Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a fantastic destination for families. The city offers a mix of cultural landmarks, thrilling amusement parks, and beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking to explore the rich history of the region or seeking fun-filled adventures, Abu Dhabi has something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Key Takeaways
- Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to marvel at its stunning architecture and learn about Islamic culture.
- Experience the thrill of high-speed rides at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, home to the world’s fastest roller coaster.
- Cool off and have fun at Yas Waterworld, a massive water park with over 40 rides and slides.
- Get up close with animals at the Emirates Park Zoo, which offers interactive experiences for children.
- Stroll along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, a beautiful waterfront promenade perfect for a family day out.
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-visit for families in Abu Dhabi. This stunning architectural masterpiece is one of the largest mosques in the world and can hold over 40,000 worshippers. Its beauty and grandeur are unmatched. The mosque features 82 domes, 96 columns, and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet. The crystal chandeliers and glass panels studded with thousands of Swarovski crystals add to its splendor.
Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the mosque’s history and design. The mosque is open to people of all ages, making it a perfect family destination. Children can enjoy various activities at the mosque’s fun block and the Kingdom Martial Arts Academy.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not just a place of worship but a symbol of peace and unity. Its serene environment offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, Abu Dhabi
Timings: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Highlights:
- World’s largest hand-woven carpet
- Crystal chandeliers
- Glass panels with Swarovski crystals
- 82 domes and 96 columns
- Activities for children at the fun block and Kingdom Martial Arts Academy
2. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Located on Yas Island, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a must-visit for families seeking thrilling adventures. The whole family will find an adrenaline-fueled ride just for them. This Ferrari-branded theme park offers a variety of attractions that cater to all ages.
Highlights
- Formula Rossa: Experience the world’s fastest roller coaster.
- Tyre Twist: A fun ride suitable for everyone.
- Motor Midway Games: Enjoy some classic carnival games.
Additional Attractions
- Shopping: Browse through Ferrari-themed merchandise.
- Dining: Savor delicious meals at various restaurants within the park.
A day at Ferrari World is sure to be a treat for your whole family since the park has something for every kind of visitor.
Practical Information
- Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
- Price: 241 – 268 AED
- Timings:
- Sunday to Wednesday: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
3. Yas Waterworld
Yas Waterworld is a must-visit for families in Abu Dhabi. Located in the heart of Yas Island, this water park offers over 40 rides, slides, and attractions, making it a fun destination for everyone. What makes Yas Waterworld special is that it has something for all ages. From gentle slides and splash areas for toddlers to adrenaline-pumping rides for older kids, there’s something for everyone.
The park is designed with a traditional Emirati theme and offers unique experiences like pearl diving, a water cinema called Cinesplash, and a huge surfing simulator. You can also relax on the plentiful lounge chairs around the park. They offer everything from towel hire to swimming costumes, so you can literally pop out of the airport for a few hours and enjoy a cooling experience.
For the younger ones, the wave pool, kids’ water park, and lazy river are sure to be hits. Weekends can be busy, but weekdays offer almost limitless rides. Even in the peak of summer, the water is chilled, making it a refreshing stop on your Abu Dhabi itinerary.
Extend the fun with the family and add on amazing experiences like Clymb, indulge in mouth-watering delights at Yas Bay, and enjoy the breath-taking views at Yas Island.
4. Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi
Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi is a must-visit indoor theme park located on Yas Island. This park features 29 thrilling rides and attractions, making it a perfect destination for families. Spread over 1.65 million square meters, it is the largest indoor theme park in the world.
Immersive Lands
The park is divided into six immersive lands:
- Gotham City
- Metropolis
- Cartoon Junction
- Bedrock
- Dynamite Gulch
- Warner Bros Plaza
Each land transports you to the world of your favorite characters, offering a unique and engaging experience.
