Returning to Urumqi keeps the trip structure simple
Everyone arrives in one city and leaves from one city. That is often the easiest setup for family groups, especially when arrival times vary or the group includes seniors and children.
Different arrival and departure cities reduce repeated road sections
If the goal is to cover one classic region without spending another full day retracing the same road, an open-jaw plan can be more efficient. It works well for travellers who want a one-direction route with fresh scenery each day.
Check whether the group can handle more moving parts
An open-jaw plan is not automatically easier. It often needs tighter coordination between arrival, hotels and departure timing. If the group prefers a simpler rhythm, a Urumqi return can feel smoother.
Let trip length and family energy decide
On shorter trips, reducing repeated driving becomes more valuable. On slower and longer trips, the simpler return structure may matter more. A good family route is not the most complicated one. It is the one that runs cleanly.