26 family-friendly things to do in Abu Dhabi in 2026

Explore museums, beaches, parks, and adventures, with the best things to do that make family time unforgettable in Abu Dhabi

This year has been declared the Year of the Family in the UAE, and there is no better time to celebrate the people who make life feel full. Family can be the one you were born into, the one you create, or the community you choose to share moments with. It is in laughter over ice cream, quiet walks along the Corniche, and evenings spent discovering new things to do. Abu Dhabi is full of experiences and things to do that invite families to connect, explore, and make lasting memories. From culture and adventure to beaches and wildlife, there is something for every type of family here. This A to Z guide of 26 things to do in 2026 is a roadmap for those moments that turn ordinary days into stories worth telling.

A is for Abu Dhabi Festival

The Abu Dhabi Festival returns for its 23rd edition from 12 April 2026, bringing world-class culture right to the heart of the capital. With more than 1,000 artists from 19 countries, it is one of those rare events where parents and kids can be moved by the same performance. From Jon Batiste opening the festival at Emirates Palace to HAUSER filling Etihad Arena with soaring cello, it is a reminder that culture can be thrilling, not stuffy. Pick the right show and it becomes a family night out no one forgets.

B is for Bike rides on the Corniche

This is Abu Dhabi parenting at its simplest and best. Flat paths, sea views and plenty of places to stop when little legs get tired. Ride early in the morning or just before sunset, then reward everyone with ice cream. Sometimes the easiest plans are the ones that stick. Add it to you list of fun things to do in Abu Dhabi.

C is for CATS the musical

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s beloved musical arrives in Abu Dhabi in May, and it is tailor-made for families dipping their toes into theatre. The costumes, the music and the magic pull kids in before they even realise they are watching something “cultural”. It is big, bold and surprisingly emotional. A perfect first theatre experience.

Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island

Dates: May 14 to 24, 2026

Tickets: from Dhs90 at Platinumlist

D is for Desert safari

Not all desert safaris are made equal, especially with kids in tow. Choose one with gentle dunes, short drives and time for sandboarding rather than white-knuckle thrills. Watching the sun dip below the sand never loses its power. It is Abu Dhabi at its most cinematic.

E is for Etihad Rail

Train travel is about to become part of everyday family life in the UAE. Etihad Rail’s passenger service is expected to come online in 2026, connecting 11 cities from Al Sila to Fujairah, with Abu Dhabi right at the centre of it all. For kids, it is the thrill of watching the country roll past the window. For parents, it is faster, calmer travel, with future journeys between Abu Dhabi and Dubai taking as little as 30 minutes.

F is for Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa

Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa is one of those rare beach spots that actually welcomes families without making it feel complicated. Parents can claim a sunbed or cabana while kids splash, kayak or burn off energy with beach games. The vibe is easy and unfussy, with food trucks and a beach bar serving Mexican-inspired comfort food that works just as well for sharing. This should be on you list of things to do. Come during the day, stay a little longer, and enjoy a beach club that understands not every family outing needs a schedule.

Loctaion: Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed St, Fahid Island, Abu Dhabi

Time: Wednesday to Sunday, noon to 1am

Cost: Weekdays – Dhs150 (single bed); Dhs250 (double bed); Dhs350 (small cabana); Dhs500 (large cabana); Weekends – Dhs250 (single bed); Dhs350 (double bed); Dhs500 (small cabana); Dhs1000 (large cabana). Fully redeemable against F&B.

Contact: (056) 358 4458

G is for Guggenheim Abu Dhabi

When it opens, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will change the way families experience contemporary art in the city. The scale alone will impress, but it is the ideas that spark conversations long after you leave. This is the kind of place that grows with your kids. One visit will never be enough.

H is for Hudayriyat Beach

Hudayriyat has become a family playground that keeps expanding. There are swings by the sea, bike paths, water sports and space to roam without feeling boxed in. It has that holiday feeling without the packing. You will arrive for an hour and somehow stay all afternoon.

