Abu Dhabi is an exceptional choice for your next family holiday, offering activities, attractions and experiences of epic proportions.

You’ll have the chance to discover jaw-dropping wildlife, spellbinding landmarks and enchanting scenery in a wondrous destination rich in culture and history. Families will love visiting Abu Dhabi as infinite sunny days provide the chance to enjoy exhilarating active ventures in the Arabian Gulf and Arabian desert. Water sports and family-friendly excursions into the famous Empty Quarter will leave you wanting more and all of your friends back home jealous. Feel the thrills at the wondrous theme and water parks, with many conveniently situated on Yas Island, or immerse yourself in the local heritage by visiting souks, museums and mosques. Parents can relax too in the blissful hotels and resorts found across Abu Dhabi. With direct flights from many UK airports, it’s never been easier to visit this vibrant emirate. No layovers and priority boarding for the youngest holidaymakers makes travelling with children simple.

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Adventure

Families seeking adventure and excitement will adore a holiday to Abu Dhabi as the amount of thrilling possibilities on offer are endless. Synonymous with the UAE is the Arabian desert, and you’ll have easy access to this expansive wonderland. The Empty Quarter provides vast views of warm terracotta sand that is perfect for sandboarding and jeep safaris. Authentic Bedouin experiences enable holidaymakers to try camping, camel riding, stargazing and falconry. CLYMB Abu Dhabi is the perfect place for a family-friendly afternoon. Found on the impressive Yas Island and featuring the world’s tallest indoor skydiving chamber and rock climbing wall, you can reach new heights at any age or ability here. For those who want aquatic amusement, Hudayriyat Island’s Surf Abu Dhabi is a melting pot of fun and relaxation. Catch the perfect wave or rest on the white-sand shorelines. The cycling paths and football fields here offer the chance to create even more memories.

Culture

Abu Dhabi oozes a rich culture that is influenced by Middle Eastern, Asian and African traditions, with a great importance placed on food. Emirati dishes are filled with an array of flavours and are inspired by ancient cooking traditions. Wherever you eat, you’ll find large portions that encourage families to be together and share meals. Bargaining at the world-famous souks is another unforgettable experience for the family as you can take in the sights, sounds and scents of the vibrant stalls. Purchase one-of-a-kind clothing, jewellery and souvenirs as well as food and spices in well-known places like the Al Ain Souk, which is regarded as a hive of Emirati heritage. Spend educational days in one of the many immersive museums located across the emirate, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Al Ain Museum and Miraj Islamic Centre. For an introduction into Abu Dhabi’s Islamic influences, tour the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and its surrounding gardens.

Experiences

A number of epic family-friendly experiences are on offer across Abu Dhabi, all promising an action-packed holiday. Yas Island is a hotspot for family fun as it boasts amazing theme and waterparks, such as Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi. A stone’s throw away is the Yas Marina Circuit. This intense race track is home to the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, but is also great for some family rivalry. Get involved together, geared up like a real racing driver, in this high-speed activity that won’t be soon forgotten. With numerous beaches and the dazzling Arabian Gulf, you’ll be spoilt for choice as to which exciting water sport you try first. Popular options include snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding and kayaking. Alternatively, stay dry and go horse riding. Rahal Ranch is a renowned training centre that will take you trekking through the countryside or desert dunes.

Wildlife

Animal-enthusiasts will have the time of their lives on a holiday in Abu Dhabi. Visit the incredible Sir Bani Yas Island to explore the dramatic natural landscape that’s home to a plethora of endemic species. The Arabian Wildlife Park found on the island boasts a whopping 17,000 different free-roaming animals, such as oryx, gazelles, giraffes and cheetahs. Families can embark on a nature safari to safely spot them in their natural habitats. SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is another brilliant choice for a family-friendly day out. Venture through eight “realms” to see marine life like sea lions, seals, otters, dolphins and walruses. Exhilarating shows and feeding opportunities make this a magical experience for all. Emirates Park Zoo and Al Ain Zoo are two hotspots for getting close to some exotic wildlife as they house hippos, elephants, lions, leopards and more. Hands-on activities and stay-overs will elevate your visit and make lifelong family memories.

