Abu Dhabi has quietly become one of the world's best family destinations and once you've seen what it has to offer, it's not hard to understand why. Reliable sunshine, world-class attractions, immaculate beaches and a level of safety and organisation that takes the stress out of travelling with children, it's a combination that's hard to beat. Whether your kids are thrill-seekers, beach lovers or curious about the world, an Abu Dhabi family holiday has something to keep every member of the group genuinely happy. Here are ten of the best things to do with kids in Abu Dhabi.
1. Ferrari World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Ferrari World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is non-negotiable for family things to do in Abu Dhabi. Home to Formula Rossa, the world's fastest roller coaster, hitting 240km/h in under five seconds, the park also offers gentler rides for younger children, a Junior GT driving experience and a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Ferrari brand. It's one of the most impressive theme parks on the planet and it's impossible to leave without a grin on your face. For a full rundown of what's available, check out our guide to theme parks in Abu Dhabi.
2. Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Right next door to Ferrari World™ Yas Island, sits Yas Waterworld Yas Island, one of the most impressive waterparks in the Middle East. With over 40 rides, slides and attractions including the Dawwama, a six-person tornado ride that's one of its kind, there's enough here to fill an entire day without revisiting the same slide twice. There's a dedicated toddler zone for the little ones and the park is exceptionally well set up for families with children of mixed ages.
3. Warner Bros. World ™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Also on Yas Island, Warner Bros. World ™ Yas Island, brings DC superheroes, Looney Tunes characters and Hanna-Barbera cartoons to life across six immersive lands. It's indoors, air-conditioned and perfectly paced for families with younger children who want character meet-and-greets alongside their rides. Scooby-Doo, Batman and Bugs Bunny all in one place? It’s the perfect place when you’re thinking of things to do with kids in Abu Dhabi.
4. Louvre Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Don't underestimate what the Louvre can do for younger visitors. The museum's collection spans thousands of years of human civilisation and the building itself is one of the most beautiful structures in the world. Family tours and interactive children's programmes run regularly and the adjacent Saadiyat Beach is right there if attention spans start to flag. It's culture without the pressure and it plants seeds that stay with children long after they get home.
5. KidZania Abu Dhabi
Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
KidZania is one of those concepts that sounds simple but absolutely captivates children from the moment they walk in. It's a miniature city entirely run by kids. From age 4 upwards, children can take on over 80 real-world roles: pilot, surgeon, firefighter, chef, news anchor, and even a bank manager. They earn a KidZania currency, open their own accounts and spend it at businesses within the city. It's interactive, educational and genuinely engaging for hours.
6. Explore Abu Dhabi's Islands
Various — accessible by boat or short drive from the city
Abu Dhabi's surrounding waters are dotted with beautiful islands, many of which are perfect for a family day out. Sir Bani Yas Island is arguably the most spectacular, a wildlife reserve where Arabian oryx, cheetahs and giraffes roam freely across a landscape that feels nothing like the gleaming city you left behind. It's a wildlife safari experience without the long-haul flight to Africa. Find out more about what each island offers in our guide to Abu Dhabi's islands.
7. Corniche Beach
Abu Dhabi Corniche Road
When it's time to slow down and simply enjoy the sunshine, Abu Dhabi's Corniche Beach delivers effortlessly. Stretching for eight kilometres along the waterfront, it's clean, well-maintained and divided into separate family sections with lifeguards on duty. The water is calm and shallow, ideal for children and the beachfront promenade has cafés, cycling paths and play areas running alongside it. A beach trip to Abu Dhabi doesn't need to mean a resort beach; the Corniche is one of the city's greatest free attractions.
8. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, Abu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with its 82 domes, 1,000 columns and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet is an experience that lands differently in person than in any photograph. Children often respond to it more powerfully than adults, particularly in the early morning when the white marble glows and the space feels vast and still. Modest dress is required; abayas and kanduras are available to borrow at the entrance.
9. Qasr Al Watan
Presidential Palace District, Abu Dhabi
Qasr Al Watan is a working presidential palace that opens its doors for daytime visits and it's one of Abu Dhabi's most underrated family experiences. The interiors are extraordinary: soaring arches, intricate geometric patterns and a fascinating permanent exhibition on Arab governance and knowledge. The evening Palace in Motion light show, which runs after dark is a particular hit with children. It's cultural, visually stunning and completely unlike anything you'll find elsewhere.
10. Mangrove Kayaking
Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi
For families with older children or adventurous younger ones, kayaking through Abu Dhabi's mangrove forests is one of the most quietly magical things you can do in the city. The network of waterways winds through dense mangrove tunnels and the contrast between this serene natural habitat and the gleaming skyline visible in the distance is striking.
Book your Abu Dhabi family holiday
From world-record theme parks to wildlife islands and cultural landmarks that genuinely inspire, Abu Dhabi has the range to keep every member of the family thoroughly happy. For even more inspiration before you travel, take a look at our guide to things to do in Abu Dhabi. When you're ready to plan the trip, the Away Holidays team are here to help you put together the perfect family holiday, get in touch today and let's make it happen.
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