10 Best Free Things to Do in Abu Dhabi

Qasr Al Hosn, also known as the White Fort, is a historical landmark and the oldest stone building in the city of Abu Dhabi. Built in the late 1700s, Qasr Al Hosn has a museum and cultural center with displays of artifacts and pictures that represent the history of the area.

Qasr Al Hosn has been home to the ruling Al Nahyan family over the years, but it went through several years of restoration work before becoming a national monument showcasing the history of Abu Dhabi. Consider visiting during the Al Hosn Festival, which is an annual celebration with children’s workshops, musical performances, art exhibits, and more. Entry to the buildings and grounds is free, but special events are ticketed.

Hudayriyat Island offers opportunities to relax or explore your adventurous side. Entrance to the island is free, which gives you access to large beaches, parks, and walking and cycle trails. Get out of the city for some fresh sea air, enjoy views of boats in the marina, and take a selfie with the Hudayriyat sign. 

The island is quickly developing into a hotspot for sports, so you’ll find free-to-use volleyball nets and outdoor gym equipment. There are, of course, a lot of paid-for leisure activities here too, from jet skiing to zip lining. If you’re traveling with little kids and have a little budget to spare, cool off in the Splash Park.

Mangrove National Park is located on the northern shores of Abu Dhabi. 75% of the large park is made up of a mangrove forest with many species of birds, including the greater flamingo and the western reef heron. The park has many water channels, but raised wooden walkways make the area accessible for most visitors. Boat and kayak tours are available for a fee. 

There is abundant sunshine at Mangrove National Park, so remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. In addition to walking the forest, you can take advantage of the dog park, picnic tables, and playground with swings.

Manarat Al Saadiyat is a place for people to explore their creative sides. The events center encourages you to enjoy exhibitions and create your own art. Manarat Al Saadiyat has an outdoor events terrace, three galleries for temporary exhibits, photography and art studios, and a 250-seat auditorium.

Each visit to Manarat Al Saadiyat promises a unique experience. One night might feature comedy, while another might promote star gazing or a film screening. While admission is free, be advised that some elements of the Art Studio may require payment. If you’re visiting in November, register online for free tickets to the Abu Dhabi Art Fair.

Located southwest of Abu Dhabi on the northern edge of the Empty Quarter, Liwa Oasis is the historical birthplace of the current ruling family of Abu Dhabi, the Nahyan family. The area is known for its cultivation of dates. Centuries ago the Bedouin tribe of the area tapped the underground waters to farm dates, resulting in villages and settlements.

You can visit the 2 surviving, and 7 reconstructed defenses built to protect the area’s resources over the years. Explore the high-walled watchtowers of these forts and imagine what life was like in bygone times when access to water was fiercely protected. After checking out the forts, make sure to see Tal Moreeb, one of the world’s tallest sand dunes.

Wahat Al Karama, also known as the Oasis of Dignity, honors Emiratis killed in the line of duty. This moving tribute made of huge slabs that lean together reminds us that our strength comes from supporting each other and making sacrifices. Visit the Pavilion of Honour to see the names of fallen heroes, and head over to the visitor center to learn more. We recommend staying until sunset so you can watch the daily honor guard march.

The memorial is located across from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, providing spectacular views which are enhanced by a reflecting pool. Shuttle buses to the mosque run regularly and there is also a pedestrian bridge, so you could easily visit both in one outing.

Located near the Old Doha Port, Souq Al Mina showcases traditional Abu Dhabi market culture in all its vibrant glory. Let the sights and smells guide you from cardamom-infused coffee to fresh fish caught just hours before. Browse a variety of clothing stores, along with shops that sell jewelry, perfume, toys, and homewares.

It’s free to park at Souq Al Mina and there’s an outdoor park and play area you can bring your kids to. While it’s free to look and enjoy the atmosphere of the market, you could grab a sweet snack from one of the date shops for a budget-friendly addition.

Travel to the border of UAE and Oman and you’ll find Jebel Hafeet, the only mountain in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It lends its name to the national park that surrounds it, and tourists flock to Jebel Hafeet to take advantage of the expansive views available from the summit. Access and parking are free, and there are parking spots along the road all the way to the mountain’s peak.

Photographers will especially enjoy visiting during the golden hour when the sunset brings the rugged landscape to life. Bring an extra layer of clothing because the temperature will get cooler at higher elevations and after dark.

If you’re visiting the garden city of Al Ain, check out Green Mubazzarah Park and see what a difference the natural springs make here compared to the surrounding desert. The park covers more than 90 acres of lush greenery and is a popular spot for families to visit for barbecues, picnics, or a refreshing stroll.

While admission to the park is free, there is a fee for swimming and riding the train. After exploring the area, give your feet a treat by soaking them in the soothing hot springs. Consider visiting during the cooler months for the best outdoor experience. 

Umm Al Emarat Park is in the heart of Abu Dhabi, and families will find plenty of things to do with their kids. There’s a dedicated Children’s Garden with play equipment and interactive water splash activities, or keep it simple and enjoy the large green space for picnics and play.

The park features a Botanic Garden with over 200 regional plant species and a Shade House with great views. Take a moment of peace with nature at the Evening Garden, or head to the Wisdom Garden which is inspired by the words of Sheikh Zayed, UAE’s first president. Note that there is a small fee per person to enter the park (except for children under 3).