15

Best Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi for Free

• Launched by the founder of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, this is one of the largest mosque domes in UAE and among the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free. 

• Witness the beauty of the majestic 82 domes, 1000 columns, and a beautiful exterior of white and gold. 

• Don't miss the chance of walking across one of the world's largest hand-woven rugs under one of the world's largest chandeliers. 

• Enjoy the calming atmosphere of one of the few mosques in UAE open to non-Muslims from around the globe. 

• Explore the contemporary architecture and cultural values of the mosque with the free guided tours available. 

Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed St - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings: 9 am till 10 pm except on Friday mornings.

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• Enjoy a luxurious Arabian lifestyle alongside the traditional flavors of Abu Dhabi at this grand palace. 

• Entry to this grand palace is free for everyone. 

• The 394 grand guest houses offer beautiful interiors and many amazing amenities to guests. 

• Relax and refresh with the wonderful hospitality experience and elegant garden areas built on the property. 

• Soak in the beauty of Arabian culture while visiting the free exhibitions displaying historical artifacts and artwork for visitors. 

Location: West Corniche Road - United Arab Emirates

Timings: 24 hours open.

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• Get a peek into the history of Abu Dhabi at the marvelous Al Jahili Fort, built from mud bricks, a traditional architectural style of the region. 

• Explore the watchtowers and battlements set in the foreground of a stunning courtyard that will surely leave you charmed by its beauty. 

• Visit the exhibit on the ground dedicated to famous British explorer Sir Wilfred Thesiger, known for traveling across the Rub Al Khali.

• Indulge in various exhibits at the temporary exhibit gallery which will give insight into the culture and history of the UAE. 

• Click some amazing pictures at the Fort, a great addition to the list of places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free.

Location: Sultan Bin Zayed Al Awwal St, Al Mutawaa, Al Ain - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sundays closed.

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• Home to many fashion stores, eateries, cinema and play areas, enjoy the perfect day at Marina Mall - a stunningly designed mall in Abu Dhabi. 

• Grab the opportunity to jump at the trampoline in bounce or ice skate at the ice rink or play video games at the amusement center. 

• Stroll around the stunning mall and click good pictures around its beautiful infrastructure. 

• Enjoy a beautiful sunset with a view of the Persian Gulf, the Corniche, and Emirates Palace from the top floor of the mall. 

Location: Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates

Timings: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm.

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• Also known as the Al Ain Palace Museum, this grand complex offers an insight into the cultural history and heritage of UAE in addition to the life of the 'Father of the Nation', Sheikh Zayed.  

• Explore around the palace courtyards, gardens, and sleeping quarters on self-guided tours. 

• Visitors are also able to take a peek into the meeting chambers of the Sheikh, where he once indulged dignitaries and important guests. 

• Sit and relax while enjoying the various performances in the cultural shows organized on the palace grounds. 

• Grab a bite to eat from the on-ground cafes and restaurants while exploring the amazing places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free. 

Location: Hessa bint Mohamed St - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings: 8:30 am to 7:00 pm, Sundays closed.

Suggested Read: 10 Best museums in Abu Dhabi.

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• Learn about the cultural roots and heritage of UAE at the vibrant and lush Heritage Village. 

• With a glimpse of the original fishing village, visitors can stroll around touring across the many Bedouin tents and wooden huts. 

• Watch workers busy in weaving and metalworking inside the tents and huts, giving an insight into life during the old times. 

• Stroll around the local stores for local handicrafts and spices, supporting the local artisans and farmers. 

• Guests can choose to enjoy the authentic flavors of Emirati food at one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free.

Location: Near Marina Mall - Abu Dhabi Theatre Rd, Corniche - Breakwater Rd - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

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• Wahat Al Karama or the 'oasis of dignity' is a tribute to the bravehearts of UAE and an important tourist attraction in the history and heritage of Abu Dhabi. 

• The 31 massive leaning tablets located across the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque symbolize unity, solidarity, and mutual support. 

• Look up close on the tablets where you will find beautiful poems and quotes engraved in simple scripts, paying homage to the brave citizens of UAE. 

• Witness the Honor Guard march right before sunset, enjoying a beautiful and vibrant view and atmosphere. 

Location: 3rd St Khor - United Arab Emirates

Timings: 9:00 am to 10:45 pm.

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• Stroll through the Modern Art Gallery, appreciating the stunning pieces of its exclusive range of modern art on display. 

• Art lovers and enthusiasts will find both the notable works of internationally famous artists and the classical artwork of local artists. 

