If you find yourself lost amidst the towering skyscrapers of Abu Dhabi, don’t worry; the city offers more than its signature skyline and magnificent malls. There are numerous parks and gardens in and around Abu Dhabi that provide a much-needed escape from the daily grind and awaken the nature lover in you. Most of these are public parks, making them accessible and affordable.
Here is a list of 11 lush green parks in Abu Dhabi that can make your evenings super calm and relaxed:
1. Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park
Considered a biodiversity hotspot, this national park in Abu Dhabi is a paradise for nature lovers, bird watchers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Home to over 60 species of birds and a variety of plants and animals, it offers exciting kayaking excursions and other water activities year-round (with some charges). It’s the perfect haven for adrenaline-filled adventures and scintillating sunset views.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Location: Near Anantara Hotel, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street, Abu Dhabi
Entry Fee: None
2. Umm Al Emarat Park
One of the oldest and largest urban parks in Abu Dhabi, Umm Al Emarat Park is located close to the Al Mushrif Palace. It features attractions like the Wisdom Garden, Shade House, Botanic Garden, Amphitheatre, Animal Barn, Great Lawn, Evening Garden, and Friends of the Park. The Shade House, standing tall at 30 meters, is home to over 30 plant species and is designed to minimize heat gain. The Animal Barn and Great Lawn are perfect for children. With a five-star urban park feel, Umm Al Emarat Park is a top hangout destination for all age groups.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Location: 15th Street, Mushrif Area
Entry Fee: AED 5 per adult
3. Heritage Park
Heritage Park is an ideal picnic spot for weekends with family and friends, offering barbecue facilities, play areas, picturesque fountains, and lush green spaces for a relaxing stroll. The park’s antique monuments and characteristic structures emphasize the rich history and culture of the UAE, making it a must-see.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: Near the Mina Zayed Fort
Entry Fee: None
4. Delma Park
Featuring lush green gardens, Delma Park is perfect for relaxing and hanging out with family. Located away from the cityscape, it offers moments of peace and solace. It has a specially designed playground for kids, a fitness area, a tennis area, basketball and football courts, chess tables, a running track, and a climbing wall for kids.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: Delma Street, Abu Dhabi
Entry Fee: None
5. Khalifa Park
A preferred family destination in Abu Dhabi, Khalifa Park covers a massive area of 500,000 square meters. It’s a great place for children to learn, featuring a Cultural Library, Maritime Museum, Aquarium, fun-filled train rides, and the Murjan Splash Park. The Grand Mosque can be seen at a distance, making a splendid backdrop. The park hosts numerous festivals, including the Abu Dhabi Festival of Falconry in December.
Timings: Sunday-Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM / Thursday-Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Location: Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi
Entry Fee: AED 2 per person
6. Capital Garden
Nestled amidst towering skyscrapers, Capital Gardens offers a serene escape within the city. Known locally as Asima Gardens, it is favored by locals, workers, and shoppers. The garden features impeccable design, brilliant water fountains, lush trees, and colorful garden coves. It’s perfect for children’s parties, with swings, slides, and climbing structures, as well as an indoor refreshment facility.
Timings: Sunday-Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM / Thursday-Saturday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Location: Opposite The National Bank of Abu Dhabi
Entry Fee: AED 1 per person
7. Yas Gateway Park
Located on Yas Island, Yas Gateway Park is split into north and south sections by the Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Highway. Its vast lawns, play areas, and green stretches are the main attractions. It’s never too busy, making it a refreshing stop on a drive to Yas Island. It’s perfect for picnics and weekends, with the nearby Abu Dhabi International Airport offering scenic views.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Highway
Entry Fee: None
8. Family Park
As its name suggests, Family Park is an ideal destination for family hangouts. It features five themed play areas, a water park, a palm pool, a skate park, and basketball courts. The park also has barbecue spaces and food kiosks. At its center, there’s a lighthouse and a “tranquillity bay” water feature. Manicured to perfection and dotted with green garden spaces, this park is also a great filming location.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: Corniche Road W, Al Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi
Entry Fee: None
9. Reem Central Park
The newest park in Abu Dhabi, Reem Central Park primarily serves the Reem Island community. It boasts huge play areas, four multi-sports courts, a skate park, a BMX park, a cyclist path, street art, spectacular fountain features, and attractive graffiti. Kayaks can be rented to explore the nearby mangroves. The park has over 20 outdoor food outlets and hosts a spectacular laser light show every evening and occasional outdoor family film screenings.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: Shams Abu Dhabi, Al Reem Island
Entry Fee: None
10. Formal Park
Located near Family Park, Formal Park is perfect for beating mid-week blues. Despite its name, it is an extremely relaxing place, dotted with colorful flower beds and centered around a large pond. The park also boasts numerous play areas, courts, barbecue spaces, and an outdoor gym.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: Corniche Road W / 308 Sultan Bin Zayed the First Street
Entry Fee: None
11. New Shahama Park
New Shahama Park is lined with green trees, fountains, and many rides for children. It has 22 children’s playgrounds, soccer fields, hiking trails, and cafeterias. It’s a popular hangout place for families and ideal for kids’ enjoyment.
Timings: Sunday-Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM / Thursday-Saturday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Location: Near Pizza Way, New Shahama, Abu Dhabi
Entry Fee: AED 1 per person
As each day passes, we find ourselves more isolated in our small worlds, depriving ourselves of much-needed fun and drama. These parks in Abu Dhabi not only promote infrastructural growth and development but also encourage us to break free from our monotonous routines, bringing joy, laughter, and happiness into our lives.