Umm Al Emarat Park
Umm Al Emarat Park, formerly known as Mushrif Park, is a beloved urban green space located on 15th Street between Airport Road and Karamah Street in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (phone: 02 666 9559). Open daily until midnight, the park is a family favorite for picnics and features swings and other recreational facilities. As one of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic parks, named in honour of mothers of the nation, Umm Al Emarat Park welcomes visitors to bring their own food and enjoy picnics on its beautiful lawns — making it a popular choice compared to places like Emirates Zoo, where outside food is generally restricted. While the UAE allows travelers to bring in reasonable amounts of personal food items, it’s always best to check guidelines for any restricted goods. Whether you’re planning a casual meal outdoors or just want to relax in the city’s heart, Umm Al Emarat Park offers the perfect setting.
Name of the park: Umm Al Emarat Park (formerly Mushrif Park)
Location: 15th Street, Mushrif Area, Abu Dhabi, UAE; centrally located between Airport Road and Karamah Street
Size: Medium-sized urban park, known for spacious green lawns, botanical gardens, and family recreation areas
Opening hours / closing days: Open daily from early morning until 12:00 AM (midnight); no regular closing days
Entry fee: AED 10 per person; free entry for children under 3 and people of determination
Type of Park
Umm Al Emarat Park is primarily an urban park with elements of a botanical garden and heritage space. It celebrates Abu Dhabi’s natural and cultural heritage through features like native plant gardens, water features, and educational spaces, while providing ample recreational facilities for families, fitness enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike. It’s not a wildlife or amusement park, but its combination of landscaped nature, small animal barns, and cultural programming makes it one of the most diverse public parks in the UAE.
What Makes Umm Al Emarat Park Special?
Umm Al Emarat Park holds a unique place in Abu Dhabi’s heart, not just as an urban green space but as a tribute to the mothers of the nation. Originally established in 1982 as Mushrif Park, it was primarily a women-and-children-only park. In 2015, it underwent a major renovation and reopened as Umm Al Emarat Park, transforming into a vibrant, inclusive space for all ages and communities. The park’s name, meaning “Mother of the Nation,” honors Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her efforts in empowering women and families in the UAE.
What makes this park stand out is its carefully designed blend of nature, culture, and leisure. It offers beautifully landscaped gardens, a botanical garden, a shade house, an animal barn with camels and ponies, an amphitheater for cultural performances, and family-friendly play areas. The vibe here is a peaceful retreat in the middle of the bustling city — where locals and tourists come to walk, relax, picnic, or attend seasonal events like outdoor movie nights, farmers’ markets, and fitness classes.
Park Highlights & Attractions
Umm Al Emarat Park is much more than just a green space — it’s a thoughtfully designed urban oasis that offers something for every visitor, whether you’re a family with kids, a fitness enthusiast, or someone simply looking for a peaceful escape in Abu Dhabi. Here’s a detailed look at its key highlights and attractions:
Walking Trails
The park offers over 3.5 kilometers of walking and jogging trails, weaving through its lush landscapes. These well-maintained, shaded paths are perfect for walkers, joggers, and families with strollers. Along the trails, you’ll find:
Resting benches and shaded areas
Water refill stations
Fitness stations for stretching and light exercises
Scenic viewpoints over gardens and water features
Whether you’re up for a morning jog, a sunset walk, or just a casual stroll with friends or kids, these trails are designed to be safe and accessible for all ages and abilities.
Playgrounds & Kids’ Zones
Umm Al Emarat Park is a paradise for children, offering three main playgrounds, each catering to different age groups:
Toddler Playground (ages 1–5 years)
Soft rubber flooring for safety
Small slides, see-saws, sand play area
Shade structures for sun protection
Junior Playground (ages 5–10 years)
Climbing frames, swings, slides
Adventure play equipment
Zip line and balance beams
Youth Zone (ages 10–14 years)
Rope courses, bigger slides, climbing walls
Swings and spinning equipment
Additionally, there’s a wading water play area in the Children’s Garden section, perfect for cooling off on warm days. All playgrounds are supervised during peak hours and are located near seating areas for parents.
