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Best things to do in Abu Dhabi with kids, a guide for parents

Plan to visit Abu Dhabi with kids? Here are the top 15 things to do in the emirate with young visitors, from our Mumsnet editor who’s been there and done it with her two DC in tow.

By Rebecca Roberts | Last updated May 1, 2025

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Rebecca Roberts and her two children sit atop the I love Abu Dhabi sign in Al Qana marina in Abu Dhabi

As the capital of the United Arab Emirates and the largest of its seven emirates, Abu Dhabi has rapidly grown into a dazzling, cosmopolitan city with a reputation for luxury, culture and family-friendly fun. 

Thanks to its wealth from vast oil and gas reserves, the emirate has transformed over the years into a thriving metropolis and a place that seamlessly blends modern, urban living with deep-rooted Emirati traditions.

Often overshadowed by its glitzy neighbour Dubai, Abu Dhabi is just as impressive when it comes to entertaining families. Home to over 200 islands and a rich variety of landscapes – from stunning beaches to expansive desert dunes – it’s a destination that offers something for everyone and all ages. 

For families in particular, there’s an exciting mix of attractions designed with younger visitors in mind.

Top kids activities in Abu Dhabi, at a glance

  1. Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, Yas Island

  2. Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Yas Island

  3. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque 

  4. Qasr Al Hosn Fort Abu Dhabi

  5. Children’s Library, Cultural Foundation

  6. Observation Deck at 300, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

  7. The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi

  8. Desert safari

  9. Emirates Park Zoo

  10. Louvre Abu Dhabi

  11. Mangrove National Park

  12. teamLab Phenomena, Saadiyat Island

  13. Corniche Beach

  14. Ferrari World, Yas Island

  15. Yas Marina Circuit

From the action-packed thrills of Yas Island to the cultural wonders of Saadiyat and the natural beauty of Al Ain, there’s no shortage of ways to keep little ones entertained. 

Whether you’re planning a stopover or a week-long trip, you’ll find plenty of kid-friendly activities to fill your itinerary and some brilliant places to stay, too. Check out our round-up of the best family hotels in Abu Dhabi for inspiration.

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What is there to do in Abu Dhabi with kids?

With the help of Mumsnetter recommendations – and insights from my own recent family trip – I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Abu Dhabi with kids, so you can make the most of your time in the emirate. 

1. Make a splash and enjoy the rides at Yas Waterworld

A view from behind a child walking into the wave pool at Yas Waterworld in Abu Dhabi

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, Yas Island | Get your tickets

“The water park was great for our kids.” nearly4o

“If you like theme parks and culture then go to AD. They have Warner Bros World, Ferrari World & Yas Water Park. If you find a hotel on Yas Island the tickets are often included.” LadybirdsAreFab

From toddler-friendly splash zones to high-adrenaline slides, this Yas Island waterpark offers a full day of fun for all ages. With plenty of snack bars and dining options, it’s easy to stay all day. We found mornings quieter, with crowds picking up after 3pm as local and expat families arrived.

For younger kids under 110cm, highlights include the Bubble’s Barrel wave pool, Al Raha lazy river, Marah Fortress, two tots' playgrounds and a splash pad. These all are located close together, too.

Older thrill-seekers will love the Bandit Bomber, the Liwa Loop, Dawwama (a six-person tornado water coaster) and Hamlool's Humps — a 10-storey speed slide that’s definitely not for the faint-hearted.

There are plenty of sunbeds throughout, and lockers are available if you’d prefer not to leave your belongings unattended. 

Entry is free for under-threes. Kids under 1.1m need a junior ticket (AED 250), while those over require an adult ticket (AED 295). But if you plan to visit multiple parks, bundled Yas Island tickets can offer better value. 

2. Say hi to Bugs and Daffy at Warner Bros. World

On the left, Rebecca Roberts and her children walking in Cartoon Junction and on the right, the main entrance of Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Yas Island | Get your tickets

“I think Warner Bros is better than Ferrari World for younger kids. More characters, the theming is amazing, and you can walk around Looney Tunes world or Bedrock. But you can also get combined tickets to visit two parks in one day for a cheaper price. (They're not massive).” sunshineyweather

“Warner Bros is perfect for 5 and 6 year olds, as is Yas Waterworld.” slewts

Easily one of our favourite days out during our trip to Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World has six immersive lands that are packed with rides, shows and indoor thrills. The entire park is well themed and fully air-conditioned, meaning you can visit it all-year round and is a great day out for family members of all ages. 

