As summer temperatures rise in the UAE, residents and tourists can find a cool, enriching escape in the country’s vibrant museums, many of which are offering free entry. From contemporary art spaces to historical exhibitions, these destinations provide a chance to explore culture without spending a dirham.
In Dubai, Expo City Dubai is marking International Museum Day by opening the Expo 2020 Dubai Museum and Garden in the Sky for free on May 17 and 18. Visitors can enjoy the museum from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., while Garden in the Sky will be open from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Those eager for a deeper experience can access other Expo attractions like Terra, Alif, and Vision for just Dh25.
Jameel Arts Centre at Jaddaf Waterfront offers a year-round free cultural experience, welcoming visitors from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Saturday to Thursday) and from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Fridays, except Tuesdays when it is closed. For a touch of tradition, the Coffee Museum in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood provides a journey through the world of coffee, complete with exhibits and brewing demonstrations.
Miraj Islamic Art Centre, with locations in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, showcases a private collection of Islamic art, including treasures from Egypt, Iran, and India. The Dubai branch is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., while the Abu Dhabi site operates from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
In Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat offers free access to its Abu Dhabi Masterpieces Collection, featuring three curated exhibitions. Located in the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, it is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, another Saadiyat highlight, also welcomes visitors free of charge, showcasing a rich collection of cultural heritage artworks.
Over in Sharjah, the Sharjah Art Museum stands as a cultural beacon with a vast collection of over 500 artworks, highlighting some of the Arab world’s most celebrated artists. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Saturday to Thursday) and from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays.
These free museum offerings across the UAE provide an ideal way to beat the heat while immersing in the nation’s rich cultural heritage.