Family attractions in Abu Dhabi range from world-record-breaking theme parks to peaceful cultural spots that spark kids’ curiosity in a fun way. The city makes exploring with children easy through kid-friendly facilities and thoughtful family services everywhere.
Between October and March, the pleasant weather lets families make the most of both indoor and outdoor activities without worrying about the intense summer heat. Now, let’s dive into all the exciting places waiting for you and your kids.
Cultural and Educational Family Activities in Abu Dhabi
The cultural spots in Abu Dhabi know how to make learning exciting for kids. The pottery workshops at Heritage Village are fascinating – watching kids get their hands dirty while learning about traditional crafts never gets old.
What’s really cool about these places?
They blend learning with fun so smoothly that kids end up loving history without even knowing it! As for hands-on activities, you’ll find everything from craft workshops to interactive museum displays that bring Abu Dhabi’s culture to life for the little ones.
| Cultural Attraction | Best For Ages | Opening Hours | Ticket Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque | 5+ | Daily (except Friday morning) | Free |
| Louvre Abu Dhabi | All ages | Tue-Sun 10AM-8PM | Adults: AED 60, Under 18: Free |
| Emirates Heritage Village | All ages | Sat-Thu 9AM-4PM, Fri 3PM-9PM | AED 5 |
| Abu Dhabi Children’s Library | 2-16 years | Sat-Thu 9AM-8PM, Fri 2PM-8PM | Free |
| Qasr Al Hosn | All ages | Daily 9AM-7PM | Adults: AED 30, Kids: AED 15 |
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Family Visit Experience
Your kids will surely be amazed at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, especially with those giant crystal chandeliers sparkling overhead! The mosque stretches across 22,400 square meters and offers free guided tours that even the little ones enjoy.
My nephew couldn’t believe his eyes when he saw the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet in the main prayer hall. Just remember to keep the kids walking quietly – it’s still a place of worship.
Planning Tip: You’ll want to grab some snacks before or after your visit since food isn’t allowed inside, but there are plenty of coffee shops right by the entrance for a post-tour treat.
2. Louvre Abu Dhabi Children’s Museum and Art Programs
Ever tried explaining art to a 5-year-old? At the Louvre Abu Dhabi Children’s Museum, you won’t have to – they make art super fun! The museum spreads across three floors packed with hands-on activities where kids can create their own masterpieces.
They’ve got special workshops running all the time, and the best part? Kids under 18 get in free! Parents pay AED 60, but trust me, seeing your kids light up while learning about art makes it worth every dirham. The Aptitude Café serves good coffee, though prices run a bit high. Oh, and don’t worry about hauling strollers around – they’ve got rentals right at the entrance.
3. Emirates Heritage Village Traditional Life Experience
Want your kids to see how people lived in Abu Dhabi before all the tall buildings? Head to Emirates Heritage Village! My kids loved watching real craftspeople make pottery and blow glass the old-fashioned way.
The village shows off traditional palm leaf houses called barasti, and get this – they still use the same irrigation system in Al Ain today! Entry costs just AED 5, and you can spend hours exploring the souq market, checking out the old mosque, and maybe even trying some traditional crafts yourself.
4. Abu Dhabi Children’s Library Story Adventures
The Abu Dhabi Children’s Library looks nothing like your regular library. Kids can curl up with books on seats shaped like sand dunes or climb Book Mountain to find their next story.
Every day brings different activities – kids can join a robotics workshop while the older kids code their own games! The best thing? It’s totally free and stays open six days a week. The staff really knows how to help kids find books they’ll love, and there are quiet spots for homework too.
Nature and Wildlife Experiences for Families
How about showing your kids some amazing animals and natural wonders? Abu Dhabi’s got some fantastic spots where kids can meet wildlife up close and learn about nature.
| Nature Attraction | Best Time to Visit | Ticket Prices |
|---|---|---|
| Al Ain Zoo | Morning hours | Adults: AED 50, Kids: AED 20 |
| Jubail Mangrove Park | Sunset hours | Adults: AED 15, Kids: AED 5 |
| Sir Bani Yas Island | Early morning/late afternoon | Varies by activity |
| Emirates Park Zoo | Morning hours | Adults: AED 35, Kids: AED 15 |
| National Aquarium | Anytime | From AED 110 |
5. Al Ain Zoo Safari and Animal Shows
The Al Ain Zoo keeps 4,000 animals happy and ready to meet visitors. Kids can feed penguins, watch lemurs play, and even ride camels around the grounds. The zoo runs great shows where birds of prey swoop right over your head – just time your visit for the morning when animals feel most active.
