Umm Al Emarat Park

Umm Al Emarat is one of Abu Dhabi's oldest and largest city parks, in the Al Mushrif district. It opened in 1982 as Mushrif Park, originally for women and children only. It was completely rebuilt in 2013–2015 and renamed in 2016 in honour of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the 'Mother of the Nation'.

What to see

The Shade House is a humidity-controlled greenhouse with 40 plant species and two upper decks overlooking the park. The Botanic Garden holds more than 200 regional plant species and a natural pond. The Animal Barn, run with Al Ain Zoo, is home to 26 animals, including camels, horses, ponies, goats, rabbits and tortoises; a bunch of feed costs AED 10, and children can take short pony rides.

The 18,000-square-metre Great Lawn is made for picnics, sports and outdoor yoga, with two playgrounds next to it. The Children's Garden has a cooling wadi with water splashes and an outdoor cinema. An amphitheatre for more than 2,000 people with a fountain hosts concerts, and the Wisdom Garden features Sheikh Zayed's words on caring for nature.

Getting there

The park is in the middle of Abu Dhabi island, on 15th Street next to the Choueifat school. A taxi is the easiest option. Drivers can use more than 500 paid Mawaqif parking spaces.

Planning your visit

Entry is AED 10 for adults and children aged 3 and over; under-3s and People of Determination with a companion enter free. Regulars can buy a 25-visit card for AED 200. The best time is an evening between October and April: the park is open until midnight, and summer days are very hot. Allow one and a half to four hours with the Animal Barn and the Shade House.

Before you go

Outside food is not allowed apart from water and baby food; barbecues are banned with a fine of AED 500, and smoking and vaping are not allowed. Pets are not permitted, except assistance dogs. Hoverboards, skateboards, roller skates and e-scooters are banned; bikes and scooters are allowed only for children under 7. Don't photograph other visitors without permission.