We all know that life can be expensive and that now more than ever budgets may well be tightening.
But fear not, this is where we step in to help. Whether you’re looking for history, culture and art, music and live performances, family-friendly fun or to experience nature at its finest, there’s plenty of wallet-friendly things to do in our wonderful city once you start looking.
Read on for our comprehensive guide to all the best free things to do in Abu Dhabi.
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Culture
Catch the camel racing at Al Wathba Race Track
Looking for incredible free things to do in Abu Dhabi? Can you even call yourself a bona fida UAE resident until you’ve spent a day at the races? And no, we’re not talking about the Dubai World Cup. For a thrifty (entrance is free) and highly entertaining morning, head out to Al Wathba Race Track to take in a spot of camel racing. The season begins in October and runs until March, so you’ve got plenty of time to do so.
Al Wathba Race Track, Abu Dhabi.
Check out the Cultural Foundation
Located at the historical Qasr al Hosn fort, the Cultural Foundation has been fostering creative talent in Abu Dhabi since its launch in 1981. A diverse public programme includes workshops, artist-guided tours, live painting, masterclasses and live music and one of the top free things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Various times. Qasr Al Hosn, culturalfoundation.ae.
Explore archeological treasures in Al Ain
This cultural hub hosts regular events, exhibitions, workshops and more throughout the year. On your visit you can learn about local history, archaeology, local cultural traditions and a whole lot more.
Open Sat-Thu 8am–8pm. Mohammed Bin Khalifa Street, Al Qattara (03 711 8225).
Explore amazing exhibitions at Saadiyat Cultural District
In the heart of the Cultural District Manarat Al Saadiyat is a cool cultural hub that hosts regular exhibitions and classes to teach everything from art to photography to foster local talent. Plus, it’s the home of Abu Dhabi Art every year where you can see amazing works from regional and international talent. This is one of the best free things to do in Abu Dhabi to have on your radar now.
Open daily 9am-8pm. Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island (02 657 5800).
Get arty at Warehouse 421
One thing is for sure, Warehouse 421 is effortlessly cool. It’s a repurposed warehouse in the heart of Mina Zayed and there’s always something going on. Art galleries, exhibitions, events, film screenings and workshops. If you want to find out what local and regional artists are creating and catch a glimpse of brilliant work from overseas then get down here to check it all out.
Open Tue-Sun 10am-8pm. Mina Zayed, warehouse421.ae.
Get clued up on Korea at The Korean Cultural Center
Still looking for free things to do in Abu Dhabi? If you want to embrace other cultures and learn about Korea the Korean Cultural Center is the place to be. You can check out some exhibits and learn about a range of classes including language and cooking that take place at the centre.
Ministries Complex, near Khalifa Park. Sun-Thu 9am-6pm, uae.korean-culture.org.
Go to the flicks, gratis
Another Saadiyat Island offering, Cinema Space in Saadiyat’s Cultural District holds regular, free-to-the-community film screenings. Showing a well curated mix of movies that includes everything from locally produced shorts to contemporary art house flicks, carefully restored classics and family-friendly films, this is fantastic initiative deserves to be celebrated.
For more information or to book tickets, cinemaspace-abudhabi.splashthat.com
Head to the Mina Zayed Fish Market
With over 100 stalls displaying a smorgasbord of spanking fresh fish, shellfish, crustaceans and more, a trip to the new fish market at Mina Zayed serves up an oceanic feast for the senses. And while we can’t promise you won’t be tempted to drop a few dirhams on the catch of the day, the quality is so high and the prices so reasonable that doing so makes sense. Should all that perusing whet (sorry) your appetite, a pitstop at one of the on-site restaurants comes recommended.
Open Mon-Fri 7am-9pm, Sat-Sun 7am-10pm. Mina Zayed. dmt.gov.ae.
Immerse yourself in the arts with Abu Dhabi Festival
Art-lover? Abu Dhabi Festival is back once again this year with a fully digital edition. There’s loads of performances and events to take your pick from so you can get a big dose of culture this year at one of the top free things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Dates vary, abudhabifestival.ae
Marvel at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the most popular free things to do in Abu Dhabi, we’d be stunned if you have never visited this beautiful mosque, being such a massive landmark as it is. What can you say about it that hasn’t been said before? It’s breathtaking, with 82 domes, 1,000 columns, 24-karat gold chandeliers and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. It’s a masterclass in craftsmanship and architecture. Just remember to be respectful, dress conservatively and to get those brilliant snaps for social media while you admire the beauty of this famed structure.