I is for Indoor snow at Snow Abu Dhabi

Snow Abu Dhabi is the coolest place in the city, literally and figuratively. Step inside and the desert heat disappears as kids dive into zip lines, sleds, carousels and zorbing. Every corner has a playful name, from the Flight of the Snowy Owl to the Polar Express Train and The Enchanted Tree, making it feel like a snowy storybook. Parents soon find themselves laughing in the snow too, because it is impossible not to join in.

Location: Reem Mall, Abu Dhabi

Time: Sunday to Thursday 10 am until 10 pm; Friday to Saturday  10 am until 12 am.

Cost: from Dhs215

Contact: (060) 059 9905

J is for Jubail Mangrove Park

This is where Abu Dhabi slows down. The boardwalk winds quietly through mangroves while birds flit overhead and kids start asking real questions about nature. It is calm, grounding and surprisingly magical. A reset button disguised as a walk.

Location: Jubail Island

Time: 7am to 9pm

Cost: Dhs15 (adults) and Dhs10 (children)

Contact: (02 546 8341)

K is for Kayaking

There are few ways to see Abu Dhabi that feel this peaceful and playful at the same time. Glide past the Louvre from the water, the iconic dome reflecting in calm ripples, and suddenly even teenagers put down their phones. Or paddle through the winding channels of Jubail Mangrove Park, spotting birds and feeling a little like explorers. It is gentle, quietly adventurous, and one of the city’s most underrated family experiences.

L is for Louvre Abu Dhabi Children’s Museum

This space is designed for curious hands and busy minds. Exhibits are interactive, playful and clever enough to keep adults engaged too. It is art without the hush. Kids leave feeling like the museum was built just for them.

Loctaion: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island

Time: 10am to midnight

Cost: Dhs70 (adults); free for kids

Contact: (060) 056 5566

M is for Mary Poppins

A musical that parents love just as much as their kids. Expect big songs, familiar magic and that warm, fuzzy feeling that lingers long after the curtain call. It is the kind of show that turns into a family reference point. Suddenly everyone is humming on the drive home.

Loctaion: Etihad Arena, Yas Island,

Time: March 25 to April 15 2026

Cost: from Dhs120

N is for National Aquarium at Al Qana

The National Aquarium is one of the Middle East’s largest and most captivating underwater worlds. Walk through tunnels with sharks and rays gliding overhead, and watch kids press their noses to the glass in wide-eyed wonder. There are 46,000 animals across 10 zones, from playful tropical fish to graceful rays, all looked after by a dedicated team of experts. It is effortlessly educational, endlessly fascinating, and a hit with the whole family.

Location: The National Aquarium of Abu Dhabi, Rabdan, Al Qana

Time: 10am to 10pm

Cost: Dhs110

Contact: (02) 418 6666

O is for Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi

Opening in 2026, Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi is a new addition to Hudayriyat Island that puts movement and wellbeing at the centre of a family stay. The focus is on sport, recovery and open space, with facilities designed for everything from training sessions to low-key play. Parents can fit in a workout or some quiet downtime while kids stay active without being funnelled into a kids club. It feels modern, outdoorsy and built for families who like to move, not sit still.

P is for Palace nights at Qasr Al Watan

Qasr Al Watan is the UAE’s presidential palace, a stunning cultural landmark open to the public, showcasing Emirati heritage, architecture, and history. At night, the palace is transformed by a light and sound show that makes the gardens and grand halls feel magical. Families can explore, admire the details, and soak up the scale of the place. It is beautiful, educational, and unforgettable.

Location: Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi

Time: Daily, 10am to 8pm; light and sound shows at 6:30pm and 7:30pm

Cost: Adults Dhs60, Children (4–17) Dhs30, Under 4 free

Q is for Qasr Al Hosn

Qasr Al Hosn fort is the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi. This is where Abu Dhabi’s story begins. The exhibitions are thoughtful and accessible, making history feel close rather than distant. Kids get context, parents get perspective. It is quiet, powerful and worth revisiting as they grow.

