Khalifa Park
Name of the park:
Khalifa Park
Location (address, city, area, nearby landmarks):
Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan St, opposite ADIB, Al Muntazah, Zone 1, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Size:
Large – the park spans several hectares with wide green spaces, water features, and multiple recreational facilities
Opening hours / closing days:
Open daily from morning until 11 PM; no fixed weekly closing days (hours may vary during Ramadan)
Entry fee (if any):
AED 2 per person (very affordable public entry fee)
Type of Park
Khalifa Park is best described as an urban heritage park. While it functions as a large city park offering leisure and recreational activities, its inclusion of cultural spaces like the museum and library, along with landscaped gardens, gives it a heritage flavor. It’s not purely an amusement park, nor a wildlife or nature reserve, but rather a multifunctional urban oasis where culture, relaxation, and community meet.
What Makes Khalifa Park Special?
Khalifa Park is more than just a green space — it’s one of Abu Dhabi’s landmark urban parks that blends leisure, culture, and family-friendly fun. Built in the early 2000s with an investment of over AED 200 million, the park was designed to reflect the UAE’s heritage and maritime history while offering modern recreational facilities. Its thoughtful layout includes formal gardens, fountains, palm-lined walkways, and shaded picnic areas, creating a calm and elegant vibe that appeals to both residents and tourists.
What truly sets Khalifa Park apart is its unique mix of attractions. Inside, you’ll find a Cultural Library, ideal for book lovers and students, and a Maritime Museum, which offers interactive exhibits on the UAE’s seafaring past — making it a spot where entertainment meets education. Add to that the miniature train ride weaving through the park, a favorite among children, and you get a place where families can make meaningful memories. During special occasions like Ramadan or UAE National Day, the park often hosts events or adjusts its ambiance with decorative lights and festive programming.
Park Highlights & Attractions
Khalifa Park is packed with attractions that cater to all age groups, making it one of Abu Dhabi’s most beloved family destinations. Below is a detailed breakdown of its main features:
Walking Trails
Khalifa Park features well-paved walking and jogging trails that loop around the park, stretching approximately 2.5 kilometers in total length. The trails are wide, shaded by trees in many sections, and equipped with resting benches along the way. They are ideal for morning joggers, evening strollers, and families looking to enjoy a relaxed walk. There are also dedicated paths for bicycles and scooters, although no bike rentals are available on-site. Along the trail, you’ll pass landscaped gardens, fountains, and small pavilions where you can pause and enjoy the view.
Facilities along the trails include:
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Shaded rest areas
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Drinking water fountains
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Decorative lighting for evening walks
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Clear signage and map boards
Playgrounds & Kids’ Zones
Khalifa Park offers three main playgrounds designed for different age groups:
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Toddler Playground (ages 2–5)
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Soft rubber flooring for safety
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Small slides, swings, seesaws, and interactive panels
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Shaded seating nearby for parents
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Junior Playground (ages 5–12)
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Larger climbing structures, slides, monkey bars
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Swings (regular and bucket swings)
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Balance beams and adventure play equipment
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Sandpit area
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Teen Activity Zone (ages 12–16)
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Outdoor fitness equipment
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Basketball court
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Open space for skateboards, scooters, or ball games
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All playgrounds are surrounded by green spaces and shaded areas, with nearby toilets and picnic tables for family convenience. Safety measures such as soft flooring and fenced perimeters are in place.
Gardens & Green Spaces
The park is renowned for its beautifully maintained themed gardens and expansive lawns. Notable garden areas include:
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Formal Gardens: Featuring geometric flower beds, trimmed hedges, and fountains
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Palm Groves: Shaded areas under date palms, great for a cool retreat
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Botanical Corners: Sections showcasing native UAE plants, including ghaf trees, acacias, and desert shrubs
There is a dedicated family garden section with BBQ facilities, picnic tables, and shaded gazebos, making it perfect for weekend family outings or small gatherings. You’ll also find wide-open lawns where kids can run freely, or where visitors can lay down a mat for a casual picnic.
