Weekends are the perfect time for families to relax, reconnect, and enjoy quality moments together. Whether you are planning a fun outing with kids, a casual shopping trip, or a delicious family meal, Abu Dhabi Mall offers everything you need for a memorable weekend under one roof.
This guide covers the essentials: things to do with kids, where to eat, where to grab a coffee, and a few shopping stops worth making.
Entertainment for the Whole Family
Abu Dhabi Mall has a good mix of entertainment options that work for different ages. VOX Cinemas is a straightforward choice for a relaxed couple of hours together. FunCity is well-suited for younger kids who need space to move — rides, arcade games, and plenty to keep them busy. For families with older children, Prison Island is an interactive escape-style experience that works well for groups who enjoy a challenge. For a full list of family-friendly indoor activities for kids at the mall, check the activity page for current timings.
Classes and Skill-Based Activities
For something more structured, the mall also has a few activity-based options worth looking into. Aerial Gymnastics runs classes for children across different age groups and skill levels — a practical starting point for parents exploring the gymnastics classes for kids that Abu Dhabi has available. Melodica offers music lessons for children across a range of instruments, from beginners to those with some experience. Studiyo Lab takes a hands-on approach with sessions built around woodworking, design, and creative projects.
Convenient Shopping for All Ages
Abu Dhabi Mall covers most of what families need in one visit. For clothing, Splash and Centrepoint both offer everyday options for adults and children at reasonable prices. Mothercare and Babyshop are practical stops for younger children, covering clothing, gear, and nursery essentials. Shoe Mart is worth a visit for footwear across all ages, and Toys R Us is a reliable last stop for kids who have been patient through the shopping trip.
Dining Options for the Whole Family
Abu Dhabi Mall has a wide range of dining options, from sit-down meals to quick bites. Denny’s is open 24 hours and works well for an early start. Habib Beirut is a solid choice for Lebanese food, with enough variety to keep everyone happy. PF Chang’s works well for a more relaxed lunch or dinner, and Tsunami is a good option for families with older children who want something a bit different. When speed matters, the mall has the usual fast-food options — Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, and KFC.
Cafes Worth Stopping At
There are a few good cafe options for parents who need a proper break. Tim Hortons is a quick and reliable choice. Juan Valdez is a quieter option if you want to sit down without the noise. Milestones Cafe has a food menu alongside drinks, which is useful if you need a light meal. La Brioche is a good stop for pastries and coffee in a more relaxed setting.
A Simple Plan for Your Weekend
If you want to keep things easy, here is how a family day at Abu Dhabi Mall could look:
- Start with breakfast at Denny’s — open early, no waiting, fills everyone up.
- Drop the kids at Aerial Gymnastics, Melodica, or Studiyo Lab for a morning class.
- Head to FunCity or Prison Island for the morning activities.
- Do some shopping at Splash, Centrepoint, or Babyshop before the lunch crowd arrives.
- Grab lunch at Habib Beirut or PF Chang’s and get a chance to enter the Dine and Win raffle draw taking place at Abu Dhabi Mall from 11 May to 8 June.
- Catch a movie at VOX Cinemas in the afternoon.
- End the day with coffee at La Brioche or Tim Hortons while the kids browse the toy stores.