If family fun, excitement and adventure are your holiday goals, look no further than the sun-drenched shores of Abu Dhabi.

The capital of the United Arab Emirates is an absolute playground of enchantment, with kid-friendly activities and entertainment galore and an abundance of unbelievable attractions to discover. From theme parks, water parks and amusement parks to sports and educational experiences, there are endless things to do as a family. You’ll find zoos and aquariums, fascinating cultural sites, immaculate beaches and much more besides. Indoors or outdoors, tots to teenagers - everyone is catered for, with parents, grandparents and carers also sure to be wowed by the multitude of thrills that await. Factor in the superb choice of hotels and resorts, with accommodation, restaurants and leisure features all geared towards little ones, and you’ve got the ultimate family holiday destination. Take your pick from what’s on offer and let your children’s imaginations run wild with the delights that await. Here’s our selection of the best things to do, and attractions to visit, during your stay in Abu Dhabi.

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Theme Parks

If your kids love theme parks, Abu Dhabi will be right up their street. For adrenaline-fuelled action, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, on Yas Island, is not to be missed. You’ll find more than 20 record-breaking attractions, including the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, which takes you from 0 to 240km/h in 4.9 seconds along a track 52 metres in the air. The Flying Aces is another unmissable ride, featuring the world’s highest roller coaster loop, while you can enjoy state-of-the-art simulators, go-karts and more. If superhero adventures and cartoon fun are your thing, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, also on Yas Island, is for you, with 29 sensational rides across a variety of themed worlds. Another fabulous family-friendly attraction is Snow Abu Dhabi. This cool venue features a host of rides in an environment where you can chill out in temperatures of -2°C surrounded by 500mm of powdery snow.

Water Parks

When the sun’s out in Abu Dhabi, there’s no better place to keep your family cool than in the water. One such place where you can do this is at Yas Waterworld, located among the other attractions on Yas Island. This vast waterpark not only offers relief from the warm temperatures, but also promises aquatic fun and excitement for the young and the young at heart with more than 40 thrilling rides, twisting slides and high-speed chutes. Race your kids down the Sebag, share the rush of Dawwama, or brave the freefall drop of Liwa Loop. If you’re visiting Abu Dhabi with younger children, Splash Park at Circuit X might be more preferable. This colourful water wonderland is fully shaded and features fountains, sprays, a pirate ship, a pool and even a dry play area with obstacles to climb.

Zoos and animal experiences

Abu Dhabi is brimming with awe-inspiring animal attractions to delight children and families. You’ll discover creatures from all corners of the globe at Emirates Park Zoo or Al Ain Zoo, while 4x4 safaris can be enjoyed at Sir Bani Yas Island’s Arabian Wildlife Park, which counts Arabian oryx, gazelles and giraffes among its 17,000 free-roaming inhabitants. A magical underwater realm awaits at The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, home to 46,000 animals, including sharks, rays and puffins, or head to the Seaworld Abu Dhabi, for penguins, dolphins, sea lions, dugong and much more. Active families could choose to connect with nature on a trek around Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, a haven for Greater Flamingos, along with a myriad of other flora and fauna. Jubail Mangrove Park is another thriving habitat, where you can spot birdlife and marine creatures from the boardwalks or as you cruise the waterways on a kayak.

Outdoor Activities

When it comes to child-friendly outdoor adventures, Abu Dhabi is second to none. A feast of fun awaits at Al Ain Adventure, where delights include rafting, kayaking and a floating obstacle course. Another option is Circuit X, featuring high ropes obstacle courses, a climbing wall, a zipline, skate park and BMX park. Maybe head to Yas Marina Circuit for go-karting action at Yas Kartzone, or enjoy a day exploring the Mangrove National Park on a paddle board, kayak or boat trip. You’ll also find activities in the desert, with the Empty Quarter or Jebel Hafit Desert Park offering camel trekking, dune bashing, biking and Bedouin camping experiences. However, if a sun-drenched day of swimming and sandcastle building is more to your liking, visit the Blue Flag sands of Corniche Beach. Here the shoreline is split into sections, with two zones ideal for families, featuring changing rooms, loungers and lifeguards.

