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Enjoy your Spring break in Abu Dhabi

From public parks to creative classes, Abu Dhabi offers plenty of entertainment options for children

The UAE in general and Abu Dhabi in particular are full of entertainment options for kids of all groups. From relishing the pleasant weather on grassy lawns to taking a stroll under shady trees, the capital city offers plenty of options to children. Families in the emirate can enjoy barbecue and spend an amazing day out in the open. The fun doesn't end here. With a host of hot deals available in shopping malls across Abu Dhabi, coupled with discounted packages, live shows for kids and performances lined up; there is hardly a dull moment for children.
Culturally diverse, Abu Dhabi has world-class infrastructure and roads that signify the best of everything. The Yas Island, home to the world's premier location of F1 car racing, and Ferrari World continue to provide both entertainment and recreation to children across all age groups. This season, for instance, children can enjoy rides and watch out for new additions to the island's portfolio of Ferrari-inspired rides and attractions. Unique rides and attractions catering to all ages and interests make Ferrari World a great fun destination. There is plenty of leisure activity, especially for the young ones.
Those who prefer a more creative pastime in the emirate are not disappointed either. Concepts like Music Monkey have been especially designed to allow children to explore their artistic side. The fun classes involve introducing songs and rhymes to children from three months to four years with age-specific groups tailored for their development. There is a wide range of props to stimulate fine skills with mirrors, large colourful balls, light wands and more. Children get to learn from active participation amidst a mix of music, singing, action and listening.
Those enthusiastic about scouting wild life in Abu Dhabi can head off to the Emirates Park Zoo. The zoo hosts a variety of animals at its wildlife park, including rare white tigers, giraffes and elephants. They also have a primate zone that reverberates with the hollers of different types of monkeys. A flamingo park with a sea lion enclosure is a major draw in the zoo. That is not all. At the petting zoo, children can actually touch and feed some breeds of animals. Time spent at the zoo is sure to give kids a whole new definition of wildlife.
For parents that want to give their children a crash course on the heritage and history of the UAE, the Al Ain National Museum is a great option. Kids can have a great time in the museum going through various facets of the UAE culture. With its numerous archaeological, ethnographical and historical relics, the museum offers a peek into the country's traditions and way of live and how it has changed over the years. Be it the Bedouin jewellery, weapons, tools or instruments, there is plenty to explore in the Al Ain National Museum, located opposite the Eastern Fort. Children can also visit the Formal Park and enjoy hurtling around its well-tended peripheries. The park is built as a maze next to a walled garden dotted with several fountains. A track with exercise stations runs along the park's main length. Its green zones are popular with families who enjoy barbecue in the pits. Children can play badminton in the paved area and enjoy fun fair with rides and inflatable slides in the evening. Located on Corniche East, between the 6th street and Muroor Road, entry to the park is free.
Located on the 32nd Street at Khalidiyah, Children's Park is another great attraction for the little ones. It has a walled area for women and children only. With great landscaping that includes comfortable benches and a pavilion in the middle of the park, the park offers rides for kids. To keep the youngsters engrossed, there are various climbing frames in the park built in the shape of spaceships and pineapples. If you are hungry and want to grab a bite, after all the hopping around, the park has a little café too.
- sadiq@khaleejtimes.com