With summer just around the corner and temperatures on the rise, are becoming more appealing than ever — and what better way to beat the heat than by diving into the ?
Whether you're into art, history, or something unique, the country's offer both a cool escape and a cultural boost. Best of all, many of these experiences are completely free.
Here are must-visit museums across the UAE that you can enjoy without spending anything.
Dubai
1. Expo 2020 Dubai Museum, Garden in the Sky
In celebration of International Museum Day, Expo City Dubai is opening its doors for free access to the Expo 2020 Dubai Museum and Garden in the Sky on May 17 and 18. The museum is open from 10am to 8pm, while Garden in the Sky welcomes visitors from 2pm to 10pm.
Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai Museum
If you're eager to explore more, a Dh25 ticket gives access to additional Expo attractions, including Terra, Alif, and Vision.
2. Jameel Arts Centre
Located along the Jaddaf Waterfront, residents can visit Jameel Arts Centre for free. The centre is open from 10am to 8pm Saturday through Thursday, and from 12pm to 8pm on Fridays. It remains closed every Tuesday. Visitors can also book guided tours online for a more in-depth experience.
Photo: Jameel Arts Centre website
3. Coffee Museum
Coffee lovers will find a hidden gem in Dubai’s Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood — the Coffee Museum.
Situated at Villa 44 on Al Hisn Street, Coffee Museum is open from 9am to 5pm, Saturday through Thursday, and remains closed on Fridays.
Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the origins of coffee, the traditions tied to its consumption, and the lives and working conditions of coffee plantation workers. The museum also features brewing demonstrations and antique tools used in coffee preparation across various cultures.
4. Miraj Islamic Art Centre
Residents can visit Miraj Islamic Art Centre for free.
Located at 582 Jumeira Street in Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah 3 in Dubai, the centre offers visitors access to an exceptional private collection of Islamic art from across the Muslim world — including treasures from Egypt, Iran, India, Syria, and more.
It is open daily from 9am to 6pm.
Photo: Miraj Islamic Art Centre
Abu Dhabi
1. Manarat Al Saadiyat
Residents and visitors can head to Manarat Al Saadiyat located in the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, where the second instalment of the Abu Dhabi Masterpieces Collection is now on display.
The exhibition features three curated collections and is open daily from 10am to 8pm, offering free entry to all visitors.
While children under 10 are not permitted, entry is simple — just register your name and contact information at the entrance.
Photo: Manarat Al Saadiyat website
Photo: Manarat Al Saadiyat website
2. Bassam Freiha Art Foundation
Also located in the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation offers another free museum experience. Open every day from 10am to 8pm, this art space showcases a compelling collection that reflects cultural heritage and artistic expression — ideal for those looking to explore something meaningful indoors.
Photo: Bassam Freiha Art Foundation
Photo: Bassam Freiha Art Foundation
Photo: Bassam Freiha Art Foundation
3. Miraj Islamic Art Centre
Art lovers and tourists in Abu Dhabi can visit Miraj Islamic Art Centre for free.
Located in Villa 14B & 15B at the Marina Office Park, near Marina Mall, the centre is open daily from 9.30am to 7pm. Just like its location in Dubai, it also sowcases a wide range of artefacts, from intricately woven carpets and silk textiles to jewel-encrusted objects and traditional artwork.
Sharjah
1. Sharjah Arts Museum
Art lovers can also visit the Sharjah Art Museum, a cultural landmark nestled in the Arts Area of Al Shuwaihean.
Open from 9am to 9pm Saturday through Thursday, and from 4pm to 9pm on Fridays, the museum houses a permanent collection of more than 500 artworks across various media and styles. Among the highlights are works by some of the Arab world’s most celebrated modern and contemporary artists, including Abdulqader Al Rais, Louay Kayali, and Ismail Fatah Al-Turk.
Photo: Sharjah Art Museum
elizabeth@khaleejtimes.com
