Set against a backdrop of golden sand dunes and turquoise islands, Abu Dhabi with kids is a paradise for family-friendly adventures. Known for its warm Arabian hospitality, the UAE capital ensures a welcoming experience for visitors of all ages.

Most hotels cater to families, offering kids’ clubs, splash pools, and child-friendly menus as standard. Beyond its many kid-specific attractions, Abu Dhabi also boasts plenty of experiences for families to enjoy together. The city’s exceptional safety adds peace of mind, allowing parents to explore freely with their little ones.

Best Things To Do in Abu Dhabi with Kids :

Qasr Al Hosn and the House of Artisans

Once upon a time, Abu Dhabi was a scatter of shacks and sand tracks. Then oil arrived in 1958 and—blink—today’s skyline happened. Want kids to actually get that time-warp? Show them a photo from back then. Their faces will do the rest.

Our first stop connects perfectly to that “before” photo: a single-stone building that started it all. It’s Qasr Al Hosn, the city’s earliest landmark, built as a watchtower and later used as the emir’s residence—qasr literally means palace. Right here you’ll also find the House of Artisans, a warm, hands-on space with free admission where you can dip into traditions like the qawha ceremony (Arabic coffee), recognized as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.

They’ll tell you that in this country, everything starts with qawha. Coffee equals welcome, hospitality, the opening handshake of a home. It’s poured into tiny cups, and etiquette says you only fill it less than halfway. Even the process has its own soundtrack: when the women of the family grind the beans, the distinct rhythm announces to neighbors that coffee is happening—and that the door is open.

In the middle of the room, artisans work in traditional Emirati burqas—a gold-toned mask covering the brows and mouth. Watch them weave al-sadus, patterned fabrics once used for tents, or craft tallis, beaded ribbons for decorating clothes. Their hands move with a kind of “how are you even doing that?” finger-juggling flow, reminiscent of the bobbins our grandmothers used.

Kids tend to go very quiet here—the good kind of quiet. The artisans, endlessly patient, show them how to make khoos: palm leaves soaked in water until they’re flexible, then braided into sturdy strands used for table mats and food cloths. It’s the gentlest possible way to land in Abu Dhabi and start understanding what the city is made of.

Camel racing

Alright—time to trade calm craft vibes for pure morning adrenaline. Camel racing is a national obsession and a spectacle you’ll remember long after the last dune photo. Yes, you have to wake up early. From mid-October to mid-April, races run on weekends at Al Wathba Camel Race Track starting around 7 a.m., usually wrapping by 9 a.m. to dodge the heat. If you can swing it, arrive at dawn—seeing the camels being prepped is half the magic.

Until the first paved road was built in Abu Dhabi in 1961, camels were the everyday engine of life—transport, milk, and yes, even meat.

Today, it’s famously the sport of the sheikhs, and the numbers can get wild: a top racing camel might cost anywhere from 200,000 euros to several million. Another twist: unlike many races back home, betting isn’t allowed here. Gambling is prohibited by law throughout the Emirates, as Islam considers it a sin. Instead, the winner earns a prize—often exceeding 200,000 euros.

The detail kids will talk about for days: instead of jockeys, the camels run with a robot perched on their hump, fitted with a small whip mechanism and a walkie-talkie. Owners can cheer them on remotely during the race. This change came after a dark chapter: around 25 years ago, child jockeys—sometimes extremely young—were used across Gulf countries, often trafficked from places like Bangladesh and India and kept in awful conditions. The UAE banned child jockeys in 2002, and since then camels have been remotely guided using these lightweight robots (around 4 kilos).

Then the start gun goes off and—boom—the camels launch, covering anywhere from three to ten kilometers at speeds that can reach 65 kilometers per hour. Alongside the track, dozens of 4x4s chase them, and you’ll hear owners making a very specific, rapid-fire sound over their radios—something the camels seem to understand perfectly.

This sport sparks the kind of passion a Madrid–Barça match does at home, and it’s broadcast on radio and TV. It’s also so local and authentic that you may not see many tourists at all. But here’s the best part for families: it’s super safe with kids, completely free, and you can move around to watch from different angles. It’s chaotic, thrilling, and oddly beautiful.