Open Sat-Thu 9am-10pm; Fri 4.30-10pm. Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street (02 419 1919).
Take a step back in time at Heritage Village
Want to catch a glimpse of life in the UAE before it evolved into a modern city? This is one of the best free things to do in Abu Dhabi. Take a trip to the Heritage Village for free and you can see a snapshot of traditional Emirati life and heritage. The free-to-visit village showcases a range of local crafts, explores the history of pearl diving and more.
Open Sat-Thu 9am-4pm; Fri 3.30pm-9pm. Heritage Village, near Marina Mall, Corniche Breakwater (02 681 4455).
Visit the Miraj Islamic Arts Centre Abu Dhabi
The Miraj Islamic Arts Centre boasts an eclectic trove of art work dedicated to the history and heritage of Islam. Spend an hour or so taking in the various pieces on display – tapestries, hand-crafted weaponry, vases inscribed with intricate Arabic calligraphy, richly woven carpets and textiles dating back to the 16th century – and you’ll leave feeling more culturally informed, which is never a bad thing.
Villa No – 14B & 15B, Marina Office Park, Near Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi.
Watch awesome live performances at The Arts Center at NYUAD
The Season 8 line up at the NYUAD Arts Center on Saadiyat Island might just be the best yet, thanks to a fantastic programme of live theatre, music, talks, workshops and performances. Adding to the appeal a number of the events are free to attend; all you need to do is register online in advance (trust us, Rooftop Rhythms, the Middle East’s longest running poetry open mic night is a must-see). Check out the Reconnect section of their website to stream previous shows and performance and head to their YouTube channel for behind the scenes talks, career advice and Q&As.
New York University Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island nyuad-artscenter.org (02 628 6868).
Historical
Check out a historical palace
Located next door to Al Ain Oasis, this free-to-enter museum offers a rare glimpse into the past. The sprawling palace was one the home of the UAE’s founding father His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and with traditional architecture and design it’s a cool place to spend a few hours wandering around and seeing what it would have been like.
Open daily 10am-6pm. Al Ain Street, Central District, Al Ain (03 711 8388).
Explore history at Al Jahilil Fort
Looking for free things to do in Abu Dhabi? The capital is home to loads of historic forts but Al Jahili Fort is one of the best out there. Built in 1890, this is one of the largest in the UAE and is home to a permanent exhibition devoted to Sir Wilfred Thesiger, the explorer, travel writer and photographer who crossed the world’s largest sand mass, Rub al Khali, twice in the 1940s.
Daily 10am-6pm. Sultan Bin Zayed Al Awwal Street, Al Ain (03 711 8311).
Marvel at Qasr Al Muwaiji
Head to the Garden City and you can explore an impressive archaeological and historical structure and UNESCO World Heritage Site, at Qasr Al Muwaiji. The impressive structure is also birthplace of the country’s president, HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 1948.
Open Tue-Thu, Sat-Sun 9am-7pm, Fri 3pm-7pm. Khalifa Bin Zayed Street, Al Ain, qasralmuwaiji.ae.
Sightseeing
Amble through the palm trees at Al Ain Oasis
This is one of the top free things to do in Abu Dhabi. There’s nothing quite like taking a walk through thousands of palm trees towering over your head, especially when it’s one of the best free things to do in Abu Dhabi. In fact there are 147,000 trees at Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO world heritage site, and it’s a top place to enjoy a walk.
Open daily 9am-5pm. Al Ain Street, Central District, Al Ain (03 711 8251).
Chill at Green Mubazzarah
Green Mubazzarah boasts lush, green views and hills at the feet of the Abu Dhabi’s highest peak, Jebel Hafeet. And it makes for quite the setting for a picnic or stroll. And if you fancy you can even have a dip in the natural hot springs too. Go on, why not? It’s beautiful. And it’s one of the best free things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Free, Dhs20 for hot springs. Daily 11am-8pm. Green Mubazzarah, next to Wadi Adventure (03 783 9555).
Dune and dusted
It’s easy to forget you live in a desert when among huge skyscrapers and living an urban life. A short drive out of the city and you’ll quickly remember. For those with an adventurous streak (and taking all safety precautions) exploring the natural beauty of the desert is an unforgettable experience and one you need to do if you live in the UAE.
Set your GPS for 22.974905, 53.785472 and explore.
