If you’re dreaming of the ultimate theme park holiday, there’s hardly a better destination than the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi’s theme parks are all located on Yas Island, meaning Warner Bros. World, Ferrari World, SeaWorld, and Yas Waterworld are literally within walking distance of each other. You can stroll from one world-class park to the next, something almost unheard of anywhere else in the world.
And the best part? Dubai is only about an hour away by car, making it incredibly easy to combine Abu Dhabi’s indoor parks and thrill rides with Dubai’s outdoor entertainment districts. Whether you want high-speed coasters, cultural experiences, water fun, stunning floral displays, or movie-themed adventures, everything is close, convenient, and connected.
In other words: the UAE is designed for theme-park lovers. With short travel times, top-tier attractions, and perfect weather from October to April, this region offers one of the most seamless, exciting, and diverse theme park vacations in the world.
If you can't or do not want to do them all, we made a list with our favorite parks from not to miss to you can miss this one.
1. Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
Located on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World is a fully indoor theme park, a not to miss, very impressive park. It features 29 rides, multiple themed zones including Gotham City, Metropolis, Cartoon Junction and more.
If you love iconic characters from DC Comics, Looney Tunes, and classic cartoons this is the place. Its immersive environments, air-conditioned halls and mix of thrills + family-friendly attractions make it a top start to our list. Read More
2. Global Village Dubai
Global Village is a unique kind of “theme park” a cultural + entertainment + shopping + dining extravaganza. At Global Village you can experience more than 90 cultures, enjoy live shows, enjoy carnival-style rides, explore countless food and shopping stalls all in one place.
It’s ideal for families or groups who want variety: good food, live entertainment, souvenirs, and an easy-going, festive vibe rather than an adrenaline-rush and it's the park all locals visit too which makes it vibrant and a must do.
3. Motiongate Dubai
Motiongate Dubai, part of Dubai Parks and Resorts, brings Hollywood magic to life, with rides and attractions inspired by DreamWorks, Lionsgate, Columbia Pictures and more. There are roller coasters, 4D shows and indoor & outdoor attractions.
It’s a great choice if you like cinematic, movie-themed thrills and want a traditional “theme-park” feel with good mix of excitement and family-friendly fun. Read More
4. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi (on Yas Island) adds another dimension: marine-themed entertainment. While water-/sea-life parks are often about relaxing or family fun, SeaWorld combines aquatic exhibits and maybe some rides offering a calmer alternative to roller-coaster-filled parks.
It’s a solid pick if you want a break from high-intensity thrills and prefer something more relaxed or educational especially nice for families with children. Read More
5. Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi
Also on Yas Island: Yas Waterworld is a premier water-park with over 40 rides, slides, and water-based attractions — perfect for hot weather and cooling off while still having fun.
If you enjoy splashy, water-based thrills instead of roller coasters or cartoon characters, Yas Waterworld is a top candidate great for all ages and especially fun in summer.
6. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
For thrill-seekers and speed lovers: Ferrari World offers adrenaline-pumping rides, including the famous coaster Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster.
It stands out for high-octane thrills, simulators, and a unique “racing” theme. If you enjoy speed and intense rides, this park is a must.
7. Dubai Miracle Garden
Shifting gears from rides and thrills Dubai Miracle Garden offers a very different kind of fun. It’s a massive floral paradise with vibrant, creative displays of millions of flowers, perfect for relaxing strolls, photos, and a slower-paced outing.
It’s an excellent choice if you want a break from adrenaline and crowds — dreamy, picturesque, and great for families, couples, or anyone who loves nature and beauty.
8. LEGOLAND Dubai
LEGOLAND Dubai is brilliant for families with younger kids or anyone who enjoys creative, LEGO-themed fun. The park offers interactive rides, building-based attractions, and even a water park next door for splashy fun.
It tends to be more gentle and kid-friendly than bigger, more intense parks — a dependable choice for younger children or a more relaxed day out.
9. IMG Worlds of Adventure
Rounding out the list: IMG Worlds of Adventure one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world. With multiple “zones” (Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley / dinosaurs, etc.), it delivers a mix of thrill rides, family-friendly attractions, and a refuge from Dubai’s heat because it’s fully air-conditioned.
For a hot day or if you just want aAll-around fun (action, nostalgia, chill, and thrills), IMG Worlds is a strong final pick.
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(OR WOULD YOU LIKE TO?)
Hi, we're Jolanda and Joost. Big theme parks fans for as long as we can remember. We've visited parks all over the world and we've been making special guides for over three years now.
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