Beat The Heat: 28 of the best indoor activities in Abu Dhabi
These activities and attractions will keep you cool and entertained throughout the summer months.
Abu Dhabi is always buzzing with excitement but we all know that summers in the capital can get pretty hot. But fear not, the capital has got you covered with a plethora of indoor activities and attractions that will keep you cool and entertained. Whether you’re a culture vulture, an adrenaline junkie or a family in search of some unforgettable fun, Abu Dhabi is the place to be. So get ready for an epic summer adventure as FACT helps you dive into some must-visit spots that will help you beat the heat,
Abrahamic Family House
The Abrahamic Family House on Saadiyat Island offers you a chance to learn about the three faiths it represents and immerse yourself in their rituals. The three houses of worship are not only of equal stature but also respect the architectural codes and individualism of the faith they represent. Each takes the form of a cube that is 30 metres deep, 30 metres wide, and 30 metres tall. A fourth space – not affiliated with any specific religion – is an educational centre devoted to mutual understanding and peace.
GO: Visit www.forhumanfraternity.org for more information.
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
Prepare to be amazed at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, where you can dive into the ancient art of falconry and get a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of the UAE. You’ll learn how these magnificent birds are cared for and protected. You can even witness the process firsthand – from the birds being weighed and treated to the incredible opportunity to hold them yourself.
GO: Visit www.falconhospital.com for more information.
AirManiax
AirManiax, located in Yas Mall, is a massive indoor entertainment megaplex with multiple themed zones and attractions for all age groups. From trampolines and obstacle courses to exciting adventures, this place promises some action-packed fun.
GO: Visit www.airmaniax.com for more information.
Al Forsan International Sports Resort
Al Forsan International Sports Resort has many fantastic activities to choose from. They’ve got a shooting club, archery and a virtual shooting simulator called VirTra 300. This place should definitely be on your go-to list of indoor activities in Abu Dhabi this summer.
GO: Visit https://alforsan.com for more information.
Bounce
Bounce will literally have you jumping for joy. From a Free-Jump arena to a Slam Dunk zone, this place has tons of exciting things for you to do inside Marina Mall Abu Dhabi – including a Bounce Fit workout.
GO: Visit https://bounce.ae for more information.
CLYMB Abu Dhabi
CLYMB Abu Dhabi is one of the best indoor activities in Abu Dhabi. Located in Yas Mall, it offers two thrilling activities that will get your heart racing. Show off your skills and conquer those heights at the climbing arena which has five different walls – and if you’re up for a challenge, try scaling The Summit, standing at a whopping 141 feet. Hold on tight because they also have the world’s biggest indoor skydiving flight chamber.
GO: Visit www.clymbabudhabi.com for more information.
Emirates National Automobile Museum
The Emirates National Automobile Museum is an absolute dreamland for car enthusiasts. The pyramid-shaped car museum is home to over 200 cars owned by His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, and the world’s largest model jeep. Inside you’ll find an incredible collection of classic cars that will make your jaw drop. Get ready to dive deep into the captivating history of automobiles and witness the mind-blowing craftsmanship behind these iconic rides.
GO: Visit www.enam.ae for more information.
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Head to the one and only Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental to get a taste of luxury – quite literally. Their cafe, Episodes, is decked out in pink blossom and serves a decadent gold cappuccino, sprinkled with real 24-karat gold flakes. Yes, you heard it right. Sip on this golden elixir and feel like royalty.
