Abu Dhabi - A Five-Star Family Escape

Abu Dhabi is no longer just a stopover for luxury or business - it’s increasingly making a name for itself as a family-friendly destination.

Here’s a look at how each element from theme park visits to beachfront hotels can form the backbone of a well-rounded family holiday in Abu Dhabi!

Where to Stay with the Family

Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana

Located along the Corniche beachfront, Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan is a smart pick for families wanting to balance luxury with laid-back fun. The pool area is one of the largest in Abu Dhabi and includes a dedicated kids’ pool. The private beach means you can go from breakfast to beach ball in minutes, and their family-friendly Horizon Restaurant makes mealtimes easy with international favourites and a relaxed setting. Babysitting services are available too - perfect if the adults want a spa hour or evening walk.

Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi

This one’s all about variety. Connected directly to Abu Dhabi Mall, it has immediate access to shopping, casual eats, and entertainment - ideal for tweens and teens. Families can book interconnecting rooms or opt for suites with extra space, and the shaded kids’ pool, on-site watersports, and selection of global dining options (from seafood to pizzerias) tick plenty of boxes. There’s even a private beach, and for older kids, kayaking and paddleboarding are available right on your doorstep.

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas

A showstopper for the final leg of the trip, Saadiyat Rotana is located along the Saadiyat Island shoreline. The resort has a splash park, lazy river, and an Aladdin’s Cave Kids Club with creative workshops, games, and outdoor fun. The expansive beachfront is calm and shallow, ideal for little swimmers, while parents can relax with a drink at Sim Sim Restaurant or Hamilton’s Gastropub, both of which welcome kids with open arms and family menus.

Things to Do with the Kids

Abu Dhabi often mixes adrenaline with education, giving families the chance to learn, laugh, and let loose together.

Yas Island

Abu Dhabi’s answer to an entertainment megaplexYas Island is Abu Dhabi’s answer to an entertainment megaplex. This place is a no-brainer for travelling families, with everything from the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World to a cartoon come-to-life at Warner Bros. World. Everything here is engineered for excitement!

Even Yas Mall, often included as a “shopping stop,” has soft play centres, family restaurants, and VR gaming zones. You can easily spend two or three days here hopping from ride to ride.

Qasr Al Watan

For a dose of culture, Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace, has interactive exhibits and stunning architecture that older kids and teens will love. It’s history-meets-holograms, with storytelling about the UAE’s founding and traditions. Be sure to catch the evening light show if your timing allows.

Saadiyat Island Cultural District

While little ones splash around the resort, older children and parents can explore the nearby cultural institutions. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, in particular, is wonderfully family-oriented, with a Children’s Museum, hands-on creative spaces, and a café perfect for post-art snacks.

Corniche and Marina Walks

Ideal for unwinding between excursions, the Corniche area has beaches, parks, and waterfront cycling paths. Grab an ice cream and enjoy the sea views. It’s safe, clean, and stroller-friendly - especially around late afternoon when the heat lifts.

Eating Out with Kids

Abu Dhabi is surprisingly easy when it comes to food. Most restaurants cater to children with dedicated menus and flexible dishes. Dino’s at Pearl Rotana is a classic family winner, with pizza, pasta, and staff who don’t blink at a dropped fork or a fussy toddler. At Sim Sim, buffet dining makes everyone happy - even the picky eaters.

Flight Connections from Ireland

Families can fly direct from Dublin to Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways, with a comfortable flight time of just under 8 hours. The airline’s inflight entertainment includes a strong kids' section, and family seating options make the long-haul journey that bit more manageable.