Every destination gives you a story to tell, and as we all know, kids are always excited for a good story. So, how about this holiday season you give them a new tale to tell with a visit to Abu Dhabi? The capital city of the UAE is known for its fascinating blend of modern and cultural essence, and often paired with Dubai for that complete UAE holiday. It is often tagged as the next best destination to visit in the UAE after Dubai and offers experiences that are less crowded and more affordable than Dubai. For families, this milder, more spacious emirate is an ideal option, even for those wanting to spend a budget-friendly holiday. Abu Dhabi is, of course, brimming with new-age theme parks and innovative attractions, which do have a price tag for the experience. That being said, this emirate also has some wonderful places that you can experience without spending a dirham. So, without further ado, let’s check out some of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi with family for free.
Top Free Attractions in Abu Dhabi for Families
Corniche Beach
Among the many things to do in Abu Dhabi for free, Corniche Beach is perhaps the top attraction that pops into one’s mind for beach lovers. This ever-favourite spot of locals in Abu Dhabi, who assemble for sunset viewing, Corniche beach consists of a sprawling promenade with soft white sand and calm, shallow waters that are super safe for kids to splash around in. This beach with free access is a delight for kids to build sandcastles or simply splash around in the water. It’s clean and obviously a budget-friendly way to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s coastal charm.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The iconic cultural landmark of Abu Dhabi – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-visit for any visitor to the UAE. This magnificent, almost two-decades-old mosque, with stunning white domes and 1,000 gold-gilded pillars, is a sight to behold. Its sprawling gardens, serene reflective pools, and grand interiors and decors, such as the colossal chandelier and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet, add charm to its visual elements. The mosque is one of the few in the Middle East open for non-Muslims to visit and is a definite must-see. It is also a free attraction! For a better experience, visit during sunset for a postcard-worthy, picturesque experience. Also, please remember to follow the dress code when visiting this attraction.
Hudayriyat Island
Hudayriyat Island is yet another fantastic pick for a free family outing in Abu Dhabi. Located along Abu Dhabi’s coast, right across Al Bateen Beach, the island offers a fun recreational spot with a beach vibe, plenty of play areas, dining, and shopping spots. For families with kids and teens who need an outlet to channel their energy, this spot is perfect! Here, you can spend a day strolling on the beach, enjoying sunsets, splashing away in the warm waters, jogging on tracks, or going on a walk on the heritage trail without having to worry about admission tickets. While other entertainment and sports facilities are available, they come at an extra cost for each service.
Mangrove National Park
When it comes to nature, Abu Dhabi surpasses Dubai’s overdone verdure and gives guests an opportunity to revel in natural lushness through its oasis and mangrove parks. The Mangrove National Park deserves a spot as an inclusion in Abu Dhabi packages as it features a wetland wilderness that is seldom found in desert destinations. While Mangrove National Park is not entirely free to access, you can explore the general areas without any admission fees. Activities like kayaking and strolling on the boardwalk cost extra. Nevertheless, you and your family can explore a refreshing side of Abu Dhabi during your trip, and if need be, you can enjoy a family kayaking experience by shelling out a few extra dirhams.
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Featured Heritage Village
Take a trip back to Abu Dhabi’s past without paying the fare for a time travel ride! At Heritage Village, Abu Dhabi, you find yourself strolling along a setup that exudes the aura of Abu Dhabi’s humble, pre-oil discovery days. The village feels like it is frozen in time as you saunter around, viewing old souks, a mosque, a museum, barastis, crops thriving on the ancient falaj system, the craftsmanship of the Bedouin era, and their portrayal of humble life. This attraction would be a fantastic addition to your family holiday, offering both adults and children a change in scenery and see how life in Abu Dhabi used to be once upon a time.
The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
While Abu Dhabi has a vast expanse of desert dunes, you will find a few fascinating oases among them. The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is one such oasis. A man-made lake flanks the region, a preserved nature spot that becomes home to over 4,000 pink flamingos during migration season. Kids will love spotting them and many other birds and wildlife species. Located just 30 minutes away from the Abu Dhabi city centre, this affordable excursion beyond the city limits offers a chance to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s raw and pristine natural beauty. A few minutes ahead, the landscape changes dramatically, as you will witness natural rock formations that feel otherworldly.
Green Mubazzarah Abu Dhabi
This place is one of Abu Dhabi’s most understated attractions, which has become obscured amid the rising theme parks and modern attractions in Abu Dhabi. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Jebel Hafeet Mountain, this slice of lush green oasis is an instant nature getaway for locals from the city. Dotted with verdant date palms, a serene lake, and hot spring waters, it is the perfect spot to bond with family over a quaint picnic session outdoors or camping expeditions. It is a great place to spend time with your family amid refreshing nature at no cost. If you are here with teens who love a good dose of nature adventure, head to Jebel Hafeet, just 15 minutes from this attraction, and enjoy a nature trek to view captivating scenery of Abu Dhabi from above.
Manarat Al Saadiyat
Image Credit : visitabudhabi.ae
For family holidaymakers with a passion for art, Manarat Al Saadiyat is an excellent spot to explore. It is a cultural hub for kids with a keen interest in culture and the arts, housed inside a marvellous contemporary structure. It offers a space where creativity thrives, allowing families to pursue art together. Manarat Al Saadiyat hosts events and workshops that celebrate local and international art, as well as exhibitions, film screenings, and sky-gazing experiences, providing an enriching experience for visitors of all ages. While general admission and many events are free, some workshops or special exhibitions might have a small cost. So, always check their official website for the schedule.
Tips for Exploring Abu Dhabi on a Budget with Family
- Â Plan your visit to Abu Dhabi during off-peak seasons, when the sun is warm but not scorching hot. September and October are two remarkable months to visit Abu Dhabi without feeling the pinch of higher travel prices.
- Â Keep a lookout for any deals and promotions for attractions and holiday packages, and then finalise your travel dates. Book your tours in advance to avoid losing out on the opportunity.
- Â Consider booking stays away from the city centre for cheaper rates.
- Â Stick to public transport rather than private taxis as they are both affordable and efficient.
- Â Similarly, skip expensive fine-dining restaurants and opt for local spots and food stalls for your meals. You might splurge on one grand meal at an exquisite restaurant that suits everyone in your family, but for all other meals, try enjoying places where locals love to frequent.
Conclusion
So, exploring Abu Dhabi with your family does not have to burden your bank balance. A budget-friendly family holiday plan is totally doable, as the city has an amazing array of attractions that will entertain kids and grown-ups. By including free attractions in your holiday and following tips to sustain your travel budget, your family can have a memorable time in Abu Dhabi without spending a lot.
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