Indoor Experiences

If you need a break from the sun, you’ll be glad to know that Abu Dhabi boasts an abundance of indoor activities and attractions to keep children smiling. Any car mad kid won’t want to miss Emirates National Auto Museum, home to 200 vehicles owned by His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan. The unique collection includes the world’s largest jeep, a host of off-road vehicles and an array of classic American cars. Elsewhere, indoor skydiving and climbing can be enjoyed at CLYMB™, or you can jump to it on the trampolines at Bounce Abu Dhabi, also featuring a 40m super slide, dodgeball court and miniBounce zone for little ones. KidZania Abu Dhabi features a fun-filled mini city, Abu Dhabi Children’s Library boasts immersive social spaces and learn-and-play areas, while Picturing the Cosmos at Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, offers out of this world art and interactive games.

Best Time To Visit

With great weather all year round and a multitude of indoor and outdoor activities to choose from, Abu Dhabi is a fabulous place to visit whenever you like. If you’re planning to visit during the summer months, from May to September, you’ll find temperatures can reach the low 40s. This is an ideal time if you’re hoping to enjoy days at the waterpark with plenty of suncream on, or exploring the wondrous indoor attractions, all of which are air-conditioned. If you’re seeking active adventures outdoors, the winter months between October and April are perfect, with temperatures in the mid to high 20s, and any rainfall mostly short lived. If you’re travelling with school-age children, your options on when to visit may be limited. However, if your little ones are yet to start school, being able to travel off-peak will mean there are holiday deals you can take advantage of. In this case, the best time to visit Abu Dhabi is completely up to you.

“Abu Dhabi ticks all the boxes for an action-packed holiday destination perfect for children and families.

“As well as year-round sunshine, great beaches and phenomenal hotels and resorts, you’ll be completely blown away by the amazing choice of things to do and see.

“Waterparks, theme parks, zoos, aquariums, trampolining, kayaking, ziplining, camel trekking - you name it, you can do it in Abu Dhabi.

“You’ll find activities and attractions for all ages, with options for action, adventure, exploration and education, both indoors and outdoors.

“A family holiday in Abu Dhabi is full of endless fun and excitement, where your kids’ imaginations can run wild and you’ll make magical memories that will be remembered for a lifetime."

Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island

Discover the ultimate all-inclusive, all exclusive experience at this opulent 5-star haven of pleasure, set beside immaculate white sands and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for families and couples, it features glistening pools and a wonderful children’s aqua park. You’ll stay in sumptuous accommodation, dine in sublime restaurants and have the chance to indulge in rejuvenating pampering sessions in the spa. Other superb features include a fitness centre, a kids club, water sports and lively entertainment.

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Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi

Enjoy a taste of the high life in Abu Dhabi with a stay at this lavish 5-star retreat on the pristine sandy shores of Marina Island. Days of pure pleasure await for guests of all ages, with features such as gleaming swimming pools, a cutting-edge fitness centre, a serene spa and a colourful children’s club. You’ll dine in style in the splendid restaurants and rest and unwind in complete comfort in beautifully appointed accommodation.

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Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island

Put yourself at the heart of the action during your holiday in Abu Dhabi with a stay at this sensational 5-star abode. Located on the Yas Bay waterfront, you’ll be perfectly placed to discover the fun-packed delights that await nearby. Expect plush living spaces and stylish restaurants, as well as a spectacular swimming pool, superb kids club, splash pad, fitness centre, spa and access to the phenomenal Yas Island theme parks.

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Fairmont Bab al Bahr

It’s elegance and style all the way during at this alluring 5-star sanctuary on the banks of Abu Dhabi creek. You’ll enjoy impeccable service and hospitality, stay in immaculate accommodation enhanced by deluxe amenities, and savour divine cuisine in exceptional dining venues, including Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill. Other splendid features that await include dazzling swimming pools, a fabulous kids club and a state-of-the-art health and wellness facility.

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