Throughout you’ll find family-friendly rides, along with plenty of character meet and greets from the worlds of Looney Tunes, Scooby-Doo, The Flintstones, as well as the DC universe. Our two DC loved meeting Tom and Jerry and even said hello to Harlequin! 

There’s plenty for littler ones. Our DC are both below the age of five and were able to ride most of the rides in Cartoon Junction, Bedrock and Dynamite Gulch - it’s in these areas you’ll find most of the rides suited to younger visitors. For older kids and adults seeking thrills, though, Gotham City and Metropolis are the places to go. 

Because it's not a massive park, you can easily get around it in half a day, but it’s so packed with details that you’ll want to take your time. If you’re planning to visit more than one Yas Island park, a combo ticket is great value and an easy way to save your dirhams. 

Rebecca Roberts holds her child while visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque | Plan your visit

“We visited this mosque in January, it is beautiful and a wonderful experience.” givememarmite

“Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is pretty impressive. We drove there a couple of months ago.” pegpuff

“If you go over to Abu Dhabi the white mosque is definitely worth seeing.” LiquoriceAllsorts2

You’d be forgiven for thinking a trip to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque isn’t a great idea with little ones in tow - we felt the same at first. But once you’re there and you see your DC’s stand in awe at the sheer scale of the mosque’s soaring white domes and chandeliers, it’s certainly worth your time. 

One of Abu Dhabi’s most recognisable icons, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must on anyone’s itinerary. My DH and I have been several times in the past during our time living in the UAE, but this was our first visit with young children.

It was also our first time visiting since the mosque’s new underground souq opened in 2021. Which, in my opinion, is a welcomed addition to the attraction. In the souq - known as Souq Al Jami - you’ll find souvenir stores, restaurants, coffee shops, toy shops as well as restrooms and facilities where you and young children can rest before or after visiting the mosque. 

Now, in terms of the mosque - every visitor should make sure they dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees, covered hair for women and no tattoos on show). If you forget, you can purchase an abaya or a head scarf at some of the 51 outlets in the souq. Young children needn’t abide by the dress code, though. Our two were fine in their shorts and t-shirts. 

It’s free to enter and best visited early in the day or around sunset, when the light makes everything glow. Just bear in mind that it can get busy at peak times, and you’ll want to keep little ones close because there’s a lot of marble and open space.

4. Travel back in time and roam the walls of Qasr Al Hosn

On the left, a child walks into the oldest tower in Abu Dhabi and on the right, inside the majlis at Qasr Al Hosn

Qasr Al Hosn Fort Abu Dhabi | Plan your visit

“Qasr Al Hosn in the city IS the original historical palace and has recently (ish) opened up to visitors and is meant to be amazing.” feesh

Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest and most significant building in Abu Dhabi, home to the city’s very first permanent structure—the watchtower. 

Built around the 1790s, this commanding structure once overlooked the coastal trade routes and protected the growing settlement established on the island. Over the years, it has played many roles: from the residence of the ruling Al Nahyan family to the seat of government, a consultative council and a national archive.

The site comprises two major iconic buildings: the Inner Fort, originally constructed in 1795, and the Outer Palace, added between 1939 and 1945. After more than eleven years of careful conservation and restoration, Qasr Al Hosn reopened in 2018 as a museum and national monument. It now stands as a living memorial to the UAE’s history, with fascinating displays of artefacts and archival materials dating back as far as 6000 BC.

My DC and I enjoyed wandering the courtyards, climbing the old watchtowers, and exploring interactive exhibitions that bring Abu Dhabi’s past to life in a child-friendly way. 

There are often cultural workshops on weekends too, where little ones can try weaving, pottery or traditional crafts. It’s a brilliant and easy-to-navigate stop if you want a relaxed morning soaking up a bit of heritage between busier adventures, and there's a lovely little café for a snack or cold drink when you need a break.

5. Beat the heat with a trip to the Children’s Library

On the left, a child sits on an Arabic carpet and on the right, they explore the Children's Library in Abu Dhabi

Children’s Library, Cultural Foundation | Plan your visit

“It also has a national children’s library in the grounds which is stunning and lots of fun.” feesh

With treehouse-style reading nooks, sensory areas and interactive zones, this isn’t your average library—it’s a creative haven for curious little minds, and a place you can easily spend a few hours in. 