Gardens & Green Spaces
The park features several themed gardens and expansive green lawns:
Botanic Garden:
A collection of native and exotic plants, with educational signs about UAE flora. Great for plant lovers and school groups.Shade House:
A large, architecturally stunning greenhouse showcasing tropical and desert plants, with elevated walkways and a viewing platform.Great Lawn:
A massive open grass area ideal for picnics, yoga, sports, or just lounging under the sky. Families often gather here with picnic blankets, especially on weekends.Children’s Garden:
A dedicated garden where kids can explore, play, and learn about nature through hands-on activities.
Yes, there is a separate family section, with designated picnic areas, shaded seating, and barbecue spots (note: check with park staff for any restrictions on BBQ use).
Lakes & Water Features
The park’s central water feature includes:
Small artificial lake and fountains near the amphitheater, creating a calm, refreshing ambiance.
Interactive water features in the Children’s Garden, where kids can splash and play safely.
Water misting stations along the walkways to help visitors cool off during the warmer months.
While the lakes are decorative (no boating or swimming), they add beauty and a peaceful vibe to the park, especially in the evenings when illuminated.
Facilities & Amenities
Umm Al Emarat Park is thoughtfully equipped with facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors — whether you’re coming for a quick walk, a family day out, or an evening event. Below is a detailed breakdown of the amenities, what’s free, and what may come with extra charges.
Restrooms & Drinking Water
The park has multiple clean and well-maintained restroom blocks located near:
The main entrance
Children’s Garden and playground areas
Near the Amphitheatre and Botanic Garden
All restrooms are free of charge and include:
Baby changing facilities
Accessible toilets for people of determination
Family restrooms with extra space for strollers
In addition, you’ll find free drinking water stations across the park — near the jogging trails, main lawn, and close to the kids’ zones — where you can refill your water bottles.
Parking & Accessibility
Umm Al Emarat Park offers two main parking areas:
General Parking Lot:
Located near the main entrance on 15th Street
Approximately 250 car spaces
Free for visitors
Premium Parking Area (Valet Service):
Available during weekends and special events
Charges approx. AED 30–50 per car, depending on event
For accessibility, the park is designed to be wheelchair-friendly, with:
Ramps and wide pathways
Dedicated parking spots for people of determination (near main entrance)
Golf cart service on request (usually free, but tips are welcomed, especially for elderly or mobility-challenged visitors during busy hours)
Food & Beverages
Inside the park, you’ll find a selection of permanent food kiosks and cafés offering:
Coffee, fresh juices, and smoothies (average price AED 15–25)
Light snacks like sandwiches, wraps, salads (AED 20–40)
Ice cream and desserts (AED 10–25)
Well-known brands like Green For Life, Home Bakery, and Burger Shack have outlets here. Prices are standard for Abu Dhabi and there’s no mandatory purchase — visitors can bring their own food and picnic for free.
Additionally, during seasonal events and weekends, you may find:
Pop-up food trucks and farmers’ market stalls
Small surcharges for specialty items or gourmet offerings (prices vary, typically AED 25–50 per meal)
Activities & Things to Do
Umm Al Emarat Park offers a rich variety of activities that go beyond just strolling or sightseeing — it’s a place where families, fitness enthusiasts, culture lovers, and even tourists can all find something enjoyable. Here’s a detailed guide to the activities and what’s free versus paid, so visitors can plan their time (and budget) well.
Sports & Fitness
The park is a local favorite for outdoor exercise, thanks to its 3.5 km jogging and walking track, shaded in many sections and dotted with:
Fitness stations (push-up bars, stretching posts) — free to use
Open green lawns for yoga, pilates, or casual sports — free access
Group fitness classes, such as:
Yoga by Inner Seed Wellness (AED 60–100 per session)
Outdoor bootcamps or Zumba (prices vary AED 50–80 per class)
On weekends, you might also catch organized runs or wellness events, often requiring pre-registration and fees (typically AED 50–150) depending on the organizer.
