Abu Dhabi with Kids: Travel Guide

Family Travel Guide to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, offers a delightful mix of modern attractions and cultural experiences that appeal to families. With its impressive architecture, expansive parks, and plethora of kid-friendly activities, Abu Dhabi is an excellent destination for families. This guide will provide comprehensive insights into the best accommodations, dining options, attractions, and practical tips for visiting Abu Dhabi with children.

Best Family Hotels

When traveling with kids, choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference. Abu Dhabi boasts several family-friendly hotels equipped with facilities to entertain and accommodate children of all ages.

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

Location: Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi
Facilities: This luxurious hotel offers a dedicated Ritz Kids program that includes educational and fun activities. The expansive pool, private beach, and lush gardens provide ample space for outdoor play.
Cost: Rooms start at approximately AED 1,200 per night ($327 USD).
Insider Tip: Book a room with club access for additional perks like complimentary snacks and drinks throughout the day.

Yas Hotel Abu Dhabi

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Facilities: Situated on the famous Yas Marina Circuit, this hotel offers a unique experience for families. Features include a children’s pool, babysitting services, and easy access to nearby attractions like Ferrari World.
Cost: Rooms start at approximately AED 900 per night ($245 USD).
Tip: Request a room overlooking the racetrack to enjoy the thrilling view of the F1 circuit.

Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort

Location: Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Facilities: This beachfront resort offers a kids’ club, family pools, and eco-friendly experiences that educate children about local wildlife.
Cost: Rooms start at approximately AED 1,500 per night ($408 USD).
Insider Tip: Participate in the beach clean-up activities organized by the hotel to teach kids about environmental conservation.

Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Dining with children in Abu Dhabi is a breeze, thanks to the city’s diverse culinary scene. Here are some top picks where families can enjoy delicious meals in a welcoming environment.

Jones the Grocer

Location: Al Mamoura, Abu Dhabi
Specialties: This modern Australian eatery offers a diverse menu featuring everything from gourmet sandwiches to freshly baked pastries. The kids’ menu includes healthy and tasty options.
Cost: AED 50-80 per child ($14-22 USD).
Tip: Visit during weekend brunch hours for an extensive spread that caters to both adults and children.

The Cheesecake Factory

Location: Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Specialties: Known for its vast menu and generous portions, this American chain is a hit with families. The kids’ menu offers smaller portions of classic favorites.
Cost: AED 40-70 per child ($11-19 USD).
Insider Tip: Save room for their signature cheesecakes, which are a hit with kids and adults alike.

Nolu’s Café

Location: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Specialties: Offering a fusion of Afghan and Californian cuisines, Nolu’s Café provides a unique dining experience. The relaxed atmosphere is ideal for families.
Cost: AED 45-75 per child ($12-20 USD).
Tip: Try the smoothies and fresh juices for a refreshing treat.

Top Attractions for Children by Age Group

Abu Dhabi is teeming with attractions that cater to different age groups. Here’s a breakdown of the best activities for toddlers, children aged 5-10, and teenagers.

Toddlers (0-4 years)

Emirates Park Zoo

Location: Al Bahia, Abu Dhabi
Activities: This zoo provides a chance for toddlers to see and interact with animals like giraffes, elephants, and zebras. The petting zoo is especially popular with little ones.
Cost: AED 35 per child ($9.50 USD), AED 50 per adult ($13.60 USD).
Insider Tip: Arrive early in the morning when the animals are most active and temperatures are cooler.

Umm Al Emarat Park

Location: Al Mushrif, Abu Dhabi
Activities: This green oasis in the city features a children’s garden, animal barn, and splash pad. It’s a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely strolls.
Cost: AED 10 per person ($2.70 USD).
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and snacks to enjoy a relaxed day in the park.

Children (5-10 years)

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Activities: Home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, Ferrari World offers a range of rides suitable for younger kids, such as the Junior GT and Flying Aces.
Cost: AED 310 per child ($84 USD), AED 365 per adult ($99 USD).
Insider Tip: Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues and get discounts.

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Activities: This indoor theme park features attractions based on Warner Bros. characters like Batman, Superman, and Bugs Bunny, with rides suitable for all ages.
Cost: AED 310 per child ($84 USD), AED 365 per adult ($99 USD).
Tip: Plan your visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy more time on the rides.

