Abu Dhabi 7 Days with Children: A Memorable Family Adventure
Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, is a vibrant and modern destination that offers a plethora of activities and attractions for travelers of all ages. With its stunning architecture, world-class theme parks, and rich cultural heritage, Abu Dhabi is the perfect place for a family vacation. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed itinerary and valuable tips to make the most out of your 7-day trip to Abu Dhabi with children.
Destination Highlights π
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of one of the largest mosques in the world. Don't forget to dress modestly and explore the stunning architecture and intricate details.
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Experience the thrill of high-speed rides and attractions at the world's first Ferrari-branded theme park. From roller coasters to racing simulators, there's something for everyone.
- Yas Waterworld: Beat the heat and have a splashing good time at this water park. With over 40 exhilarating rides and slides, it's a paradise for water lovers.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi: Immerse yourself in art and culture at this iconic museum. Discover masterpieces from around the world and explore the unique architecture of the building.
- Emirates Park Zoo: Get up close and personal with a wide variety of animals at this family-friendly zoo. From giraffes to elephants, your little ones will have a blast.
Suggested Itinerary πΊοΈ
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque | Ferrari World Abu Dhabi | Yas Waterworld |
| Day 2 | Emirates Park Zoo | Louvre Abu Dhabi | Corniche Beach |
| Day 3 | Heritage Village | Observation Deck at 300 | Mangrove Kayaking |
| Day 4 | Yas Marina Circuit | Yas Mall | Yas Marina |
| Day 5 | Qasr Al Hosn | Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital | Al Ain Oasis |
| Day 6 | Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival | Al Jahili Fort | Al Ain Zoo |
| Day 7 | Al Ain Palace Museum | Al Ain National Museum | Jebel Hafeet |
Day 1:
- Morning: Explore the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and admire its stunning architecture.
- Afternoon: Head to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi for an adrenaline-filled experience with thrilling rides and attractions.
- Evening: Cool off at Yas Waterworld and enjoy the water slides and wave pools.
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit Emirates Park Zoo and get up close with a variety of animals.
- Afternoon: Immerse yourself in art and culture at Louvre Abu Dhabi.
- Evening: Relax and unwind at Corniche Beach, where you can enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Day 3:
- Morning: Explore the Heritage Village and learn about the traditional Emirati way of life.
- Afternoon: Take in panoramic views of the city from the Observation Deck at 300.
- Evening: Embark on a memorable mangrove kayaking adventure and discover the unique ecosystem.
Day 4:
- Morning: Visit the iconic Yas Marina Circuit and learn about the world of Formula 1 racing.
- Afternoon: Indulge in some retail therapy at Yas Mall, which offers a wide range of shops and entertainment options.
- Evening: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Yas Marina and dine at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Day 5:
- Morning: Explore the historic Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi.
- Afternoon: Visit the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital and learn about the fascinating world of falconry.
- Evening: Take a day trip to Al Ain Oasis and discover the lush greenery and ancient irrigation system.
Day 6:
- Morning: Experience the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival and immerse yourself in Emirati traditions and culture.
- Afternoon: Visit the Al Jahili Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about its rich history.
- Evening: Spend the evening at Al Ain Zoo and get up close with a wide variety of animals.
Day 7:
- Morning: Explore the Al Ain Palace Museum and discover the opulent lifestyle of the UAE's rulers.
- Afternoon: Visit the Al Ain National Museum and learn about the region's archaeological treasures.