There are no large sports courts like tennis or basketball, but visitors often bring their own badminton sets or frisbees to enjoy on the lawn — that’s completely free.
Picnicking
Picnicking is one of the most popular (and affordable) activities at Umm Al Emarat Park. Visitors can:
Bring their own blankets and food — free
Use the shaded picnic tables near the Children’s Garden — free, first come, first served
Rent picnic baskets from select park cafés (e.g., Home Bakery offers a curated picnic basket for AED 150–250 depending on size)
Please note:
❌ Personal BBQs or grills are not allowed
✅ Small coolers and snack baskets are allowed
✅ Picnic areas near water features offer a charming atmosphere, especially in the evening
Events & Festivals
Umm Al Emarat Park regularly hosts cultural events, family festivals, and seasonal markets. Some of the key events include:
Outdoor cinema nights at the Amphitheatre — ticketed, usually AED 25–40 per person
Winter Wonderland Festival with kids’ activities, snow play zones, and themed food stalls — entrance fee approx. AED 50–70 per child; adults often free or AED 20
Farmers’ Market weekends with local produce, crafts, and live music — free entry, but products for purchase
Additionally, the park’s Amphitheatre hosts occasional music, dance, and cultural performances, sometimes as part of paid events (ticket prices vary from AED 50–200 depending on artist and show).
For kids, the Animal Barn is a highlight, where they can see camels, ponies, goats, and rabbits.
Entry to Animal Barn — AED 10–20 per child, adults often free
Pony rides (offered seasonally) — approx. AED 30 per ride
Summary of costs:
✅ Jogging, fitness stations, lawns — Free
❌ Yoga/fitness classes — AED 50–100 per session
✅ Bring-your-own picnic — Free
❌ Rented picnic baskets — AED 150–250
✅ Farmers’ Market access — Free
❌ Outdoor movie nights — AED 25–40
❌ Animal Barn entry — AED 10–20; pony rides AED 30
Visitor Information
Here’s a detailed guide to help visitors plan their trip to Umm Al Emarat Park, including precise opening hours, entry fees, and important rules to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Opening Hours
Regular (Non-Summer) Timings:
Sunday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight)
Friday – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight)
Summer Timings (June to August):
Sunday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Ramadan Hours:
Daily: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM (extended late-night hours for Iftar and Suhoor visitors)
Eid Holidays (Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha):
Daily: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM (special events, live entertainment, and extended hours)
UAE National Day (December 2nd):
Usually extended: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM, with family-friendly shows and cultural programs
⚠ Note: Special events or weather conditions (like heavy rains or sandstorms) may slightly adjust timings, so checking before visiting is advisable during major holidays.
Entry Fees
General Admission: AED 10 per person
Children under 3 years: Free
People of Determination (with card): Free
Family Day (usually held last Saturday of every month): Families get discounted group tickets; approx. AED 30 for a family of 4 (instead of AED 40)
Group/School Bookings (10+ people): Discounted rates available upon prior arrangement (usually AED 8 per person)
Event-specific fees:
Outdoor cinema nights, Eid shows, and special festivals may have separate tickets, usually ranging from AED 25–70 depending on the event.
Rules & Regulations
To keep Umm Al Emarat Park safe, family-friendly, and enjoyable for everyone, the management enforces the following rules:
✅ Food & Picnics: Visitors are allowed to bring their own food and drinks, but no alcohol or glass containers.
❌ BBQ & Grilling: Not permitted anywhere in the park.
✅ Pets: Allowed only on leash and in designated pet-friendly areas; owners must clean up after their pets.
✅ Dress Code: Modest attire is expected, respecting local cultural norms.
✅ Sports & Play: Ball games are permitted on the Great Lawn, but large team sports (like football matches) are restricted to avoid crowding.
✅ Photography: Personal photography is allowed; professional shoots require prior approval and may involve extra charges.
