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Abu Dhabi shines as a bustling metropolis known for its lavish hotels, upscale shops, cutting-edge theme parks, and posh beach clubs. Nevertheless, trips to these temples of pleasure may add up rapidly. Yet, if you stray from the typical tourist route, you’ll be rewarded with a wealth of free activities.
Here are 10 free things to do and attractions in Abu Dhabi
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Located on Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed St, this mosque is open daily from 9 am to 10 pm, except on Friday mornings. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the mosque on their own. No booking is required, but visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering.
2. Corniche
The Corniche is a 6-kilometer waterfront promenade that stretches from the Emirates Palace to the Fishermen’s Village. Visitors can enjoy walking or cycling along the path, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants along the way. The Corniche is open 24 hours a day, and there is no need to book.
3. Emirates Palace
Located on West Corniche Road, this luxury hotel is open to visitors who want to admire its opulent interior design. Visitors can enter the lobby for free, and there are several cafes and restaurants on-site. The hotel is open 24 hours a day, and no booking is required.
4. Heritage Village
Located on the Corniche Breakwater, this outdoor museum showcases traditional Emirati life and culture. Visitors can explore the traditional homes, watch artisans at work, and learn about the history and culture of the UAE. The museum is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, and no booking is required.
5. Saadiyat Island Cultural District
Located on Saadiyat Island, this district features several museums and cultural institutions, many of which offer free admission on certain days of the week. The Louvre Abu Dhabi is open from Saturday to Wednesday from 10 am to 8 pm, and on Thursday and Friday from 10 am to 10 pm. The Zayed National Museum is currently closed for renovations. Visitors can take a taxi or public bus to Saadiyat Island.
6. Qasr Al Hosn
Located on Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed St, this historic fort and palace was the seat of government for the ruling family of Abu Dhabi. Visitors can explore the palace and museum to learn about the history and culture of Abu Dhabi. The museum is open from Sunday to Thursday from 10 am to 6 pm, and on Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm. No booking is required.
7. Al Ain Oasis
Located in Al Ain, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest oasis in the city. Visitors can take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the pathways and admire the ancient irrigation systems that have sustained the oasis for centuries. The oasis is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and no booking is required. Visitors can take a taxi or public bus to Al Ain.
8. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
Located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, this wetland reserve is home to a wide variety of bird species. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot or by bike, and there are several observation towers for bird-watching. The reserve is open from Saturday to Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm, and on Friday from 2 pm to 6 pm. No booking is required.
9. Al Bateen Beach
Located near the Emirates Palace, this public beach offers stunning views of the city skyline. Visitors can relax on the beach or swim in the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf. The beach is open 24 hours a day, and no booking is required.
10. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
Located on Sweihan Rd, this hospital is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of falcons. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of falconry in the UAE.