The library, which is part of the Cultural Foundation, feels more like a giant playground where books just happen to be everywhere. There are huge, colourful spaces to explore, and loads of areas for both independent play and quieter moments. 

Our DC particularly loved the digital section, where we made stop-motion videos, played with interactive art and made our own superhero comics. 

A library might not be at the top of your must-do list when on holiday, but trust me, a visit here is worth your time. DH and I loved our time here just as much as the kids. 

Best of all, entry is free, and there's a café on-site too, making it a very easy and low-stress outing. Keep an eye on the library’s calendar for workshops and storytelling sessions too—they’re often free and absolutely lovely.

Related: A review of ERTH Abu Dhabi hotel

6. Spot the city’s skyline from Observation Deck at 300

Rebecca Roberts and her children looking out the window at Observation Deck at 300 in Abu Dhabi

Observation Deck at 300, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers | Get your tickets

Those familiar with the UAE will know how the country loves a good observation deck. Understandably so, given the country is home to the world’s tallest tower, Burj Khalifa in Dubai. In Abu Dhabi, though, there’s a much more modest offering when it comes to this type of attraction - and that’s Observation Deck at 300. 

Located on the 74th floor of the iconic Etihad Towers (you might recognise them as the towers that a car jumped between in Furious 7), this particular observation deck is the highest vantage point in the emirate and offers jaw-dropping views, binoculars for curious kids and a treat at the café included in the ticket price of just AED 95 per person. Which, when you compare it to its Dubai counterpart, is extremely good value.

From this level, visitors can enjoy an uninterrupted view of the whole city - from the Corniche beaches, to the Arabian Gulf, the presidential palace, Emirates Palace, and on a clear day, all the way to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. 

It’s a much calmer, quieter outing compared to the theme parks, making it perfect if you need a breather. My two DC loved using the binoculars to spot landmarks, and the café does a very nice selection of cakes and drinks if you fancy a treat. It's not an all-day outing, but definitely worth popping onto your itinerary for an hour or two.

7. Dive into a different world at The National Aquarium

On the left, the entrance of the National Aquarium in Abu Dhabi and on the right, two children watch a scuba diver

The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi | Get your tickets

Arguably our DC’s favourite activity, The National Aquarium is home to 46,000 creates, a glass tunnel walk-through and is packed with plenty of wow-factor exhibits that visitors of all ages will enjoy. 

Here you’ll find sharks, stingrays, giant turtles and manatees – there’s so much to see, and we found that the tanks are designed so that even small children can get a really good view. There's even a glass-bottomed boat you can ride inside the aquarium for a different perspective. We particularly loved one area where everyday objects were turned into tanks, that was cool… Especially the car filled with fish! 

Beyond just looking at fish though, there are plenty of educational touchpoints about conservation, animal rescue and marine ecosystems throughout, making it a lovely mix of fun and learning. 

The whole aquarium is indoors and air-conditioned, and it’s an easy half-day trip that combines well with other nearby activities if you want to make a day of it. We visited the aquarium after lunch at Grand Beirut next door in the Al Qana district, which is lovely in itself both during the day and night.

8. Go wild with a family-friendly desert safari

A three way grid of children enjoying a desert safari in Abu Dhabi, including dune bashing, camel rides and a Tanoura dancer

Desert safari Abu Dhabi | Book your safari

“Desert safari is a must, these should include dune bashing in the desert, an Arabic buffet meal and traditional show and usually camel rides and falcon shows, henna etc.” RHODXB 

If there’s one thing that must be on your itinerary when visiting Abu Dhabi, it’s a desert safari. A quintessential UAE experience, a desert safari is an unforgettable experience for all ages. For families, it’s probably the easiest, as your 4x4 will pick you and drop you off from wherever you’re staying.

During your safari, you’ll be thrilled with dune bashing in 4x4s, camel rides, henna painting, and photo ops with falcons, the country’s national bird. 

Following all the activities, you’ll sit down to enjoy an Arabic buffet dinner and an entertainment show under the stars. During our safari, we watched a belly dancer, Tanoura dancer and a fire breather. There was also a shisha area (if that’s your thing) as well as sandboarding. 

