6 Child-Friendly Spots Worth Checking Out in Abu Dhabi

Kids grow up fast. This is what many parents feel like whenever they realize how much time has passed since they last spent quality time with their little ones.

But even if they are not so little anymore, it’s never too late to create more fond memories with your kids.

A trip could be a fulfilling bonding opportunity for the entire family. And where better to spend it than in Abu Dhabi?

Unlike the busy streets of Dubai, the UAE capital has plenty of tourist destinations geared towards wholesome family gatherings. It also has some of the country’s most prized cultural destinations and record-breaking attractions.

Planning a trip to Abu Dhabi anytime soon? Here are six destinations worth considering for your next family trip with the kids:

Qasr Al Watan

Known as the “Palace of the Nation,” Qasr Al Watan is the presidential palace where leaders of the UAE and foreign VIPs meet.

Although still used for official purposes, the palace has been open to the public since 2013. The building itself is a majestic masterpiece, reflecting the country’s rich history and culture.

In Qasr Al Watan, you’ll find some of the rarest Emirati artifacts, ranging from manuscripts and books to diplomatic gifts the country received in the past decades. It also houses a public library in Abu Dhabi – probably the most important one at that.

The Palace of the Nation is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., though the schedule may change without prior notice. To be sure, be there before 6 p.m. or check their website ahead of your trip.

You can also stay until 7:45 p.m. to watch the Palace in Motion light show featured every Sunday to Thursday.

The Corniche

One of the gems of Abu Dhabi, The Corniche is an eight-kilometer stretch of landscaped beach and park area. It is one of the most popular destinations among families in the UAE capital, mainly because of the child-friendly activities you can do there.

Besides a long relaxing walk, visitors can also:

• Rent bikes and go on a ride.
• Enjoy delicious ice cream.
• Beat the heat and swim at the beach.
• Watch the sunset.

Entry to the public beach is free. However, some sections may require an entrance fee of AED10 (USD 2.72), particularly those offering amenities you may need when you have kids in tow.

Al Ain Zoo

Having a hard time deciding on fun and educational activities for your children? Why not bring them to the zoo?

The Al Ain Zoo in Abu Dhabi is a must-see spot for families traveling to the city. Home to more than 4,000 animals, the zoo offers a variety of exciting experiences, such as:

• Penguin feeding
• Lemur exhibit
• Parrot show
• Reptile encounter
• Horse, pony, or camel rides 
• Birds-of-prey show

In this part of Abu Dhabi, you and your kids get a glimpse of animals, like:

• Lions
• White rhinos
• Zebras
• Giraffes
• Kudus
• Ostriches
• Wildebeests

You can also visit the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Center to learn more about the country’s efforts in preserving the natural environment.

CLYMBTM Abu Dhabi

Want to try indoor skydiving with your adventurous family? You can do that by including CLYMBTM Abu Dhabi in your vacation itinerary.

Located on Yas Island, the adventure hub houses the world’s largest indoor skydiving flight chamber. Nearly 10 meters wide (32 feet), CLYMB’s flight chamber is ideal for people with various freefalling skill levels – from beginner to expert.

Of course, age isn’t an issue either, as the action-packed destination also caters to children three years old and above.

On top of that, you and your kids can also enjoy indoor wall climbing at CLYMB Abu Dhabi. Like the 16-fan-powered 32-meter-high flight chamber, the walls are designed for all ages and skill levels. You can even try scaling the SUMMYTTM, the world’s tallest rock climbing wall.

Yas Waterworld

Can’t get enough of adrenaline-pumping adventure in the UAE? There’s still so much you need to explore on Yas Island, including the most exciting water park in the country’s capital: Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi.

This popular theme park covers more than 37 acres of land filled with fun rides, slides, and attractions. It even has wave pools and walk-through attractions to keep the entire family happy and entertained.

Attractions here include:

• Liwa Loop – the first looping waterslide in the region.
• Water Wars – a water-balloon fight arena for children of any age.
• Cinesplash – the first-ever water cinema in the Middle East.
• Cannon Point – a collection of water cannons that can be used to battle it out with Bandit Bomber riders.

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

Another theme park worth visiting in Yas Island, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is a 28-acre indoor destination that brings your favorite characters and superheroes to life.

At Warner Bros. World, you and your brood can rub elbows with cartoon characters like Bugs Bunny, the Flintstones, and Scooby-Doo. You can even join your favorite DC superheroes in their crime-fighting and intergalactic adventures.

Warner Bros. World is divided into six Lands, five of which are designed based on specific themes:

• Bedrock
• Dynamite Gulch
• Cartoon Junction
• Metropolis
• Gotham City

There’s arguably nowhere better to bond with your children than a place where childhood dreams come to life.

A Vacation to Remember

Children grow up faster than most parents would like. If you feel the same, make the most out of what limited time you have while they’re still kids and plan a vacation they will never forget. Check out the child-friendly spots listed here and make beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.