft or 340 hp/369 lb-ft)
Transmission8-speed automatic
DrivetrainStandard all-wheel drive
Acceleration (0-60 mph)6.3 seconds (340-hp version tested)
Fuel Economy24/28/25 mpg (city/highway/combined, 280 hp), 23/28/25 mpg (340 hp)
Real-World Highway MPG29 mpg (75-mph highway test)
Dimensions (L/W/H)200.8 × 78.5 × 68.2 inches
Wheelbase122.8 inches
Cargo Volume16 ft³ (behind 3rd row), 40 ft³ (behind 2nd row), 75 ft³ (maximum)
Curb Weight4,885 pounds (Turbo S tested)
Warranty3-year/36,000-mile limited, 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain

5 Main Features

  1. Strong Engine Options: It has a modern turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine that works with a hybrid system to make 280 hp/332 lb-ft of power or 340 hp/369 lb-ft as standard.
  2. Luxurious Interior: Features a luxurious interior with unique assets like leather seats (in higher variants), cloth on the dashboard, and a simple, driver-focused design.
  3. Seating Options: It comes with either a normal second-row bench that fits 7-8 people or separate captain’s chairs that fit 6-7 people. The third row is best for kids or short trips, though.
  4. Good Storage Space: It will fit up to 75 cubic feet with all rear seats folded, with 3 suitcases (16 cubic feet) behind the third row and 16 bags (40 cubic feet) with the third row down.
  5. Smart Screen System: Most models have a 12.3-inch center screen that you can control with a key on the center dash. This helps you keep your eyes on the road. It also has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

8- 2025 Honda CR-V: Top-Rated Family SUV

The 2025 Honda CR-V costs $31,450 and is a no-brainer for family cars in Dubai. This standout compact SUV delivers everything you need in one neat package – practicality, smooth driving, and rock-solid construction that keeps it ahead of the competition.

SpecificationDetails
Price$31,450 (LX), $35,200 (EX), $36,350 (EX-L)
EngineTurbocharged 1.5L inline-4 (190 hp @ 6000 rpm, 179 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm)
TransmissionContinuously variable automatic (CVT)
DrivetrainFWD standard, AWD available
Acceleration (0-60 mph)8.1 seconds (EX-L AWD tested)
Fuel Economy28/34/30 mpg (city/highway/combined, FWD), 27/32/29 mpg (AWD)
Real-World Highway MPG31 mpg (AWD tested)
Dimensions (L/W/H)184.8 × 73.5 × 66.5 inches
Wheelbase106.3 inches
Cargo Volume39 ft³ (behind rear seats), 77 ft³ (seats folded)
Curb Weight3,614 pounds (EX-L AWD tested)
Towing Capacity1,500 pounds
Warranty3-year/36,000-mile limited, 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain

6 Main Features

  1. Balanced Driving: Smooth ride with responsive handling. Feels more composed than competitors on both city streets and highways.
  2. Practical Interior: Features stylish honeycomb dashboard and redesigned seats that reduce fatigue. Plus, it offers a generous 39 cubic feet cargo space behind rear seats.
  3. Complete Safety: Comes with emergency braking, lane-keeping, and adaptive cruise control standard on all models. 
  4. Efficient Engine: Powered by a 190-hp, turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with CVT transmission. They are available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.
  5. User-Friendly Tech: Includes 7.0-inch touchscreen with physical knobs in base models. Higher trims get a 9.0-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  6. Great Fuel Economy: It delivers 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive models achieve an impressive 31 mpg in real-world highway driving.

9- 2025 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Rugged Family SUV

The 2025 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport GSR, which costs $64,840, keeps its reputation as a robust, no-nonsense family car in Dubai, where flashy technology often takes center stage. 

This seven-seater model is based on a platform from 2015 that has only received minor changes. It is very reliable, but it lacks current features and comfort compared to newer models like the Ford Everest. 

SpecificationDetails
Price$51,540 (GLX 5-seat), $56,890 (GLS 7-seat), $62,590 (Exceed 7-seat), $64,840 (GSR 7-seat)
Engine2.4L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel (133kW @ 3500rpm, 430Nm @ 2500rpm)
Transmission8-speed automatic
Drivetrain4WD with rear differential lock
Fuel Economy8.0L/100km claimed, 9.5L/100km tested
Fuel Tank68 liters
Towing Capacity3100kg braked
Dimensions (L/W/H)4840mm × 1815mm × 1835mm
Ground Clearance218mm
Cargo Capacity131L (behind 3rd row), 502L (behind 2nd row), 1488L (maximum)
Kerb Weight2130kg
Warranty5-year/100,000km standard, 10-year/200,000km conditional
Safety Rating5-star ANCAP (2015, now expired)

6 Key Features 

  1. True Off-Road Performer: Features a capable 4WD system with rear differential lock and impressive 218mm ground clearance. It can handle water crossings up to 700mm deep.
  2. Flexible Interior Space: Seats seven people with third-row seats that fold flat into the floor. 
  3. Outstanding Warranty Coverage: Includes 5-year/100,000km standard warranty, expandable to 10-year/200,000km when serviced at official Mitsubishi dealers.
  4. Refreshed Design Elements: Sports a new steering wheel borrowed from the Triton model and updated digital displays in higher trims. 
  5. Well-Equipped Top Model: GSR comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a 360-degree camera, a power tailgate, and heated front seats.
  6. Affordable Maintenance: Requires servicing every 12 months/15,000km with a 5-year service cost of $2,895 or a 10-year cost of $7,490. 

Conclusion

SUVs with lots of space and comfy crossovers that won’t break the bank are both great options for families in Dubai. The Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento are two examples of modern family cars in Dubai that are both useful and stylish. These cars have a lot of storage room, different ways to seat people, and the newest safety technology.

FAQ

How do I find the best family cars in Dubai?

The best family cars in Dubai are the Toyota LandCruiser, the GMC Acadia, the Hyundai Santa Fe, and the Mazda CX-90. These SUVs have a lot of room, great safety features, and great performance for families.

Where can I buy affordable family cars in Dubai?

There are cheap family cars for sale at showrooms, used car lots, and on websites like shozon and usedcarsindubai. You can get a safe family SUV from Hyundai, Kia, or Honda for between 80,000 and 150,000 AED.

Which SUVs are suitable for families in the UAE?

Nissan Patrol, Toyota LandCruiser, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Sorento, and GMC Yukon work best for UAE families. 

What should I consider when choosing a family car in Dubai?

Space, safety, strong air conditioning, and desert driving capability matter most when choosing family cars in Dubai. Consider passenger capacity, fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and whether the vehicle fits your specific family size and lifestyle.

Are there 7-seater family cars available in Dubai?

Yes, Dubai offers many 7-seater options, including Nissan Patrol, Toyota LandCruiser, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Sorento, and GMC Yukon. 

Can I rent a family car in Dubai for a short-term stay?

Hertz, Avis, Budget, and local rental companies offer 7-seater SUVs from AED 200-500 daily.