10 countries, 8,000 km: A Dutch family’s road trip to Dubai

In a world where air travel is the norm, a close-knit Dutch family chose to drive in their Land Cruiser for 30 days to all the way to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The adventurous Duintjer family has completed several long-distance road trips across continents. They've driven from the Netherlands to Guinea, went on a trek from Tanzania to South Africa and, in their most ambitious journey yet, completed a trip all the way from the Netherlands to Shanghai, China — a staggering 11,000 km, with their three young children.

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The family, originally from the Netherlands and Guinea, consists of Jurjen, 54, his wife Anne Nanette, 48, and their three children: Lucy, 18, Engbert, 16, and Etienne,14).

Jurjen Duintjer

In the hectic pace of daily life, everyone is busy, often glued to their phones. But in the car, we end up playing old-school games and spending real time together.This wasn’t just a road trip, it was an adventure that brought us closer as a family. - Jurjen Duintjer

Having settled in Dubai two years ago after living in Oman and the Netherlands, Jurjen runs his own desert tour company. But the family's love for the open road was far from over, so they decided to ship their car from the UAE to the Netherlands and embark on a new journey.

Jurjen Duintjer

While driving their Dubai-registered car in the Netherlands, the family quickly attracted attention. One of the first things that happened after picking up their car was getting pulled over by the Dutch police.

The reason? Tinted windows, a standard feature in the Middle East to combat the intense heat, but something that’s not always welcomed in Europe.

Jurjen Duintjer

The journey: 10 countries in 30 days

In July 2024, the Duintjer family set off from the Netherlands in their Toyota Land Cruiser. Their route took them through 10 countries, including Netherlands, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, Turkey, Iran and UAE. Their journey was marked by a mix of city stops, scenic routes, and cultural experiences.

“We didn’t rush,” says Jurjen. “In each country, we made sure to stop for at least two nights to explore the cities and take in the local culture.”

Jurjen and his Omani friend who accompanied them with a second car during the trip Jurjen Duintjer

They explored historic cities like Prague, Budapest, and Belgrade, enjoying a much richer experience than simply flying to these destinations. A boat trip on the Bosphorus in Istanbul, wandering through Budapest’s streets, and encountering diverse landscapes along the way were just a few of the highlights.

Iran: A hidden gem

Iran left the biggest impression on the family, they found the Iranian people incredibly welcoming. Jurjen says:

Our guide in Iran didn’t just show us the way; he knew all the hidden gems, from mountain trails to desert paths. Without him, we would have missed so much. A good guide is essential for a trip like this.

Iran was the highlight of their trip, especially ShirazJurjen Duintjer

The challenges: Long days, border crossings and logistics

Planning an 8,000 km journey through multiple countries requires meticulous preparation. The family started a year in advance, mapping out the safest and most scenic routes, but also securing documents, and ensuring their vehicle was ready for the long road ahead.

Jurjen Duintjer

Navigating border crossings, especially from Turkey into Iran, required patience and flexibility. Despite the red travel warnings for Iran, Jurjen was confident in his choice. Having connections in the adventure tourism industry, the family arranged experienced guide, a visa, a car passport and police permit. Everything had to be in place and once it was arranged, it was smooth sailing.

Jurjen Duintjer

The family also had to adapt to long days on the road, with stretches of up to eight hours driving between destinations. Sometimes the kids were bored, but they balanced it off with days for exploring.

You can’t do these kinds of trips every summer, but for the kids, it’s invaluable. They learn more about geography, culture, and life than they ever could in a classroom.

Jurjen Duintjer

Another logistical challenge was shipping their car from Iran to the UAE. The family opted for a ferry from Bandar Abbas, Iran to Sharjah, UAE, a 12-hour boat ride. While the process of loading and unloading the car was time-consuming, the family found it to be an enjoyable and unique part of the adventure.

Jurjen Duintjer

Family bonding: Road trips build stronger connections

One of the most rewarding aspects of the trip was the opportunity to strengthen family bonds. With three teenagers, Jurjen and Nanette made a conscious effort to create moments of connection.

“Being on the road together meant we had to rely on each other,” says Jurjen. “The kids got to take turns driving off-road in the Iranian desert, and we spent time playing games and talking, which doesn’t happen as often at home.”

Nanette agrees. “This trip was special because it brought us closer. In the daily life, it’s easy to get caught up in routines. But on the road, you’re forced to slow down and enjoy the company of those around you.”

Tips & tricks

Jurjen Duintjer

For Dubai expats or citizens considering a similar road trip, Jurjen and Anne Nanette offer some practical advice:

1. Start planning early: Allow at least a year to plan such a trip, especially if crossing multiple borders.
2. Secure the right documents: Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork, such as a carnet for your car and any visas required for countries.
3. Hire a guide for complex regions: If traveling through countries with stricter regulations or political instability, hiring a local guide can provide peace of mind and a richer experience.
4. Travel with another vehicle: On this trip, they were joined by friends in a second car, which added an extra layer of security and camaraderie.
5. Be flexible: While planning is crucial, being open to changes along the way will make the journey smoother.
6. Take your time: Balance driving days with rest days to avoid burnout, especially when traveling with children.

The family arriving back home in Dubai Sports CityJurjen Duintjer