The Falcon Hospital

The Falcon Hospital is possibly one of the most mind-blowing family visits in Abu Dhabi. It’s the world’s largest hospital dedicated exclusively to falcons, caring for around 11,000 birds a year, with guided tours on weekdays at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. You’ll see operating rooms where ultra-delicate surgeries happen (just imagine operating on a skull that small), plus endoscopies and even an ICU. “It’s open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to handle emergencies because people come from 2,000 kilometers away to have their animals treated,” Fahad Al Badi, our guide during the tour, told us.

We also get the backstory: Bedouins trained falcons to hunt, catching the prey they needed to eat. Falcons weren’t just tools or pets—they were family. That bond hasn’t faded. We’re told some Emiratis sleep with their falcons beside the bed, and many travel everywhere with them. The national airline of the United Arab Emirates, Emirates Airways, even lets passengers fly free of charge with their falcon if they want. For them, falcons are as normal as dogs or cats are for us.

During the tour, kids might even watch a falcon being anesthetized for a routine procedure. In our case, it was nail clipping—something wild falcons don’t need, but captive birds do a couple of times a year to protect the pads of their feet.

It’s genuinely astonishing: the bird falls asleep in seconds with the same kind of anesthesia used for humans. While the “mani-pedi” happens, there’s time for every question under the sun—and yes, you can often pet them and feel just how sharp those claws really are.

Later, brave volunteers may get to feed the falcons, take a photo with them, or visit the Falcon Hotel, which has around 200 rooms—basically luxury suites for birds recovering in comfort. 

Saadiyat Island

No family trip is complete without at least one stretch of do-nothing, blissed-out relaxation. In Abu Dhabi, that usually means hammock time, zero responsibilities, and the Persian Gulf practically tapping your toes. The prime spot? Saadiyat Island—a slice of white sand, clear water, and high-end resorts built for maximum comfort.

On Saadiyat Island, boredom doesn’t stand a chance. Resorts are designed for families, with Kids & Teens Clubs stacked with activities for ages 4 to 14. Take Jumeirah Saadiyat, for example: an Emirati luxury hotel where kids can fly kites, paint, build sandcastles, zip line, shoot hoops, and craft their way through the day—all within a well-run program from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

And it’s not just playtime—nature gets real attention here. “Seven species of turtles, including the critically endangered hawksbill, nest on these beaches,” says Tarek Ibrahim, the hotel’s sports and leisure manager. Elevated walkways help protect dunes, motors are banned to safeguard dolphins near shore, and even kayaking can turn into a turtle-spotting moment—sometimes right beneath glass-bottom boats.

Jumeirah Saadiyat also leans into eco-minded design: birds glide freely through the main building, plastic bottles disappear, and guests get reusable stainless-steel bottles to refill at water stations.

Another strong contender is Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, where luxury meets family-friendly energy. It’s all-inclusive and doesn’t even do wristbands—a small detail that somehow screams “we’re serious about this.” “Most of our guests are families, and many return year after year,” says Patricia Vizcaíno from the Sales Department. Expect a water park, wave pool, gardening, origami, tennis, painting—the works—in a setting that feels unreal.

With this much going on, Saadiyat Island earns its nickname: the island of happiness.

Abu Dhabi Corniche

Once we’ve refueled, we roll back into the city center for an easy, kid-pleasing classic: Abu Dhabi Corniche. The seafront promenade stretches around 8 kilometers. Want the shortcut to happy children (and great skyline views)? Rent bikes or ATVs right on the promenade for half an hour—or longer—and cruise past the water with the skyscrapers flexing in the background.

In Abu Dhabi, “toys for all ages” comes with a glossy, luxury twist. Forget motorcycles—here, it’s all about Lamborghinis, Bugattis, and Ferraris… on water. At the West Bay Abu Dhabi you can try jet cars, a wild alternative to standard water sports.

These sleek, high-speed water vehicles are surprisingly simple to drive, reaching up to 25 knots (around 50 km/h). And the cherry on top: no license is required, so it’s an easy, slightly ridiculous thrill to add to your family itinerary.

