Free Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi

Some of Abu Dhabi’s most striking attractions are also the easiest on your wallet. We’ve rounded up the ones you shouldn’t miss.

1. Bassam Freiha Art Foundation

Saadiyat Island is known as one of Abu Dhabi’s art- and culture-focused destinations. The Bassam Freiha Art Foundation (BFAF) is one of the places here that immerses you in the arts for free.
This art space, which is located on Saadiyat Island, was established by HE Bassem Said Freiha, a visionary art collector and philanthropist. BFAF is a non-profit art foundation that features paintings and other artworks from artists in the Middle East and around the world.
The foundation’s inaugural exhibition, called Echoes of the Orient, showcases the founder’s collection of Orientalist art. It features 25 art pieces, 19th-century photography, and artworks by well-known artists such as Léon Comerre, Rudolf Ernst, Jan-Baptist Huysmans, Paul Leroy, Georges Washington, and Marie-Antoinette Izart.
The foundation’s other exhibits feature art pieces from various private collectors to promote cultural awareness and exchange.
What’s more, the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation is one of the top places to visit in the UAE for free because the building itself is an elegant, striking work of art. The structure stands on a shallow pool and features a clean, minimalist design with a glass façade.

2. Manarat Al Saadiyat

Manarat Al Saadiyat is another gem in the Saadiyat Cultural District. This art and cultural centre houses art and photography studios and three galleries where exhibitions, workshops, and other art-related and educational events take place.
The centre also has an outdoor events terrace, 250-seat auditorium, 100-seat theatre, café, brasserie, and gift shop.
When you drop by Manarat Al Saadiyat, which is one of the most popular places to visit in Abu Dhabi for free, you can immerse yourself in curated exhibitions, watch performances and film screenings, and join workshops.
The exhibits and events feature contemporary concepts and ideas that appeal to guests of all ages.

3. The Abrahamic Family House

The Abrahamic Family House is one of the best places to visit in the UAE with your family for free. It is a unique destination that combines three houses of worship in one compound:
• A mosque, the Eminence Ahmed El Tayeb Mosque
• A Catholic church, St. Francis Church Abu Dhabi
• A synagogue, Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue
The centre, which is located on Saadiyat Island, aims to encourage people to connect, explore, reflect, and learn more about these three faiths.
The Forum is the compound’s primary space where guests share and connect. This area also hosts events featuring scholars and thought leaders from different parts of the world who want to share their knowledge in their fields.
Although entry to the Abrahamic Family House is free, you need to book your ticket online before your visit. You should also read the visitor guidelines to ensure you’ll be granted access.

4. Mamsha Al Saadiyat

Saadiyat Island’s exclusive beachfront community is home to the island’s premier dining, shopping, and entertainment spots. However, you can have a fun time here without spending a single dirham.
At Mamsha Al Saadiyat, you can stroll along the promenade and take in the beautiful waterfront view. You won’t get tired of the scenic sights as you take a walk, especially the glittering white sands and calm turquoise waters.
The promenade has several seating areas where you can take a breather and enjoy the sights.
Hanging out at Mamsha Al Saadiyat is one of the fun things to do in Abu Dhabi for free.

5. Yas Gateway Park

If you’re on Yas Island, head to Yas Gateway Park, which is one of the most recommended places to visit in Abu Dhabi with family for free.
The park is one of the largest in Abu Dhabi, which is why it’s divided into two sections: North and South.
Yas Gateway Park North features well-maintained lawns, shaded seating areas, picnic spots, and walking paths. It’s ideal for families and anyone who wants to unwind outdoors.
On the other hand, Yas Gateway Park South has walking and jogging tracks, open fields for football and cricket, and outdoor event spaces. This area is the perfect spot for anyone who wants to play sports or have fun in the sun.
This destination offers everyone the right mix of fun and relaxation for free.

6. Mangrove National Park

Mangrove National Park is always at the top of the list of popular places to visit in the UAE for free.
This beautiful park is a wonderful place to explore, thanks to its mangroves, salt marshes, mudflats, and diverse wildlife.
The forest and water are stunning sights to see, but the other scenes will catch your eye. Be on the lookout for dugongs, dolphins, turtles, crabs, and fish swimming around. You may also see foxes wandering about.
The Mangrove National Park is also home to flamingos, western reef herons, and other bird species. It’s the perfect spot for avid bird watchers.
Entry to the park is free, which means you can look at the mangroves and other sights here at no cost. But you have to pay for tours and other activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, if you want to try them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Read below for additional information about all the free things to do in Abu Dhabi:

Where can you see the best sunset in Abu Dhabi without paying?

The most recommended places to watch the sunset in Abu Dhabi for free include Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Al Bateen Beach, and some areas of the Corniche Beach.

Can you visit the mangroves without booking a kayak tour?

Yes, you can visit and explore the Mangrove National Park without booking a kayak tour.

Which free places in Abu Dhabi have air conditioning in summer?

The Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, Manarat Al Saadiyat, and The Abrahamic Family House are mostly indoors and have air conditioning. Abu Dhabi also has several air-conditioned malls. You can visit these places for free in the summer.

Free, but Fun and Rewarding

Abu Dhabi proves that fun isn’t always tied to a price tag. You can explore its rich culture and discover its natural beauty by visiting its free attractions.