✅ Smoking: Only allowed in designated smoking areas.
✅ Children Supervision: Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult at all times.
✅ Event Conduct: During concerts, movies, or festivals, guests are expected to follow event-specific guidelines and seating arrangements.
🚨 Violating park rules may result in being asked to leave, and in some cases, fines or bans for repeated offenses.
How to Get There
Visiting Umm Al Emarat Park is convenient whether you’re coming by car, public transport, or even arranging group transfers. Below is a detailed guide to help visitors navigate their way, understand costs, and know what to expect on arrival.
By Car
Umm Al Emarat Park is located on 15th Street, Mushrif Area, Abu Dhabi, between Airport Road (Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Street) and Karamah Street.
From within Abu Dhabi City:
About 10–15 minutes’ drive from Corniche, Al Khalidiyah, or Al Bateen areas.From Dubai:
Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes’ drive (140 km) via E11 Sheikh Zayed Road; toll charges at Salik gates apply (AED 4 per gate), and you may pay around AED 30–50 in total for fuel + tolls.From Al Ain:
Approx. 1 hour 45 minutes’ drive (160 km) via E22; no Salik toll, but fuel costs approx. AED 40–60.From Sharjah or other emirates:
Around 2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic; expect to pay AED 30–60 for fuel + any Salik tolls through Dubai routes.
There’s clear road signage directing you to the park once you’re near Mushrif Area. It’s best to use Google Maps or Waze for real-time directions, especially on busy weekends.
By Public Transport
Currently, there is no Abu Dhabi Metro, but you can reach the park using:
Local Bus Routes:
Bus lines 34, 54, 56, 102, and 110 stop near Umm Al Emarat Park. The closest bus stop is on 15th Street, Mushrif Area, a 2–3 minute walk to the main entrance. Bus fare is typically AED 2 per ride within the city using the Hafilat smart card.From Dubai (by bus):
Take the Intercity Bus E100 or E101 from Ibn Battuta or Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (approx. AED 25 one way). From there, transfer to a local bus or taxi (~10 minutes, AED 12–20).From Al Ain:
Intercity buses connect Al Ain to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (approx. AED 30 one way), then take a local bus or taxi.Taxi from Abu Dhabi city:
Taxis are widely available; a ride from downtown Abu Dhabi to the park costs around AED 15–25. Ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber also operate.
Parking Details
Umm Al Emarat Park offers two types of parking:
General Parking Lot (free):
Approx. 250 spaces near the main entrance
Best arrival times to find spots:
✅ Weekdays: anytime
✅ Weekends: before 4:00 PM (after that, it fills up fast)
✅ Eid, National Day, festivals: arrive early (before 3:00 PM)
Premium/Valet Parking (paid):
Available during weekends and special events
Charges approx. AED 30–50 per car
Offers drop-off right at the entrance
For visitors with people of determination, reserved accessible parking is available near the main gate, free of charge.
🚗 Tip: If visiting on weekends or holidays, it’s strongly recommended to come early or carpool, as parking fills up quickly, especially in the evenings when events are scheduled.
Summary of Getting There
| Method | Approx. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| By car (from Abu Dhabi) | AED 10–20 (fuel) | Free general parking; arrive early weekends |
| By car (from Dubai) | AED 30–50 (fuel + tolls) | 1.5 hr drive; Salik applies |
| By bus (Abu Dhabi) | AED 2 | Short walk from bus stop |
| By intercity bus + taxi | AED 37–55 total | From Dubai/Al Ain + local taxi |
| By taxi (Abu Dhabi) | AED 15–25 | Quick and convenient |
Nearby Attractions
Here’s a list of popular attractions near Umm Al Emarat Park, along with a brief description of each — and why Umm Al Emarat Park stands out as a better option for many visitors.
1️⃣ Mushrif Mall (Approx. 5 minutes by car)
A large shopping center offering retail stores, a food court, Lulu Hypermarket, and a kids’ play area. It’s good for shopping and indoor activities but can feel crowded and commercial, especially on weekends.
