Exploring the mighty capital of the UAE doesn’t have to put a hole in your pocket. In fact, some great places in Abu Dhabi are worth visiting and completely free of charge. Take note right here of the top places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free so you can plan your next outing the correct way.
List of Best Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi for free
Maximize your day trip to Abu Dhabi by exploring the city’s best free attractions. And immerse yourself in local culture, stunning architecture, and picturesque landscapes without breaking the bank. Don’t miss out on these unforgettable places in the following list that showcase the beauty and charm of Abu Dhabi!
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
This unique attraction has come to define the city’s skyline and it’s one of the most popular free entry tourist places in Abu Dhabi. The mosque attracts muslims and non-muslims alike that’s to its amazing design.
Discovering it will make you feel like entering a palace straight out of the movie Aladdin. It is among the largest mosques in the entire world and proudly displays 82 domes.
You can explore it all on your own any time of day or you can sign up on one of the guided tours to know more about it.
Location
It’s located on Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed St. on 5th St., Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours
9 am to 10 pm; Fridays 3 pm to 10 pm
2. Emirates Palace
Yes, this is one of the most luxurious resorts in the UAE but you don’t really have to be a guest to enjoy its unrivaled beauty. Many visitors would tell you they felt quite content just exploring its grounds, taking a few shots, and admiring its architecture.
Here you can experience a glimpse of true Arabian luxury and enjoy a great time out with you family and friends.
Location
Emirates Palace is located on W Corniche Road in Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours
24/7
3. Al Jahili Fort
Among the many free things to do in Abu Dhabi is visiting the historical landmark Al Jahili Fort. It’s interesting if you’re looking to take a peak into the cultural heritage of the UAE capital.
Al Jahili Fort was built way back in 1890 in Al Ain in which it served as the headquarters for the group tasked with protecting the precious palm groves and keeping peace in the land.
You have ample opportunity here to take unique photos in the great courtyard so don’t miss it.
Location
It is located on Sultan Bin Zayed Al Awwal St., Al Ain, Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours
10 am to 6 pm; Fridays 2 pm to 6 pm
4. Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum
If you’re curious to know what it was like for Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his family, the founder of the Emirates and its very first president, this is the place. He lived in this palace during his time of ruling.
The museum is located in Al Ain and features the meeting rooms where the “Father of the Nation” used along with a beautiful courtyard and gardens.
Location
The museum is located on Al Ain St., Central District, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours
10 am to 6 pm; Fridays 2 pm to 6 pm
5. Heritage Village
Do you wish to go back in time? You can do that in Abu Dhabi at Heritage Village which used to be the city’s fishing harbour. Taking a walk there is one of the best free activities in Abu Dhabi.
Heritage Village is where local bedouins live and you can watch them create beautiful metal works and crafts. There’s no harm in having some pocket money if you would like a souvenir from the boutique shops there, but entrance to the village is completely free of charge.
Location
The village is located on Abu Dhabi Theatre Rd., Corniche Breakwater Rd. near Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours
9 am to 4 pm; Fridays 3 pm to 9 pm
6. Al Ain Oasis
A grand park that occupies about 3,000 acres of the beautiful Al Ain and is popular for its majestic palm trees, Al Ain Oasis is a haven to witness. This where you can take a magical stroll beneath the trees and try the tasty dates.
Additionally, you will learn all about the irrigation tectic used for a long time in the area called “falaj.” It is still used today in the region to water different types of trees.
Location
The oasis is situated near Al Ain Palace Museum in the Central District of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours
8 am to 6:30 pm daily
Planning a day trip to Al Ain? You can check all the best things to do in Al Ain right here on Property Finder.
7. The Corniche
This stretch along the coast of the Dhow Harbour in Abu Dhabi is one of the most iconic free tourist spots in Abu Dhabi you can visit. You have about 5 miles to explore with stunning skyline views of the city on one side and the beach on the other.
If you have a bike, riding along the Corniche is simply awesome! You could also treat yourself after a bike ride or walk by relaxing by the free beach called the Western Extention.
The Corniche area is great in the early morning, but it truly comes to life by the end of the day; that’s why it’s one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi at night for free.
Location
It is on Corniche Road in Abu Dhabi.
Did you know that Al Corniche Area is listed as one of our best choices to live in Abu Dhabi? You can check properties at Al Corniche Road to rent on Property Finder.
8. Jebel Hafeet
Located right by the border with Oman, Jebel Hafeet is 4,000 ft. high and very beautiful to see in person. All hiking enthusiasts will want to check it out and maybe race to the top!
It also features a stunning road up to the summit so you can put your hiking boots away and settle for a road trip. The views from the top are to die for.
Location
It is located on the Abu Dhabi-Oman border about 15 miles from Al Ain.
9. Qasr Al Muwaiji
This historical place is another must-see destination in Al Ain, designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It is a very interesting place to visit and learn about some of the history of UAE.
HH Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan was born at this historic place back in 1948; he is the oldest son of the first ruler of UAE, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Location
It is located at Khalifa Bin Zayed St. in Al Muwaiji, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours
10 am to 7 pm; Fridays 2 pm to 6 pm
10. Al Bateen Beach
A free trip to the beach never hurt anyone! Maybe the best option for you is to simply sit back and relax at Al Bateen Beach, which has no entry fee.
There’s even the added advantage of having a complete view over the water of the lovely Hudariyat Island, so it’s quite the place to capture instagrammable shots! It’s especially great during sunset.
Location
The beach is located at Khalifa Al Mubarak St. in Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours
8 am to 9 pm
Check out our list of best beaches in Abu Dhabi, which includes Al Bateen!
11. Reem Central Park
This park is quite popular locally thanks to its great facilities that cater to everyone. You can head over there with the family for a great picnic or challenge your friends to a game of basketball!
It’s situated in the heart of Reem Island yet it’s worth the trip. They also have a line of food trucks where you can try delicious eats and an awesome BMX track! It’s among our list of best parks in Abu Dhabi.
Location
The park is located on Reem Island in Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours
3 pm to 10 pm daily
12. Al Wathba Cycling Track
All cycling enthusiasts will love this one for sure; Al Wathba Cycling Track is one of the most popular tracks in the region and offers terrific views as a backdrop.
You can enjoy 5 different loops, lit up all through the night, so the track is perfect for beginners and experts alike. Grab your bike and head over there any time of day.
Location
The track is located just off E22 on Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Road.
Opening Hours
24/7
13. Oasis of Dignity
If you’re still wondering where to go in Abu Dhabi for free, you can also pay respects at this permanent tribute to the UAE’s fallen soldiers. This memorial is a sadly beautiful sight that honors fallen war soldiers.
The structures themselves are elegantly built and interesting to see. You can check the names of the soldiers inscribed on the pavillion of honor.
Location
It is located in the Maqta’a area in Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours
9 am to 10 pm daily
Going out and having a good time while exploring new places doesn’t have to break the bank. With this ultimate guide to the free places to visit in Abu Dhabi from Property Finder, you can save up and enjoy your days too.
