Find refuge at these tranquil havens in Abu Dhabi
The capital of the UAE has a lot to offer — from action-packed adventures to natural wonders and beach resorts. But this listicle is all about the most relaxing places in Abu Dhabi where you can chillax and unwind. There are many majestic parks, heritage sites and hidden gardens that are perfect for those in desperate need of some alone time. Here are our picks of the best.
LIST OF THE RELAXING AND TRANQUIL PLACES IN ABU DHABI
If you need to take a break, spend some time away from all the chaos and noise at these tranquil places in Abu Dhabi.
AL AIN OASIS
Get a glimpse of the bygone era at the tranquil Al Ain Oasis!
Situated in the Garden City, Al Ain Oasis is a certified UNESCO World Heritage Site in the UAE that dates back 4,000 years. One of the most tranquil places to visit in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain Oasis is home to 147,000 date palms of 100 different types. You’ll also find mango, banana and fig trees nestled amidst the palm trees.
One of the surefire ways to explore this peaceful palm grove is to take the Oasiscape Tour. The engaging tour allows you to learn more about the local plants and animals in the region. Visitors can also hire a pony, buggy or a horse to explore the stunning oasis. The recommended times to visit the site, especially in the hotter months of the year, are between 9:00 am and 11:00 am.
For similarly peaceful experiences, you can consider exploring other spectacular oases in Al Ain, such as Al Hili Oasis, Al Qattara and Al Jimi.
- Location: Al Tufah Street, Central District, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain
- Timings: Daily 09:00 am – 05:00 pm
- Cost: Free to enter
JABAL HAFIT NATIONAL PARK
The Jabal Hafit National Park is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Abu Dhabi. This beautifully natural desert park is home to 500 ancient tombs from the Bronze Age located in the foothills of Jabel Hafeet mountain, dating back 5,000 years!
The rugged terrain and winding trails are perfect to spend a relaxing day in the valley. If you’re lucky, there’s a chance you could come across some of the endangered species too, such as Brandt’s Hedgehog, Blandford’s Fox, Egyptian Vulture and Arabian Tahr.
- Location: E22 Abu Dhabi – Al Ain Road
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Cost: Free to enter | Paid tours are available by local operators
AL WATHBA FOSSIL DUNE
Al Wathba Fossil Dune is another option when it comes to tranquil places to visit in Abu Dhabi. The Al Wathba Fossil Dune Protected Area has been open to the public since February 5, 2022. These breathtaking fossils in the desert are created over time by a mix of wind and sand. This natural phenomenon and the surrounding beauty is perfect for a desert excursion.
There is plenty to explore here including seven kilometres of educational trails, a visitor centre, an ecotourism programme and an amphitheatre. After visiting the dunes, sit yourself down on some comfy seats and enjoy breathtaking views of the expansive natural landscape.
- Location: Al Wathba
- Timings: Monday to Thursday 08:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday to Sunday 08:00 am- 11:00 pm
- Cost: Free to enter
UMM AL EMARAT PARK
One of the quiet places to visit in Abu Dhabi is Umm Al Emarat Park. Nestled in the heart of the capital, the best time to visit the park is during the early morning hours.
The botanical gardens and acres of lush green manicured spaces make it one of the most peaceful places in Abu Dhabi. Other parts of the park well worth exploring include the Shade House, Animal Barn, Amphitheatre, Wisdom Garden, Great Lawn, Children’s Garden and Evening Garden.
- Location: 15th Street, Mushrif Area, Karama
- Timings: 08:00 am – 12:00 am
- Cost: AED 10 entry fee per person
MAZAARA FARM
Another entree on the list of relaxing places to visit in Abu Dhabi is Mazaara Farm. The farm is known for its organic farming with zero waste. Learn about the various crops grown here and enjoy sipping a piping hot cup of coffee with your favourite snack at the speciality coffee shop located at the farm.
- Location: 11 Lane 438, Al Bahyah
- Timings: Daily 08:00 am – 12:00 pm | 04:00 – 08:00 pm
- Cost: Entry tickets AED 25 per person | AED 15 per child
- Contact: +971-50-999-0347
JUBAIL MANGROVE PARK
There are several natural mangrove forests in the capital of the UAE, one of which is the Jubail Mangrove Park. It is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Abu Dhabi. The Jubail Island Mangrove Park is a multipurpose facility where you can learn about the local flora and fauna.
Go for a stroll on the Mangrove Walk Abu Dhabi or the Qurum Walkway to explore the tranquil mangrove forests. You can also explore the natural habitats of various animals and birds during a kayaking trip at Jubail Mangrove Park.
It is one of the most popular spots for Mangrove Kayaking in Abu Dhabi apart from Eastern Mangroves. You can be a part of mindfulness and yoga sessions here too, starting from AED 85 per person.
- Location: Al Jubail Island
- Timings: 07:00 am – 09:00 pm | Park closes at 10:00 pm
- Cost: AED 15 per person | AED 10 per child
MANGROVE NATIONAL PARK
One of the peaceful places to visit in Abu Dhabi is the Mangrove National Park. This mangrove forest gives you a glimpse of the natural side of the capital emirate.
The Mangrove National Park is one of the top options to go for kayaking in Abu Dhabi. A kayak ride in the calm waters is a great way to explore the forest in all its glory.
- Location: Near Anantara Eastern Mangroves
- Timings: 10:00 am – 12:00 am
- Cost: Free to enter
SIR BANI YAS ISLAND
Located in the foothills of Jebel Dhanna Al Dhafra, Sir Bani Yas Island is home to huge wildlife reservation with more than 17,000 free-roaming animals. Some of the animals you can spot here are gazelles, giraffes, hyenas, cheetah and the Arabian oryx.
Be a part of the desert walking tour or take on a 4×4 safari to explore the island. Whatever floats your boat, Sir Bani Yas Island is one of the most relaxing and peaceful places in Abu Dhabi.
Note that you can book a guided tour of the island during your stay at the Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort or the Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort.
- Location: Jebel Dhanna Al Dhafra
- Timings: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Cost: Free to enter | Paid tours are available by local operators
AL WATHBA WETLAND RESERVE
One of the best ways to relax in Abu Dhabi is to pay a visit to Al Wathba Wetland Reserve. Explore the natural wetland and its distinctive flora and fauna by taking a stroll on the pathways through the flamingo-dotted wetlands. Check the official website for updates on timings as the wetlands are closed during the summer months.
- Location: Al Wathba
- Timings: Monday to Saturday 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
- Cost: Free to enter
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BEST SPOTS FOR CAMPING IN ABU DHABI?
Bab Al Nojoum Camp at Hudayriayat Island and Al Wathba Campsite by the Al Wathba Lake are some of the best options for camping in Abu Dhabi.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BEST PLACES FOR A WALK IN ABU DHABI?
Yas Marina Circuit, Corniche, Khalidiyah Park, Al Fay Park and Masdar Park are some of the popular places to go for a walk in Abu Dhabi.
That’s all for our roundup of the most relaxing places in Abu Dhabi that offer a tranquil escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. These calm spots also give you a chance to get in tune with nature and see what the natural wonders around Abu Dhabi have to offer.
For more relaxing things to do, explore The Louvre Abu Dhabi — a contemporary museum with plenty of art galleries. There are also several beaches in Abu Dhabi perfect for the weekend getaway.
