Plan a family day out at these public parks in Abu Dhabi
Sometimes, all you need is fresh air, open lawns and a picnic basket to turn an ordinary weekend into a memorable family day. Luckily, there are plenty of popular public parks in Abu Dhabi where families can relax, children can play freely, and everyone can enjoy a break from busy routines. Whether you are searching for free parks in Abu Dhabi or lively family spots, this guide covers some of the top public parks in Abu Dhabi for your next outdoor adventure.
PUBLIC PARKS IN ABU DHABI
The city has plenty of green spaces with exciting activities to keep the entire family entertained!
KHALIFA PARK
Among the most visited family parks in Abu Dhabi, Khalifa Park offers something for everyone. Wide walking paths, landscaped gardens and peaceful water features create a refreshing setting for families looking to spend quality time outdoors. The park is also known for its picnic and BBQ areas, making it a favourite weekend gathering spot.
It has a Maritime Museum, which offers a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about the animals in the waters surrounding the city. And if you’re worried that you might miss out on something in this massive park, hop on the miniature railway to take it all in!
- Timings: Sunday to Wednesday, 10:00 – 10:00 pm | Thursday to Friday, 10:00 – 11:00 pm
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street, Al Muntazah, Zone 1
UMM AL EMARAT PARK
Umm Al Emarat Park continues to rank among the most popular public parks in Abu Dhabi. Formerly known as Mushrif Park, this green destination beautifully blends recreation, learning and relaxation. Residents of Al Mushrif can stroll through botanical gardens, relax near water features or enjoy open picnic spaces surrounded by greenery.
Located close to Airport Road, this park has several distinct features that make it a perfect place to spend the day. It has an Animal Barn (quite famous with the children), a ‘Shade House’ featuring a wide variety of trees and plants and even a mini-botanical garden!
Also, there’s an amphitheatre that hosts events, a Wisdom Garden featuring quotes by the Founder of the UAE and more little spots that you will love exploring!
- Entry Fees: AED 10
- Timings: Daily, 08:00 am – 12:00 am
- Location: 15th Street, Al Mushrif
CAPITAL GARDEN PARK
Located in Al Danah, Capital Garden Park is a green haven amid skyscrapers. The park attracts lots of residents on weekends and weeknights. Thanks to the central pond, fountains, lush greenery and cosy mini-gardens, this park is a wonderful place to relax without leaving the confines of the city!
Bring the kids along, as the park has several slides, swings and climbing frames to keep them occupied. If you forget to pack some snacks, there’s an F&B area with tables and vending machines.
- Timings: Open 24/7
- Location: Al Danah, Zone 1
YAS GATEWAY PARK
Located in Yas Island, Yas Gateway Park is a hidden gem for families who enjoy spacious outdoor settings. Divided into North and South sections, the park features long walking trails, cycling paths and shaded seating areas perfect for laid-back evenings. The open layout gives children plenty of room to run around safely.
The North side includes play areas for different age groups, while the South side features tennis courts and BBQ facilities. Whether you plan a picnic or a sunset stroll, this is one of the top outdoor parks in Abu Dhabi for families and groups.
- Timings: Open 24/7
- Location: Yas Island
MINA HERITAGE PARK
If you’ve ever fancied being part of a film or TV set, head to Heritage Park. The park has picturesque fountains, grottoes, verdant green spaces and winding paths that are simply screaming to be ‘grammed!
You can enjoy unique views of the harbour filled with traditional dhows in Al Mina, so bring your camera and brush up on your photography skills! This park is also a great BBQ spot in Abu Dhabi, with designated barbecue areas and built-in grills. A dedicated children’s play area is a good venue for the entire family.
- Timings: Open 24/7
- Location: Mina Street, Abu Dhabi Corniche Road
ABU DHABI CORNICHE PARKS
The Abu Dhabi Corniche Parks have long been hit destinations among residents in the capital. The parks have been awarded the prestigious Green Flag in the past, indicating that they adhere to an international set of standards for safety and hygiene.
These free public parks in Abu Dhabi are known for their unique, sometimes quirky, characters and attractions. For example, head to the Formal Park to test your navigation skills in the maze or stare pensively at a distance from the wooden bridge in Lake Park.
If you’re a little more adventurous, head to Family Park to test your mettle on the BMX track (you can even rent a bike!). The actual parks are dotted along 8 kilometres of the Corniche, offering beach access and plenty of running and cycling tracks. Oh, and did we mention space for picnics and play areas?
- Location: Along Corniche Road
MANGROVE NATIONAL PARK
Away from the bustling city and skyscrapers, you’ll find Mangrove National Park, a place to find peace and serenity. Our list of public parks in Abu Dhabi is incomplete without mentioning this scenic venue.
The park accounts for almost 75% of the UAE’s total mangrove forest area. It is protected by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi because it is a biodiversity hotspot.
The best part? There are plenty of activities here for the whole family! You can go bird-watching, kayaking or venture into the mangroves where you might spot dugongs and foxes.
- Timings: Daily, 10:00 am – 12:00 am
- Location: Eastern Ring Road
REEM CENTRAL PARK
Last but not least on our list of public parks in Abu Dhabi is Reem Central Park. Located in Al Reem Island, the park has everything if you’re looking for an all-in-one entertainment venue.
Spanning 1 million sq. ft., it includes landscaped gardens, an adventure trail, a skate park and a mosque. You’ll find plenty of things to do in Reem Central Park, such as the canal walk and skating. The park also has a selection of restaurants, so you know where to go when hungry!
- Timings: Open 24/7
- Location: Al Reem Island
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ARE THERE ANY CYCLING TRACKS IN ABU DHABI?
Yes! Corniche Bike Track, Al Wathba Cycle Track and Yas Marina Circuit are the top cycling tracks in Abu Dhabi.
WHICH ARE THE BEST BEACHES IN ABU DHABI?
Saadiyat Beach, Corniche Beach and Yas Beach are the most popular beaches in Abu Dhabi.
ARE THERE ANY THEME PARKS IN ABU DHABI?
Well, yes! The capital is home to some of the most amazing amusement parks. Warner Bros. World, Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld are the top theme parks in Abu Dhabi.
And that’s all, folks! If you’re visiting the capital for the first time and want to learn about Emirati culture, check out these heritage sites in Abu Dhabi.
Feeling adventurous? Then you should check out the escape rooms in Abu Dhabi, where you can test your wits. You can take it up a notch at the fantastically fun indoor theme parks in the UAE!
