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Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Thought you'd seen all of Abu Dhabi? Think again! These 6 family spots are game changers
Ever tried kayaking through peaceful mangroves? Or feeding a capybara straight from a snack bowl? How about learning to cook a local Emirati dish together with your kids? In Abu Dhabi, there's a whole side of the city made for real family fun, where you can get your hands messy, your feet wet, and your hearts full. This isn't your typical sightseeing list. It's packed with lesser-known experiences that are fun, creative, and full of surprises. Let's go and explore! Learn and have fun at École Ducasse! If you think your family dinners are fun, wait until you try making a dish together at École Ducasse Abu Dhabi. In this hands-on cooking class, families team up to whip up dishes using fresh, local ingredients. It's part cooking, part giggling, part learning and 100% bonding time. No wonder your little budding chef would enjoy it the most. Get Messy at the Splatter Room – where art time goes wild Forget colouring inside the lines! At The Splatter Room in Al Seef Village Mall, chaos is part of the fun. This all-ages art space invites families to suit up, grab paint, and literally throw it on canvases in glow-in-the-dark or freestyle sessions. It's a break from the ordinary; this messy, creative experience is pure joy for kids, parents, and everyone else. No rules, no pressure, just unforgettable, colourful fun you get to take home. Snack time with Capybaras at The National Aquarium Visiting stunning aquariums is cool. But how often do you get to feed a capybara? At The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, families can share snack time with the world's largest (and cutest) rodent. It's an up-close, hands-on moment that kids will adore. Add in tropical birds, lush greenery, and river-themed zones, and you've got one unforgettable, nature-packed experience that's far from your average aquarium visit. Step into a Cartoon Universe at Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi It's not every day you get to stroll through Gotham City, have lunch in Bedrock, and wave at Bugs Bunny—all under one roof. Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi isn't just another theme park; it's an indoor wonderland packed with 29 immersive rides, six themed lands, and beloved characters brought to life. For a lesser-known gem, hop on the Scooby-Doo: Museum of Mysteries ride—a spooky, trackless adventure that gets the whole family solving ghostly puzzles together. Let the kids run the city at KidZania Abu Dhabi KidZania Abu Dhabi is a kid-sized city where children take charge. From becoming a firefighter to baking treats or reporting news, kids can try out over 60 real-world jobs in this indoor miniature city. It is the perfect mix of fun and learning, helping little ones build life skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and confidence. We recommend it because every activity here sparks curiosity and teaches kids how the world works, all while they're having a great time. Go green and get hands-on at Mazaraa Organic Farm Mazaraa Organic Farm is a one-of-a-kind spot where a family can experience real farm life while experiencing sustainability. As the first certified organic farm in the UAE, it offers guided tours through fields of fresh fruits and vegetables, fun planting activities, and a chance to feed and pet animals. Children can also enjoy horse rides and learn about how organic farming helps the planet. We recommend it because it turns environmental education into a fun, interactive adventure that the whole family can enjoy. So, this summer, skip the usual and dive into something truly memorable. Every family member, from toddlers to grandparents, will find their kind of fun. Trust us, there's one place that turns family time into an adventure worth repeating. Summer in Abu Dhabi? Totally recommended!
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
These 7 Abu Dhabi spots will have your kids asking, 'Can we go again?'
Kids these days aren't just tagging along, they're picking the itinerary too! And why not? A recent Experience Abu Dhabi survey reveals that young travellers are calling the shots on family trips, with a preference for learning activities, exploring art and culture, immersive fantasy, and more. So if you're dreaming of a holiday where the kids ditch their screens willingly, Abu Dhabi delivers—with art exhibits, splash zones, and vibrant local markets that turn every moment into a memory. Here are 7 epic experiences your kids will be begging to do again and again. A world of wonder at The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi If your kids are into sea creatures, wild adventures, and Insta-worthy thrills, The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi is a must-stop. With 10 themed zones and over 46,000 marine animals, including sharks, rays, puffins, and the awe-inspiring 'Super Snake' exhibit, this place feels like stepping inside a real-life marine movie. Kids can feed stingrays at Jungle Encounter, explore the lush Flooded Forest, or spot bull sharks up close; every twist and turn sparks excitement. It's part adventure, part science class, and 100% unforgettable. Zero Latency – A Family VR adventure like no other Your kids will gear up for a thrilling team-based VR experience at Zero Latency, Galleria Mall. Up to eight players, from kids to parents, can run, jump, duck, and dodge in a massive 225 m² play space. You can choose from high-energy missions like Undead Arena (zombie-fighting), sci-fi exploration in Engineerium, or futuristic showdowns like Outbreak Origins. It's a perfect blend of cutting-edge tech, active teamwork, and family-friendly gaming, sure to leave everyone shouting, 'Again!' 