The Mercedes GLB is the smartest luxury SUV for Dubai family life. It looks and feels like a proper Mercedes, but its boxy shape is a secret weapon. It’s so much more practical than a sleek GLC. I can actually fit a stroller and a week’s shopping in the back without any drama.

Driving it is great for the city. It’s not too big, so parking is manageable, and the 2.0-liter engine has plenty of power for merging onto our fast highways. The interior is beautiful and modern, and the air conditioning is fantastically powerful—it cools down the cabin almost instantly. The optional third row is tiny for adults, but it’s a lifesaver for occasionally carrying extra kids.

It’s not a sporty car, and it’s definitely not for the desert. But for a young family that wants the Mercedes badge, plenty of space, and a comfortable daily driver, the GLB is a perfect, practical choice.