Make sure to stop by the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre to see how Abu Dhabi protects its wildlife. The safari tour takes you across 217 hectares near Jebel Hafit mountain, where you’ll spot lions, white rhinos, zebras, and giraffes roaming freely.
6. Jubail Mangrove Park Nature Trails and Activities
Jubail Mangrove Park gives families a chance to walk above the water on long wooden boardwalks while spotting herons and flamingos. The park works as Abu Dhabi’s first self-contained nature and education spot, teaching kids about mangrove habitats and local wildlife.
Guided kayak tours cost AED 100 per person, letting you paddle close to fish, birds, and maybe even some small foxes. The park stays open daily from 7 AM to 9 PM, with tickets priced at AED 15 for adults and AED 5 for kids aged two to seven.
7. Sir Bani Yas Island Wildlife and Beach Adventures
Sir Bani Yas Island combines wildlife watching with beach fun. The Desert Islands Watersports Centre offers safe kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing for families.
Morning safari drives take you through the Arabian Wildlife Park, home to 17,000 free-roaming animals including Arabian oryx and cheetahs. The island’s stables provide horse riding lessons for different skill levels. Pack swimsuits and sunscreen – you’ll want a full day to enjoy both the wildlife and water activities.
Theme Parks and Adventure Destinations
Abu Dhabi’s theme parks rank among the top family attractions in Abu Dhabi, mixing thrills with entertainment for all ages. Each park brings something special, from record-breaking rides to character meet-and-greets. Let’s look at where families can find the biggest thrills and best entertainment.
| Theme Park | Age Range | Opening Hours | Ticket Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferrari World | 3+ | Seasonal | Adults: AED 325, Kids: AED 250 |
| Warner Bros. World | All ages | Daily 11AM-8PM | Adults: AED 345, Kids: AED 265 |
| Yas Waterworld | All ages | Seasonal | Adults: AED 295, Kids: AED 225 |
| KidZania | 2-16 years | Sun-Thu 11AM-10PM | From AED 105 |
8. Yas Island Theme Parks Experience
Yas Island packs three major theme parks into one location. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi holds the record for the world’s fastest roller coaster – Formula Rossa hits 240 km/h in 4.9 seconds! Families with small children can enjoy shows and the Junior Training Camp area.
Next door, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi spreads across 35 acres with six zones full of familiar cartoon characters. Yas Waterworld keeps everyone cool with 45 water rides, including Dawwama, a huge hydromagnetic-powered water slide that fits six people at once.
9. KidZania Abu Dhabi Career Adventures
KidZania turns regular play into learning about adult jobs. Kids aged 2-16 try out 40 different careers in this mini-city, from being a doctor at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi to making movies at the TV studio.
They even use their own money, which is called kidZos! Located on the first floor of Yas Mall, KidZania stays open daily with longer hours on weekends. Entry starts at AED 105, and kids need adult supervision under age 8.
10. CLYMB Abu Dhabi Climbing and Skydiving
CLYMB Abu Dhabi brings indoor adventure sports to kids and adults. The climbing wall stretches 42 meters high with 13 routes for different skill levels.
The indoor skydiving chamber reaches 32 meters tall – making it one of the world’s highest. Beginners can take lessons from expert instructors, and all safety gear comes included. Prices start at AED 120 for climbing and AED 235 for skydiving sessions.
11. Snow Abu Dhabi Winter Fun All Year
Snow Abu Dhabi brings winter fun to the desert at Reem Mall. The snow park spreads across 10,000 square feet with 12 rides and 17 attractions. Kids can ride the Polar Express Train, spin on the Crystal Carousel, or zoom down snowy slopes.
Plus, older kids get to try the suspended roll-glider ride that circles the whole park. Tickets run AED 215 for basic entry and AED 275 for premium access which includes all attractions. The park opens Sunday to Thursday from 10 AM to 10 PM, staying open until midnight on weekends.
Want to explore like a local? Head to https://destination.com/ for travel guides packed with insider tips, smart hacks, and all the must-visit spots. You’ll be ready for anything, from famous attractions to those hidden gems only locals know!
