Abu Dhabi is built to handle the heat. There’s no lack of indoor things to do in summer, so residents and visitors can keep even the warmest days jam-packed, from sunrise to sunset. Dozens of exciting indoor attractions, from theme parks, cultural sites, to nature and more, are ready to keep you cool, comfortable and fully entertained.
Release your inner child (or your actual child) at any of Abu Dhabi’s world-famous theme parks. These family-friendly destinations dotted across the emirate are an ideal day out. If you're searching for some of the best things to do in the UAE in summer, you don't need to look much further than these. Most offer a mix of indoor and outdoor areas, so you can stay comfortable while keeping the fun going.
This iconic location on Yas Island takes adrenaline-fuelled activities to heart-pounding new heights. Home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, the highest loop ride and more than 40 record-breaking attractions, this vast indoor and outdoor park pushes the limits of what a theme park can do.
If that’s not enough, Driving and Passenger Experiences let you step inside a Ferrari and feel the legendary power and performance for yourself.
Step into the worlds of your favourite characters at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Here, unforgettable locations – including Gotham City, Metropolis, Cartoon Junction and even The Flintstones’ Bedrock – all exist under one roof, waiting to be explored.
See iconic stories come to life as you explore six themed lands packed with rides, live entertainment and nostalgic characters, from quirky cartoons to cinematic legends.
If you’re someone who loves to move, climb, race or fly, Abu Dhabi will get your heart racing and your senses fully switched on. Experience thrills in every direction at the city’s top indoor locations for adventure lovers and adrenaline junkies.
In Abu Dhabi, malls certainly aren’t only for shopping. Much-loved sports store Adventure HQ in Abu Dhabi is home to Adventure Zone, an active indoor space for kids featuring a skate park, pump track, trampoline park, boulder wall and cable climb.
Located in Dalma Mall, Adventure Zone is an easy option for families, giving young adventurers a few hours of supervised fun while parents take time to browse the mall.
Flip, fly and freestyle at BOUNCE Abu Dhabi, an indoor adventure park that puts a literal spring in your step. This action-packed attraction keeps kids (and parents) moving.
Expect a dynamic mix of more than 100 interconnected trampolines, wall-running zones, dodgeball courts, zip lines, freefall drops and giant airbags – all this right inside the popular Marina Mall.
Take your day to new heights at CLYMB Abu Dhabi, home to some of the world’s most advanced indoor adventure experiences. Located in Yas Mall, this striking space features the world’s tallest indoor climbing wall, plus a wide range of climbing routes designed for beginners and seasoned pros.
The action continues in the world’s largest indoor skydiving flight chamber, where you can experience the thrill of freefall in a fully controlled environment.
In Abu Dhabi, you can discover the beauty of the natural world without even stepping outside. Things to do in the UAE in summer include two iconic marine attractions, giving visitors the chance to come face to face with extraordinary ocean life in immersive indoor settings.
The National Aquarium in Abu Dhabi’s Al Qana area is the UAE’s largest aquarium, made up of 10 thematic zones hosting over 46,000 animals.
From hand-feeding marine species to viewing the underwater world from the Bu Tinah Dhow – a glass-bottom boat – you’ll be enthralled by stingrays, birdlife and even reptiles. With interactive technology guiding you throughout your tour of the sea, the National Aquarium is an easy mix of learning and leisure.
See what life is like underwater without setting foot outside at the record-breaking SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, the world's largest indoor marine-life theme park. Here, a breathtaking array of marine life – including dugongs, sea turtles, sea snakes, hammerhead sharks and manta rays – from the UAE and beyond are ready to be discovered across eight themed realms.
It’s a bucket-list destination you could easily spend a full day exploring.
Discover the spirit of the culture of Abu Dhabi by visiting these incredible places, that are not only iconic in design but also hold remarkable significance today.
A breathtaking landmark in the heart of the city, Qasr Al Hosn is one of the oldest stone buildings in Abu Dhabi. This remarkable construction was built in the late 1700s and transformed into an award-winning museum in 2018.
Spend some time soaking up Abu Dhabi’s rich history with artefacts and archival materials dating back six centuries, and stop off at the House of Artisans to witness traditional Emirati crafts in action.
Qasr Al Watan gives visitors the unique opportunity to explore a working presidential palace, allowing rare insight into the country’s governance and heritage. Walk through vast ceremonial halls and beautifully detailed chambers, where each space celebrates the emirate’s values and vision.
And when the sun sets, making way for cooler evenings, be sure to stay for the captivating evening sound and light show projected on the palace exterior.
Step into a world where art moves, responds and transforms around you at teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi. This immersive digital art experience invites you to wander through ever-changing installations built around light, sound and motion.
