Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Al Sarab Local Market & Garden Center
Activity
🕑 1.5 to 2 hours👶 Best for ages 3-12. Younger children enjoy spotting colorful plants and flowers, while older kids appreciate learning about desert gardening and exploring the market stalls. The outdoor setting and hands-on nature of the market keeps all ages engaged.🧡 Saved by 8 families
About
Al Sarab Local Market & Garden Center offers families a refreshing oasis experience in the desert, combining a traditional market atmosphere with beautiful garden spaces. Kids can explore plant nurseries, discover local produce, and enjoy outdoor activities in a family-friendly environment that provides an authentic taste of UAE culture away from the city bustle.
Highlights
- ✓Exploring the variety of desert-adapted plants and learning about local gardening techniques
- ✓Shopping for fresh dates, local honey, and other regional produce
- ✓Outdoor play areas where kids can run and explore safely
- ✓Hands-on experience with traditional market culture in a relaxed setting
- ✓Photo opportunities among colorful flowers and unique desert landscaping
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit early morning (7-9 AM) to avoid the intense desert heat and enjoy the most comfortable outdoor experience
- 2.Bring sunscreen, hats, and water bottles as much of the area is outdoors with limited shade
- 3.Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven garden paths
- 4.English is widely spoken, but learning a few basic Arabic phrases like 'Shukran' (thank you) delights local vendors
- 5.Keep small bills in UAE Dirhams handy for market purchases, though many vendors accept credit cards
Best Time to Visit
Visit between November and March during the cooler winter months, ideally on weekday mornings (8-10 AM) when the temperature is most pleasant and the market is less crowded. Avoid Friday afternoons when local families typically visit.
What to Know
The venue is part of the Qasr Al Sarab resort area, located about 200km from Abu Dhabi city (2.5 hour drive). Modest dress is appreciated (shoulders and knees covered). Most vendors speak English, and restroom facilities are available on site.
Seasonal Notes
Best visited during the cooler months (November through March). Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 45°C (113°F), making outdoor activities challenging. The market may have reduced hours during Ramadan.
Nearby Eats
The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara nearby offers several family-friendly dining options including Suhail Restaurant with international cuisine and kids' menus. For a unique experience, the resort also arranges private desert dining setups suitable for families.
More Activities Near Qsar Al Sarab
Ice Cream
Qsar Al Sarab Ice Cream Parlor
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Qsar Al Sarab Ice Cream Parlor is a delightful neighborhood spot where families can cool off from the Abu Dhabi heat with an impressive selection of ice cream flavors. The welcoming atmosphere and budget-friendly prices make it a perfect treat stop for families exploring the area, with plenty of options to please even the pickiest young eaters.
Park
Qsar Al Sarab Park
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Qsar Al Sarab Park offers families a peaceful green oasis in Abu Dhabi, perfect for letting kids run free on open lawns while parents relax in shaded seating areas. The well-maintained walking paths are ideal for stroller walks, bike rides, or burning off energy before or after exploring the UAE's desert landscapes. Best of all, this completely free community park provides a budget-friendly break from the region's many paid attractions.
Activity
Al Sarab Swimming Pool
Al Sarab Swimming Pool at the luxurious Qsar Al Sarab resort offers families a refreshing desert oasis experience with dedicated children's areas and structured family swim times. The pool features shallow sections perfect for young swimmers and organized aquatic programs that help kids build confidence in the water while parents relax in a safe, well-maintained environment.
Playground
Al Sarab Children's Playground
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Al Sarab Children's Playground offers a desert oasis for active play at the luxurious Qsar Al Sarab resort. This well-equipped playground features modern climbing structures, swings, and slides that cater to various age groups, all maintained to high standards in a safe, supervised environment. It's an ideal spot for families staying at the resort or visiting the area to let children burn energy while parents relax in the stunning desert surroundings.