Indoor Playgrounds and Family Entertainment Centers
Of course, you need a break from the heat. Abu Dhabi’s indoor play areas keep kids moving and having fun all year round. From trampolining to gaming, these spots offer air-conditioned fun that works great for those hot afternoons or rainy days.
| Indoor Center | Age Groups | Hours | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bounce | 3+ | Sun-Thu 10AM-10PM | From AED 80 |
| Air Maniax | 2+ | Daily 10AM-10PM | From AED 85 |
| Adrenark | All ages | Sun-Thu 10AM-10PM | From AED 99 |
| Prison Island | 8+ | Daily 10AM-10PM | From AED 99 |
| Pixoul Gaming | 5+ | Daily 10AM-10PM | From AED 110 |
12. Bounce Abu Dhabi Adventure Time
Kids can literally bounce off the walls at Bounce Abu Dhabi. The trampoline park includes different zones – a free-jumping area, dodgeball courts, and even a “Big Bag” for practicing tricks safely.
What’s cool about this place? They’ve added obstacles like “The Wall” for climbers and an X-Park assault course. You’ll find Bounce at Marina Mall, which is open daily with special morning sessions for younger kids.
13. Marina Mall Entertainment Zone
Moving on to Marina Mall‘s fun zone – it’s way more than just shops. The mall houses a proper ice skating rink, bowling alleys, and a modern cinema.
On top of that, there’s Bounce and several family-friendly restaurants. The observation deck gives amazing views of the Corniche and Arabian Gulf. Mall hours run from 10 AM to 10 PM Sunday through Thursday, extending until midnight on weekends.
14. Adrenark Adventure at Al Qana
Speaking of indoor fun, Adrenark Adventure brings something new to Abu Dhabi. This massive indoor park features the UAE’s first three-story e-karting track.
As for prices, they’ve got different passes: AED 99 for toddlers, AED 135 for basic entry, and AED 179 for full access to everything. While the kids play, parents can grab coffee at one of Al Qana’s many cafes.
Outdoor Fun and Relaxing Family Spots
Now, let’s talk about places where families can enjoy Abu Dhabi’s nice weather between October and March. The city has plenty of green spaces and beaches where kids can run around while parents relax. Just remember to pack hats and sunscreen – even the winter sun gets strong here!
| Outdoor Location | Best Visit Time | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi Corniche | Early morning/Late afternoon | Free |
| Umm Al Emarat Park | After 4 PM | AED 10 |
| Al Forsan Club | Morning hours | Day pass: AED 150 |
| Hudayriyat Island | Sunset hours | Free entry |
| A’l Bahar | Evening time | Free |
15. Abu Dhabi Corniche Beach and Play Areas
The Corniche Beach stretches along 8 kilometers of clean beach where families can swim, build sandcastles, or just enjoy the breeze. Kids love the playgrounds spread along the walking path, and the shallow water makes swimming safer for little ones.
You’ll also find plenty of bathrooms, showers, and changing rooms along the way while your whole family is here. As for food, casual beach cafes and ice cream stands to keep everyone happy without breaking the bank.
16. Umm Al Emarat Park Gardens and Activities
The Umm Al Emarat Park feels like a green escape in the city. Kids get excited about the animal barn where they can meet friendly farm animals. The music garden lets them bang on outdoor instruments – a hit with toddlers!
So many families head here after 4 PM when the weather cools down, and the fountains light up. Entry costs just AED 10, and the food trucks serve everything from shawarma to pizza.
17. Al Forsan International Sports Resort Activities
Looking for active fun? Al Forsan offers wakeboarding, swimming, and all kinds of sports fields. Kids can try archery or horseback riding with trained instructors.
The day pass includes access to most facilities, and they rent out all the equipment you need. What’s nice about this place? It works well for families with kids of different ages since everyone can find something they enjoy.
Shopping and Dining with Kids in Abu Dhabi
So where can families shop and eat without stress? Abu Dhabi’s malls cater well to families, with play areas, family restrooms, and restaurants that welcome kids. Here’s a rundown of the best spots that keep both parents and children happy.
| Mall | Dining Options | Entertainment | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yas Mall | 60+ restaurants | VOX Cinemas, Fun Works | Yas Island |
| Marina Mall | Food court, Cafes | Bowling, Gaming zone | Corniche area |
| The Galleria | Family restaurants | Regular events | Al Maryah Island |
| Reem Mall | International cuisine | Family entertainment | Reem Island |
| WTC Mall | Child-friendly cafes | Kids’ activities | City center |
18. Marina Mall Family Shopping Experience
Marina Mall makes shopping with kids pretty easy. The food court gives each family member a chance to pick their favorite meal, while sit-down restaurants offer high chairs and kids’ menus.
Right between the shops, you’ll find comfy family lounges for quick breaks. The viewing deck on top gives kids a fun break from shopping – they can spot boats in the marina and watch planes fly over the Corniche.