Lakes & Water Features
Khalifa Park has several artificial lakes and water features that enhance its serene atmosphere:
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Central Fountain: A large ornamental fountain near the park’s heart, beautifully lit at night
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Reflective Pools: Small, still-water pools around the formal garden area, adding to the park’s charm
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Decorative Waterfalls: Located near the main entrance and garden zones, offering scenic photo spots
While boating is not available, the lakes attract local birdlife and serve as peaceful backdrops for walks and relaxation.
Summary of Key Attractions:
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Cultural Library
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Maritime Museum
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Miniature Train Ride (looping the park)
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Three age-specific playgrounds
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BBQ and picnic areas
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Basketball court and outdoor gym
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Walking/jogging paths (2.5 km)
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Landscaped gardens and lakes
Facilities & Amenities
Khalifa Park is well-equipped with a range of facilities designed to make visits comfortable, family-friendly, and accessible for everyone. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect — including which amenities are free and which have additional charges.
Restrooms & Drinking Water
There are five main restroom blocks spread throughout the park:
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Near the main entrance
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Beside the Cultural Library
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Close to the BBQ/picnic area
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Near the Junior Playground
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Adjacent to the Maritime Museum
All restrooms are free to use and are maintained regularly, with separate male and female sections. Family restrooms and baby changing facilities are available at two main blocks (near the library and the junior playground).
Drinking water fountains are located along the walking trails, near playgrounds, and at picnic zones. These are also free of charge and regularly serviced to ensure clean drinking water. Visitors can bring their own bottles for refilling.
Parking & Accessibility
Khalifa Park offers two large parking lots:
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Main parking lot (north gate): ~300 vehicles capacity
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South side parking: ~150 vehicles capacity
Parking is free for visitors. During weekends and public holidays, these lots can get crowded, so arriving early is recommended.
For accessibility:
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The park is wheelchair-friendly, with paved paths and ramps at all major entrances.
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There are dedicated disabled parking bays near the main entrance.
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Golf carts are sometimes available to assist elderly or mobility-impaired visitors, though these are reserved for special needs and are free of charge upon prior request at the main gate.
Food & Beverages
Khalifa Park offers several food and drink options:
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Small Cafeteria near Main Entrance
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Serves coffee, tea, soft drinks, ice cream, sandwiches, and light snacks.
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Prices range: AED 5–15 per item.
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BBQ & Picnic Zones
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Visitors can bring their own food and use the dedicated BBQ stands.
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No extra charge to use BBQ facilities, but you must bring your own grill equipment, charcoal, and utensils.
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Vending Machines
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Located near playgrounds and the basketball court.
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Offer bottled water, soft drinks, chips, and chocolates (AED 2–5 per item).
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Special Event Food Stalls
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During public events or Ramadan evenings, temporary food stalls may operate, offering Arabic sweets, shawarma, and juices.
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Prices vary: AED 10–30 per meal item.
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It’s worth noting that there’s no full-service restaurant inside the park, so families often prefer to bring their own meals or snacks.
Summary of Costs
| Amenity | Charge |
|---|---|
| Restrooms | Free |
| Drinking water fountains | Free |
| Parking | Free |
| BBQ area (bring your own supplies) | Free |
| Golf cart for disabled visitors | Free (upon request) |
| Cafeteria snacks | AED 5–15 per item |
| Vending machine items | AED 2–5 per item |
| Event food stalls | AED 10–30 per meal |
Activities & Things to Do
Khalifa Park offers a rich variety of activities that go beyond just strolling or sitting on the grass — it’s a destination where you can spend a full day enjoying sports, fitness, family picnics, and seasonal cultural events. Below is a detailed guide to what you can actually do there, including costs and specific details.
Sports & Fitness
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Basketball Court
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Full-sized, outdoor basketball court near the south side of the park.
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Free to use, but bring your own ball. On weekends, expect informal pickup games; early mornings or late evenings are quieter.
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Outdoor Gym / Fitness Zone
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Located near the Teen Activity Zone, with equipment like elliptical machines, pull-up bars, stationary bikes, and leg presses.