Yas Island

Yas Island is Abu Dhabi’s loudest “yes”—the place where families go when they want the day to feel like a highlight reel. It’s famous for its Formula 1 track, Yas Marina Circuit, but the island is much more than race weekend. It’s an entertainment machine built for kids, teens, and adults who still like fun (so… all of us).

One of the coolest surprises is the F1 circuit itself, which opens on select afternoons for cycling, jogging, and walking. It’s part of a government push for fitness, so entry is free, and bikes can be borrowed at no cost. Doing laps on an actual F1 track is delightfully surreal—and it makes watching the Formula 1 Grand Prix later feel even more epic.

Record-Breaking Theme Parks

Yas Island also packs in some of the most over-the-top theme parks on Earth—each one breaking records like it’s a hobby:

• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – Opened in 2010, it’s the world’s largest indoor theme park (200,000 square meters) with 40 attractions, including real Formula 1 prototypes driven by legends like Fernando Alonso. Its huge red Ferrari-logo roof is visible from space. The headline thrill? Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in the world, launching from 0 to 240 km/h in 4.5 seconds.
• SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – The first and only SeaWorld outside the U.S., and a Guinness World Record holder as the largest marine park on the planet. The “wow” moment is a massive 25-million-liter aquarium with sharks, manta rays, turtles, and more.
• Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi – A billion-dollar project and the largest Warner Bros. theme park in the world. Unlike the Madrid version, many rides here are high-tech simulators, letting you team up with Batman or jump into the chaos with the Justice League in ultra-immersive experiences.
• Yas Waterworld – Your full-send water park day: slides, wave pools, splash zones, and enough watery chaos to guarantee a good night’s sleep.

Self-Driving Taxis: The Future of Transport

Before you leave Yas Island, try one of the free, self-driving taxis—a glimpse into what Abu Dhabi wants transportation to look like by 2030. No steering, no drama, just a smooth futuristic glide that makes kids (and adults) stare out the window like they’re watching science fiction become real.

Honestly, Abu Dhabi keeps surprising us—which is exactly why it works so well as a family getaway.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

A visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an absolute must on any family trip to Abu Dhabi. It’s one of the most breathtaking mosques on the planet, and the reflecting pools, endless colonnades, and 80 domes feel straight out of a storybook. Kids might genuinely think they’ve wandered into Aladdin’s world.

It took 12 years to complete, and the scale is almost hard to process until you’re standing inside it. Just remember: modest dress is required—women need to cover hair, arms, and legs. There’s clear guidance on site, so you won’t be guessing.

Give yourself around two hours to do this architectural masterpiece justice.

Feast your eyes on Qasr Al Watan

Next up: Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace that also works as a cultural landmark, showcasing the UAE’s heritage and traditions. Even if your kids think “palace” sounds boring (they won’t), the Arabian craftsmanship and grand spaces make this one of those places where everyone ends up looking up and whispering “wow.”

Don’t miss one of the palace’s biggest showstoppers: Palace in Motion, a sound-and-light show that tells the story of the UAE across the palace façade. It runs every 30 minutes after sunset in front of the main building—a dazzling finale if you time it right.

Learn about art at the Louvre Abu Dhabi

If the mosque and palace already blew your minds, Abu Dhabi calmly adds another mic-drop: the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Opened in November 2017 and designed by Jean Nouvel, it came from an intergovernmental agreement between the UAE and France, linking Abu Dhabi to the prestigious Louvre name.

Inside you’ll find a seriously impressive collection spanning historical, cultural, and contemporary works from around the world. Families should make a beeline for The Children’s Museum, which is built to pull young brains into art without the usual “don’t touch anything” museum fatigue.

And it’s not only about galleries. The museum sits on the water, and you can join kayak tours for a different angle of the architecture, or even try yoga under the dome—a surprisingly lovely blend of art, nature, and calm.