19. Yas Mall Fun and Food Spots
Over at Yas Mall, KidZania sits right in the middle of the shopping action. Parents can shop while older kids try out different jobs in this mini-city.
The mall connects directly to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, so you can mix shopping with theme park fun. Food-wise, there’s something for even the pickiest eaters – from simple burgers to local Arabic treats.
20. Mina Zayed Markets Family Food Adventure
Want to show kids where food comes from? The Mina Zayed Fish Souq lets them see fresh catches coming in from the sea.
Next door, the fruit and vegetable market bursts with colors and new tastes to try. Kids get excited watching vendors crack open coconuts, and you can sample different kinds of dates – the Medjool ones taste like candy! The markets open early, so plan a morning visit when it’s cooler and less crowded.
Essential Tips for Visiting Abu Dhabi with Kids
After checking out all these places, here’s what families should know about making the most of Abu Dhabi. The city welcomes kids everywhere, but a little planning helps everyone have more fun.
| Season | Weather | Crowd Levels | Hotel Rates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct-Nov | Warm, Pleasant | Medium | Moderate |
| Dec-Feb | Mild, Perfect | High | High |
| Mar-Apr | Warming up | Medium | Moderate |
| May-Sep | Very hot | Low | Low |
Looking for budget-friendly spots? Check out our guide to 10 Free Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi Travelers Should Go for some incredible experiences that won’t cost a dirham!
Best Times to Visit Abu Dhabi with Family
October through March brings the nicest weather for outdoor family activities in Abu Dhabi. December sees lots of holiday events, but hotel prices go up too.
Summer months mean great deals on hotels, but you’ll want to stick to indoor attractions like malls and museums. During Ramadan, some attractions adjust their hours, but most places stay open – just remember to avoid eating in public during daylight.
Travel Tips for Families in Abu Dhabi
Getting around Abu Dhabi with kids works best by taxi – just ask your hotel to call one with car seats. The public buses run everywhere and stay nice and cool, perfect for longer trips to places like Yas Island. Pack light clothes but bring light jackets too – malls and restaurants keep their AC pretty cold!
Money-Saving Tips and Apps for Family Attractions
Smart planning saves money on Abu Dhabi’s family attractions. The Entertainer app offers buy-one-get-one deals on lots of places – from theme parks to restaurants.
Many attractions give discounts when you book online, and some hotels include free theme park tickets. Yas Island sells multi-park passes that cost less than buying separate tickets.
| Pass Type | What’s Included | Valid Period | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yas Theme Parks | 3 parks access | 1-7 days | From AED 495 |
| Culture Pass | Museums & heritage sites | Annual | AED 95 |
| Marina Mall Card | Shopping & entertainment | Annual | Free to join |
| Entertainer App | 2-for-1 deals | Calendar year | AED 495 |
| Yas Mall Circle | Retail & dining rewards | Ongoing | Free |
Planning Your Family Days Out
Let’s wrap up with some practical stuff about visiting Abu Dhabi’s family spots. Most places open later during summer and Ramadan, so check their social media for current times.
Big attractions like Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World get busy on weekends – book ahead online to skip long lines.
Here’s a sample 3-day family itinerary:
| Time | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque | Yas Waterworld | Emirates Heritage Village |
| Afternoon | Louvre Abu Dhabi | Warner Bros. World | Beach at Corniche |
| Evening | Marina Mall | Yas Mall & KidZania | Desert Safari |
| Notes | Book mosque tour ahead | Take swimwear | Pack sunscreen |
Safety and Comfort Tips
Abu Dhabi takes family safety seriously. Every major attraction has first aid stations and trained staff. Shopping malls and theme parks keep security visible but friendly. Still, watch out for the sun – even winter days get hot. Carry water bottles – you can refill them at most attractions.
Some quick reminders:
- Keep modest dress in mind at cultural sites
- Pack snacks for picky eaters
- Most restaurants have high chairs
- Bigger malls have stroller rentals
- Taxis can provide car seats if you ask
- Prayer times might affect opening hours
Between the indoor fun at places like Snow Abu Dhabi and outdoor adventures at spots like Jubail Mangrove Park, families find plenty to do year-round. Just plan around the weather, book major attractions ahead, and keep those camera batteries charged – you’ll want lots of pictures!
Remember – the city changes fast, with new family attractions in Abu Dhabi opening all the time. Check attraction websites or ask your hotel about the latest family-friendly spots.
Most importantly, take it easy and don’t try to do everything at once. Sometimes, the best family memories come from simple moments.
