Abu Dhabi, the beautiful capital of the United Arab Emirates, has long been known for its luxurious accommodation, world-class shopping experience, and rich culture. It is an excellent destination, especially for families with kids, as it offers various activities and places to visit for children of all ages. From stunning beaches and nature reserves to educational museums and thrilling theme parks, Abu Dhabi promises an unforgettable experience for the whole family. This article explains why Abu Dhabi should be your next vacation destination.
Educational and Fun Experiences for Kids
Travelling with kids can be challenging, especially when you must constantly find ways to entertain them. Balancing educational activities with fun ones can also be a struggle sometimes. In Abu Dhabi, you don’t have to choose. The city’s rich cultural and historical landscape offers engaging educational experiences for young minds.A great place to take your young children to is one of the largest mosques in the world. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning architectural marvel, offers many guided tours that explain the significance of the mosque culturally and internationally. The vast white marble courtyards, intricate mosaics, and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet are awe-inspiring sights that will fascinate children while giving them a peek into Islamic history. The kids can also learn more about poetry, weaving and metalwork from Abu Dhabi’s Heritage Village, which has many interactive displays that show kids what it was like to live in the UAE before its leap in modernization. They can also enjoy camel rides, watch falconry shows, and even try their hand at traditional boat making, making it both a fun and educational outing.
Nature and Wildlife Adventures: A Wild Encounter
While Abu Dhabi is known more for its urban attractions, some incredible natural wonders are perfect for adventure-loving families. Located on Sir Bani Yas Island, many unique wildlife experiences could be thrilling, especially for young minds. Many of the resorts in the area, like Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, can organise safaris for families to embark on. Children will have a chance to watch nature unfold and wildlife face to face in the form of giraffes, gazelles, cheetahs and more. The island is home to thousands of animals and provides children with an immersive experience in nature conservation. This experience is much more than anything you would see in a zoo. This is wildlife up close and personal. Kids can also learn about endangered species and the importance of protecting their habitats.
Image via Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara
Theme Parks and Entertainment: Excitement Awaits
Abu Dhabi is also a paradise for thrill seekers, and no family trip would be complete without going to some of the theme parks. Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi is an excellent park to visit, especially if there are motorheads or car lovers in the family. Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in the world, is a part of the Ferrari World experience and should not be missed. The ride reaches speeds over 200km/h and is a great source of entertainment for older kids and teenagers. For younger children, there are plenty of gentler rides, interactive exhibits, and even driving simulators where they can experience what it’s like to be a Formula 1 driver.Families looking for more relaxed experiences with more kids’ activities in Abu Dhabi should visit the iconic Louvre Museum. The many interactive exhibits in the museum will keep kids occupied for hours, with both fun and education. The beautiful waterfront location and the iconic dome structure also provide plenty of opportunities for family photos and leisurely strolls as well.
Sun and Fun in Abu Dhabi
In addition to theme parks and wildlife adventures, Abu Dhabi offers family-friendly beaches, parks, and indoor entertainment centres. Corniche Beach, for example, is perfect for families. With its calm, shallow waters, children can safely swim, build sandcastles, or enjoy a family picnic under the sun. The beach also has play areas, cycling paths, and shaded spots for when the afternoon heat kicks in.