GO: Visit mandarinoriental.com/abu-dhabi for more information.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Ferrari World is the ultimate playground for all things fast and furious. Brace yourself for heart-stopping roller coasters that’ll leave you breathless and exhilarated. The park is home to Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest rollercoaster, travelling from 0 to 240 km/h in 4.9 seconds. You can break another record as you ride Flying Aces, which features the tallest inverted loop in the world at a stomach-churning 52 meters in height. Ferrari World also presents interactive exhibits that let you dive into the fascinating world of these powerful machines. Whether you’re a hardcore car enthusiast or just someone looking for an epic day out, this place has got you covered.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
KidZania
KidZania is a mini-city where kids can have the time of their lives while learning about jobs. They’ve got a scaled replica of a real city that’s spread across a massive 55,000 square feet. And get this, they have over 40 activities for kids and teenagers aged four to 16. They can try out different jobs, learn about money and get a taste of the real world, all while having a blast.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Located in the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, Louvre Abu Dhabi contains a multitude of artworks, all housed under the impressive domed architecture designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel. Taking a different museographic approach to other collections worldwide, Louvre Abu Dhabi displays its pieces chronologically. More than just a museum, the building itself is an attraction, with its latticed roof providing the striking ‘rain of light’ effect, whilst the flooded sea walls add to the ambience of this artistic marvel. The museum also hosts movie nights and a children’s museum.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Manarat Al Saadiyat
Dive headfirst into the colourful world of Abu Dhabi’s art and culture at the one and only Manarat Al Saadiyat. This place is an absolute gem for creative souls, brimming with exciting exhibitions, mind-blowing workshops and artistic events. It’s a hub where local and international artists come together to showcase their incredible talents. Meaning ‘place of enlightenment’, Manarat Al Saadiyat opened in 2009 and continues to host an ongoing series of activities for the local community, including workshops and talks.
GO: Visit https://manaratalsaadiyat.ae for more information.
Masdar City
Masdar City has driverless cars cruising around the streets and you can hop on board and let these futuristic vehicles take you on a ride. It’s like stepping into a sci-fi movie. As you zip around the sustainable urban community, make sure to take in the futuristic architecture that surrounds you.
GO: Visit https://masdarcity.ae for more information.
Mission Play by Mattel
Make your way to the latest indoor playground in Abu Dhabi at The Galleria Al Maryah Island. Mission: Play! by Mattel offers an all-new entertainment experience, promising a day of family fun. Here, your little ones can immerse themselves in the Barbie Zone or get into the competitive spirit at the Hot Wheels Zone. And over at the MEGA Zone, they’re in for tons of creative activities that’ll keep them engaged.
GO: Follow @missionplaybymatteluae on Instagram for more information.
National Geographic Ultimate Explorer
This edutainment complex at The Galleria Al Maryah Island offers exciting attractions designed to captivate you and sneak in some learning. It has a virtual and augmented reality space that allows you to be an astronaut while the other helps you find rare and exotic animals. It’s perfect if you want to be the next Sultan Al Neyadi or Steve Irwin.
GO: Visit www.thegalleria.ae for more information.
Observation Deck at 300
If you want to soak in the most jaw-dropping views of Abu Dhabi, you’ve got to make your way here. It’s a slice of heaven on the 74th floor of the fabulous Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. Get ready to have your mind blown because the vistas from up there are absolutely breathtaking. Feeling peckish? Afternoon tea is also available.
GO: Visit www.hilton.com for more information.
Pixoul Gaming
If you’re looking for the ultimate gaming experience, then Pixoul Gaming is where it’s at. This place is a gamer’s paradise, with all the bells and whistles you could ever dream of. The centre hosts gaming festivals, competitions, the first-ever Esports Academy in the Middle East, and a world cross-platform metaverse. Whether you’re into virtual reality adventures or console gaming showdowns, Pixoul Gaming has got you covered.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Prison Island
Prison Island at Abu Dhabi Mall is a super cool adventure experience. It’s not your typical escape room and houses 26 individual cells that have tasks for you to solve. Incidentally, each challenge is based on its own distinct theme, with special effects and incredible designs that are set to transport teams into an unforgettable alternative reality. Participants are sure to be utterly enraptured as they immerse themselves in solving cells like The Vault, Tilt, Cliffhanger, Tower, Flash Dance and many more fun, engaging activities. They get trickier and more challenging as you go, and you need to complete them all if you want to escape successfully.