Dining Options
Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. Some popular choices include:
- The Starlight: Old Hollywood charm
- Celebrity Scoop: Dazzling restaurant
- Hollywood Trattoria: Italian-themed
Each restaurant also offers specific kids’ meal options.
You won’t go hungry here as every section has its own themed eateries, cafes, or grab-and-go options.
Practical Information
- Location: Al Falah Road, Abu Dhabi
- Price: 325 – 351 AED
- Timings: Every day (12:00 PM to 08:00 PM)
On-site ATMs are available at the ticketing plaza near the entrance.
5. Emirates Park Zoo
Emirates Park Zoo is a fantastic destination for families looking to explore wildlife in Abu Dhabi. Housing over 1,700 animals, the zoo offers a variety of experiences that will keep everyone entertained. From cheetahs and white tigers to lions and a majestic Siberian bear, the zoo is home to an exceptional variety of wildlife from around the world.
Activities and Experiences
- Breakfast with Parrots: Enjoy a unique breakfast experience with colorful parrots.
- Giraffe Feeding: Get up close and personal with giraffes during feeding time.
- Animal Shows: Watch exciting animal shows featuring different species.
- Leopard Encounter: Have breakfast in the company of a leopard with no barrier in between.
Visitor Information
- Location: Al Bahia, north-east of Abu Dhabi City
- Price: 68 – 114 AED
- Timings: 02:00 PM – 08:00 PM
A visit to Emirates Park Zoo is not just about seeing animals; it’s about creating unforgettable memories with your family. Whether you’re feeding giraffes or watching a thrilling animal show, there’s always something exciting to do.
6. Qasr Al Hosn
Qasr Al Hosn is a must-visit for families exploring Abu Dhabi. It is the oldest standing building in the city, dating back to 1760. This historic site includes the Watchtower, the Inner Fort, and the Outer Palace.
- Watchtower: Built in 1760, it offers a glimpse into the past.
- Inner Fort: Constructed in 1795, it showcases traditional Emirati architecture.
- Outer Palace: Added between 1939 and 1945, it reflects more modern influences.
Before you leave, make sure to visit the House of Artisans. Here, you can try traditional Emirati arts and crafts. The Cultural Foundation nearby also offers engaging activities for all ages.
Qasr Al Hosn retains the essence of Emirati history and culture, making it a perfect spot for families to learn and have fun together.
7. Heritage Village
Visiting Heritage Village is like stepping back in time to experience the traditional way of life in the UAE. This reconstructed village features a souk, mosque, dhows, and a traditional fort originally built to ward off invaders from the sea. Kids will be fascinated by the barasti (traditional palm-leaf houses), the ox-drawn well, and the falaj (an ancient irrigation system) which still works today in Abu Dhabi’s garden city of Al Ain.
Artisans demonstrate their craftsmanship here too, including pottery, weaving, and glass blowing. You may even have the opportunity to get involved!
Highlights
- Traditional palm-leaf houses
- Ox-drawn well
- Ancient irrigation system
- Artisans demonstrating pottery, weaving, and glass blowing
The Heritage Village offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for families looking to explore the cultural richness of Abu Dhabi.
8. Al Ain Zoo
A visit to Al Ain Zoo is a must for families in Abu Dhabi. Home to over 4,000 animals, the zoo offers a variety of fun activities that will keep everyone entertained. You can enjoy penguin feeding, the lemur exhibit, a parrot show, reptile encounters, horse and camel rides, and a birds-of-prey show.
For a more educational experience, stop by the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre. Here, you can learn about the UAE’s efforts to preserve its natural environment.
If you’re looking for an adventure, book an Al Ain Safari tour. This hour-long journey takes you across 217 hectares of land at the base of the majestic Jebel Hafit mountain. Safari guides will share their knowledge of the ecosystem and conservation efforts, ensuring you see as many animals as possible, including lions, white rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest.
Cap off your day with a gourmet dinner under the stars, right on the edge of the lion territory.
