Visiting Abu Dhabi with kids: theme parks, speed boats and farms

21.02.2024 - 23:25 / lonelyplanet.com / Manarat Al-Saadiyat

Against a backdrop of golden sand and turquoise-lined islands, Abu Dhabi is packed to the dunes with kid-friendly adventures. And thanks to the traditional warm Arabian hospitality afforded to all visitors in this part of the world, families headed to the UAE capital can expect a warm welcome.

In fact, Abu Dhabi is an incredibly child-friendly destination where most hotels boast facilities just for little ones, with kids clubs, splash pools and kid-specific menus more common than not. As well as tons of child-specific attractions, Abu Dhabi has plenty for families to discover together. The city is also extremely safe, meaning parents can enjoy peace of mind while exploring with little ones in tow.

Abu Dhabi makes traveling with kids easy with family check-in desks at Abu Dhabi airport, baby changing facilities in most bathrooms and handy breastfeeding rooms in the city’s malls for nursing moms. Children are also welcome in most restaurants and bars, although check if there are evening restrictions if the venue serves alcohol. In fact, the only real challenge families will face in Abu Dhabi is the heat. How to beat it? Don’t come in summertime – and plan outdoor activities first thing in the morning or in early evening.

Families trying to decide where to stay can consider Yas Island on the outskirts of the city, which is filled with theme parks galore. The waterfront Corniche is another good spot with a seemingly endless golden shoreline and plenty of nearby malls, restaurants and hotels. 

It may be the desert, but that doesn’t mean things don’t grow in Abu Dhabi, and a visit to Mazaraa Farm proves exactly that. The UAE’s first certified organic farm is perfect for little ones to try vegetable picking and to meet goats, donkeys, rabbits, horses and camels. Afterwards, enjoy refreshments in the farm’s boho-style cafe.

One of the oldest green spaces in the city, Umm Al Emarat Park has a blooming botanical garden, water fountains and a music garden – where children can bang around on glockenspiels and bongos. On warmer days, make a beeline to the three-floored Shade House, which boasts brilliant views of the park and beyond. There are plenty of cafes and food trucks inside the park for when little ones get peckish.

Museums and galleries may not be traditionally baby-friendly, but there’s no reason to miss out on culture because you have kids in tow. Manarat Al Saadiyat hosts a revolving calendar of painting, photography and cinema exhibitions, and has a permanent outdoor space with a street-art-adorned skate park. The adjacent garden boasts six colorful public artworks and is a great place for kids to burn off some steam. Larte – a contemporary Italian eatery – is also located here, and has a