Experience incredible stargazing in the Al Quaa desert
On its day (or more accurately, its night), the light pollution-free Al Quaa desert grants stargazers the most stellar of sights: amazing views of the galaxy and various planets, constellations and even the occasional shooting star. Wrap up warm, make sure your camera phone is at the ready and prepare to marvel; this place is thoroughly deserving of its alternative moniker ‘the Milky Way spot’.
Al Quaa is located around 90 minutes’ drive from Abu Dhabi towards Al Ain. Google Maps coordinates: 23°36’16.7″N 54°45’00.9″E.
Explore a sustainable city
Abu Dhabi’s sustainable city is an intriguing place and it has loads of stunning architecture and a unique design. Take a stroll through the buildings and you can see what’s on offer and get some amazing snaps of some of the coolest buildings in the UAE.
Masdar City, near Abu Dhabi International Airport.
Go flamingo spotting at Al Ain
This cool UNSECO site is not only full of natural beauty but is one of the few places in the UAE where you can go flamingo spotting. The pink birds have made the site their home and while they like to migrate, you can catch colonies (or flamboyances) of the birds at the site relaxing in the water. Don’t worry, you’ll spot them easily, they’re bright pink, after all. Looking for a free thing to do in Abu Dhabi that involves wildlife? This is one of the top free things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Open Tue-Sat 8am-6pm. Al Ain Truck Road, ead.ae.
Make it to the top of the mountain
Free things to do in Abu Dhabi can suit adventure seekers too. At 1,249m Jebel Hafeet is the highest mountain in Abu Dhabi and there are few things more spectacular than hitting the summit here which, thanks to a road up it, is really a pretty simple task. You can run or cycle up too, if that’s your thing. We’ll be waiting at the top.
Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain.
Pay your respects at the Oasis of Dignity
This memorial was built in recognition of the UAE’s armed forces and, as well as being a fitting tribute, it’s also an architectural wonder. The name means “oasis of dignity” and it is a permanent homage to soldiers who have given their life protecting the nation’s values and security. The sculpture features massive aluminium slabs that lean on one another and the site also features a visitors’ centre and a 4,000 square metre plaza enjoying amazing views over Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Open daily 9am-10pm. Khor Al Maqta (02 668 1000).
See stunning sand sculptures at Al Wathba
Free things to do in Abu Dhabi doesn’t mean you need to stay in one place. Out in the desert at Al Wathba’s fossil dunes you can explore a collection of twisting, wind-swept towers of rock. It’s a unique place, and budding photographers will love the shadows and shapes created at sunrise and sunset. The dunes are very fragile so don’t climb all over them or damage them when taking pictures. Be kind.
Open 24 hours. Off the E30, behind Al Dhafrah Air Base, co-ordinates: 24.192078, 54.584732.
See sunset at the Corniche
As far as palaces to watch the sun set go, this one is a winner. As night descends on the city, The Constellation, an artwork and memorial to the late Sheikh Zayed, lights up. Standing 30m tall and using 1,327 geometric shapes, the installation projects a portrait of Sheikh Zayed and it’s brilliant to watch.
Open daily 9am-10pm. Corniche West, thefoundersmemorial.ae.
See the Liwa Forts and Oasis
If seeing something that’s off the beaten track is what you’re after, then set course for Liwa Forts. Located near Liwa Oasis, which is also worth seeking out, these forts, constructed by Bedouin tribes in the 19th and 20th centuries, were built to protect their most treasure resource: water. These are not an official tourist destination, don’t expect a gift shop, a guide or resources, just check them out, take your pictures and make sure to leave them as you found them for the next person to explore.
Head towards Hamim and set your GPS for 23 07 60.00, 53 45 59.99.
Snap a selfie at a real-life film location
In recent years Abu Dhabi has established itself as top filming location for everything from indie flicks to big-budget blockbusters. Venture out to the Empty Quarter and you’ll see exactly why Dune director Denis Villeneuve chose the vast expanse of sand to double as the planet Arrakis. Alternatively, make for the rolling dunes of Rub Al Khali and re-enact the opening scenes of Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens. More of a Bollywood movie buff? Stick closer to the city and visit Emirates Palace, the St. Regis Abu Dhabi or the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre – all three made an appearance in 2018 hit Race 3.
Take on the terrifying mountain at Moreeb Dune
Looking for one of the best free things to do in Abu Dhabi? Moreeb Dune is an incredible sight. The towering wall of sand has an estimated 50 degree slip face and 300m height, making it quite the spectacle. We recommend leaving driving up it to the pros and admiring it from the base. It’s not called the ‘terrifying mountain’ for nothing.