Highlights
- Location: Nahyan the First street, Abu Dhabi
- Price: 23 – 29 AED
- Timings: 02:00 PM – 08:00 PM
Don’t miss out on this incredible experience that combines fun, education, and adventure in one place.
9. Abu Dhabi Corniche
The Abu Dhabi Corniche stretches over 8 kilometers and is the city’s main beachfront. It’s a hub of social activity for both locals and tourists. The Corniche offers a variety of activities for families, making it a perfect spot for a day out.
You can enjoy the Corniche in many ways:
- Stroll along the palm tree-lined pedestrian walkways.
- Relax on the family-friendly beaches with lifeguards on duty during daylight hours.
- Rent a bike and ride along the dedicated cycle paths.
- Play sports like basketball or volleyball.
The Corniche is a popular spot for families, couples, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals alike. The sports, activities, beach, and sea alone will be sure to entertain the kids!
For a more luxurious experience, consider a day pass to one of the high-end resorts like the Nation Riviera. Here, you can enjoy deck chair comfort, drinks service, and nearby pools. Alternatively, the public beach is accessible from various points along the Corniche and offers a more budget-friendly option.
In the cooler winter months, renting a bike and cycling along the beachfront is a perfect evening activity. The Corniche also features a small section fenced off for families, which includes a grassed lawn and picnic area for a very small entry fee.
10. KidZania Abu Dhabi
KidZania Abu Dhabi is an interactive mini-city where children can role-play various professions. Located in Yas Mall, this 55,000 square feet indoor theme park offers over 60 role-playing activities for kids aged 4-16. From being a pilot to a doctor, children can explore different careers, learn real-life skills, and earn ‘kidZos’—the currency of KidZania.
Upon arrival, each child receives a boarding pass and can organize their transport, such as getting a driver’s license for a car. They can also go to ‘university’ to get a degree in their chosen subject, which helps them think about their interests and passions early in life.
Entertainment and Media
In the entertainment area, kids can learn to act, perform, and DJ. Regular performances are held in the DJ corner and the KidZania Reel Cinema. The media section allows kids to play roles such as news reporters, cameramen, or floor managers.
Food and Health
Children can get involved in creating their own food in city restaurants, promoting a healthy approach to meals. They can also become scientists to find new ways to prevent disease and infection. At the dentist, they learn healthy habits for good oral health, and in the main hospital, they learn how to look after newborns and patients.
Various Occupations
Kids can work in the city’s local hotel, learning about hospitality and customer service. They can also work at the police station to help keep people safe, or take on roles like driving instructors, firefighters, construction workers, and engineers.
In return for their jobs, children are paid in Kidzos, which they can spend in restaurants and retail shops around the city.
Conclusion
Abu Dhabi is a fantastic place for families to visit. With its mix of thrilling adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxing spots, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the rich history at Qasr Al Hosn, having fun at Yas Waterworld, or enjoying a peaceful walk along the Corniche, Abu Dhabi offers countless memorable moments. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable family trip to this amazing city!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Abu Dhabi?
The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is from November to March. During these months, the weather is cooler and perfect for outdoor activities.
Is there a dress code for visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?
Yes, visitors are required to dress modestly. Men should wear long pants and women should cover their heads, arms, and legs. Abayas and headscarves are available at the mosque for women.
Are there height restrictions for rides at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi?
Yes, some rides at Ferrari World have height restrictions to ensure the safety of all visitors. It’s best to check the specific requirements for each ride before visiting.
Can we bring our own food to Yas Waterworld?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed inside Yas Waterworld. However, there are plenty of dining options available within the park.
How much time should we allocate for a visit to Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi?
To fully enjoy all the attractions and shows at Warner Bros World, it’s recommended to spend at least a full day there.
Is KidZania Abu Dhabi suitable for toddlers?
KidZania Abu Dhabi is designed for children aged 4 to 16 years. While toddlers might enjoy some areas, the majority of activities are geared towards older children.