3. École Ducasse – Whip up recipes as a family No wonder your kids will be ready to swap screen time for some stir time. At École Ducasse cooking classes in Abu Dhabi, kids and parents team up in the kitchen to whip up dishes like Ferni, a traditional dessert, using fresh, local ingredients. It's hands-on, mess-friendly, and all about learning through play. It's perfect for picky eaters, budding chefs, and even curious grandparents. From kneading to tasting, it's the kind of culinary adventure that ends with full hearts and happy tummies. 4. Kayaking at Jubail Mangrove Park If your kids are into wildlife, nature, and a little adventure, Jubail Mangrove Park is a must-do. Paddle through serene mangrove-lined waterways, spot herons, crabs, and even turtles, and learn how these magical trees help protect the planet. Whether you're gliding in a kayak or walking the boardwalk, it's a peaceful yet fascinating escape that gets two thumbs up from every generation. 5. Get Messy (In a Good Way) at Art Studio, Manarat Al Saadiyat Who says art is just for grown-ups? At the Art Studio in Manarat Al Saadiyat, creativity is hands-on and for everyone. Kids can try their hand at painting, printmaking, or even robotics, while adults get in on the fun too. With drop-in sessions and cool workshops, it's a colourful, screen-free zone for your kids. 6. SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi – Where learning feels like adventure Step into the magical world of SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, where eight immersive realms take kids on an unforgettable journey. From feeding sea turtles and meeting dugongs to watching dolphin presentations and exploring the region's largest multi-species aquarium, this marine wonderland is packed with kid-approved moments. Curious minds will love the behind-the-scenes look at the Animal Care Centre and the exciting exhibits at the Research & Rescue Centre. 7. Pixoul Gaming – Level up family time like never before Don't blame us if your kids refuse to come home after visiting Pixoul Gaming at Al Qana. Here, families don't just play together; they compete, create, and go full throttle. Think VR adventures, F1 racing simulators, classic arcade throwbacks, and even a massive 3-storey e-karting track! Whether your kid dreams of becoming a gamer or you just want to challenge them to a friendly Pac-Man face-off, Pixoul's got thrills for every generation. Bonus: it's home to the region's first-ever eSports academy. So, this summer vacation, let the kids take the lead—give them the adventures, creativity, and hands-on fun they've been dreaming of. After all, the best family memories start with experiences they truly love.
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
From water slides to VR battles, 8 Abu Dhabi adventures perfect for families
School's out, bags are packed, and the big family vacation debate is on! Where to go and how to keep the kids off screens without them getting bored? A recent global survey by Experience Abu Dhabi (Will create a hyperlink of the survey article) of 5 to 12-year-olds dropped some major hints: Kids want adventure, imagination, and a chance to live their favourite game or movie. Turns out, there's one place that ticks all the right boxes- Abu Dhabi. From racing at Yas Marina Circuit to wild encounters at Emirates Park Zoo and stepping into fantasy at Warner Bros. World, it's basically a giant, real-life playground. Here are the top 8 'Can we go again?' spots to look for. 1. Make a Splash at Yas Waterworld This spot is the ultimate water adventure! Think over 40 slides, a wave pool, roller coaster, and even the world's largest sheet wave for surfing! Little ones can go wild at the Tot's Playground with mini pools, fountains, sprays and kiddie slides, while the parents can chase thrills across a park the size of 15 football fields. Bonus: Just look up, you'll see it gleaming atop Jebel Dhana (Emirati pearl), the towering centrepiece of Yas Waterworld. 2. Dive into wonder at The National Aquarium With 10 themed zones, over 200 sharks and rays, and 46,000+ sea creatures from around the world, The National Aquarium is perfect for curious little explorers. Kids can feed stingrays at the Jungle Encounter, watch puffins waddle around in the Arctic zone, and even meet the Super Snake. It's exciting, educational, and unforgettable. Bonus: Visit the massive pearl-diver-inspired coral tank at Bu Tinah Island. It's like stepping inside a marine storybook. 3. Meet those epic cartoon characters at Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi Meet the heroes and toons you've grown up watching, all under one massive roof. From Gotham City to Bedrock, with 29 thrilling rides, interactive zones, and live shows, Warner Bros. World has it all. Whether meeting Tom & Jerry or flying with Superman, there's non-stop fun for all ages. And with nine quirky dining spots and tons of themed souvenirs, you'll leave with full hearts and happy tummies. Bonus: Catch live entertainment and meet iconic characters like Superman, Bugs Bunny, and Fred Flintstone, perfect for unforgettable family selfies and spontaneous giggles. 4. Level up the adventure at Pixoul Gaming Whether you're a joystick ninja or just want to enjoy virtual thrills, Pixoul Gaming is Abu Dhabi's coolest escape into pixelated fun. This mega gaming arena has retro arcade games, high-octane VR experiences, and even an esports abode. From racing simulators to e-karting across three levels, it's a non-stop fun fest for kids and adults alike. Bonus: Check out their interactive VR storytelling games. Your kids will go gaga over them. 5. Burn off that energy at Adrenark Adventure Adrenark Adventure is Abu Dhabi's largest indoor adventure park, and it's built for pure, high-energy fun. From multi-level go-karting tracks to wild experiences like the Human Claw (yes, you get dropped in like a real-life arcade game), this place is a playground for thrill seekers of all ages. With over 20 adrenaline-pumping activities like climbing walls, rope courses, giant slides, and inflatable arenas, there's never a dull moment. Bonus: Planning a birthday? Host it here for a non-stop action party your kids will talk about for weeks. 