The capital city of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi sits on an island in the Persian Gulf. As the oil exports skyrocketed, so did the city’s skyline. Boasting some of the world’s most visited attractions. Abu Dhabi has all the glitz and glam of Dubai but a much more relaxed vibe, its the perfect place for a family holiday or some winter sun! Here are our top family friendly activities in Abu Dhabi.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the world's largest indoor theme park. For fans of super cars there are, unsurprisingly, plenty of Ferraris to check out, while simulator experiences recreate the thrill of driving one. The log flume in the dark is great fun and any kids who want to be able to go back to school and boast about having ridden the world's fastest roller-coaster should head straight for the Forula Rossa ride, which reaches speeds of 239 km/hr (149 mph). The Junior GT experience is great for little ones, kids watch a short film, a bit of training and then they're off on the road behind the wheel of a fun-sized 430 GT Spider.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque 

One of the largest mosques in the world, the white marble mega-structure cost one and half billion pounds to build and boasts eighty-two domes, each clad in twenty-four karat gold. Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque. Loose fitting clothing that covers legs and arms should be worn and women must cover their hair and wear an abaya, which are available to borrow. Entry to the mosque is free and free guided tours are available.

Rub Al Khali

Allow time during your stay for a trip to Rub Al Khali, Abu Dhabi's Empty Quarter, which is the largest expanse of sand in the world. It's a place of immense natural beauty and watercolour sunsets, and where scenes from the Star Wars film The Force Awakens were shot. Try dune bashing, which is essentially off-roading over sand dunes, or sandboarding. Other activities include camel trekking, fat-wheeled biking, falconry and campfire barbecues.

Sir Bani Yas Island

In the group of desert islands off Abu Dhabi's western shore is Sir Bani Yas Island, home to the Arabian Wildlife Park.Here more than 13,000 animals roam free, including gazelles, giraffes, hyenas, Arabian oryx and even cheetahs.

Jumeirah Hotel at Etihad Towers

The hotel's iconic five towers were designed to look like palm leaves, and guests can enjoy their own private beach. The observation deck on the 72nd floor is the perfect place to take in all of Abu Dhabi and enjoy a nice coffee or cake. 

The Al Jahili Fort

Al Jahili Fort was built in the late 19th century and is now home to a permanent exhibition about British adventurer Sir Wilfred Thesiger, who crossed the deserts of the Empty Quarter twice in the 1940s disguised as a Bedouin. The story is powerfully told in the exhibition of Thesiger's photos, perfect for little explorers. 

Saadiyat Island 

The island is home to three super-sized museums: the first Louvre outside France, the Zayed National Museum, which is backed by the British Museum, and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, which is 12 times larger than its New York sister a great day of exploring for all the family.