Why Umm Al Emarat Park is better:
The park offers open-air green spaces, fresh air, and nature — a much-needed break from the indoor mall environment.
2️⃣ Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Approx. 15 minutes by car)
One of the world’s largest and most beautiful mosques, famous for its white marble architecture and spiritual atmosphere. It’s a must-see for tourists, but it’s a religious site, not a leisure or picnic spot.
Why Umm Al Emarat Park is better:
Perfect for families, kids, and casual visitors wanting to relax, play, or picnic — no formal dress code or limited access hours like the mosque.
3️⃣ Khalifa Park (Approx. 20 minutes by car)
A larger family park with a train ride, museum, and aquarium. It has wider grounds but feels more like a formal park with less cultural programming and fewer modern dining options.
Why Umm Al Emarat Park is better:
More modern design, better-maintained facilities, seasonal events, trendy food kiosks, and more engaging activities for children.
4️⃣ Eastern Mangroves Promenade (Approx. 15 minutes by car)
A waterfront boardwalk with kayaking tours, restaurants, and spa services. Great for water lovers and couples but not ideal for families with young kids or budget-friendly outings.
Why Umm Al Emarat Park is better:
Offers free or low-cost family activities, animal barns, playgrounds, and a relaxed picnic atmosphere without needing bookings or extra sports equipment.
5️⃣ Al Bateen Beach (Approx. 20 minutes by car)
A public beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It’s nice for water lovers but can get extremely hot during summer and has limited shade.
Why Umm Al Emarat Park is better:
More comfortable year-round, with shaded areas, misting stations, water play zones for kids, and no risk of sunburn or extreme weather discomfort.
6️⃣ Qasr Al Hosn (Approx. 15–20 minutes by car)
A historic fort and museum showcasing Abu Dhabi’s past. Fantastic for history enthusiasts but less interactive or entertaining for young kids.
Why Umm Al Emarat Park is better:
More interactive for children, with animal encounters, splash areas, and open play spaces — plus events like outdoor movies and yoga that engage all age groups.
Visitor Tips
To make the most of your visit to Umm Al Emarat Park, here are some helpful tips that can save you time, money, and ensure you have a memorable experience:
✅ Arrive early on weekends and holidays. The park gets especially busy after 4:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and public holidays. If you want to secure a good picnic spot or parking, aim to arrive by mid-morning.
✅ Pack your own picnic. While the park has great food kiosks, bringing your own snacks, sandwiches, and water is a smart and budget-friendly choice — especially for families or groups.
✅ Dress comfortably. Wear light, breathable clothing during summer months, and bring a jacket in winter evenings when it can get chilly. Modest attire is recommended as a courtesy to local culture.
✅ Use public transport or ride-hailing apps if possible. On busy days, parking lots fill up fast. A Careem or Uber drop-off can save you the stress of finding parking.
✅ Check the events schedule. The park often hosts outdoor movie nights, wellness events, and seasonal festivals. It’s worth planning your visit around these to enjoy added activities.
✅ Respect the rules. No BBQs, no alcohol, pets only on leashes, and children must be supervised at all times — these rules help keep the park safe and enjoyable for everyone.
✅ Combine with other UAE park visits. If you’re exploring the UAE, you might also like Dubai Safari Park for wildlife experiences, Shees Park for mountain-side scenery, Mushrif Park in Dubai for forest trails and bike paths, or Zabeel Park for tech exhibits and city skyline views. Each offers a unique experience, but Umm Al Emarat Park stands out for its blend of nature, culture, family activities, and year-round events — all right in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
Customer Reviews
Here’s a detailed and realistic summary of visitor reviews from people who have enjoyed Umm Al Emarat Park — highlighting what they loved and where they saw room for improvement.