Moreeb Dune, 25km south of Liwa Oasis
Take pictures at Emirates Palace
Okay, staying at this grand hotel is definitely not free, but heading along to explore the golden hotel definitely is. It’s one of the most iconic buildings in the UAE and known the world over for it’s luxury. Plus, it’s pretty photogenic too. We won’t blame you if you snap a selfie, it’s probably one of the most famous free things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Corniche West (02 690 9000).
Nightlife and shopping
Check out three bars in one at ANNEX
When it comes to amazing places to go out ANNEX is near the top of the list. With three floors to choose from including a rooftop terrace and an inviting lounge you can make your way around the venue to enjoy different settings and vibes as the night goes on.
Thu-Fri 7pm-4am, Sat 5pm-11.30pm. ANNEX, The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen (02 208 0000).
Enjoy free drinks by the marina at Aquarium
Women, listen up. This one is for you. On Wednesdays at Aquarium Seafood Restaurant, all ladies can enjoy unlimited drinks while dining. That’s a pretty sweet deal.
Wed 6pm-9pm. Yas Marina, Yas Island (050 696 9357).
Enjoy a glo-up at Rosewood
Glo, the poolside lounge at Rosewood Abu Dhabi, is absolutely stunning, with first-class waterfront and skyline views. And on Tuesdays, you can get three free glasses of grape, with a 20 percent discount on food. We can’t think of many better ways to spend a Tuesday in the capital.
Tue 6pm-9pm. Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island (02 813 5550).
Have a ladies’ night in Al Ain
A night out at this Al Ain spot will certainly leave you and your girls in a good mood, as you’ll get two free drinks between 7pm and 9pm every Wednesday. And if you want to continue your night here, you’ll also get 50 percent off selected beverages after that.
Wed 7pm-9pm. Al Ain Rotana Hotel, Al Jahili (03 703 1086).
Get quizzical at Blu Sky Lounge and Grill
It’s all blue skies at Blu Sky Lounge and Grill here until you get a few questions wrong and you start to feel like you’re caught up in a storm. If you think you’ve got the right answers and are up for the challenge you can sign up to take part in the weekly Let’s Get Quizzical quiz on Tuesday evening. Sharpen up your brain cells, you’re going to need some super general knowledge.
Free. Tue 8.30pm-11pm. Southern Sun Abu Dhabi, Mina Street (02 818 4888).
Go window shopping at The Galleria Al Maryah Island
The Galleria Al Maryah Island is home to the biggest and most luxury brands in the world. While you might not want to splash the cash of expensive designer clobber it doesn’t hurt to take a look at all the pretty things and dream about going on a serious spending spree.
Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. The Galleria Al Maryah Island (02 493 7400).
Show your smarts at Velocity
Back with some burning questions and prizes to be won, Velocity sports bar has relaunched its weekly quiz night every Monday hosted by radio presenter Laura Naylor. Prizes up for grabs for clever clogs include stays at the hotel, dining vouchers, afternoon tea vouchers and more.
Mon 8pm. Velocity, Marriott Hotel Downtown Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street (02 304 7777).
Fitness
Hit the track in the desert at Al Wathba
If you’re looking for an ideal spot for cycling there are few better than Al Wathba. But it’s in the middle of a desert we hear you say, that’s true, but it’s open 24 hours, the track is perfect and with a range of distances and lighting (if you want to cycle in the dark), it’s a top destination for a pedal.
Open 24/7. Al Wathba Cycle Track, Al Wathba.
Make time to meditate
Studies show that meditation can reduce stress and anxiety levels, improve our general health and wellbeing and result in an increase in productivity and self-control. If you’re not already a convert, download a mediation app (Headspace is particularly popular and offers a free trial), carve out some me time and reap the benefits.
Run an F1 track
With TrainYAS you can walk, cycle or run the 5.55km track absolutely free and build up your fitness or just take in the sights of a world-class Formula One circuit. At this time you need to bring your own bike, towel and water but it’s definitely worth it for a unique
work out.
Free (registration required). Tue & Sun 6pm-10pm. Yas Island, yasmarinacircuit.com.
Food
Feed your pooch for free at The Sportsman’s Arms
Got a dog? Okay this one isn’t free for you, but man’s best friend gets a gratis meal. Head along to the weekend brunch at The Sportsman’s Arms and your pooch can eat for free. All you need to do is pay for a brunch and bring your dog along and your fluffy friends can chow down on some food too as you enjoy the weekend.
