Our family are visiting us over the break, where can we take them?
Where to Take Family Visiting Abu Dhabi

If your family or friends are visiting Abu Dhabi during the break, you’re in luck—the capital city of the UAE is full of things to do, places to visit, and cultural experiences that will leave a lasting impression. Whether they’re into food, adventure, or history, here’s your ultimate guide to showing them the very best of Abu Dhabi.
1. Local Restaurants & Emirati Dining
Start your guests’ journey with authentic Emirati cuisine or international fine dining:
- Al Fanar Restaurant & Café – traditional Emirati meals with nostalgic décor.
- Meylas – a cozy spot for Emirati breakfast like balaleet and khameer.
- Corniche dining – restaurants with stunning sea views.
2. Public Parks & Beaches
For a relaxed day outdoors, take your friends to Abu Dhabi’s green spaces and sandy shores:
- Umm Al Emarat Park – family-friendly with shaded lawns and a petting zoo.
- Abu Dhabi Corniche Beach – perfect for walking, swimming, or cycling.
3. Traditional Markets & Modern Malls
Blend old and new by exploring shopping destinations:
- Souk Central Market (World Trade Center) – traditional Emirati market with spices, crafts, and souvenirs.
- Madinat Zayed Gold Souk – dazzling jewelry and authentic gold shopping.
- The Galleria & Yas Mall – luxury brands and modern shopping.
4. F1 Track at Yas Marina Circuit
Car lovers will be thrilled by a visit to the Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Guests can:
- Try go-karting at Yas Kartzone.
- Book a driving experience in a Formula car.
- Cycle or run the track during open community nights.
5. Museums & Culture
For friends who love art and history, Abu Dhabi’s museums are a must:
- Louvre Abu Dhabi – world-class art and architecture.
- Qasr Al Hosn – the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi, now a cultural landmark.
- Qasr Al-Watan -
6. Desert Adventures
No visit to Abu Dhabi is complete without a desert safari. Take your friends for:
- Dune bashing and sandboarding.
- Camel rides and falconry.
- Bedouin-style dinner under the stars.
7. Nature Reserves, Islands & Mangroves
For nature lovers, Abu Dhabi has stunning ecological treasures:
- Mangrove National Park – kayaking tours through serene waterways.
- Sir Bani Yas Island – wildlife safaris in a protected nature reserve.
- Al Maya Island – beach day trips with private island vibes.
8. Day Trips to Nearby Cities
For longer stays, take your friends on day trips outside Abu Dhabi city:
- Al Ain – visit Al Ain Zoo, Jebel Hafeet Mountain, and the UNESCO oasis.
- Al Dhafra Region – discover untouched beaches, desert festivals, and heritage villages.
Final Thoughts
From authentic restaurants and public beaches to theme parks, museums, and desert safaris, Abu Dhabi has everything to impress your friends during their visit. Don’t forget nearby destinations like Al Ain and Al Dhafra for a complete UAE experience. With its mix of modern luxury and cultural heritage, Abu Dhabi guarantees unforgettable memories.