Family Guide to Abu Dhabi: places you must add to your must-see list

Family Guide to Abu Dhabi: places you must add to your must-see list

June 11, 2025

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is not only a center of business and culture, but also a paradise for families seeking unforgettable adventures. In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the most interesting places you must visit with your children during your stay in Abu Dhabi. From green oases of tranquility to exciting amusement parks, each of these places offers unique experiences that will be memorable for the little ones and adults alike. Prepare to discover a fascinating world where tradition meets modernity, and every day can be the start of a new family adventure. Here are our top 5 suggestions that will make your stay in Abu Dhabi full of joy, laughter and unforgettable moments spent together.

Ad

Green oases and outdoor adventures

Start our journey with places that will allow you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature in the heart of the desert. Our first stop is Umm Al Emarat Park, a true oasis of greenery in the center of Abu Dhabi. This park, open daily from 8:00 am to 00:00 pm, offers extensive green spaces, ideal for family picnics and relaxation. For only 10 dirhams per person (as of 2023), you can enjoy numerous attractions such as a children's playground, jogging paths and a botanical garden. We especially recommend a visit in the evening, when the park is beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.

For families looking for a more active vacation, Circuit X Adventure Park is a place that is sure to give you an unforgettable experience. Located on Hudayriyat Island, the park offers a range of activities for different age groups. Here you can find a rope park with 31 obstacles at three levels of difficulty, tyrolean runs or climbing walls. This is an ideal place for children to test their skills and overcome their own limitations under the watchful eye of qualified staff.

Comparing the two places, Umm Al Emarat Park is more suitable for families with younger children or those who prefer a quieter vacation. Circuit X Adventure Park, on the other hand, is a paradise for active families and older children who like a challenge. Umm Al Emarat Park offers more shaded space and is a better choice on hot days, while Circuit X provides more adrenaline and activity options.

It's worth noting that Circuit X Adventure Park has a slightly higher rating (4.7 stars) compared to Umm Al Emarat Park (4.6 stars), which may indicate that visitors are more satisfied with the attractions offered. However, both places have very good reviews and are recommended by families visiting Abu Dhabi.

Keep in mind that it is worth reserving at least half a day at both parks to take full advantage of the attractions on offer. Whether you choose a leisurely picnic in the shade of palm trees or an exhilarating adventure in the heights, both places guarantee great memories and the opportunity to spend valuable family time surrounded by Abu Dhabi's impressive nature and modern infrastructure.

Exciting challenges and creative fun

The next item on our must-see list is Prison Island Abu Dhabi, a unique attraction that combines elements of an escape room with physical challenges. Located in Abu Dhabi Mall, this interactive adventure offers 31 different 'cells,' each with a different task to complete. It's ideal for families with teens or older children who enjoy puzzles and challenges. Prison Island has received an impressive 4.9-star rating, a testament to the high quality of entertainment and visitor satisfaction.

For families looking for more traditional forms of entertainment, Adventure HQ at Dalma Mall is a true paradise. This sports store not only offers a wide selection of outdoor equipment, but also an adventure zone with opportunities to climb, skateboard or test equipment. Adventure HQ also enjoys an excellent reputation of 4.9 stars, confirming its popularity among families.

Last but not least on our list is Orange Wheels at Al Wahda Mall. This is an entertainment center dedicated to the youngest children, offering a variety of educational and creative activities. With a rating of 4.8 stars, Orange Wheels is an ideal place for families with toddlers who are looking for a safe and stimulating play space.

When comparing the three places, it's worth noting their diversity and suitability for different age groups. Prison Island Abu Dhabi is the best choice for families with teens, offering intellectual and physical challenges. Adventure HQ will work well for active families who enjoy outdoor sports, regardless of the age of the children. Orange Wheels, on the other hand, is an ideal option for families with toddlers up to age 6-7, providing a safe and educational play environment.

In terms of pricing, Prison Island Abu Dhabi offers a variety of packages, usually starting at around AED 100 per person per hour of fun. Adventure HQ has more varied prices, depending on the activities selected, but admission to the adventure zone is around AED 50-100. Orange Wheels offers hourly or full-day tickets, with prices starting at around AED 60 per hour.

It's worth noting that all of these venues offer air-conditioned rooms, which is especially important in Abu Dhabi's hot climate. Prison Island and Adventure HQ are open until late in the evening (often until 10pm or 11pm), allowing for flexibility in planning your day. Orange Wheels usually closes earlier, around 8:00 pm, which fits the daytime rhythm of younger children.

Whether your family prefers physical challenges, creative play or educational experiences, each of these places offers unique experiences that will be remembered for a long time. Remember to check current opening hours and prices before visiting, as they are subject to change depending on the season or special events.

Practical tips for families visiting Abu Dhabi

When planning a family trip to Abu Dhabi, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind to help you fully enjoy all the attractions this fascinating city has to offer.

First, transportation. Abu Dhabi has a well-developed public transportation system, but for families with children, the most convenient option may be to use cabs or rent a car. Keep in mind that with high temperatures, especially in the summer months, traveling long distances on foot can be tiring, especially for the little ones.

Weather is a key factor in making a visit comfortable. During the summer months (June-August), temperatures can exceed 40°C, so when planning a visit during this period, try to choose attractions indoors that are air-conditioned or visit the parks early in the morning or evening. Winter (November-March) is the ideal time to explore outdoor attractions when temperatures are more pleasant.

When it comes to dress, remember to respect the local culture. Although Abu Dhabi is relatively liberal, you should take care to dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or traditional neighborhoods. In theme parks and shopping malls, the dress code is more casual, but it is still advisable to avoid overly revealing outfits.

Water and sun protection are an absolute must-have. Always carry water bottles (most parks and malls offer bottle-filling stations) and high UV sunscreen. Hats or caps will also come in handy, especially during outdoor activities.

As for food, Abu Dhabi offers a huge variety of cuisines from around the world. In most shopping centers you will find food courts with a wide selection of dishes, which is convenient with different culinary preferences in the family. However, you should also try local delicacies - many restaurants offer children's menus.

When planning your budget, keep in mind that Abu Dhabi, while not the cheapest place, offers many opportunities to save money. Many attractions have special family offers or discounts for children. Consider purchasing an Abu Dhabi tourist card, which can provide access to many attractions at a lower price.

Finally, don't forget to take time to relax. Although Abu Dhabi offers plenty of exciting attractions, it's important to find a balance between sightseeing and relaxation. Plan time to relax by the hotel's pool or on the beach - Corniche Beach is a popular spot for families, offering beautiful views of the city skyline.

Remember that flexibility is the key to a successful family trip. Be open to changes of plans and spontaneous discoveries - sometimes the best memories are made just from unplanned adventures. Abu Dhabi is a city that has a lot to offer families, and you're sure to find something to enjoy here, regardless of your children's age or interests.

We hope this guide will help you plan an unforgettable family adventure in Abu Dhabi. From green parks to exciting entertainment centers, this city has everything you need to create great memories for the whole family. Have a great stay and an unforgettable experience in the capital of the United Arab Emirates!

Similar articles

Ad