From Dhs195 (for humans), free (for dogs). Fri 1pm-4pm. The Sportsman’s Arms, Zayed Sports City (02 447 1066).
Give your kids lunch for free at The Galleria Al Maryah Island
At The Galleria Al Maryah Island kids can eat free at a host of restaurants until the end of March 2021. With one paying adult kids can tuck in for free at a range of restaurants including Taqado, Bombay Canteen, Eat Greek, La Brioche, Loca, Sushi Art and more. What a tasty deal.
thegalleria.ae/magazine/kidseatfree.
Fun things to do
Admire Al Wathba Salt Lakes
Its fossil dunes and wildlife-filled wetlands have long been loved, but the relatively recent discovery of a stunning salt lake has made a trip out to the serene Al Wathba district even more appealing. It isn’t the easiest place to find (travelling by SUV is recommended), but once you happen upon Long Salt Lake you’ll be well-rewarded: glassy, turquoise water dotted with lily pads and flanked by a glittering salt crust make this natural wonder a sight to behold and nothing short of Instagram gold.
Co-ordinates: 24.1589° N, 54.5025° E.
Chill on the Corniche
While there are many beach clubs where you can enjoy a luxurious afternoon, the public beach on the Corniche is completely free. Bring a towel, water and some snacks and enjoy a few chilled hours all for free in Abu Dhabi.
Free. Daily 8am-8pm. Corniche.
Enjoy in amazing views at Al Bateen
With scenic views out to sea and over Al Hudayriyat bridge, this laid-back beach destination is a great place to spend some down time. With calm waters across the 800m stretch of sand you can chill out for the day with a book or catching some rays. A dreamy free thing to do in Abu Dhabi.
Al Bateen, Khalifa Al Mubarak Street, off Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street.
Embrace the idea of the sunset picnic
While we’ll never tire of dining out in Abu Dhabi, we do like to mix things up every so often (and save ourselves a few dirhams while doing so). If you’re inclined to feel the same, might we suggest planning a sunset picnic for your next culinary sojourn? Stock up on nibbles and antipasti treats, throw a blanket in your basket, pack a portable speaker and head to your favourite beauty spot just before sundown. Added bonus: this is the perfect ‘quirky yet thoughtful, romantic without being cringe’ date night activity.
Explore Sheikha Fatima Park
A wonderland for al fresco adventuring and exploring, Sheikha Fatima Park might just be the most exciting green space in the capital. The 46,000 square metre area close to the Corniche boasts a skate park, pet park, toddler play area, splash pad zone and plenty of shaded grassy areas for chilling, as well as water features, art murals and playgrounds aplenty. Park life doesn’t get much better than this.
Open 10am-10pm, Sheikha Fatima Park, Al Khalidiya.
Flop on the beach at Corniche
We love a beach day. And the best part? It’s absolutely free to roll out your towel, grab a book, even build sandcastles – if that’s your vibe. There’s loads to do at beachside zone Al Bahar on the Corniche, from working up a sweat on the basketball and volleyball courts, to swanning around the shops restaurants, cafés and gaming area.
Daily 7am-sunset. Corniche al-bahar.ae.
Go on a litter picking mission
Abu Dhabi is home to some truly gorgeous beaches but all too often those splendid stretches of sand end up strewn with rubbish. Keen to make a difference? Gather a gaggle of friends together, arm yourselves with litter-picking kit and spend a couple of hours on a beach clean-up mission. By all means get the kids in on the action too.
Have fun at the newest beach destination – Al Hudayriat Island
Whether you want to relax on a stunning beach or work on your fitness it’s all here. There’s a free public beach woth a clam ocean and basketball and sports courts as well as a stunning cycle track where you can rack up the kilometres.
Al Hudayriat Island, hudayriyatisland.ae.
Laze at the Corniche’s parks
If you’re heading to the Corniche, chances are you’re thinking of a beach day, but those sands are outlined by some lovely parks, ideal for a shaded stroll, and on the other side of the road are a bunch more green spaces. Starting from the east side, near Sofitel Abu Dhabi, is Recreation Park. At the end of the first stretch is Lake Park – with a 15m fountain and wooden bridges and walkways. Check them out as they’re a really fun free thing to do in Abu Dhabi.
Free. Off Corniche Road.