Wellness

Abu Dhabi is a wellness haven where you can make use of all the amenities while on your dream family holiday. Stay in a luxury all-inclusive resort for access to entertainment that suits all ages. Kids clubs, pools, free Wi-Fi and play areas will keep children happy while adults enjoy peaceful moments in the spa, hot tub or infinity pool. Many hotels offer yoga and fitness classes to truly relax your mind and body. Soak up the sun on one of Abu Dhabi's divine beaches; Saadiyat Beach Club is an exclusive nine kilometre-long stretch that’s family-friendly and Blue Flag-certified with facilities including restaurants, pools, a spa, saunas and steam rooms. Lucky visitors may even catch a glimpse of a hawksbill turtle in the sea! Sometimes, the best form of wellness is indulging in some retail therapy. From boutiques and designer outlets to high-street favourites and unbelievable malls, Abu Dhabi is the perfect place to shop till you drop.

Best Time To Visit

Delivering consistent sunny weather all year round, Abu Dhabi is a perfect destination for your family holiday as you’re promised excellent conditions to spend cherished moments together. The hottest month is August, when temperatures reach around 36℃. While this may be too hot for adventuring through the desert, the summer is a wonderful time to lounge by the cool swimming pool in your luxury resort or in a shaded beach club. Indoor activities, like CLYMB Abu Dhabi, are also immensely popular for families holidaying at this time of year. The coldest month is January, when temperatures fall to 18℃, though this is by no means arctic. December to February offers an average of 20℃, which makes Abu Dhabi a superb choice for a winter sun family holiday. For those travelling with children, we would recommend visiting between March and May as this is when conditions remain in the mid 20s and the weather isn’t too extreme to enjoy some outdoor experiences.

“For unrivalled family holidays, Abu Dhabi is the perfect destination. With bundles of fun-filled activities, one-of-a-kind experiences and awe-inspiring scenery, you’ll be lost for words at how amazing this emirate is.

“Embark on an adventure to the Arabian Desert for an unforgettable escapade where you can soak up the sun and feel the thrills of zooming across the sand dunes. With a range of activities, family members of every age can get involved.

“Enjoy the huge theme and water parks only found in Abu Dhabi when you visit Yas Island, a wondrous family-friendly location that offers epic indoor and outdoor attractions. Or, for a slower approach, spend your days lazing on a soft white-sand beach, where you can take part in an array of water sports.

“Relax in the idyllic surroundings of your luxury resort that caters to making special moments for adults and children alike. Cast away your worries with a blissful spa treatment before spending the evening together watching some show-stopping entertainment.”

Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi

Ultra-luxurious surroundings await you at this heavenly 5-star resort. The Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi is a wonderful choice for your next family holiday, with swimming pools, a kids club and outdoor activities available in bundles. Wellness and serenity is also prioritised here, with hot tubs, a private beachfront and a spa to help you cast your woes away. An incredible array of restaurants means you can dine in style, sampling delectable cuisines from across the globe.

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Aloft Al Ain

Venture to the lively inland city of Al Ain on your Abu Dhabi Holiday. This 5-star resort is perfect for those seeking an idyllic getaway, with a 24-hour gym and a sparkling swimming pool. Aloft Al Ain also boasts impeccable dining facilities, including mouthwatering meals and a Grab & Go gourmet service for those who need a quick bite. The atmospheric sports bar is a hive for entertainment, with big screens to watch all your favourite teams and a variety of tantalising beverages.

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Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island

World-class amenities, stylish restaurants and impeccable living spaces make this luxurious waterfront haven a superb choice for your next holiday. Features such as glistening pools, a 24-hour fitness centre, world-class spa, a kids’ club and a splash pad, ensure delight for all ages. Yas Island’s exceptional attractions, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi and Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, are also within easy reach, adding to the appeal of this sublime family-friendly wonderland.

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