10 Free Family-Friendly Places in Abu Dhabi

See the magnificent architecture of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and gain insight into the religion and culture of the UAE. The mosque is one of the largest in the world. The magnificent structure was designed and built by a skilled team from around the world, including 1,300 Iranian artisans who hand-knotted the carpets in the main prayer hall – the largest in the world. Entry to the mosque as well as the cultural tour provided by a knowledgeable Emirati guide is free. Get more details on dress code and mosque etiquette at https://visit.szgmc.gov.ae/.

Enjoy a free family-friendly day trip to Heritage Village on the Marina Breakwater Road. Here you can go back in time and explore the life of pre-modern Emiratis in a traditional oasis village. The village is an immersive time capsule with an old world souk (market), mosques and camps modelled on pre-modern Emirati life. You can shop, discover handicrafts and watch artisans make pottery, blow glass and weave fabric on looms. The village is also home to the Emirates Heritage Club, which hosts traditional handicraft workshops. You can watch artisans demonstrate traditional skills such as metalwork, pottery, weaving and spinning. They might even let you try their deals too. Don’t forget to check out the little spice shop in the village, which offers a variety of dried herbs, handmade soaps and plenty of souvenirs to take home with family and friends.

One of the largest and oldest parks in Abu Dhabi, Umm Al Emarat is a must-see for families looking for some fun in the sun. Explore the botanical gardens, visit the iconic shade house, and stop at the animal farm to meet camels, baby goats, cows and ponies.

If you want to spend an inexpensive day at the beach, choose Marina Beach. The beach has two kilometers of white sand and turquoise waters; a dreamy place to catch the sunset. There is also a special family area for groups of beachgoers. The beach also has a beautiful seaside boardwalk, well-maintained walkways with manicured gardens and benches overlooking the Arabian Gulf. From Marina Beach, you can enjoy views of Lulu Island and one of the world’s tallest flagpoles waving next to Marina Mall.

If you are in Al Ain, you must visit Al Jahili Fort. Al Jahili is one of the largest forts in the UAE, built in the 1890s. The fort’s lush gardens and exhibition halls are free to wander and enjoy. One of the exhibits is dedicated to explorer Sir Wilfred Thesiger, who twice traversed the Empty Quarter, the world’s largest sand block, in the 1940s.

Corniche is a great place to enjoy the year-round sunshine in Abu Dhabi. Eight kilometers of manicured waterfront is dotted with restaurants, cafés and benches, all perfect for taking in views of the Arabian Gulf. Abu Dhabi’s Corniche has been awarded the coveted Blue Flag status, an internationally renowned eco-label for beaches and marinas that guarantees clean and safe waters.

Manarat Al Saadiyat is Saadiyat Island’s center for arts, cultural events and community activities. The center’s calendar is always packed with free exhibitions and opportunities to create your own art. Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi is also home to two beautiful beaches, which are also home to the protected and critically endangered Hawksbill.

Jebel Hafit is the highest peak in Abu Dhabi. From the top, you’ll capture stunning views of Al Ain, the perfect spot for some great “Insta-friendly” photos. If you’re looking for an easier way to get to the top, you can also get there by car.

The Founders Memorial is a 30-meter high 3D art installation depicting Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father. Admire the views of the surrounding gardens and learn about the history of the UAE. The 3.3-hectare memorial is beautifully landscaped with native flora, a sanctuary garden including resting areas and traditional falaj (ancient irrigation systems), a heritage garden with an abundance of medicinal desert plants, and an elevated Walkway with views of the stunning Arabian Gulf, the city’s dazzling skyline, and the heart of the Founders’ Memorial, the constellations.

Opposite the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is Wahat Al Karama, a monument to the martyrs who sacrificed themselves in the service of the country. Arrive before sunset to watch the daily honor guard parade.