UAE Hidden Gems and Places for kids in Abu Dhabi and rest of UAE

There are so many places for kids in Abu Dhabi  and others,  and Discovering the UAE with your kids and exploring hidden places, should be on the top of your list of things to do before summer hits us here in the UAE. Families tend to forget that there is so much more to the UAE than shopping malls, fast cars and expensive restaurants. The UAE is full of untouched beauty just waiting to be explored. All these places are on YOUR doorstep! Check out our top picks of family friendly places to visit on the weekend, where all the family can enjoy no matter their age. Check them out below, we are sure they will not disappoint, and you will create long lasting memories for you and the kids Abu Dhabi Mangrove National Park Go on a kayak or boat tour around these gorgeous mangroves and get a chance to spot some crabs, herons, flamingos, and fish. If you're extra lucky, you may even get to see some foxes, turtles or dolphins. You can book your tour via multiple travel and tour agencies such as My Abu Dhabi Holidays and Noukhada Adventure Company. Book today through our app with prices starting at AED 1500 per person for a boat tour and Kayak Tours starting from AED 130 per person. Heritage Village Get a glimpse of the past way of life in Abu Dhabi. Along with a traditional souk, a mosque, and dhows, you can also explore artifacts and watch artisans in action as they make pottery, weave fabrics, and blow glass. Occasionally, you can view (and sometimes participate) in public workshops where craftsmen demonstrate traditional skills such as metal work, pottery and weaving. Running from Saturday to Thursday from  9:00 to 16:00, and every Friday from  15:30 to 21:00 at the Emirates Heritage Club, Abu Dhabi (near Marina Mall). Dalma Island Explore the Emirates with your entire family and go on an adventure of exploration on Abu Dhabi's Dalma Island. You'll find ancient buildings, including prominent mosques, and historic date juice factories. Roam around the island's mountains and hills where you will spot minerals and ancient geological and archeological finds. Everything found on the island will give you and your kids insight to what took place up to 6,000 years ago. Fossil Dunes Just a short 30min drive out of Abu Dhabi's city centre, you'll find gorgeous fossil dunes shaped throughout the years by deserts winds. The dunes are accessible throughout the day but for some amazing shots, head there during sunrise and sunset.  Ras Al Khaimah Wadi Shawka Explore the wild mountainside with your family and enjoy hiking trails, cycle paths, natural pools and camping spots Al Jazirat Al Hamra Ghost Town Explore the mystery of Ras Al Khaimah's Ghost Town, built in the 14th century and home to thousands of pearl fishermen who suddenly abandoned their homes in the 20th century. Rumours say that the place is haunted - so if you and your family are up for a spook, head there for a bit of adventure. Ice Rink @ Jebel Jais Skate on the highest skating rink in the UAE at 1,300 meters above sea level. The Jebel Jais' overhanging skating rink- complete with fake penguins- is guaranteed to be a thrilling experience for your entire family.  Available from Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 until 17:00.For AED 45, the  30-minute skating sessions, includes skate rentals, and is  bound to give you the perfect winter experience as you're surrounded by the spectacular Hajar mountains. Fujairah Snoopy Island Off the shore of Fujairah, you'll find 'Snoopy Island', named after everyone's favourite beagle from the Peanuts comics. You can kayak and snorkel around the island, rent a chalet on the beach and even settle down to camp. Al Ain Al Ain Oasis UAE’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Ain Oasis is considered one of the world’s oldest permanently inhabited settlements, dating back more than 4,000 years. Nowadays, you and your family can explore shaded pathways that wind through over 145,000 date palms, check out the aflaj irrigation system, and learn more about the Oasis at the Eco-Centre. Daily 8:00 to 17:00 Other Liwa Oasis Go on a desert adventure and visit the largest oasis in the region. Surrounded by palm tree plantations and an old fortress, this oasis is home to actual local Bedouins. If you're lucky, you may be invited in for some camel milk or tea!