Location: Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi

Time: Daily, 9am to 8pm

Cost: Adults Dhs30, Children (3–12) Dhs10, Under 3 free

R is for Rafting and water play at Wadi Adventure

Head to Al Ain for a day that feels worlds away from the city. The rapids are family-friendly and the splash zones are pure joy. It is active, loud and wonderfully exhausting. Everyone sleeps well after this one.

Location: Wadi Adventure, Al Ain Adventure

Time: Daily, 9am to 6pm

Cost: Family-friendly rapids entry Dhs175–Dhs250 per person depending on activities

S is for Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Few places inspire awe quite like this. Older kids start to notice the details, the scale and the sense of calm. It opens conversations about culture, respect and beauty. Go early or near sunset for the best experience.

Location: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

Time: Saturday–Thursday, 9am to 10pm; Friday 4:30pm to 10pm

Cost: Free

T is for Theme parks on Yas Island

Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World and Yas Waterworld continue to set the standard for family fun. There is a ride or attraction for every age and energy level. You could easily build a whole holiday around them. For more ideas, this is where our Playgrounds feature comes in handy.

U is for Umm Al Emarat Park

This park does it all. Shaded walkways, brilliant play areas and enough green space to stretch out a picnic blanket. It works just as well for toddlers as it does for teens. A true family favourite.

Location: Umm Al Emarat Park, Abu Dhabi

Time: Daily, 8am to 11pm

Cost: Adults Dhs10, Children under 12 Dhs5, Under 3 free

V is for Visit Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

This is luxury that actually works for families. Day passes give access to pools, private beach areas and space for everyone to do their own thing. Kids splash and play while parents can relax and soak up the sun. Dining is exceptional across 12 restaurants, including two Michelin-starred options, with beachfront seating and global flavours that make lunch or dinner feel like a treat for everyone.

W is for Wildlife drive at Sir Bani Yas Island

Spotting giraffes and cheetahs in Abu Dhabi never loses its wow factor. The wildlife drive feels adventurous but is easy and well organised. It is the kind of experience kids talk about for weeks. A real highlight for animal lovers.

Location: Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Time: Daily, 9am to 5pm (reservation required)

Cost: Adults Dhs295, Children (3–12) Dhs195, Under 3 free

 X is for Xtreme fun at Circuit X

This one is for older kids and teens who crave adrenaline and fun things to do. Climbing, ziplining and obstacle courses give them independence and confidence. It is loud, energetic and unapologetically fun. Circuit X Abu Dhabi is an exciting park that’s fun for the entire family: A thrilling high ropes course, 100m long zipline, daring free fall, a splash pad for your little ones, an infinity pool, BMX trails and skateboarding ramps are sure to get everyone’s inner action-junkie going.

Location: Circuit X, Abu Dhabi Hudayriyat Island

Time: 10am to 9pm

Contact: (02) 691 0302

Y is for Yas Marina Circuit

There is far more to Yas Marina Circuit than Formula One excitement. Families can book a behind‑the‑scenes tour to peek into the world of motorsport, then head to Yas Kartzone to race each other on a dedicated kart track that even kids can try. On certain evenings, the circuit opens for walking, running or cycling together on the actual track surface, which feels like claiming a tiny piece of racing history for your own. Add in high‑speed driving experiences, cool views along the marina and plenty of spots to grab a bite or watch the sunset, and it becomes a full day of fun that doesn’t need a race weekend to feel special

Z is for Zoo adventures at Emirates Park Zoo and Al Ain Zoo

Animals always deliver. From close-up encounters to wide open spaces, both zoos offer different but equally memorable experiences. Kids learn without realising they are learning. Some classics never get old.

Location: Emirates Park Zoo, Abu Dhabi / Al Ain Zoo, Al Ain

Time: Daily, 9am to 5pm

Cost: Adults Dhs70–80, Children (2–12) Dhs50–60, Under 2 free