As a family who loves to travel, we’re always on the lookout for destinations that strike the right balance between kid-friendly fun, cultural enrichment, and a little luxury for the parents. I’ve got to admit, Abu Dhabi wasn’t at the top of our list—until we went. And now? We can’t stop talking about it.
From jaw-dropping landmarks and fascinating museums to warm hospitality and unforgettable desert adventures, Abu Dhabi surprised us in the best possible ways. It’s modern, clean, safe, and incredibly family-oriented, with so many hidden gems that made our trip feel special from beginning to end.
Here’s our full guide—where we stayed, what we did, and where we ate—plus a few tips we wish we knew before going.
Where We Stayed: The Abu Dhabi EDITION
If you’re looking for a hotel that blends comfort, style, and next-level service, The Abu Dhabi EDITION is it.
From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel completely at home. What truly touched us was how attentive they were to our kids. Every day, our girls were surprised with little gifts in the room—colouring books, stuffed animals, or sweet treats. It was thoughtful and completely unexpected, and it made a huge impression on them (and us!).
The rooms were large, beautifully decorated, and perfect for families. We never felt cramped, and the design is both elegant and functional. The location is also ideal—close to the Corniche and just a short drive to most major attractions. Whether we were heading to a museum or planning a relaxing beach day, nothing ever felt too far away.
What We Did:
Abu Dhabi is packed with activities that are fun for both kids and adults. Here are some of our favorite stops—each with its own vibe and unforgettable moments.
Qasr Al Watan – The Presidential Palace
Qasr Al Watan is stunning. It’s not just another government building—it’s a living cultural landmark. The architecture is grand, intricate, and beautiful, and walking through the palace feels like stepping into a fairytale. We all learned so much about UAE governance and culture, and even the kids were fascinated by the dazzling halls and interactive exhibits.
Desert Safari with Desert Rose Tourism
No trip to the UAE is complete without a desert safari. We booked with Desert Rose Tourism, and the experience was unforgettable. From sandboarding and camel rides to watching the sunset over the dunes with a delicious meal and nightly entertainment, every moment felt like a scene from a movie.
But be warned: the dune bashing is intense! Super fun—but definitely not for those with sensitive stomachs. We learned this the hard way and recommend eating light or waiting until after the ride.
After the adrenaline rush, we relaxed at a desert camp with live performances and a delicious buffet. The kids got their hands painted with henna and loved the belly dancing show, while we got a rare moment to enjoy the desert’s calm beauty.
Bonus: Included in the price is pick-up and drop-off to your Abu Dhabi location.
The National Aquarium
This was an unexpected favourite. The National Aquarium one of the largest aquariums in the Middle East and incredibly well designed (and way cheaper than Sea World). We loved the immersive exhibits, and there were tons of hands-on areas for the kids. It was educational, air-conditioned (a bonus on hot days), and a great way to spend a morning. It’s also located in the Al Qana which is a tourist attraction in it’s own with its abundant amount of restaurants and activities.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Even the photos don’t do it justice. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is breathtaking—easily one of the most beautiful buildings we’ve ever seen. It’s incredibly peaceful, and just stunning.
Dress code tip: Make sure to wear respectful clothing, bring a scarf or shawl as women have to have their heads covered. Abayas are also available at the entrance.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
This museum is a work of art in itself. Even if you’re not a typical museum-goer, this one’s different. The mix of ancient artifacts, contemporary art, and interactive displays kept all of us engaged. The dome architecture alone is worth the visit—it feels like walking through a constellation. It’s also home to the famous Instagrammable catwalk pictures (although, keep reading for an alternative).
Bonus: The children’s museum inside is hands-on and fun, with creative activities tailored for young minds.
Where We Ate:
Abu Dhabi’s food scene is vibrant, diverse, and full of surprises. Whether we were grabbing coffee or sitting down for a long lunch, the food was consistently fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented.
Saddle House
This became one of our go-to spots. It’s in a perfect location and ideal for a relaxed family meal. The kids loved the fresh juices, and shakshouka. Bonus: it’s casual but still stylish, which makes it easy with kids in tow.
Aptitude Cafe
If you’re planning a trip to the Louvre, make sure to visit Aptitude Cafe nearby. It has hands-down the best view of the museum and is a hidden spot for perfect photos. The food and drinks were fantastic, and it was a peaceful break in between sightseeing.
Trio Cafe
We stumbled on this gem while looking for a coffee spot at sunset—and wow. The atmosphere was cozy, and the terrace offered a gorgeous view as the sun dipped over the city skyline. A great way to unwind after a busy day.
Breath – Hudayriyat Island
Possibly the most aesthetic beach cafe we’ve ever been to. Think boho vibes, tropical drinks, and clean, beachy design. It’s also super family-friendly—there’s space for kids to run around while you sip your iced latte and soak up the sun. We could’ve spent hours there.
If you’re looking for a destination that’s equal parts exciting and enriching, Abu Dhabi is the one. It has everything—luxury, culture, family-friendly attractions, and some of the most welcoming people we’ve encountered on our travels.
We left feeling rested, inspired, and connected as a family. The girls are already asking when we can go back. And honestly? We are too.
Abu Dhabi didn’t just meet our expectations—it exceeded them.
xoxo Fil
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