Joanna James
Abu Dhabi is more than just a capital with large malls and luxury resorts. It is also filled with unique adventures that are great for families looking for fun ways to explore the city. From exciting theme parks to wildlife adventures, here are some of the best activities you can enjoy with your kids and family in Abu Dhabi.
One of the best kid-friendly places to visit in the city is Warner Bros. World where all your kids’ favourite cartoon and movie characters come to life. The park has 6 thrilling zones across more than 35 acres, each inspired by several movies and franchises by the company. When you're not enjoying any of the 29 rides at the park, you can take your kids to meet their favourite characters, including Scooby Doo, Batman, and Wile E. Coyote.
Another great theme park to visit is this water-based, award-winning theme park that is ideal for fun on a hot day in the city. The park includes around 45 water-based rides and activities for all ages. Toddlers will be giggling at the sight of water canons and the experience of the water slides while older thrill-seekers can test their nerves on the Dawwama, one of the world’s largest hydromagnetic slides that feature a series of twists and turns.
If you want to explore the culture and history of the UAE during your stay at any of the family resorts in Abu Dhabi, then visit the Emirates Heritage Village. This open-air museum gives you a closer look at the traditional desert life in the UAE through several elements that mimic a traditional village. Once inside the reconstructed village you and your kids can explore the mosque, a traditional souk, a traditional fort built originally to keep invaders away and an ancient irrigation system that still works in the city. You can also witness the incredible artistry of local craftsmen in the village as they demonstrate the art of pottery, glass blowing and weaving.
Another memorable experience your kids can enjoy comes at KidZania, an intriguing centre on the first floor of Yas Mall. It is an interactive mini-city that combines education and entertainment to teach kids about the world. There are 40 realistic interactive experiences that focus on various careers like medicine, construction, retail, media and more. This allows kids to get an immersive feel for various professions where they can practise being a doctor at a clinic, an athlete, or a film-maker.
You can also enjoy a full island experience with your family during a visit to Sir Bani Yas Island. Enjoy a morning of water sporting adventure at the Desert Islands Watersports Centre where kids can learn to dive, snorkel or kayak through the waters of the nearby wildlife reserve. You can also embark on a wildlife safari at the Arabian Wildlife Park where you’ll encounter free-roaming animals like gazelles, giraffes, cheetahs and the Arabian oryx. You could also consider basing your stay on the island at one of its resorts such as Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara to fully experience what the island has to offer.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
