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13 fun kid-friendly activities in Abu Dhabi

Parents, it's time for you to take a beat and catch your breath - these awesome kids activities in Abu Dhabi are a tried and tested way to keep your toddlers, teens and everyone in between extremely happy and content. Ranging from free family activities to indoor play areas and splash pads, here is a list of things for kids to do in Abu Dhabi.

Theme parks

1. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

One of the main features of Yas Island is the super popular Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Equipped to bring the thrill to every part of your soul, this park sets the bar when it comes to rollercoasters. You and the kids can start nice and easy by jumping on any of the 40 exciting rides and attractions or you can go BIG, by riding Formula Rossa, the fastest rollercoaster in the world. Every ride has height limitations so be sure to check which are suitable for your child by visiting the theme park's official website.

2. Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

Where can you go to tackle teenage boredom and excite the little ones at the same time? Warner Bros. World on Yas Island is one of the most fun places for kids in Abu Dhabi and has a great mix of attractions, from thrilling rollercoasters to peaceful kiddies activities perfect for anyone aged 3 and up. You can jump on epic state-of-the-art rides in Gotham City, spend hours of fun at Cartoon Junction and so much more. Plus, your little ones will clap in delight when they get snaps with legendary Warner Bros. characters like Fred Flintstone, Superman and Bugs Bunny!

Waterparks

3. Yas Waterworld

No vacation or staycation is complete without a day of water play at Yas Waterworld. Bathing suits, sunblock and flip flops are all you need to experience the impressive range of rides that this waterpark offers. The rides are categorised by thrill levels from the extreme (Shaheen's Adrenaline Rush) to low (Sultan's Young Fun). Babies and toddlers don’t have to be left behind - they can have their own splash party with floats and water toys at the dedicated kids' pool area.

Animals and friends

4. Emirates Park Zoo

Why not toss in a wild encounter while you are exploring Abu Dhabi? Visit the Emirates Park Zoo where you and the kids can casually enjoy dinner time with the elephants or feed the hungry hippos (under careful supervision, of course!). The zoo also operates a large adventure play area where children can zip, swing and slide. There may be entry restrictions depending on age and height, however there is a junior climbing area that takes you across the tropical bird area.

5. Al Ain Zoo

Brighten your children’s day with a visit to the evergreen Al Ain Zoo. Home to a variety of birds, mammals and reptiles, there’s plenty to see and discover. From the swift emu birds to the giant tortoises, get ready for squeals of joy and excitement. The zoo is also responsible for the conservation of endangered animals that range from the Saker Falcon to the Scimitar Oryx. It’s a great way to teach kids about the importance of caring for animals and protecting them for the sake of the planet's well-being.

6. The National Aquarium

Opened in 2021, the National Aquarium is the capital’s largest and only public aquarium and a real treat for the eyes and mind! Keep your camera ready (no flash please) to capture the most beautiful creatures of the sea, including the world’s largest living snake - the reticulated python also known as Super Snake - who is about seven metres long. Located in the Al Qana area of Abu Dhabi, you can even hop on a glass dhow tour to get closer or enjoy a fast track ticket through the entire aquarium.

Family-friendly beaches

7. Corniche Beach

Spend the day building sandcastles and making memories at the turquoise seashore of Abu Dhabi’s Corniche Beach. Thanks to its central location, you can easily find a space here to set up a family picnic or play a game of beach volleyball. You can visit the public beach or opt for the private family beach which is chargeable. The setting is a contemporary mix of beach views in the foreground and skyscrapers in the background, with plenty of spots nearby to grab food and drinks.

8. Kai Beach Saadiyat

Soak up the rays and pack your sunglasses for a sunshine-y day out at the gorgeous Kai Beach on Saadiyat Island. Located just five minutes away from downtown Abu Dhabi, you can really spend hours at this pristine beach and not realise it. Kai Beach and Saadiyat Island in general, are known for their cute inhabitants, the Hawksbill Turtles.

9. Al Bateen Beach

Located alongside Hudariyat Island, Al Bateen Beach is an 800-metre-long scenic shoreline that makes for a memorable family day under the sun. Toddlers can enjoy the well-maintained play areas while parents can take turns taking advantage of the incredible water sports facilities such as kayaking and jet-skiing. The beach can be accessed completely free!

There is also a separate area for women and children to enjoy the beautiful and secure beach in peace, which includes female lifeguards, but there is a minimal fee to enter.

Action parks

10. Bounce Abu Dhabi

Ever wanted to jump on a giant trampoline? Bounce Abu Dhabi can make you leap way, way up high! Kids from ages 3 onwards and adults can really take full advantage of this unique adventure zone located within Marina Mall. You can free jump your way across the 100 connected trampolines, play basketball with a little extra spring in your step or try any of the other many adult and kid-friendly activities. The venue can host private events too so if your child is looking for a place to ring in their birthday in style, then Bounce Abu Dhabi it is.

11. Yas Kartzone

If you and your older children love a good adrenaline rush, then check out the hub of fast and furious in Abu Dhabi - Yas Kartzone. Equipped for different ages, there’s the Kids Category for ages 5 to 7 where they can ride the Bambino Karts; there’s the Junior Category for ages 8 to 12, followed by the Adults Category. Powered by ADNOC, Yas Kartzone’s high-octane track is 1KM long and has 3 track configurations to choose from. Is there a better way to race through your holiday?

12. KidZania

Talking to kids about the real world is one thing, but showing them how the real world works is an interesting situation, but visiting Kidzania Abu Dhabi is probably the best way to do that! One of the most unique indoor places for kids in Abu Dhabi, this vibrant, interactive mini-city is designed for ages 3+ and it has everything: petrol stations, supermarkets, fast food joints and even crime scenes. Combining role-play and fun all into one, this is one place that you have to tick off the itinerary. They even have their own currency called kidZos!

13. Jebel Hafit Desert Park

In the generation of technology, it is nice to switch off with a family camping trip or a refreshing day visit to the great outdoors. Located on the foothills of the Jebel Hafit mountains in Al Ain is the Jebel Hafit Desert Park - a combination of history, adventure and culture depending on what you are looking for. Spend the night under the stars, roasting marshmallows, swapping stories and bonding with your loved ones. Other family and children-friendly activities include hiking and camel or horse riding.

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