Caring for animals at the Abu Dhabi Aquarium

If there’s a universal truth in family travel, it’s this: kids + animals = instant win. The Abu Dhabi National Aquarium is the largest in the Middle East, home to 46,000+ animals across 300+ species—jellyfish, sharks, rays, and every kind of fish you can imagine. The showstopper is the region’s largest aquatic tunnel, where you’re surrounded by over 22,000 animals and divers gliding past like they’re in a dream. There’s also an educational look at shark hand-feeding and the treatment center. Thanks to a partnership with the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency, injured turtles are rescued, treated, and returned to the wild. You’ll also find educational activities focused on marine wildlife and the environment.

The Liwa Oasis and Its Majestic Desert

And because we’re in Abu Dhabi, we can’t leave without desert drama. A trip here practically demands a visit to the Liwa Oasis, the gateway to the legendary Rub’ Al Khali—one of the largest deserts in the world.

Out here, towering dunes run to the horizon, turning the landscape into endless waves of golden ochre sand. It feels detached from everything—like the outside world got muted.

The moment that hits hardest? Watching the sunset spill over the dunes. It’s one of those quiet family memories that sticks.

Where to Eat in Abu Dhabi with kids

Geek Kitchen Restaurant

Geek Kitchen Restaurant is basically a “yes” button for kids. Funko Pops are everywhere—superheroes, pop stars, you name it—and the walls are packed with Star Wars, Avengers, and other familiar faces, all “joining” you for breakfast.

The comic book-style menu seals the deal.

The pancakes arrive with chocolate Batman and Iron Man stencils like it’s totally normal. They’re thick, fluffy, and unapologetically drenched in chocolate and syrup. The Hulk avo smash is also huge—stacked with avocado and soft eggs in a portion worthy of the name.

Then there’s the banana French toast, a sweet, indulgent showstopper. But our favorite is the benny brisket: an English muffin piled with pulled beef and those perfectly runny eggs. Ridiculously good.

Aqua

Inside the luxe Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Aqua is a polished all-day dining spot with a buffet that makes you wonder if you should’ve skipped breakfast entirely. Add in panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and Al Zahiyah, and suddenly lunch feels like an event.

Whether you come for lunch or dinner, expect a big, generous spread: tapas, fresh salads, comforting soups, plus an extensive dessert line that will absolutely lure children (and, let’s be honest, us). There are also à la carte mains, and the options shift depending on day and time.

Bonus: the service is genuinely warm, which makes family meals feel easy.

New City Palace

Tucked away in Al Dana on Al Falah Street, New City Palace is a family-friendly Chinese spot that looks a little tired around the edges—but it’s spotlessly clean, with plastic-wrapped tables and freshly sanitized plates that somehow feel reassuring when you’re traveling with kids.

The staff are friendly and will happily point you toward the signature dishes. Portions are big and affordable, so sharing is easy. Start with fried chicken potstickers—fifteen arrive fast, crisp and satisfying. Scallion pancakes are also worth it, but save room for the beef lamian noodles, hand-pulled and served in a rich broth with braised beef—the real must-order.

For mains, sweet and sour chicken is tender and flavorful, while the crispy beef strips can lean a bit salty. It’s usually busy, even on weekdays, and there’s one delightfully odd detail: iced tea comes straight in the bottle. No frills, lots of flavor, and a fun little chaos-energy.

Read also: 10 Best Restaurants In Abu Dhabi

Where to stay in Abu Dhabi with kids?

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental: A Seven-Star Escape

This place is famously enormous: the hotel stretches about 1.2 miles end to end and comes with its own 0.8-mile private beach. There’s so much on-site that “let’s go out” starts sounding optional.

Inside, the palace is grand and polished—gold tones, Arabesque detailing, and artwork everywhere you look. It feels exclusive, sure, but step outside and the lush gardens become your family’s wandering playground: perfect for slow strolls, little adventures, and “look at that!” moments.

Emirates Palace has two main pool areas. The Las Brisas Pool in the East Wing Beach Club is adults-only, with a large jacuzzi under a gazebo, three smaller bubble pools, and a swim-up bar that basically whispers “nap later.”

Families gravitate to the West Wing Beach Club, where the mood is pure fun: a Lazy River, waterfalls, water flumes, and a lively activities pool. Kids can dive into ‘Sarab Land’, where trained staff run games and activities, plus there’s an outdoor play area to burn off that last bit of energy.