- Evening: End your trip with a visit to Jebel Hafeet, the highest peak in Abu Dhabi, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Realistic Time Management β°
To make the most of your time in Abu Dhabi, it's important to plan your activities efficiently. Here's a detailed hourly schedule with estimated travel times:
-
Day 1:
- Morning: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (2 hours)
- Afternoon: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi (4 hours)
- Evening: Yas Waterworld (4 hours)
-
Day 2:
- Morning: Emirates Park Zoo (3 hours)
- Afternoon: Louvre Abu Dhabi (3 hours)
- Evening: Corniche Beach (2 hours)
-
Day 3:
- Morning: Heritage Village (2 hours)
- Afternoon: Observation Deck at 300 (2 hours)
- Evening: Mangrove Kayaking (3 hours)
-
Day 4:
- Morning: Yas Marina Circuit (2 hours)
- Afternoon: Yas Mall (3 hours)
- Evening: Yas Marina (2 hours)
-
Day 5:
- Morning: Qasr Al Hosn (2 hours)
- Afternoon: Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (2 hours)
- Evening: Al Ain Oasis (3 hours)
-
Day 6:
- Morning: Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival (3 hours)
- Afternoon: Al Jahili Fort (2 hours)
- Evening: Al Ain Zoo (3 hours)
-
Day 7:
- Morning: Al Ain Palace Museum (2 hours)
- Afternoon: Al Ain National Museum (2 hours)
- Evening: Jebel Hafeet (3 hours)
Local Cuisine π½οΈ
Abu Dhabi offers a diverse culinary scene with a mix of traditional Emirati dishes and international cuisine. Here are some famous local foods to try:
- Arepas de huevo: A popular Venezuelan dish made with cornmeal dough and filled with eggs.
- Ceviche: A refreshing dish made with raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices.
Here are some highly-rated restaurants in Abu Dhabi to satisfy your taste buds:
- Restaurant A: Known for its authentic Emirati cuisine and warm hospitality.
- Restaurant B: Offers a wide range of international dishes with a modern twist.
- Restaurant C: Specializes in seafood and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
Accommodation Recommendations π¨
Abu Dhabi offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some recommendations:
- Budget: Centro Al Manhal by Rotana, Premier Inn Abu Dhabi International Airport, Ibis Abu Dhabi Gate.
- Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi Downtown, Courtyard by Marriott World Trade Center, Abu Dhabi, Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan.
- Luxury: Emirates Palace, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Hotel.
How To Get There And Away π
Abu Dhabi is easily accessible by air, with Abu Dhabi International Airport serving as the main gateway. Several airlines offer direct flights to Abu Dhabi from major cities around the world. Once you arrive, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to reach your accommodation.
Comprehensive Packing List π§³
- Clothing: Lightweight and breathable clothes, swimwear, comfortable shoes for walking.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and a beach umbrella.
- Electronics: Camera, portable charger, and adapters for charging devices.
- Miscellaneous: Travel-sized toiletries, first aid kit, reusable water bottle, and a backpack for day trips.
Budget Consideration π°
a. The standard cost of living per person per day in Abu Dhabi is approximately $100-$150, excluding accommodation. b. Relevant costs from the suggested itinerary include entrance fees to attractions, meals, and transportation. c. To save money, consider purchasing attraction tickets in advance, opting for local street food, and using public transportation instead of taxis.
Language and Cultural Etiquette π£οΈ
- Arabic is the official language in Abu Dhabi, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- It's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering someone's home.
Some Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences πΏ
- Take a desert safari and experience dune bashing, camel riding, and traditional Bedouin activities.
- Visit the Al Ain Camel Market and witness the bustling trade of camels.
- Explore the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve and spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions β
Q: When is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi? A: The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is during the winter months from November to March when the weather is pleasant.
Q: Are there any cultural restrictions in Abu Dhabi? A: Yes, it's important to respect local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly and avoiding public displays of affection.
Q: Can I drink alcohol in Abu Dhabi? A: Alcohol is available in licensed establishments such as hotels and restaurants. However, public intoxication is not tolerated.
Conclusion π
Abu Dhabi offers a perfect blend of modern attractions and rich cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for a family vacation. From exploring architectural wonders to enjoying thrilling theme parks, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. So pack your bags, create unforgettable memories, and embark on a memorable adventure in Abu Dhabi!
πΊ For more inspiration, check out these videos of Abu Dhabi:
