Guide

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

Confirmed: 2025 Will Be The 'Year of Community' in The UAE

Dubai Named As the Cleanest City in the World Once More

Classifieds

Jobs

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

Dubai Announces Pilot Launch of 4-Day Work Week For Employees

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

How to Claim UAE Job Loss Insurance: Eligibility and Step-by-Step Guide

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

Can I Get Fired in the UAE For My Mental Health Condition?

Dubai Dedicates AED 150 Million Government Support Fund For Influencers

How to Deal With Workplace Harassment in the UAE

The UAE's New End-of-Service Programme, Explained for Residents

Events

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

When Is the Next UAE Public Holiday? Eid Al Adha 2025 Dates Revealed

Real Madrid World is Celebrating World Football Day With AED 199 Tickets

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Eid Al Fitr 2025 in the UAE: When is the Long Weekend?

Ramadan 2025 in Dubai: List of Ramadan Markets to Explore

Where to Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025 in Dubai

An Enchanting Regency-Era Evening Awaits at Dubai's Bridgerton Candlelight Concert

Education

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

Dubai IB School's Class of 2025 Secures Over $10 Million in University Scholarships

Experience Summer Learning at its Best with MDX Study Camps at Middlesex University Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

Nurturing Compassionate Leaders: 8 Ways Dibber Preschools Prepares Your Child

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

What Are the Benefits of Academic Scholarships in Dubai?

Money

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

6 Financial Resolutions to Make for the New Year

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

UAE Residents Be Wary of Food Delivery Scams

5 Signs You've Been Scammed Over the Phone, and What to Do Next

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

Home

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Hiring a Maid in the UAE: 5 Legal Red Flags

Ask a UAE Flower Shop: Your Most Common Questions, Answered

FYI Dubai is Banning All Single Use Bags From June 1

Carrefour's 'Choose Better' Programme is Here to Reward Healthier Choices With 10x the Points

Are UAE Domestic Helpers Allowed to Work on a Trial Period and Hired After?

Pet Breeding in the UAE: Is it Allowed and Where to Find Legal Pet Breeders

Choithrams Announces Launch of All-Women Operated Store in the UAE

Where to Order Same-Day Valentine's Day Flowers in the UAE

Car

These Are Dubai's New Public Parking Fees From April 2025

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Dubai Public Commute Timings & Road Closures for New Year's Eve

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

What Are the Requirements For a Car Loan in Dubai?

UAE Petrol Prices Will Increase in August 2024

Head's Up! Dubai Taxi Fares Will Increase in May 2024

UAE Announces New Fuel Prices For May 2024

Missing UAE License Plates: How to Report a Lost Plate or Reclaim Yours

Wellness

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

9 Warning Signs for Breast Cancer

Top Tips to Have a Healthy Heart in the UAE

Discover "The New You" at Zieda's Aesthetic Clinic in Dubai

Top Ladies-Only Gyms and Fitness Centres in Dubai

Say Goodbye to Wrinkles With Mediclinic's Botox Mondays Offer

Get Expert Healthcare and Wellness Delivered to Your Doorstep in Dubai Within 30 Minutes

Top 7 Scenic UAE Jogging and Running Routes

IVF in the UAE: Unmarried Non-Muslim Couples Are Allowed to Undergo IVF

Shop

Shopping In Dubai

Best Online Shopping Sites in Dubai and UAE

An A-Z Guide to Dubai's Popular Malls

What To Wear At The Beach In Dubai

14 Hilarious Realities of Visiting Dubai Mall

Every Day is a Discount Day on THIS Deals Site

Cityland Mall Preview: Dubai's New Nature-Inspired Shopping Mall

EWmums

EWfood

ewmoda

How far is TOO far for a school run?

Log in to post new content in the forum.

2392

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 23:19

Silicon oasis is close to both schools.