There are lots of safari companies you can choose from, and many offer family-friendly versions that include gentler dune rides that are more suitable for younger kids like ours. 

Evening safaris are particularly magical as you can watch the sun set over the dunes. With that said, I’d advise against doing this if you’re visiting during the summer months as even for us during April, the sand was a little too hot for us before 6pm. If you’re visiting during winter, take an extra layer as it can get chilly in the desert after sunset. 

On the left, two children walk into Emirates Park Zoo entrance and on the right, they feed a giraffe

Emirates Park Zoo | Get your tickets

Emirates Park Zoo is a lovely, manageable zoo that's great for little ones who adore animals. 

It’s not as big or as high quality as some major city zoos we’ve visited in the past, but that’s actually a bonus when you’re visiting with younger kids. During our visit, it was easy to get around without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. 

Highlights for us included the giraffe feeding experience, where you can get up close with these gentle giants, as well as the hippo and elephant feeding experiences.

There are also animal encounters and shows throughout the day, so it’s worth checking the schedule when you arrive. The zoo is mostly outdoors, but there are shaded areas and places to grab a cold drink or snack. 

It’s a brilliant choice for a relaxed morning or afternoon, and very reasonably priced compared to bigger attractions.

10. Little explorers will love the Children’s Museum at Louvre Abu Dhabi

A child runs underneath the dome at Louvre Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island | Get your tickets

“The Louvre is amazing.” LadybirdsAreFab

This was my DH and I’s third visit to Louvre Abu Dhabi, but our first with kids and I won’t lie, it was an entirely different experience. Louvre Abu Dhabi is home to a stunning mix of art, history and architecture, and it’s a lot more child-friendly than you might think. 

The building itself is incredible, with its giant floating dome casting beautiful patterns of light and shadow across the water that are designed to mimic palm trees. Inside, the galleries are curated in a way that feels very open, spacious and not at all overwhelming for families. There’s plenty of room for little ones without feeling you’re getting in the way of others. 

But a visit here with kids shouldn’t be focused on the galleries, in all honesty. Instead, head to the dedicated Children’s Museum, which offers hands-on exhibitions that are age-appropriate and designed to spark creativity and curiosity. Think building activities, storytelling, and art workshops. Our two DC loved getting their wristbands, completing the activities and earning their badges. The end Mars themed activities was a particular highlight for them. 

Plus, because Louvre Abu Dhabi is located on Saadiyat Island, you can easily combine your visit with a trip to the nearby beach if you fancy making a full day of it. Or, like us, if you wish to stay onsite, a meal at Fouquet’s is certainly worth your time. 

So, definitely don't be put off thinking it's too “grown-up”— Louvre Abu Dhabi is very welcoming for kids.

11. Paddle through the Mangrove National Park on a guided kayak tour

On the left, kayaks at the Mangrove National Park, and on the right the boardwalk

Mangrove National Park Abu Dhabi | Plan your visit

“A doughnut boat around the mangroves is brilliant.” Fillystine

“The doughnut boats at the Eastern Mangroves are great and a chance to see the Mangroves up close. Similar is the Jubail Mangrove Park which has a boardwalk through the mangroves and isn't too far from Yas Island.” sunshineyweather

For a magical adventure that feels a world away from the skyscrapers and highways, head to Abu Dhabi’s Mangrove National Park. The easiest way to experience the mangroves is via Jubail Mangrove Park. 

Here you can kayak through the waterways, which is a brilliant way to spot crabs, herons, flamingos, turtles and even baby fish darting under the water. The scenery is gorgeous and peaceful, and it's a great way to introduce kids to the UAE’s natural ecosystems while burning off some energy.

If kayaking feels like too much work, you can opt for a guided tour or "doughnut boat" ride instead. These circular boats have a little table in the centre and a motor, so you can simply relax and float through the mangroves without needing to paddle. It's perfect if you have younger kids or if you just want a leisurely outing. 

For a dry option, there’s a beautiful raised boardwalk that winds through the mangroves. It’s stroller-friendly, easy for little legs, and free to explore on foot (you just pay a small entrance fee of up to AED 20). 

Whichever way you choose, early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid the hottest part of the day and catch the wildlife at its most active.