Pitch a tent in the UAE desert
Camping in the UAE is an amazing experience and there are endless places to go and sleep under the stars. Before you set off you need to be prepared and if you’re new to desert camping then it’s best to go with a group.
timeoutabudhabi.com.
Start a Podcast club
Here’s to taking the idea of the traditional book club and making it 2022 appropriate. A podcast club not only demands less of your time (no need to slog through a 300-page tome that never really piqued your interest in the first place), but there’s huge scope for exploring a wide variety of subject matter at pace. If you haven’t got enough podcast-loving friends to start a club, consider joining the thriving NYT Podcast Club on Facebook – every Monday the group reveals a new episode ahead of an interactive weekly discussion.
Take a sunset stroll around the Louvre Abu Dhabi
The permanent home to some seriously impressive art as well as a rolling roster of impressive exhibitions, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is one of the capital’s most culturally-enriching destinations. That said, you can still have a fine old time without stepping foot inside the iconic building itself. Marvel at Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel’s remarkable structure from afar, then settle yourself underneath the famous glittering dome just before sundown and lap up the breathtaking views and top-notch photo ops.
Free entry. Wed 6.30pm-9pm. Saadiyat Island, louvreabudhabi.ae (600 56 55 66).
Volunteer
Volunteering is a brilliantly rewarding way to make a positive impact on both your own life and the lives of others. From the UAE Dolphin Project to Emirates Red Crescent and the Emirates Nature-WWF, there’s a wide a range of UAE-based organisations tht welcome volunteers. Our advice is to find a match for your schedule, interests and skill set and get started.
Click here for more information on volunteering in the UAE.
Wander around Reem Central Park
Located in the heart of Reem Island, the green space feature playparks, outdoor gyms, restaurants, a beachfront, a fountain with daily light shows, sports courts and a skate park. Fitness workshops and other events are also held in the park as well as regular meet-ups and there’s even local art on display throughout the space. It’s very cool.
Open 24 hours, reemcentralpark.com.
While away a morning or afternoon at Al Gurm Corniche
Nestled close to the Eastern Mangrove’s greenery-lined lagoons, this teaming-with-wildlife spot offers scenic views and family-friendly fun in abundance. The walkways are easy-to-navigate and there are designated seating areas dotted about, as well as water-themed education stations, nature-viewing platforms, fitness stations and a clutch of cafes. In short, this is a brilliant place to spend a winter morning or afternoon.
Open 24 hours. Located next to Eastern Mangroves, Dolphin Park, adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street.
Free knowledge
Catch up on the news at timeoutabudhabi.com
Your favourite magazine is on shelves but all the latest news is also online. You can keep up to date with all the latest news, reviews, feature and more.
Visit timeoutabudhabi.com.
Educate the kids at Abu Dhabi Children’s Library
The children’s Library provides a learning and educational area for kids as well as materials for them to read and an opportunity to connect with the UAE’s heritage. Plus, with dedicated reading zones and a year-round programme of events it gets two thumbs up from us.
Free. Sat-Thu 10am-8pm, Fri noon-8pm. Qasr Al Hosn, alhosn.ae
Jog along with an audio book
Fancy a thriller to spure you on on your morning run? Audible offers a free 30 day trial, which is ideal if you’re not sure if you’re into audiobooks just yet.
audible.com.
Learn to play guitar
Guitar giants Fender are helping everyone to start mastering the guitar. Whether you want to become the next Ed Sheeran or slay the guitar lick rock legends of old you can start to learn the basics with a free online trial.
fender.com/play.
Listen to your favourite tunes
Looking to listen to some top music? Log on to Spotify and if you’re a new member you can try a free trial to listen to all your favourite songs and podcasts.
Download Spotify on you Apple or Android device.
Read thousands of books, comics and newspapers for free
This free-to-access online resource features thousands of academic resources and entertainment including movies, e-books, newspapers, music and more. Excellent.
britishcouncil.com.ae.
Stroll along with a podcasts
Podcasts are brilliant and cover everything from true crime to sport, politics and a whole lot more. If you’ve got a smartphone you can download podcasts for free, there are thousands and thousands to choose from too.
timeoutabudhabi.com.
Watch Netflix for free
Free things to do in Abu Dhabi in your own home, you say? Sometimes you’d rather stay on the sofa, we get it. And for those nights, Netflix is your go to. And now, Netflix has released some original content for free for you to watch without a subscription. Now, what’s for dinner?
.netflix.com/ae-en.