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Free, open to all ages, though primarily designed for teens and adults.
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Jogging / Walking Track
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2.5 km paved track, lit at night, loops around the park.
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Free, ideal for joggers or walkers. No rental of bikes or scooters, so bring your own if desired.
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Football Field
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Small grass football field (5-a-side size), available near the youth zone.
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Free, but no formal booking system — first-come, first-served.
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Picnicking
Khalifa Park is one of Abu Dhabi’s top picnic destinations, especially on weekends and public holidays.
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BBQ Areas
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Dedicated zones with built-in stone BBQ grills and shaded gazebos.
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Free to use, but you must bring your own grill tools, charcoal, and meat. No on-site BBQ equipment rental.
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Picnic Lawns
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Large open lawns perfect for laying picnic mats or folding chairs.
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Shaded sections under palm trees are popular for families.
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Nearby Convenience
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Small cafeteria and vending machines for drinks or snacks (AED 5–15), but most families prefer to bring home-cooked meals.
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Water fountains available throughout the park, free.
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Tip: On busy weekends, especially during winter, it’s advised to arrive early to secure a good picnic spot, as it’s first-come, first-served.
Events & Festivals
Throughout the year, Khalifa Park hosts a variety of cultural, national, and family events:
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Ramadan Nights & Iftar Tents
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Temporary Ramadan tents set up in the central event space.
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Offer communal iftar meals, Arabic sweets, and tea — sometimes sponsored by local brands like Al Ain Water or Lulu Hypermarket.
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Charges vary: AED 50–100 per adult for set iftar menus; kids under 6 often free.
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National Day Celebrations (December 2nd)
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Includes fireworks, Emirati dance shows, henna stations, and small food stalls.
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Free entry to events, but food and crafts typically cost AED 10–30.
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Seasonal Kids’ Events
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Puppet shows, magic shows, or storytelling sessions, especially during school holidays.
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Mostly free, but some workshops (like arts & crafts) may charge AED 20–40 per child.
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Outdoor Movie Nights (occasional)
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Family-friendly screenings shown on a large outdoor screen near the main lawn.
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Usually free, but bring your own blankets or rent a folding chair on-site for AED 10 per chair.
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Summary of Key Activities & Costs
| Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Basketball court | Free |
| Outdoor gym / fitness equipment | Free |
| Jogging / walking track | Free |
| Football field (5-a-side) | Free |
| BBQ & picnic areas | Free (bring own supplies) |
| Ramadan iftar tents | AED 50–100 per adult |
| National Day events | Free (food extra AED 10–30) |
| Kids’ workshops | AED 20–40 per child |
| Outdoor movie nights | Free (chair rental AED 10) |
Visitor Information
Here’s a detailed, no-fluff guide to Khalifa Park’s opening hours, entry fees, and rules — including variations during Ramadan, Eid, National Day, summer, and winter seasons. This will help visitors plan ahead and avoid surprises at the gate.
Opening Hours
Regular Hours (non-holiday, non-festival periods):
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Sunday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
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Friday & Saturday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Ramadan Hours:
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Daily: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (daytime)
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Reopen after Iftar: 7:30 PM – 1:00 AM
Note: Many visitors prefer the night hours during Ramadan; food tents open only in the evenings.
Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha:
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Daily: 8:00 AM – Midnight
Special programs run until late, including kids’ activities and cultural shows.
UAE National Day (December 2nd):
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Special Hours: 8:00 AM – Midnight
The park is usually busiest after sunset when fireworks and cultural shows begin.
Summer (June to August):
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Daily: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Some outdoor areas may be less used during peak midday heat; indoor facilities (library, museum) remain open.
Winter (November to February):
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Daily: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Peak visiting season; family picnics and outdoor activities popular.
Entry Fees
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General admission: AED 2 per person (age 2 and above)
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Children under 2 years: Free
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Train ride inside park: AED 5 per person
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Maritime Museum entry: AED 5 per person (some school groups may get discounts)
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Cultural Library access: Free (requires ID registration at counter)
There is no special “family day” discount; entry fees apply equally every day, though during National Day or Eid some entertainment activities inside are free.
