20 budget-friendly things to do in Abu Dhabi

Written by:
Sammi Barnard
10th June 2026

Looking for budget-friendly things to do in Abu Dhabi? We’ve rounded up some of the best activities in the city that won’t break the bank

You don’t need to spend a fortune to have fun in the capital. From iconic landmarks and cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities and hidden gems, there are plenty of affordable things to do in Abu Dhabi. Here are 20 great experiences that all come in at Dhs100 or less.

Free things to do in Abu Dhabi

Sometimes the best things in life really are free. Grab a towel and head to one of Abu Dhabi’s public beaches for a day of sunshine, sea views and a refreshing swim.

Where: Various locations
When: Daily
Contact: @hudayriyatislandad

Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

One of the most iconic landmarks, this stunning mosque is a must-see. Wander through the beautiful white marble halls and admire some of the most impressive architecture in the UAE.

Where: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Al Rawdah
When: Saturday to Thursday, 9am to 10pm; Friday, 9am to 12pm and 3pm to 10pm
Contact: (02) 419 1919, szgmc.gov.ae

Explore Qasr Al Hosn

Take a step back in time at Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building. It’s a great place to learn more about the city’s history while exploring the beautifully restored fort.

Where: Qasr Al Hosn, Al Hosn
When: Saturday to Thursday, 9am to 8pm; Friday, 2pm to 8pm
Contact: (02) 697 6400, qasralhosn.ae

Visit Al Wathba Wetland Reserve

Love nature? This peaceful reserve is home to thousands of flamingos and plenty of walking trails. Don’t forget your camera.

Where: Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, Al Wathba
When: Check website for opening times
Contact: ead.gov.ae

Discover the Abrahamic Family House

This striking attraction brings together a mosque, church and synagogue in one place. It’s free to visit and well worth adding to your bucket list.

Where: Abrahamic Family House, Saadiyat Island
When: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm
Contact: (02) 657 5900, @abrahamicfh

Visit The Founder’s Memorial

Take a stroll through this peaceful landmark dedicated to Sheikh Zayed. It’s a lovely spot for a walk, especially around sunset.

Where: The Founder’s Memorial, Al Ras Al Akhdar
When: Daily, 9am to 10pm
Contact: (02) 410 0100, @foundermemorial
Cost: Free

Explore Al Jahili Fort

One of the UAE’s most famous forts, Al Jahili Fort is packed with history and makes for an interesting day out if you’re visiting Al Ain.

Where: Al Jahili Fort, Castle Park, Al Ain
When: Daily, 9am to 7pm
Contact: (03) 711 8311

Also read: 14 of the best pool day passes in Abu Dhabi right now

Things to do in Abu Dhabi under Dhs50

al ain zoo

Spend the day at Al Ain Zoo

One of the region’s most popular wildlife attractions, Al Ain Zoo is home to hundreds of animals from around the world. It’s a great family day out and excellent value for money.

Where: Al Ain Zoo, Nahyan The First Street, Al Ain
When: Daily, 9am to 6pm
Contact: @alainzoouae
Cost: Dhs31 adults, Dhs10 children

Explore Jubail Mangrove Park

Escape the city and enjoy a peaceful walk through Abu Dhabi’s beautiful mangroves. It’s a great way to spend a morning outdoors, with plenty of wildlife and scenic views along the boardwalk.

Where: Jubail Mangrove Park, Jubail Island
When: Daily, 7am to 9pm
Contact: jubailisland.ae
Cost: Dhs15 adults, Dhs5 children

Get pedalling at BMX Park

Whether you’re a beginner or a BMX pro, this Hudayriyat Island attraction is perfect for getting active. Bring your bike and tackle the track for an adrenaline-filled session.

Where: BMX Park, Hudayriyat Island
When: Monday to Thursday, 2pm to 10pm; Friday to Sunday, 2pm to 11pm
Contact: circuitxuae.com
Cost: From Dhs25

Get creative at Manarat Al Saadiyat

Looking for something different? Join a drop-in art session and get creative with painting, drawing, ceramics or sculpture at this popular cultural hub.

Where: Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island
When: Daily from 10am
Contact: (02) 657 5807, manaratalsaadiyat.ae
Cost: Dhs50

Visit Emirates National Auto Museum

From classic cars to unique custom-built vehicles, this quirky museum is a must for car enthusiasts. Don’t forget to snap a photo outside before you head in.

Where: Emirates National Auto Museum, Hamim Road, Al Dhafra
When: Daily, 9am to 5pm
Cost: Dhs50

Visit Emirates Park Zoo

Get up close to animals from across the globe at this family-friendly zoo. There are plenty of encounters and feeding experiences available if you want to make your visit extra memorable.

Where: Emirates Park Zoo and Resort, Al Bahiyah
When: Sunday to Wednesday, 9am to 8pm; Thursday to Saturday, 9am to 9pm
Contact: @emiratesparkzoo
Cost: Dhs52

Things to do in Abu Dhabi under Dhs100

Go kayaking around Reem Island

Swap dry land for the water and explore Reem Island by kayak. It’s a relaxing way to get outdoors while enjoying views of the city skyline.

Where: Reem Park, Reem Island
When: Daily, 6am to 11pm
Contact: husaak.ae
Cost: From Dhs63

Bounce Abu Dhabi

Let your inner child loose at Bounce Abu Dhabi. From trampolines and obstacle courses to slam dunks and dodgeball, it’s a fun way to burn some energy and try something different.

Where: Bounce Abu Dhabi, Marina Mall
When: Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 10pm; Friday and Saturday, 10am to midnight
Contact: bounce.ae
Cost: Dhs75

Take a swing at the driving range

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a complete beginner, the driving range at Abu Dhabi City Golf Club is a great place to practise your swing.

Where: Abu Dhabi City Golf Club, Mushrif
When: Daily, 5.30am to midnight
Contact: (02) 445 9600, @adcitygolf
Cost: Dhs60

Get competitive with paintball

Round up your friends and head into battle at Action Park. Expect plenty of action, adrenaline and colourful paint-filled chaos.

Where: Action Park, Last Exit AUH Bound, E11
When: Sunday to Wednesday, 11am to 11pm; Thursday to Saturday, 11am to 1am
Contact: actionpark.ae
Cost: From Dhs59

Go ice skating at Zayed Sports City

Cool off at one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular ice rinks. Whether you’re a beginner or a confident skater, it’s a fun activity for all ages.

Where: Zayed Sports City, Airport Road
When: Various sessions daily
Contact: (02) 403 4200, @zayedsportscity
Cost: From Dhs55

Visit Emirates Park Zoo

Home to more than 1,000 animals, Emirates Park Zoo is a fun day out for families. Upgrade your visit with feeding experiences and animal encounters.

Where: Emirates Park Zoo and Resort, Al Bahiyah
When: Sunday to Wednesday, 9am to 8pm; Thursday to Saturday, 9am to 9pm
Contact: @emiratesparkzoo
Cost: Dhs52

Visit Louvre Abu Dhabi

From world-famous artworks to fascinating exhibitions, Louvre Abu Dhabi is always worth a visit. Keep an eye out for the latest temporary exhibitions when planning your trip.

Where: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island
When: Check website for opening times
Contact: @louvreabudhabi
Cost: From Dhs65