• Enjoy the warm ambiance and its garden courtyard upon your visit to one of its many exhibitions. 

• Indulge your creative side in one of its poetry nights or concerts. 

• Guests from around the globe can choose to take a self-tour in its international as well as Emirati art exhibitions or opt for a guided tour of the gallery space. 

Location: Al Bateen Area Villa 15, Al Huwaylat Street (Behind Al Bateen Mall) - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, Fridays closed.

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Another one in the list of places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free is the camel racing tracks on the Al Ain road where you can see the high-humped camels rush at high speeds. This is one of the best sports that you witness with your family and spice up your vacations.

The races are mostly held only on the weekends and some special occasions of the Arab calendar. Make sure you reach out early as this is an early morning event and shuts down in the afternoon.

Location: Al Wathba Camel Racing Track or Al Maqam Track.

Timings: 8:00 am to 10:00 am on Saturday and Sunday.

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• Indulge yourself in watching one of the most spectacular races of Abu Dhabi and get to enjoy a memorable time on the tracks. 

• A fun addition to the places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free on weekend mornings, the speed of the humped animals on the race track will definitely surprise you. 

• The Al Wathba Camel Race Track and the Al Maqam Track near Al Ain are two popular spots to watch this traditional sport in action. 

• Reach a little bit early to get the best seats and best views of the race as you will find a lot of crowds gathered around.

Location: Cattle Market, Zayed Bin Sultan Road, Al Ain - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm, Friday 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Also Read: 10 Best Markets in Abu Dhabi.

• Stretching along the coast of Dhow Harbor, the Corniche is lined up with spectacular hotels, restaurants, shops, and a beautiful view of the Abu Dhabi skyline. 

• Rent a bike to cover the 5-mile distance of beautiful scenery and enjoy the view of stunning beaches as well as skyscrapers. 

• Kids can enjoy their time playing around the dedicated play zones, in these fun places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free.

• Treat your taste buds to the delicious food in the restaurant spread across the Corniche, like Hakkasan, Rosewater, Mezlai, etc. 

• Visit the Marina Mall, located along the Corniche, and shop your heart out. 

Location: Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Timings: 24 hours open.

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• A wonderful place to spend the day with a gorgeous view, pristine waters, golden sand and your loved ones. 

• Take a dip in the calming blue waters of the Corniche Beach, however remember you cannot swim further than 40m. 

• Sweat a little while playing a friendly game of volleyball with family/ friends or strangers on the lined-up volleyball nets. 

• Catch a stunning sunset or sunrise from its 8km long coastline, one of the best things to do at this beach. 

• Catch a glimpse of the panoramic view of the Abu Dhabi skyline while enjoying one of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free.

Location: Opp. Hilton Hotel to Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi

Timings: 24 hours open.

Also Read: 10 Best Beaches in Abu Dhabi.

• Take a stroll alongside the mesmerizing golden coast of the Al Bateen Beach, one of the peaceful places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free, overlooking the Hudayriat Island. 

• Enjoy taking a dip at the renowned beach, awarded the Blue Flag sustainability award by the Emirates Wildlife Authority. 

• Feel the adrenaline rush by taking part in many of the popular water sports activities like kayaking, paddling, jet-skiing, and more. 

• Spend the day fishing in its clear blue waters, as the ocean has a vibrant marine life near Al Bateen Beach coast. 

• Crediting its family-friendly vibe, it's a beautiful spot for picnics with friends and family. 

Location: Khalifa Al Mubarak Street - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings: 24 hours open.

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• Known for its fresh fruits and vegetables, the Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable souk is a popular spot amongst locals as well as tourists looking for places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free.

• Shop for various colorful and vibrant fruit and vegetables of high-quality upon your visit to the bustling souk.

• Visit the carpet souk nearby the Mina souk and shop for various hand-woven carpets to take back with you. 

• A beautiful and gleaming location to capture some great shots, the souk is surrounded by a variety of different markets to be explored for free.

Location: Port Zayed - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings: 7:00 am to 12:00 am.

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Take a look into the history of Emirates at the Emirates Heritage Village that is a reconstructed traditional oasis village. Here one can embrace a tour to the mosque, souk, and the exceptional form of architecture.

You can also shop at the in-house shop where you can spot elegant pottery, blowing glass, and other artefacts that are weaved by the local artisans. The village is run by the Emirates Heritage Club and features the artistry of the bygone era.

Location:  Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Timings: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

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