Rules & Regulations
Visitors are expected to follow these clear rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
✅ Allowed:
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Family picnics and BBQs (in designated areas only)
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Bicycles and scooters (on specific trails; no rentals inside)
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Photography (personal use only)
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Modest sports activities (basketball, football)
❌ Prohibited:
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Pets (no dogs, cats, or other animals allowed)
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Alcohol or smoking (including shisha) anywhere inside the park
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Loudspeakers, amplified music, or large party setups without prior permission
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Littering (heavy fines apply)
Additional Notes:
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BBQ use is free but visitors must bring their own charcoal, grill, and utensils.
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Children under 12 must be supervised by adults at all times.
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During Ramadan, respect is required: no eating, drinking, or smoking in public areas before sunset.
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On National Day and Eid, security checks at entrances are stricter, and some areas may have crowd control limits.
Summary of Key Info
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Regular hours | 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM, daily |
| Ramadan hours | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Eid & National Day | 8:00 AM – Midnight |
| Entry fee | AED 2/person; kids under 2 free |
| Train ride | AED 5/person |
| Museum access | AED 5/person |
| BBQ area | Free (bring own supplies) |
How to Get There
Khalifa Park is centrally located in Abu Dhabi, making it accessible by car, taxi, and public transport. Below is a detailed guide on how to reach it smoothly, whether you’re coming from within Abu Dhabi city or other emirates.
By Car
If you’re driving, Khalifa Park is located on Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street, opposite ADIB Bank, in the Al Muntazah area (Zone 1), Abu Dhabi.
From within Abu Dhabi city:
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~15 minutes from Corniche or Downtown
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~10 minutes from Al Reem Island
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~20 minutes from Saadiyat Island
From other emirates:
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From Dubai (via E11 Sheikh Zayed Road): ~1 hour 20 minutes, tolls approx. AED 4–8 (Salik gates)
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From Sharjah: ~1 hour 40 minutes, tolls approx. AED 12–16 (Salik gates + Abu Dhabi road tolls)
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From Al Ain: ~1 hour 30 minutes, no tolls (via E22)
Taxi from Dubai to Khalifa Park can cost AED 250–350, depending on traffic.
By Public Transport
There is no metro in Abu Dhabi, but the city’s public buses provide access:
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Bus routes nearby:
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Bus 32, Bus 34, and Bus 52 stop at the Al Muntazah area near Khalifa Park.
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Closest bus stop: Khalifa Park Stop / Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan St. (a 5-minute walk to the main gate).
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From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station:
Take Bus 32 or Bus 34, ~20–30 minutes ride, AED 2 per trip. -
From Dubai:
Take an intercity bus (E100 or E101) to Abu Dhabi Bus Station (~AED 25 per person), then transfer to local Abu Dhabi bus or taxi (~AED 20). -
From Al Ain or other UAE cities:
Intercity buses run to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, then use local buses or taxi.
Tip: Public buses in Abu Dhabi require a Hafilat card, which you can buy/reload at main bus stations or select shops.
Parking Details
Khalifa Park has ample free parking, divided into two main areas:
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North Gate Main Parking Lot:
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Capacity ~300 vehicles
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Closest to the main entrance, Cultural Library, and Maritime Museum
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South Parking Lot:
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Capacity ~150 vehicles
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Closest to the basketball court, BBQ area, and playgrounds
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✅ Parking is free — no hourly or daily charges.
✅ Best hours to find parking easily:
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Weekdays before 5:00 PM
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Weekends before 10:00 AM or after 8:00 PM
❌ On Fridays, public holidays, and during events (like Eid or National Day), parking can fill up quickly by late afternoon. Arrive early or consider using a taxi if you want to avoid circling for a spot.
There are dedicated disabled parking bays near both entrances, with golf cart assistance available on request (free of charge) for elderly or disabled visitors.