GO: Visit www.prisonisland.ae for more information.
Qasr Al Hosn
Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest and most significant building in Abu Dhabi, holding the city’s first permanent structure; the watchtower. Constructed in the 1790s, the commanding structure overlooked the coastal trade routes and protected the growing settlement established on the island of Abu Dhabi. Over the centuries, Qasr Al Hosn has been home to the ruling family, the seat of government, a consultative council and a national archive; it now stands as a museum dedicated to narrating Abu Dhabi’s history. Interactive exhibits, guided tours and cultural programs bring the past to life, while knowledgeable guides share captivating stories.
GO; Visit https://qasralhosn.ae for more information.
Qasr Al Watan
Abu Dhabi’s Qasr Al Watan is both a working Presidential Palace and a majestic cultural landmark that invites visitors to discover the rich legacy of knowledge and tradition that has shaped the UAE. Get ready to be treated like royalty as you step through its majestic halls, marvel at the opulent interiors and stroll through the picture-perfect gardens. This place is not just about luxury and splendour, but it’s also a treasure trove of knowledge where you can learn all about the UAE’s governance, heritage and timeless traditions.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
Prepare to make a splash at Abu Dhabi’s latest opening – SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. Dive headfirst into a mesmerising marine wonderland that will leave you in awe. This place is not your average park – it’s a world-class, top-notch, marine-themed paradise where you can get up close and personal with a fascinating array of marine species.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the world’s most impressive architectural wonders. Promoting the tolerant nature of Islamic culture, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has become a leading attraction on the cultural and tourism map. The exemplary model of Islamic architecture was constructed between 1996 and 2007 and is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates. It features a prayer hall that can accommodate over 7000 worshipers and the world’s largest carpet.
GO: Visit www.szgmc.gov.ae for more information.
Snow Abu Dhabi
Prepare to chill out in the coolest new place in town at Snow Abu Dhabi. It’s your ticket to escaping the scorching summer heat and stepping into a winter wonderland right in the middle of the desert. Get your snow gear ready because this indoor snow park located in Reem Mall is packed with thrilling activities that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a snowboarding newbie, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
The National Aquarium
Get ready to be amazed as you discover the incredible marine life that calls this place home. It’s like stepping into a real-life adventure from Finding Nemo or The Little Mermaid. With its jaw-dropping exhibits, interactive displays and mind-blowing aquatic experiences, this place will have you swimming with excitement. From colourful coral reefs to majestic sea turtles, you’ll encounter a whole cast of fascinating creatures along the way.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
UAE Currency Museum
This place is a treasure trove of knowledge where you can uncover the secrets behind the UAE’s money magic. With informative exhibits and interactive displays, you’ll be taken on a journey through time to discover how the country’s currency has evolved over the years.
GO: Visit https://visitabudhabi.ae for more information.
Velocity
Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush at Velocity, the coolest slide in the Middle East. Located at WTC Mall, this stainless-steel sensation will take you on a wild ride from the top to the bottom in style. With slides measuring a whopping 68 metres and 54 metres long, you’ll be sliding at speeds of two to three metres per second.
GO: Visit www.wtcad.ae for more information.
Warehouse 421
Get ready to be dazzled by mind-blowing performances and workshops that will ignite your creative spark and make you see the world through an artistic lens. It’s a vibrant hub in Mina Zayed where you can mingle with fellow art lovers, engage with diverse artistic expressions and witness the incredible talents emerging from the UAE’s vibrant art scene.
GO: Visit www.421.online for more information.
Warner Bros World
Calling all movie buffs. The world’s largest indoor theme park is like stepping into the silver screen with your favourite Warner Bros characters by your side. Brace yourself for heart-pounding rides that will have you screaming with excitement, from gravity-defying coasters to adrenaline-pumping simulators. And the fun doesn’t stop there. Catch mind-blowing live shows that will transport you into the heart of your favourite movies, where you can sing, dance, and cheer alongside beloved characters.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