Related: Best family hotels in Dubai to stay at with kids

12. Step into an art-meets-science playground at teamLab Phenomena

Rebecca Roberts visits teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi

teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island | Get your tickets

teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is a brand new modern art museum where science, nature and creativity collide on the emirate’s Saadiyat Island. 

Visitors can walk through glowing forests, push colourful waves of light across walls (which was quite a novelty, I won’t lie), and interact with immersive art installations that respond to touch and movement. It’s the kind of place that feels straight out of a dream, and it's all indoors and blissfully air-conditioned.

It’s particularly brilliant for slightly older kids (around 6+), although younger ones will still love the visual spectacle… But I can’t imagine it would be a very relaxing experience with toddlers.

There’s no strict “right way” to explore, though. Everyone can move at their own pace and interact however they like, which makes it stress-free for families. Be warned, though, there’s both dry and wet areas (yes, there’s water you wade through), and there are some exhibits that might be a bit tricky to navigate for younger visitors. But with some proper planning, it’s definitely worth a visit and it’s one to bring a camera for—the photo ops here are incredible.

13. Splash in the shallows and build sandcastles at Corniche Beach

Rebecca Roberts and her children visit Corniche Beach in Abu Dhabi

Corniche Beach | Plan your visit

With lifeguards, calm waters and a fun family vibe, Corniche Beach is a blue-flag beach that is perfect for a low-key, low-cost and sun-soaked afternoon. 

It’s Abu Dhabi’s most famous public beach and offers a safe, well-kept space where little ones can splash in the shallows and build sandcastles, while parents relax nearby. The water is warm, clear and calm, and there are designated swimming zones to keep everything safe.

Facilities are excellent, with plenty of changing rooms, showers, restrooms and even shaded play areas nearby. 

You can hire sunbeds and umbrellas if you want a bit of extra comfort for a cost, but honestly, there’s plenty of space to simply spread out a towel or picnic blanket, too. It’s also close to cafés, restaurants and an ice cream truck or two, so you’re never far from snacks. 

It's worth arriving earlier in the day or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat—and to snag a good spot by the water!

14. Take on the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World

A shot of Formula Rossa at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World, Yas Island | Get your tickets

“Ferrari World is brilliant if they are the right height for the rides. We went once when DS1 was the right height and DS2 was tiny and had a great day.” ihearttc

“Ferrari World is in Yas, good rides and day out.” Whammyyammy

Ferrari World isn’t just for petrolheads, it's an action-packed indoor theme park with something for everyone.

It’s home to Formula Rossa, the fastest rollercoaster in the world, which launches you to speeds of up to 240km/h in just a few seconds (it’s a thrill, that’s for sure). But don’t worry if your kids are too small for the big rides like ours, there are loads of family-friendly attractions too, including junior driving schools, go-karts, and simulator rides here. 

The whole park is indoors, making it a year-round attraction, and there are lots of shows and interactive exhibits if you want a break from queuing for rides. Be sure to check height restrictions before you go to avoid any tears, though as many of the major coasters have minimum heights. 

Ferrari World is great for a full day out, especially if you mix it with some downtime at Yas Mall or the neighbouring parks on Yas Island.

15. Race against each other at Yas Marina Circuit

A view of Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi with Rebecca Roberts' husband's head in the picture

Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island | Get your tickets

“Also (pre covid so not sure they still do it) but you could ride/walk/run around the Yas Circuit in the evenings.” ihearttc 

“Once a week they open the F1 race track to walk, run or cycle round it in the early evening.” Whammyyammy

If you’ve got little speed demons in the family, Yas Marina Circuit is a must-visit. Best known as the home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, it also offers family-friendly karting experiences where kids can safely race around in mini-karts on specially designed tracks. It's a brilliant way to let them experience the excitement of motorsport in a safe and controlled environment.

Even if you’re not into racing, there’s a weekly event where the F1 track opens for free to walkers, runners and cyclists. It’s a great experience to stroll or ride on the same asphalt where world champions race—and it’s completely family-friendly. 

Bring bikes, scooters or simply good walking shoes, and enjoy a lap or two as the sun sets over Yas Island. 

It’s a completely different (and very memorable) way to experience Abu Dhabi as a family.

