Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Abu Dhabi

Saturday, December 23: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

In the morning, visit the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques. Admire the intricate architecture and peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Wahat Al Karama, a memorial honoring UAE's fallen soldiers. End the day with a visit to the Marina Eye, a Ferris wheel offering stunning views of Abu Dhabi's skyline.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free entry, approximately 2 hours
• Wahat Al Karama: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
• Marina Eye: AED 50 per person, approximately 30 minutes

Sunday, December 24: Yas Island

Start your day at Yas Island, home to exciting attractions. In the morning, visit Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, an indoor amusement park with thrilling rides. Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at Yas Mall. In the afternoon, cool off at Yas Waterworld, a water park with slides and pools. End the day by watching a spectacular Yas Marina Circuit light show.

• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: AED 295 per person (general admission), approximately 4-6 hours
• Yas Waterworld: AED 280 per person (general admission), approximately 4-6 hours
• Yas Marina Circuit Light Show: Free entry, approximately 30 minutes

Monday, December 25: Louvre Abu Dhabi

Discover art and culture at Louvre Abu Dhabi. Spend the morning exploring the museum's impressive collection of artworks from around the world. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the museum's restaurant with a panoramic view. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll along the Corniche Beach, enjoying the golden sands and azure waters. End the day by visiting the Heritage Village, showcasing traditional Emirati culture.

• Louvre Abu Dhabi: AED 63 per person (adult ticket), approximately 3-4 hours
• Corniche Beach: Free entry, time spent depends on preference
• Heritage Village: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Emirates Park Zoo

Head to Emirates Park Zoo for a day of family fun. In the morning, explore the zoo's vast collection of animals, including giraffes, tigers, and elephants. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the zoo's scenic surroundings. In the afternoon, let the kids have a blast in the zoo's petting farm and play area. End the day by watching the entertaining sea lion show.

• Emirates Park Zoo: AED 50 per person (adult ticket), approximately 4-6 hours
• Food for picnic lunch: Cost depends on personal preference
• Sea Lion Show: Free with entry ticket, approximately 30 minutes

Wednesday, December 27: Yas Marina and Observation Deck at 300

Begin your day at Yas Marina, where you can admire luxury yachts and have a delicious breakfast at one of the waterfront cafes. In the morning, take a scenic boat tour around Yas Island. Afterward, visit the Observation Deck at 300 for panoramic views of Abu Dhabi's skyline. In the afternoon, explore Yas Mall for shopping and family-friendly activities.

• Breakfast at Yas Marina: Cost depends on personal preference
• Yas Marina Boat Tour: AED 200 per person (approximately), approximately 1-2 hours
• Observation Deck at 300: AED 95 per person (adult ticket), approximately 1-2 hours
• Yas Mall: Cost depends on personal preference and time spent

Thursday, December 28: Qasr Al Hosn

Immerse yourself in Abu Dhabi's history at Qasr Al Hosn. In the morning, explore the historic fort and the Cultural Foundation. Enjoy a traditional Emirati lunch at one of the nearby restaurants. In the afternoon, visit the Abu Dhabi Corniche Park and spend time enjoying the beautiful waterfront. End the day by taking a relaxing dhow cruise along the coast.

• Qasr Al Hosn: AED 30 per person (adult ticket), approximately 2-3 hours
• Traditional Emirati Lunch: Cost depends on personal preference
• Abu Dhabi Corniche Park: Free entry, time spent depends on preference
• Dhow Cruise: AED 150 per person, approximately 1-2 hours

Friday, December 29: Al Ain Oasis and Al Jahili Fort

Take a day trip to Al Ain, known as the Garden City. In the morning, visit the tranquil Al Ain Oasis and stroll through its lush palm groves. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the oasis. In the afternoon, explore the historical Al Jahili Fort and the nearby Al Ain National Museum. End the day by visiting the Al Ain Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals.

• Al Ain Oasis: Free entry, time spent depends on preference
• Food for picnic lunch: Cost depends on personal preference
• Al Jahili Fort: AED 5 per person (adult ticket), approximately 1-2 hours
• Al Ain National Museum: AED 3 per person (adult ticket), approximately 1-2 hours
• Al Ain Zoo: AED 40 per person (adult ticket), approximately 3-4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, an interactive facility showcasing the rich desert ecosystem. Another hidden gem is the Mangrove National Park, where you can explore the mangrove forests through kayaking or boat tours. Families with children might enjoy a visit to KidZania Abu Dhabi, an educational entertainment center where kids can role-play various professions.

For hotel and flight prices, check out kayak.com.