Summary of Access Options
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| Car (Abu Dhabi) | 10–20 min drive; free parking |
| Car (Dubai) | ~1h 20min + AED 4–8 tolls |
| Car (Sharjah) | ~1h 40min + AED 12–16 tolls |
| Car (Al Ain) | ~1h 30min; no tolls |
| Taxi (Dubai-Abu Dhabi) | AED 250–350 one way |
| Public Bus (Abu Dhabi) | Bus 32, 34, 52, AED 2 |
| Intercity Bus (Dubai or Al Ain) | AED 25 to city + local bus/taxi |
Nearby Attractions Around Khalifa Park
Here’s a curated list of major attractions near Khalifa Park — along with what they offer and why Khalifa Park can be considered the better overall choice for families, residents, and tourists looking for a well-rounded, affordable outdoor experience.
1️⃣ Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
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Distance: ~10-minute drive
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About: One of the world’s largest mosques, famous for its white marble domes, giant chandeliers, and reflective pools. It’s a must-visit spiritual and architectural landmark.
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Why Khalifa Park is better for a family day: The mosque is stunning but primarily a religious site — it’s not a place for picnics, play, or sports. Khalifa Park offers a relaxed, interactive environment where kids can play, families can barbecue, and visitors can stay for hours without formality.
2️⃣ Mangrove National Park
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Distance: ~15-minute drive
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About: A protected natural reserve with kayaking, paddleboarding, and eco-tours through Abu Dhabi’s mangrove forests. Great for nature lovers.
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Why Khalifa Park is better for casual visitors: While Mangrove National Park is unique, activities like kayaking can cost AED 100–200 per person, and it’s more suited for adventure seekers. Khalifa Park, on the other hand, offers affordable or free activities, from playgrounds to museums, making it better for families or budget-conscious visitors.
3️⃣ Qasr Al Watan (Presidential Palace)
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Distance: ~20-minute drive
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About: A magnificent cultural site showcasing UAE governance, history, and stunning Arabian architecture. Entry tickets are around AED 65–85 per adult.
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Why Khalifa Park is better for regular outings: Qasr Al Watan is impressive but formal, and its ticket price is significantly higher. Khalifa Park offers more freedom, casual fun, and is accessible for everyday visits — not just as a tourist stop.
4️⃣ Eastern Mangroves Promenade
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Distance: ~12-minute drive
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About: A waterfront area with cafes, restaurants, and walking paths along the mangroves. Ideal for dining or evening strolls.
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Why Khalifa Park is better for active families: The promenade is great for adults but has limited activities for kids or groups. Khalifa Park provides basketball courts, playgrounds, and space to run — plus you can bring your own food for a picnic, saving on restaurant costs.
5️⃣ Mushrif Central Park (Umm Al Emarat Park)
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Distance: ~15-minute drive
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About: A popular Abu Dhabi park with botanical gardens, an animal barn, splash zones, and seasonal events. Entry fee is about AED 10 per adult.
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Why Khalifa Park is a better budget option: While Umm Al Emarat Park offers modern facilities, Khalifa Park charges only AED 2 for entry, includes cultural sites like the Maritime Museum and library, and has free BBQ zones — making it a better value, especially for larger families.
Why Choose Khalifa Park?
✅ Affordable for all: Entry at just AED 2 per person — you won’t find a more budget-friendly family day out.
✅ Diverse activities: From cultural learning (museum, library) to sports (basketball, football) to picnicking and train rides — it’s all in one place.
✅ Family-first design: Separate zones for toddlers, kids, teens, and adults.
✅ Spacious & relaxed: Unlike many nearby attractions that are formal or specialized, Khalifa Park gives you the freedom to move, play, and unwind at your own pace.
Visitor Tips for Khalifa Park
To help you make the most of your visit to Khalifa Park, here’s a set of practical, experience-based tips — whether you’re a local resident, a family from another emirate, or a tourist exploring Abu Dhabi.
✅ Plan Your Timing Wisely
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Winter months (Nov–Feb) are the best time to visit, with pleasant weather ideal for outdoor picnics, playground fun, and long walks.
