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Looking for a perfect experience on a low budget in the UAE? Then a visit to the striking places in Abu Dhabi is a perfect thing to do. From age-old traditions of camel racing to the cultural sparkles of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, there is an array of tourist places to see with no money. Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE and the second-most populous city of the seven emirates. Unwind in the 10 free things to do in Abu Dhabi and add to your itinerary plan on your next visit. The free attractions in Abu Dhabi are one of the unique reasons that make your trip enjoyable. Read on!
Things To Do In Abu Dhabi For Free
Delve into Arabic culture at Etihad Modern Art Gallery
This is a top free tourist place in Abu Dhabi to visit in the heart of the city. The exclusive array of modern art in the multi-functional art space will leave you mesmerized. One of the family places in Abu Dhabi especially with kids, the galleries showcase classic artworks from renowned local artists. There are exhibitions with a number of events that happen where you can meet and interact with the various artists as you admire their artistic displays. This is one of the top tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi to give you a rendezvous of the Arabic art scene.
Location: Behind Al Bateen Mall – Al Bateen Area – Villa 15 Al Huwaylat St – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Pro tip: Spend time in the cute Art Cafe on the premises.
Take a day trip to Al Ain Oasis
Just about 159 km away from Abu Dhabi, visit the Al Ain Oasis for free. The exciting Al Ain Oasis is where the ancient irrigation system is still operational. There are 147000 date palms that shade meandering pathways in the oasis. The oasis spreads over 1200 hectares where agricultural methods are the same as 4000 years ago. Get a unique insight into how the region’s inhabitants tamed the desert many years ago. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011 and is in the garden city of Al Ain. Fruit trees such as orange, mango, banana, fig and jujube also grow here.
Location: Al Tuhaf St – Central District – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Pro tip: It is good to note that the timing for cafés, restaurants and stores is 12:00 pm to 07:00 pm.
Witness the sparkle at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
This incredibly beautiful mosque in Abu Dhabi is a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. Witness how the modern and traditional styles blend in harmony to create a majestic place to visit with Islamic architecture. The mosque has lavish interiors with white marble stonework, mosaic tiles, and gold decorations. Witness the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet laid in the prayer hall that is illuminated by chandeliers made of 24 karat gold and crystals. This is one of the top 10 things to do in Abu Dhabi for free where you can soak in the divine experience.
Location: Al Tuhaf St – Central District – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Pro tip: Don’t forget to wear your sunglasses and on a bright sunny day the reflection from the white walls can be blinding.
Wander the splendid Al Jahili Fort
One of the best free attractions in Abu Dhabi is the Al Jahili Fort which was built in the 1890s. It is an experience of a lifetime for its cultural heritage. Surrounded by a lush green park, the fort has been awarded the best ‘Earthen Architecture’ in the world in 2016. It is Abu Dhabi’s best attraction for a history lover to delve into the city’s culture. This is a symbol of power and was built in the late 19th century by Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa. Visit one of the largest forts in the UAE, one of the top things to do in Abu Dhabi. It was built around Al Jahili Oasis to protect the palm farmers.
Location: Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan St – Al Jahili – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Pro tip: The closing time is 6 pm and is located close to the Al Ain Castle Museum, another free Abu Dhabi place to visit.
Embrace the rich culture at Emirates Heritage Village
This is one of the top 10 things to do in Abu Dhabi free for a history lover. The place is enchanting with old treasures and palm leaf houses. You can also explore the Bedouin tents, stone huts and campfires. There are amazing falconry demonstrations as well. Spend time witnessing Arab horses and camels and sit around a campfire around a tent. This is a feel-good experience not to miss, where you can pick up souvenirs and see the potteries on display. The recreated traditional village, oasis and market located on the water’s edge is a great way to dive into the richness of Emirate culture.
Location: Near Marina Mall – Abu Dhabi Theater Rd, Corniche – Breakwater Rd – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Pro tip: Do shop for gifts and goods made by local artisans who showcase traditional skills including pottery, glass blowing, weaving and more.
Soak in sunshine at Corniche Beach
A fabulous free couple place in Abu Dhabi is the splendid Corniche Beach with soft white sands and turquoise blue ocean waters. There is a beautiful seaside boardwalk, manicured gardens and benches where you can sit and enjoy the views of the Arabian Gulf. Sunset here is astounding along with plenty of other activities for all. There is a children’s play area close by and free sporting activities. You could also rent a speed boat and enjoy the Abu Dhabi skyline as you whizz past. The 2 km beach is perfect for singles, couples and for families, and remains one of the top free things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Opposite Hilton Hotel to Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Beach in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Pro tip: Bite into yummy seafood at the number of cafes, food joints and restaurants dotted along the beach.
Pay a tribute at the Wahat al Karama
The ‘oasis of dignity’ is a permanent tribute to the martyred soldiers of the UAE. The war memorial is a top thing to see in Abu Dhabi free. The beautiful Abu Dhabi attraction is a combination of three structures. They are the leaning pillars, the pavilion of honour and the memorial plaza. This elegant attraction has the names of all the brave soldiers, diplomats, civilians, and police personnel who lost their lives to save the Arab pride since 1971. It spans 46000 sq meters and is directly opposite the famous attraction of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a top place in Abu Dhabi to see. Poems and quotes are inscribed on the tablet surfaces in a simple script of the memorial.
Location: 3rd St Khor – United Arab Emirates
Pro tip: There is an honour guard march before sunset daily that you shouldn’t miss.
Feel like a royal at the Emirates Palace
On the western side of the city’s Corniche, is the elaborate Presidential Palace that you can visit for free. This is the place where the de facto ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomes visitors and arranges majlis. The shades of the sands inspired the colour of the building in the Arabian Desert. The modern methods of the design were used to build the structure which blends Islamic architectural elements in geometric patterns and styles that are rhythmic. The central dome features elaborate geometric patterns, an architectural marvel.
Location: Al Tuhaf St – Central District – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Pro tip: Don’t miss the exhibition featuring ancient artefacts and highlighting Arabic culture that is for free.
Wander the seaside promenade at The Corniche
This Abu Dhabi best attraction is the splendid seaside promenade which is a 5-mile seaside strip. This popular free thing to do in Abu Dhabi is to enjoy the walkway and participate in the many activities from cycling, walking and spending time with children on the beach. Pick a little cafe or restaurant and enjoy a tasty meal with impressive skyline views of the city. The cool and relaxing vibe will help you unwind in one of Abu Dhabi’s best places to visit for free. This is the best family place in Abu Dhabi and is split into three sections – families, singles and a public beach. The Aqua Fun inflatable water park is a fun place for kids.
Location: The Corniche Road – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Pro tip: Visit the place at sunset when the hues of the sky turn orange over the water.
Also Read: Top 10 Tips And Tricks On How To Book Cheap Flight Tickets?
Visit the Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Souk
One of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi for free is to wander the Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Souk. Look around the colourful and fresh juicy fruits and imported vegetables that are available in the market. This is a famous spot to be at on Port Zayed Road where you can find everything from juicy cranberries to daily veggies. Fruits are cut and sold by local vendors and are available at a very nominal price. The market is one of the free Abu Dhabi places where you get dry fruits, fruits, vegetables and more in an array of shops in two low buildings. The market is bursting with colour and fragrance as sellers arrange their high-quality goods outside their shop.
Location: Central Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Pro tip: Check out the rows of shops selling juicy dates for their flavours and taste.