6. Break out of boredom at Prison Island This place is like an escape room meets a real-life game show. Here, kids and parents team up to crack puzzles, tackle physical challenges, and unlock different themed cells, all while racing against the clock to climb the leaderboard. With every room demanding teamwork, brains, and a bit of agility, it's the ultimate test of fun and family bonding. Bonus: The more rooms you conquer, the more points you earn, so bring your best team spirit. 7. Chill out (literally!) at Snow Abu Dhabi This snowy wonderland is always winter and always wonderful. With over 10,000 square feet of icy magic, the park is packed with frosty fun. It has toboggan races, thrilling summit escapes, a whimsical Polar Express Train ride and many more. Whether your kid's building snowmen or zooming down snowy slopes, the fun is unending here. Bonus: Warm up with hot cocoa and sweet treats at the cosy cafés dotted around the park. 8. Go beyond reality with Zero Latency If your idea of fun includes fighting robots in zero gravity or taking on a zombie apocalypse with your crew, then Zero Latency VR at The Galleria Mall is your kind of thrill. This cutting-edge, free-roam VR experience drops you right into mind-blowing virtual worlds where you move, dodge, and explore without a single wire holding you back. Try Singularity, a sci-fi adventure that can have you floating through space stations and solving mysteries as a team. Bonus: You must try Undead Arena and Engineerium, each one wilder than the last. The above-mentioned spots tick everything kids dream of doing on their holidays- adventure, imagination, and loads of fun! With endless ways to explore, play, and make unforgettable memories, summer in Abu Dhabi is totally recommended.
Gulf Insider
01-05-2025
- Gulf Insider
Abu Dhabi announces opening of first immersive Butterfly Sanctuary
The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi has announced plans to open the capital's first immersive butterfly sanctuary. The announcement came during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, a premier global event for the travel and tourism industry. The new attraction, which is scheduled to open in September 2025, will be situated next to The National Aquarium at Al Qana and promises to deliver a nature-driven experience to visitors, adding to Abu Dhabi's tourism offerings. The facility will house over 10,000 butterflies within climate-controlled bio-domes that recreate natural ecosystems from different parts of the world. Visitors will explore two distinct zones—Asia and the Americas—each featuring species native to these regions. The Americas dome will host two-toed sloths, caiman crocodiles, and American insects, while the Asian dome will feature bearcats, koi carp, and various Asian insects. Throughout the gardens, visitors will be surrounded by butterflies in flight. 'With the Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi, our primary objective is to create an environment that authentically mirrors their natural habitats, ensuring they thrive in a secure and controlled setting. It is more than an attraction; it's a nature reserve designed to promote a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of our ecosystems. We aim to inspire visitors to engage with nature on a meaningful level,' Paul Hamilton, General Manager of The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi said. The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi aims to combine education with entertainment while promoting conservation values. As the first such facility in the capital, it targets families, students, and nature enthusiasts who wish to experience these ecosystems firsthand.
Filipino Times
01-05-2025
- Filipino Times
New butterfly garden opening soon in Abu Dhabi
Ka-TFT, have you been to a butterfly garden before? If not, this could be your chance! Abu Dhabi is set to open its first immersive butterfly sanctuary in September 2025! The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi will open next to The National Aquarium at Al Qana and was officially announced during the Arabian Travel Market 2025. The facility will house over 10,000 butterflies in climate-controlled bio-domes, each designed to reflect different ecosystems from Asia and the Americas. Visitors can also expect to see animals like sloths, koi fish, bearcats, and various insects. The announcement was made at the Arabian Travel Market, a major travel and tourism event in the region. The Butterfly Gardens is expected to be a key attraction for both residents and tourists. 'With the Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi, our primary objective is to create an environment that authentically mirrors their natural habitats, ensuring they thrive in a secure and controlled setting,' said General Manager Paul Hamilton. 'It is more than an attraction; it's a nature reserve designed to promote a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of our ecosystems. We aim to inspire visitors to engage with nature on a meaningful level.' This upcoming destination brings together nature, learning, and fun all in one place—ideal for families, nature fans, or anyone craving a chill but exciting break from the usual mall or beach trip in Abu Dhabi.