35

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 23:17

I have 2 kids, one at DESS and one at DESC. My school run starts at 7am in Jumeirah 1, off to DESC, then DESS, then back home and then off to work. Repeat at lunchtime, and i easily spend 2 1/2 to 3 hours a day driving plus working a split shift of 6 hours. Its not easy at all, but the kids are happy. Cant really move closer when the schools are so far apart- i can get to DESS in 10 mins and DESC in about 20 from where we are. Its just a shame that DH hasnt quite got used to the fact im now working and just rolls over when the alarm goes off!

9

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 22:50

We did do a test run, but not at peak traffic hours, could probably add another 15-20 mins to get a guesstimate for that. Would be looking at 30-40 mins easily. A move may be in order, esp if DD settles in well in chosen school and is happy overall. Any other parents who do a long commute, for eg from AR to DESS, please feel free to chip in. But esp, thanks a ton AnonDubai, you are a star. AR to Safa school, however trip not too bad once im in the car but getting up at 5.30am is. Saying that now its daylight and not dark it doesn't feel as painful. Good luck

522

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 21:08

I do Marina to DESS - it's a good 25 mins on the road but the worst is the parking and traffic around the school - but you get that with any school. I find it long and rough some days, but really, when you're on the road and driving - what's an extra 10 mins? My DS's are fine in the car. We play games, spotting cars, reading number plates, singing songs to pass the time. I also have a LO who doesn't particularly enjoy the drive some days but he's more versitile because of it! It can take me around 1 1/2 hrs round trip by the time we drive there, wait for handover at the classroom and drive home. If there's an accident on SZR it can take up to 2 hours - and that's twice a day. Don't forget you've also got Salik charges... It all adds up. But for a good school, it's worth it. If you're happy with the school, that's the main thing.

144

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 14:22

Thank you all. Wuffles I hadnt thought of any of that... something else to add to the pros of moving to be nearer to her school eventually! I feel hopeful though after reading Greenish's reply, because that area (around Lamcy) is very populated too as is Bur Dubai. Suethack I wonder if you are going against the morning rush hour traffic and thats why you rarely get stuck? Thats exactly the route I take, except in reverse. Though I really hope its true for me as well! :) Drawing up papers to file for admission.... here we come Mirdif, ready or not!! I do the school run run from festival city to mirdif and from this point it only takes 10-15 mins. Don't hit any traffic at all as its going against. You sometimes get the backend of the traffic on the way back near the fc turn off. Not sure on the traffic from bur dubai to here though as i've never been in school rush

1972nessie25051

260

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 12:51

I travel with my DDs from AR to Mirdiff to school and it takes us around 25 mins but it is an easy route as straight down the Emirates road until Al Khaweneej(sorry about spelling) road , that is where all the traffic is with everyone trying to get to all the schools which are close together. been doing the run since sept and will continue doing it for the next couple of years, moving isnt an option as DH commutes to AD daily.

3220

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 11:17

It will take it's toll on you eventually. True. And also with a newborn who gets hungry and cranky from all the car driving,it wont be a pleasure. My baby was six months old at least when I started with the nursery run and it was hard enough just for the 15 minute drive....

bornconfused34509

542

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 11:01

It will take it's toll on you eventually.

234

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 08:43

I live in Mirdif and drive to Bur Dubai for work every day (Bank Street) - it takes approx 30 mins leaving the house at about 7am ish - I take the Festival City Road and then the Garhoud Bridge and rarely get stuck in any traffic (tempting fate I know!!)

3220

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 08:12

Longer than 20 minute drive is too far.

2340

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 08:10

My son was at Star in Mirdif and one of his best little buddies lived just behind Lamcy. They had no issues with the travel times. The girl's Mum said it was an easy run against the traffic every day. This was last academic year.