And if you’ve got water-loving humans in your group, you’re spoiled for choice: wakeboarding, water-skiing, mono-skiing, inflatable rides… or go gentler with windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the clear Arabian Gulf.

Anantara Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort: Best Abu Dhabi Resort for Families

If you want the “we’re living inside a desert movie” feeling—without sacrificing comfort—Anantara Qasr al Sarab is your answer. It rises from the Empty Quarter like a mirage, a storybook desert retreat that somehow feels both remote and perfectly looked after.

For families, it’s built to be easy. With seven kid-friendly restaurants serving Middle Eastern and international dishes, even picky eaters usually find their comfort zone. Kids can also join hands-on cooking classes designed just for them.

Beyond the main pool, spa, and gym, you’ve got a world-class tennis court and a full menu of desert adventures: camel rides, falconry shows, mountain biking, horse riding, and archery—enough to make the day feel like a mini expedition.

Need a breather? Kids aged 3 to 12 can hang out at the kids’ club, or you can book the babysitting service for a parent reset. Want extra space? Upgrade to a private villa with a plunge pool and butler service, and suddenly the desert feels very, very luxurious.

Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana: Best Abu Dhabi Hotel for Swimming Pools

If your family’s love language is “swimming pool,” Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan is a strong contender. The whole place feels immaculate, with elegant Arabian-inspired decor and a massive pool—the largest in Abu Dhabi—framed by lush gardens and bright red parasols that make everything look holiday-ready.

It’s a favorite for families because the kid activities are serious: swimming instructors can help children learn or level up, and karate lessons add an extra “cool!” factor. There’s also a dedicated kids’ pool with a jungle gym, which basically guarantees splashy happiness.

Food is planned with little guests in mind. Kids under five eat for free, and Saturday brunches go big with the “Ali Baba and the Forty Chefs” theme, complete with extra entertainment. Families can also enjoy authentic Arabic cuisine on the private beachfront. Just note: this is a dry (alcohol-free) hotel.

Parents aren’t forgotten either—there’s a gym, spa, and babysitting. Whether you want action or downtime, Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana makes it easy to balance both.

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi: Family-friendly luxury

At The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, luxury meets “they actually thought of the kids.” Little guests can get Fisher-Price bath toys and special children’s bubble baths in the room—just ask the butler. Yes: butler service is included, and it makes family travel feel strangely… effortless.

The location is also excellent: you’re a short drive from big hitters like The Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Saadiyat cultural district, so you can bounce between sightseeing and beach downtime without spending your life in traffic. Parents can lean into spa treatments and high-end dining, from brunch in the world’s highest suspended suite to a memorable dinner on a helipad (because why not, Abu Dhabi).

Kids aged 1 to 12 get their own wonderland: the Sandcastle Club. It’s themed, playful, and packed with arts, dancing, outdoor nature walks, plus a climbing wall, sandpit, and a dedicated children’s pool—enough to keep young adventurers busy while parents get a quiet minute.

Read also: 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Abu Dhabi and 6 Excellent Budget-Friendly Hotels In Abu Dhabi

Do You Need to Hire a Car in Abu Dhabi?

You don’t have to rent a car in Abu Dhabi—but it’s often the most convenient option for families. Public transport is limited, and while Uber and Careem are available, costs can add up fast if you’re hopping between attractions. Taxis work too, but they rarely come with child seats, which can be a real headache with younger kids.

The good news: driving is usually easy. Roads are excellent, parking is common, and many hotels offer complimentary valet, so it tends to feel stress-free—especially compared to bigger, messier cities.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi works year-round, especially because you’ve got plenty of indoor attractions for the hottest months (May to August), when temperatures can climb above 42°C.

For most families, the sweet spot is autumn (September–November) or spring (March–April): the weather is pleasant, crowds are lighter, and hotel prices often dip. Winter (December–February) is peak season, so expect more visitors and higher accommodation costs.

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We aim to share unbiased, independent recommendations. Yes, we do earn money through affiliate links, but that doesn’t shape what we recommend—we highlight hotels and experiences we genuinely think stand out. Those commissions simply help us keep publishing useful, practical travel guides like this one.

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