Related: Moving to Dubai with kids, a guide for parents

More things to do in Abu Dhabi with kids

Of course, there’s not just 15 things to do with kids in Abu Dhabi. In fact, Mumsnet users also recommend trying the below activities if you have the time during your trip: 

What are some cultural activities suitable for families?

Abu Dhabi offers plenty of cultural experiences that are perfect for families! 

Here are some great options. A few appear in my top 15 list above, but there are others worth exploring for culture specifically:

Louvre Abu Dhabi: Explore stunning art collections and interactive exhibits designed for all ages at Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Take a guided tour of this breathtaking mosque and learn about Islamic architecture and traditions.

A trip to the mosque is a superb way to gain an insight into Islam

Emirates Heritage Village: Step back in time and experience traditional Emirati life with crafts, performances, and historical exhibits.

Manarat Al Saadiyat: Enjoy art workshops, exhibitions, and cultural events at Manarat Al Saadiyat.

Qasr Al Hosn: Discover Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building and learn about the city’s history through engaging displays and activities.

Inside Qasar Al Hosn you’ll learn how Abu Dhabi was discovered and created

Qasr Al Watan: The Presidential Palace, offering insights into the UAE’s governance and heritage.

Al Ain Oasis: A UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing traditional irrigation systems and lush palm groves.

The Founder's Memorial: A tribute to Sheikh Zayed, featuring interactive exhibits and serene gardens.

Tips for planning days out with kids in Abu Dhabi

There’s no denying that a day out with kids in Abu Dhabi can be an exciting adventure! Our two DC loved their time in the emirate - so much so that our eldest asked if we could move back to the UAE. 

Here are some tips to make the most of your trip that I found helpful to know during our stay:

1. Pick family-friendly attractions

Abu Dhabi has plenty of kid-friendly spots like Yas Island’s theme parks, Emirates Park Zoo, and Umm Al Emarat Park.

2. Avoid the midday heat
The UAE can get very hot, so plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon if you’re visiting during warmer months. We found planning our days to have outdoor activities in the morning, followed by a lunch or indoor attraction, was a great way to avoid the heat. 

3. Look for package deals: Many attractions (like on Yas Island) offer bundled tickets or discounts for families, helping you save money while enjoying multiple experiences, so definitely look around.

4. Choose a family-friendly hotel

It might be obvious, but staying at a hotel with kids’ clubs, pools, and entertainment can make your trip more enjoyable. We stayed at ERTH Abu Dhabi hotel, and I definitely recommend it for its locations and amenities. 

5. Pack essentials

Bring sunscreen (a must in the UAE), hats, water bottles, and snacks to keep kids comfortable throughout the day. DH and I love the drink Pocari Sweat for hydration when it’s hot, which can be found in all supermarkets and petrol stations. 

6. And finally, engage kids in the plan

Let them help choose activities to keep them excited and involved, and make sure you do at least one activity each of you wants to. 

Where to stay in Abu Dhabi with kids? 

Abu Dhabi offers an abundance of family-friendly accommodations strategically positioned near its top attractions. Choose:

  • Yas Island hotels for easy access to Warner Bros World, Ferrari World, and Yas Waterworld

  • Beachfront properties in Khalidiya for sand, surf, and shopping

  • Grand Canal locations for views of the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

  • Downtown hotels to be close by to iconic buildings like Emirates Palace, Etihad Towers, Qasr Al Hosn and the Qasar Al Watan

  • or choose the tranquil retreats of Al Maryah Island for a more relaxed vibe.

We stayed at ERTH Abu Dhabi hotel - formerly the Officers Hotel and Club - which is strategically located near the airport, over the road from the mosque, and is filled with amenities for family members young and old. 

Most Abu Dhabi hotels cater exceptionally well to families with amenities like children's pools, kids' clubs, and babysitting services, making this year-round destination perfect for travellers with little ones in tow.

Don’t miss our guide to the best family hotels in Abu Dhabi to inspire where you stay. 

About the author 

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. She spent six years living and working in Dubai so knows the UAE well. Here at Mumsnet, she commissions, writes, and edits to bring parents content designed to make life easier. As a mum of two herself, she knows all too well how difficult travelling with kids can be. Whether it’s within the UK or abroad, she’s on a quest to find only the best and most family-friendly locations, with the help of Mumsnet user recommendations. 

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, or walking the dog up and down country lanes.

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