Abu Dhabi has an unusually high concentration of genuinely good family attractions, mostly clustered on Yas Island.
Ferrari World's thrill rides and Warner Bros. World's mix of character-driven attractions both suit older children and teens well, especially those tall enough for the bigger rides — check height requirements before you go if this matters.
Yas Waterworld's gentler pools and lazy river, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi's calmer, education-led format, and Corniche Beach's shallow, supervised water all suit younger children better than the more intense theme park rides.
The Corniche's parks and playgrounds, a dhow cruise (children are usually welcome, and the deck views are a hit), and Heritage Village's open, easy-to-explore layout all work well for a lower-key family day.