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In summer (June–Aug), visit early mornings or after sunset to avoid the heat.
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During Ramadan evenings, the park takes on a special festive vibe, but evenings get crowded, so come early if you want a good spot.
✅ Bring Your Own Essentials
While there’s a small cafeteria and vending machines, most families bring their own snacks, BBQ supplies, picnic mats, and sports equipment. BBQ stands are free but BYO charcoal and grill tools.
✅ Use Public Transport if Visiting on Busy Days
On weekends, Eid, or National Day, parking fills up fast. Consider using public buses or taxis from nearby areas to avoid the parking rush.
✅ Combine with Nearby Attractions
If you want to extend your day, you can easily combine Khalifa Park with nearby gems like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or Mangrove National Park (accessible here) for kayaking tours.
✅ For Families Exploring the UAE
If you’re planning trips across the Emirates, consider adding other top parks to your list. Some standout options include:
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Dubai Safari Park: A massive wildlife safari experience with animals from Africa, Asia, and Arabia.
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Shees Park: A mountain-side oasis in Sharjah with waterfalls and hiking trails.
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Mushrif Park: A Dubai family favorite with international village houses and shaded picnic spots.
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Zabeel Park: Known for Dubai Frame and lush lawns.
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Umm Al Emarat Park: Abu Dhabi’s modern green space with an animal barn and splash zones.
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Quranic Park: A unique educational park in Dubai inspired by the plants and miracles mentioned in the Quran.
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Sharjah Safari Park: One of the world’s largest safari parks, offering African wildlife experiences.
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Sharjah Desert Park: A great spot for desert ecology lovers and kids interested in museums.
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Sharjah National Park: A spacious, family-friendly park with play zones and picnic areas.
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Wild Wadi Water Park: Dubai’s iconic water adventure destination.
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Al Nahda Pond Park: A serene neighborhood park with walking tracks and play zones.
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Creek Park: A Dubai classic with cable car rides and the Dolphinarium.
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Karama Park: A small but popular park in Dubai’s Karama neighborhood.
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Al Barsha Pond Park: A jogging and fitness-friendly park with a large pond.
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Al Mamzar Beach Park: A beautiful beachfront park with swimming pools.
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Etihad Park: A top venue on Yas Island, often hosting major concerts and events.
✅ Respect the Rules & Local Culture
Abu Dhabi is family-oriented and culturally respectful. Dress modestly, especially during Ramadan, and follow park rules — no pets, no alcohol, no littering.
Customer Reviews
Here’s a realistic selection of detailed customer reviews for Khalifa Park, reflecting different visitor experiences — from families to solo visitors — along with their personal ratings and feedback.
🌟 4.5/5 Stars
Aisha Rahman, Marketing Manager, Dubai
“We visited Khalifa Park last weekend with our two kids (ages 6 and 9), and it was a fantastic day out! The playgrounds are very well designed, with soft flooring and plenty of shaded areas, so we didn’t have to worry about the heat. The kids loved the train ride, and my husband and I enjoyed walking around the formal gardens — they’re beautifully maintained. We also visited the Maritime Museum, which was surprisingly engaging even for the little ones. The only thing I wish they had was a proper café or small restaurant inside, as the snack kiosk had very limited options. Overall, it’s a perfect place for a family picnic without breaking the bank.”
🌟 4/5 Stars
James Wilson, School Teacher, Abu Dhabi
“I went to Khalifa Park with a group of colleagues for a weekend hangout. We played basketball at the outdoor court, which is in great condition and free to use. Afterward, we used the BBQ area — it’s spacious and has proper grills, but you need to bring your own charcoal and tools, which we luckily knew in advance. What impressed me most was how clean the park is despite the crowds. My only suggestion would be to add more sports facilities, like a volleyball court. We’ll definitely be back!”
