A practical and personal guide for Dubai parents navigating summer travel with a nanny
If you're planning a summer trip and wondering whether to take your nanny along, you're not alone. Many families in Dubai face this exact question when school is out and bags are being packed.
As a mom who has travelled both with and without a nanny, I know the decision can feel tricky. On one hand, the extra help during travel can be a game-changer. On the other, there are logistics, costs, and boundaries to consider. This guide walks you through everything you need to think about so you can make the best choice for your family and for your nanny.
Why Some Families Choose to Bring Their Nanny on Holiday
Travelling with kids can be exhausting. Having a familiar caregiver on hand can make a huge difference in how relaxing (or stressful) the holiday feels. Some of the most common reasons families choose to bring their nanny include help during flights and airport navigation, maintaining routines for younger children, and having support during weddings or family reunions. It also gives parents a little breathing room to enjoy a meal or an outing without worrying about naptime or tantrums.
Why It May Not Be the Right Choice for Every Trip
While taking your nanny along can be helpful, it doesn’t work for every situation. There are additional costs like flights, visas, and accommodations. Your nanny might also prefer not to travel, especially if the destination is unfamiliar or if she would have little time off to rest. Some parents also find that roles become blurred on holiday, making it difficult to separate work from leisure for both sides.
Questions to Ask Before You Decide
If you're even considering taking your nanny along, it's important to have an open and honest conversation. Talk to her about whether she's comfortable travelling, what her responsibilities would be during the trip, and what hours she'll be expected to work. Discuss if this travel counts as her annual leave or as paid work. Agree on how meals, free time, and outings will be handled. Having clarity up front helps avoid confusion later.
It’s also a good idea to put this agreement in writing. It protects both you and your nanny, and ensures expectations are clear on both sides.
Important Visa and Travel Considerations
Many nannies in Dubai hold passports that require visas for countries like the UK, Schengen zone, or the US. It’s critical to check visa requirements well in advance of travel. Some countries require a no-objection letter from the family who sponsors the nanny. Others need confirmed hotel bookings, travel insurance, or a detailed itinerary.
Make sure you apply early, as processing times can be unpredictable. You’ll also want to ensure your nanny has travel insurance in place before the trip begins.
If your nanny isn’t yet sponsored and you’re planning long-term support, Find My Nanny offers visa sponsorship services through Maids.cc for just AED 8,000. This makes the legal side of the process much simpler.
How to Set Healthy Boundaries During the Trip
The biggest issue parents run into when bringing a nanny on holiday is defining the line between work time and downtime. Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean your nanny is available 24 hours a day.
Here’s what helps:
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Set clear working hours in advance
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Make sure your nanny has her own room or private space
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Schedule breaks and personal time into the day
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Respect that she is still working and not just "along for the ride"
This ensures the trip is enjoyable for everyone and that your nanny feels respected and supported.
If Your Nanny Isn't Travelling With You
If bringing your nanny along isn’t possible or ideal, there are still great ways to manage the holiday period.
Some families leave their nanny in Dubai to take care of the home, water plants, or even look after pets. Others align the family’s travel with the nanny’s annual leave, giving her time to visit her own family. You can also explore temporary help at your destination through local agencies or rely on a trusted family member for support.
No matter what you choose, the most important thing is to communicate clearly and make sure everyone feels considered in the planning.
Final Thoughts
There is no universal answer to whether you should take your nanny on holiday. The right choice depends on your destination, budget, child’s age, and your nanny’s preferences. What matters most is that you treat the decision with thoughtfulness, respect, and open communication.
Travelling with your nanny can be a positive experience if planned well, and leaving her behind can also be smooth and respectful if done right. Either way, it’s about partnership and trust.
If you’re still looking for a nanny or need support with visa processing, FindMyNanny.ae is here to help. Browse verified nanny profiles, watch video CVs, and get expert support tailored to Dubai families.