The experience unfolds as you move through it, with no two visits ever quite the same. Explore the space for a mesmerising journey that sparks curiosity and a sense of wonder for all ages.
Need something special? You’ll definitely find it here. The best of Abu Dhabi’s malls are more than equipped to cater to every mood and craving. From traditional souks to ultra-modern malls, Abu Dhabi’s shopping scene will leave you totally spoilt for choice.
Mall days are meant for shopping and dining, and the best place to do all of that and more is Yas Mall.
You could easily spend a day exploring every nook and cranny of Abu Dhabi’s largest luxury mall. Shop from over 400 stores, catch the latest movies, satisfy virtually any food craving or simply window shop to your heart’s content. (Plus, with a wealth of entertainment for little ones, this mall is 100% kid-approved.)
Situated on ultra-trendy Al Maryah Island, Galleria Mall is a high-end destination for style-savvy shoppers, with brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Cartier under one roof.
Relax with a coffee and cake at the highly Instagrammable Secret Gardens, or enjoy a multi-course feast at any of the delicious dining venues. Travelling with a family? Kids love the National Geographic Ultimate Explorer amusement park and the Zero Latency VR experience.
Some experiences in Abu Dhabi are simply about the wow factor. From panoramic viewpoints to iconic landmarks, the city’s must-see indoor attractions invite you to pause, look around and take in a fresh perspective of the city.
Emirates Palace is known for its enchanting Arabesque design, award-winning hospitality and authentic experiences. See it for yourself on a private guided tour of its palatial suites and glittering ballrooms.
Hungry? Savour gourmet Asian food at Hakkasan or traditional Emirati fare with a fine-dining finish at Mezlai, If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even opt for a sprinkle of 24-karat gold on a camel burger or cappuccino at Le Café.
Rise above the cityscape and admire Abu Dhabi’s iconic skyline from the 74th floor at the Observation Deck at 300.
Located within the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, the deck sits 300 metres high and has a circular 360-degree panorama viewing platform. With breathtaking bird’s-eye views of the Emirates Palace Hotel, Marina Abu Dhabi and Heritage Village, you’ll likely want to linger longer with a premium afternoon tea.
Explore Abu Dhabi’s collection of remarkable museums, where stunning collections and compelling stories unfold indoors across beautifully designed galleries that reward a slow, deliberate visit.
Set beneath a striking dome on Saadiyat Island, Louvre Abu Dhabi is a cultural landmark that invites visitors to explore the shared stories of humanity. Its galleries trace human creativity across civilisations and centuries, sharing artworks and prized objects from around the world.
Inside its walls, light filters through the dome in a ‘rain of light’, illuminating masterpieces that span ancient history to modern times.
The striking Zayed National Museum tells the story of the UAE through the life and legacy of its founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It’s a memorable exploration of the nation’s journey, spanning ancient heritage up until the present day.
Through immersive galleries and displays, visitors can explore the values that shaped the UAE and get meaningful insight into Abu Dhabi's people, culture and the vision behind the nation.
Go on a journey through time, tracing the story of the universe and life itself. From the formation of galaxies to the evolution of our planet, this awe-inspiring museum brings science and discovery to life through immersive exhibitions and jaw-dropping displays.
Set within a thoughtfully curated indoor space, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi offers a fascinating look at nature, encouraging a deeper understanding of the world we inhabit.
.png?h=553&iar=0&w=1380&rev=fa2bc025b26e4360b0af001b680aa459)
Browse through our helpful tips and guides to plan your trip to Abu Dhabi.
Are there enough indoor attractions to enjoy Abu Dhabi in summer?
Yes. Abu Dhabi is designed for year-round enjoyment, with a wide range of indoor attractions that make summer both comfortable and rewarding. From world-class theme parks and museums to aquariums, immersive art spaces, shopping malls and dining destinations, there’s plenty to explore without spending long hours outdoors.
Are Abu Dhabi’s indoor attractions air-conditioned and open year-round?
Absolutely. Most indoor attractions in Abu Dhabi are fully air-conditioned and operate year-round, including throughout the summer months.
Many are purpose-built to provide climate-controlled comfort, allowing visitors to explore, learn and have fun regardless of outdoor temperatures.
What are the best indoor things to do in summer in Abu Dhabi?
Some of Abu Dhabi’s most popular attractions are fully indoors. Highlights include indoor theme parks on Yas Island, cultural landmarks like Louvre Abu Dhabi and Qasr Al Watan, immersive experiences such as teamLab Phenomena, major shopping malls, aquariums and family entertainment centres. Together, they ensure unforgettable experiences for all ages, all day long.