Teenagers (11-17 years)

Yas Waterworld

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Activities: With over 40 rides, slides, and attractions, Yas Waterworld promises a thrilling day for teenagers. The Dawwama and Bandit Bomber are particularly popular.
Cost: AED 250 per child ($68 USD), AED 270 per adult ($74 USD).
Insider Tip: Rent a cabana for a comfortable base to retreat to between rides.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Location: Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Activities: While primarily a cultural destination, the Louvre Abu Dhabi offers interactive workshops and exhibits that engage teenagers in art and history.
Cost: AED 31.50 per child ($8.50 USD), AED 63 per adult ($17 USD).
Tip: Check the museum’s calendar for family-friendly workshops and activities.

Safety Tips

Ensuring your family’s safety is paramount when traveling to any destination. Here are some safety tips for visiting Abu Dhabi with kids:

Stay hydrated: Abu Dhabi’s climate can be extreme, especially during the summer months. Encourage children to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Sun protection: Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against the harsh sun.
Emergency contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including the local police (999), ambulance service (998), and your country’s embassy.
Secure accommodation: Choose hotels with good security measures and child-friendly facilities.

Medical Facilities

Abu Dhabi is home to several world-class medical facilities, ensuring peace of mind for families traveling with children.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi: Located on Al Maryah Island, this hospital offers comprehensive medical services and has a dedicated pediatric department.
Sheikh Khalifa Medical City: Situated in the city center, it provides a range of medical services with an emphasis on family care.
Tip: It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses abroad.

Baby Gear Rental

Traveling with young children often requires a lot of gear. Fortunately, Abu Dhabi has several services that offer baby gear rentals.

JustKidding Rentals: Provides a wide range of baby equipment for rent, including strollers, car seats, and cribs. Reservations can be made online.
The Baby Boutique: Offers high-quality baby gear for short-term rentals, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Stroller-Friendly Areas

Navigating Abu Dhabi with a stroller is generally easy, thanks to its modern infrastructure.

Corniche Beach: This picturesque beachfront features a long, flat promenade perfect for strollers.
Yas Marina Circuit: With wide walkways and stunning views, it’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll with little ones.
Shopping Malls: Places like Yas Mall and The Galleria have spacious layouts and elevators, making them accessible for strollers.

Parks and Playgrounds

Abu Dhabi offers numerous parks and playgrounds where kids can burn off some energy.

Khalifa Park: This extensive park includes a mini train, playgrounds, and a maritime museum. Entry is AED 2 ($0.54 USD).
Reem Central Park: Located on Reem Island, this park boasts a skate park, splash pad, and several play areas.
Tip: Visit in the late afternoon or early evening when temperatures are cooler, and the parks are livelier.

Rainy Day Activities

While Abu Dhabi enjoys plenty of sunshine, the winter months can bring occasional rain. Here are some indoor activities perfect for a rainy day:

Kidzania Abu Dhabi: Located in Yas Mall, this interactive mini-city allows kids to role-play various professions. Entry is AED 185 ($50 USD) for kids.
Bounce Abu Dhabi: An indoor trampoline park located at Marina Mall, offering a fun way to stay active indoors. Prices start at AED 85 ($23 USD) per hour.
Tip: Check for special offers or family packages, which can provide better value.

General Tips for Traveling with Kids in Abu Dhabi

Transport: The city’s taxis are affordable and can accommodate families easily. Car seats are not mandatory by law but are recommended for safety.
Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly, especially when visiting cultural sites. Ensure children are aware of local customs and rules.
Language: While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken, making communication easy for tourists.
Currency: The local currency is the UAE Dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s handy to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi is a vibrant, family-friendly destination that offers a wealth of activities and experiences for children of all ages. From exciting theme parks and interactive museums to beautiful parks and sandy beaches, the city provides endless opportunities for both fun and learning. With practical amenities like baby gear rentals and world-class medical facilities, traveling to Abu Dhabi with kids is not only enjoyable but also stress-free. Whether you’re exploring the cultural attractions or simply relaxing by the pool, Abu Dhabi is sure to create lasting memories for the whole family.