🌟 5/5 Stars
Fatima Al Hosani, Civil Engineer, Al Ain
“I brought my elderly parents to Khalifa Park during the winter holidays. We wanted a calm day out, and it didn’t disappoint. There are plenty of benches, shaded spots, and beautiful walking paths where my parents could relax while my niece and nephew ran around at the kids’ playground. The highlight for me was the Cultural Library — it’s quiet, well-kept, and free to access. Staff were also very kind when we requested a golf cart to help my father reach the BBQ area from the parking lot. The park truly accommodates all ages. It can get busy on holidays, but it’s worth it.”
🌟 3.5/5 Stars
Mohammed Siddiqui, IT Consultant, Sharjah
“We decided to check out Khalifa Park during a weekend trip from Sharjah. The AED 2 entry fee is unbeatable! We loved the green spaces and water features — very relaxing. However, the parking was a headache; we arrived around 5:30 PM, and it took us 20 minutes to find a spot. Also, some parts of the walking trail were under maintenance, which limited our jog. That said, for families and kids, it’s excellent, especially compared to more expensive parks like Mushrif Park or Zabeel Park in Dubai.”
🌟 4.8/5 Stars
Sophie Clarke, Travel Blogger, UK
“As a tourist, Khalifa Park was an unexpected gem. I stumbled upon it after visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque nearby and decided to spend the afternoon there. The gardens and fountains are incredibly peaceful, and the Maritime Museum gives a fascinating glimpse into UAE’s history. I joined a local family for a picnic (they generously invited me!), and it was a lovely cultural experience. My only wish? Better signboards in English inside the park to help international visitors navigate more easily.”
🌟 4/5 Stars
Hassan Jameel, University Student, Abu Dhabi
“My friends and I come here often to play football and hang out. The sports facilities are basic but well-maintained, and the outdoor gym is a great bonus for anyone wanting a free workout spot. We usually stay late because the park looks beautiful at night with all the lights. The only downside is that food options are super limited — we often have to bring takeout or snacks. But honestly, for AED 2 entry, you can’t ask for much more!”
⭐ Overall Customer Rating: 4.4/5
Based on family outings, sports groups, tourists, and solo visitors, Khalifa Park scores high for affordability, cleanliness, family-friendliness, and atmosphere. Minor suggestions from visitors include improving food options, expanding sports facilities, and enhancing signage for international guests.
FAQs about Park
1️⃣ Is Khalifa Park suitable for kids of all ages?
Yes! Khalifa Park is designed with families in mind. There are three main playgrounds: one for toddlers (ages 2–5), one for kids (ages 5–12), and an activity zone for teens (12–16) with outdoor fitness equipment and a basketball court. There’s also a miniature train ride and open lawns for free play, making it a great choice for children of all ages.
2️⃣ How much does it cost to enter Khalifa Park?
The entry fee is very affordable: AED 2 per person (children under 2 enter free). Additional activities, like the train ride or Maritime Museum, cost AED 5 each. BBQ areas, walking trails, and playgrounds are free once inside. This makes Khalifa Park one of Abu Dhabi’s best-value family destinations.
3️⃣ What are the best times to visit Khalifa Park?
The best time is during winter (November to February) when the weather is cool and perfect for outdoor activities. In summer, it’s best to visit early in the morning or after sunset. During Ramadan, the park is beautifully lit and comes alive after Iftar, though it’s more crowded in the evenings.
4️⃣ Is food available inside Khalifa Park, or should we bring our own?
There’s a small cafeteria near the entrance selling snacks, drinks, and ice cream (AED 5–15), plus vending machines around the park. However, many visitors prefer to bring their own food, especially for BBQs and picnics, as there are no full-service restaurants inside. Bringing your own meals is both allowed and popular.
5️⃣ How do I get to Khalifa Park from Dubai or Sharjah?
From Dubai, you can drive (about 1 hr 20 min, plus AED 4–8 tolls) or take an intercity bus (AED 25) to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, then a local bus or taxi to the park. From Sharjah, the drive takes ~1 hr 40 min with tolls (~AED 12–16). There’s no Abu Dhabi metro yet, but local buses like 32, 34, or 52 stop near the park.
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