The festival
The festival, designed by the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, starts today and runs until July 19, packed with activities, entertainment and sports for children and adults. And you can do it all without breaking a sweat, as it's within the air-conditioned halls of the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec).
The activities
It's packed to the brim, according to the events manager Faisal Al Sheikh. "This year we have lined up an action-packed programme that will enthral everyone, from tiny tots to adventure-seeking teenagers," he says.
Those who like to roll around should take up the Zorb Ball Challenge as you try to make your way over obstacle courses. Test your energy and cunning with the Galactic Academy, where drills include passing The Laser Room without touching the security laser beams. Aspiring stuntpeople can enrol with the Clown Stunt Academy and plunge 10 metres on to a massive airbag.
How about something less active?
Those wanting to enjoy the fun at a slower pace also have a smorgasbord of options, including the Sea Lion Station where families can take snaps with three performing sea lions. Children with a creative bent can visit Artsville, where they can paint their own T-shirts, plates and faces.
The shows
Summer in Abu Dhabi will bring some much-loved children's characters to life, with six different musical shows. Those who can't wait until the fourth instalment of Ice Age, hitting screens later this year, will be thrilled with the Ice Age Village inspired by the hit film.
Those wanting more tropical surroundings can check out the Jungle Book show where Mowgli and friends will teach the audience to swing on vines and play the bongos. And four fairy tales will have special "on ice" presentations courtesy of the performance company International Ice Stars. The magic of Cinderella, Snow White, Peter Pan and Beauty and the Beast will only be matched by the ice-skating acrobatics of the dancers.
Summer fun in Al Ain
Al Ain residents can also join the party: Summer in Abu Dhabi will swing by the Garden City with a programme running from today until September 15. Promotions include two-for-one deals at the Wadi Adventure park, where you can test your water sports skills with surfing, rafting and kayaking. Other spots with similar deals include Al Ain Zoo, Hili Fun City and the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club.
Call in family and friends
Etihad Airways is supporting the campaign, offering special deals for inbound flights to Abu Dhabi from several Middle Eastern and African destinations. Deals include children under the age of 11 flying free of charge when accompanied by a full-fare-paying adult.
Summer in Abu Dhabi will run at Adnec from today until July 19, Sunday to Thursday, 3pm to 9pm; Friday and Saturday, 2pm to 10pm. Entry Dh40 for adults and Dh30 for children under 12. Tickets can be bought at the door. Guests with an Etihad boarding pass valid from May 15 to July 19 gain free entry. Visit www.summerinabudhabi.ae