🌿 Fatima Al Suwaidi, Mother of three, Abu Dhabi
“We visited Umm Al Emarat Park last weekend with our three kids, and it was such a joyful experience! The kids loved the Animal Barn, especially feeding the goats and watching the ponies. The playgrounds were well maintained, and we felt safe letting them explore. We brought our own picnic and set up near the Great Lawn, which had plenty of shade. The only downside was that the water play area was quite crowded in the late afternoon — it would help if there were more staff to supervise or maybe limit time slots during busy hours. Overall, a beautiful family day out!”
🌳 James Walker, Fitness Enthusiast, UK Expat, Abu Dhabi
“I use Umm Al Emarat Park mainly for jogging and weekend yoga classes. The 3.5 km running track is shaded and clean, and the small outdoor gym stations are a nice bonus. I joined a yoga session by Inner Seed Wellness, and it was fantastic — peaceful surroundings and great instructors. One thing I wish they’d improve is adding more drinking water refill stations along the jogging route. Sometimes you have to walk far off the trail to find one. But it’s definitely my favorite outdoor fitness spot in Abu Dhabi!”
🍃 Rashid Khan, Tourist from Pakistan, Visiting with parents
“We visited Abu Dhabi on a short holiday and were recommended Umm Al Emarat Park by a friend. It turned out to be a perfect afternoon for us. My elderly parents enjoyed walking through the Shade House and Botanic Garden — they loved the flowers and trees from different regions. We also watched an outdoor movie in the evening, which was a unique experience. The only issue was the valet parking was a bit pricey (AED 50) during the festival night, but the overall atmosphere and facilities made it worth it. Definitely recommend for visitors looking for a peaceful, local experience!”
🌼 Maya Rodrigues, School Teacher, Dubai
“I organized a school trip with 25 students aged 7–10, and Umm Al Emarat Park was a wonderful choice. The educational programs in the Children’s Garden were interactive, and the kids were fascinated by the Shade House walkways. We had a picnic on the Great Lawn, and the staff were helpful in guiding us to reserved group areas. The only thing I’d advise is to book group tickets in advance — we waited a bit longer at the entrance than expected. But as a destination for kids to learn and play, it’s top-notch.”
🌺 Amir Al Farsi, Newlywed couple, Oman
“My wife and I visited as part of our honeymoon in the UAE. Umm Al Emarat Park was unexpectedly romantic — the water features, beautiful gardens, and evening lights created a peaceful escape from the city. We enjoyed coffee at Home Bakery inside the park and strolled through the botanic areas. It would have been even nicer if there were more couples’ activities, like paddleboats or small guided tours. Still, it was one of the most serene stops on our trip.”
FAQs about Park
Can I bring my own food and drinks into Umm Al Emarat Park?
Yes! Visitors are welcome to bring their own food, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks into the park. It’s one of the most picnic-friendly parks in Abu Dhabi. Just remember: BBQs, grills, and alcohol are strictly not allowed, and you should clean up your picnic area after use.
Are pets allowed inside Umm Al Emarat Park?
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times and are only permitted in designated pet-friendly areas. Pet owners are expected to bring waste bags and clean up after their animals to help maintain the park’s cleanliness.
How much is the entry fee, and are there any discounts?
General admission is AED 10 per person. Children under 3 and People of Determination (with valid cards) enter for free. On special “Family Days” (usually the last Saturday of each month), families can get discounted group entry — around AED 30 for a family of four. Group/school bookings also receive discounted rates if arranged in advance.
What’s the best time to visit the park?
Weekday mornings (especially before 11 AM) or evenings after 6 PM are the best times for a peaceful experience. On weekends and holidays, it’s best to arrive early (before 4 PM) to avoid the peak crowd. During Ramadan, the park becomes lively after sunset with extended late-night hours — perfect for an Iftar picnic or night stroll.
What activities are available for kids at the park?
Umm Al Emarat Park is packed with child-friendly attractions: multiple age-appropriate playgrounds (for toddlers to teens), the Animal Barn with camels, goats, and ponies, a splash water play area, and seasonal events like outdoor movies and kids’ workshops. Entry to the playgrounds is included in the park ticket, while Animal Barn visits (AED 10–20) and pony rides (approx. AED 30) are optional extras.
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