1996

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 01 May 2011 - 23:43

Don't forget it isn't just the school run back and forth twice a day-and you really need to trial it in peak times rather than guessing how bad it will be-but also the play dates and endless birthday parties they have at that age that you will be driving to and from. My daughter went to a school 40 mins from home in Australia (had a scholarship) and it really made it hard for her to form friendships as we had to limit her visits to her school friends-which she resented. She was also often tired when it came to homework time in later years. I know that is a bit down the track for you but it still needs to be considered.

5452

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 01 May 2011 - 13:36

Hi RT. I will respond to you shortly.

1247

Posts

EW OLDHAND

Latest post on 01 May 2011 - 13:19

you should test yes, go at the time she would attend. My hubby used to do Mirdif to Burjuman to go to work and it would sometimes take a very very long time as the road (both directions) often comes to a standstill. Why not move to mirdif? We love it :D Also keep in mind that the first year (FS1) pickup is a breeze, no traffic at that time, where as Fs2 the whole of Dubai has school run also.

1238

Posts

EW OLDHAND

Latest post on 01 May 2011 - 11:11

I reckon you should try out the school run now - at the times that she will be going - and see how it is with the traffic. We sent our DS to umm sequeim from the Ranches (often a 30-45 minute trip) and was doable, although it started to grate at the end. We also brought our DD when she was born - it was more stressful, but doable, especially at first when all they want to do is sleep.

Log in to post new content in the forum.

ON EXPATWOMAN TODAY

Top Nursery School Kids Summer Camps in Dubai 2025

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

Best educational summer camps for teenagers in Dubai: MDX Summer Camps

Experience Summer Learning at its Best with MDX Study Camps at Middlesex University Dubai

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Real Madrid World Dubai - Summer Offer AED 199 per ticket

Real Madrid World is Celebrating World Football Day With AED 199 Tickets

Scholarship opportunities at the Swiss international Scientific School Dubai (SISD)

Dubai IB School's Class of 2025 Secures Over $10 Million in University Scholarships

Travel influencer academy in Dubai

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

Central Bank of UAE reveals new official currency symbol for the Emirati dirham

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed announces 3 best UAE government departments

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

New 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

UAE president announces 2025 will be the 'Year of Community' in the emirates

Confirmed: 2025 Will Be The 'Year of Community' in The UAE

Breakfast with penguins at Ski Dubai Mall of the Emirates

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

How to convert another country's drivers license in Dubai

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Registrations open for EYFS curriculum Willow Children's Nursery in Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

List of confirmed UAE public holidays in 2025

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Outdoor cinemas in Dubai for the winter season 2024

The Best Outdoor Cinemas in Dubai to See Open-Air Movies This Winter

Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School in Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Expat legal consultants in the UAE | Dr. Hassan Elhais

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Saray Spa promotions at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

This Luxury Dubai Spa Has Some of the Very Best Breaks To Escape To

A Complete Guide How to Get an Influencer License in Dubai and UAE

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Dubai's gravity-driven tunnel to reduce flood risks by 700%

Pictured: Flooded roads from the record-breaking storm that hit Dubai in April 2024.

Dubai Flood Risk to Be Cut Down by 700% With New Tunnel

8 Beauty Treatments in Dubai for busy moms

8 Beauty Treatments in Dubai: Self-Care Recommendations for Busy Moms

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

E-scooters are no longer banned on the Dubai Metro stations and trains

RTA Finally Lifts E-Scooter Ban From Dubai Metro

Spa packages at Saray Spa in JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

Step Into the Ultimate Relaxation Bliss With Saray Spa's Pampering Packages

How to book Dubai taxi through WhatsApp

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

Experience Extended Stays and Special Savings at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort UAE

Soak Up the Summer With the Ultimate UAE Staycation Special

RTA Dubai flying taxi official launch date

Image credit: Joby Aviation.

RTA Finally Confirms Launch Date of Dubai's Flying Taxis

Are "own visa" Domestic Workers legal in the UAE?

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Where to See Animals in the Wild in the UAE

Where to See Animals in the Wild in the UAE