Umm Al Emarat Park is a large public park in Abu Dhabi’s Mushrif area, with lawns, gardens and attractions for different ages. Its elevated Shade House gives views across the greenery, while the Botanic Garden brings together regional plants. Families can add the Children’s Garden and Animal Barn to a visit; the park also has an amphitheatre for performances and events. Come for a walk, a picnic or a longer family outing, and leave time to explore the garden spaces as well as the play areas.
A park shaped by its history
Umm Al Emarat Park opened in 1982 as Mushrif Park and is one of Abu Dhabi’s oldest urban parks. It was initially dedicated to women and children. The park closed for redevelopment in January 2013 and reopened in March 2015 under its current name, in honour of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.
The renewed design reflects the heritage of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and places emphasis on the UAE’s cultural and environmental history. A garden dedicated to Sheikh Zayed, known as the Wisdom Garden, adds a quieter stop among the park’s paths and planting.
Gardens, shade and views
The Botanic Garden and Shade House are two distinct ways to explore the park’s plants. The Botanic Garden includes regional species, while the Shade House provides a protected setting for plants and rises above the surrounding greenery. Its elevated viewing platforms look out over the park, so it is a useful stop for seeing how the garden spaces and lawns fit together.
Paths connect the park’s different areas, including the gardens, Great Lawn and Evening Garden. There are also water features and a music garden, where children can play instruments such as glockenspiels and bongos. The Wisdom Garden offers a different pace, with quotations about nature and the protection of natural heritage.
Family activities and events
The Children’s Garden has educational play areas and water-play features, including splash fountains. The Animal Barn gives children a chance to see and interact with animals. The animals mentioned for the barn include camels, goats, ponies, donkeys and cows; the specific animals present can differ, so the park is best approached as a chance to visit an animal area rather than a promise to see a particular one.
The amphitheatre hosts events and performances, including music and art events. The park has also held outdoor film screenings and community activities. The schedule is not fixed in the information available, so check the park’s official website for current events before planning your visit around a show.
There is room for a slower visit, too. Take a walk along the paths, spend time on the lawns or bring a picnic. The park also has cafés and food trucks, useful if you want a break without leaving the grounds.
Markets and planning your visit
The Ripe Market has been held at the park on Saturdays, with fresh organic and local produce among its stalls. Market dates and arrangements can change, so check whether it is taking place on your visit date.
The park is on 15th Street in the Mushrif area. Its facilities include walking routes, picnic tables, playgrounds and public restrooms. Parking is available, with both free and paid parking listed. The park supports card and mobile payments, though cash-only is also listed as an amenity, so carrying some cash is a practical option.
Admission is reported at about AED 10 per person, but confirm the current ticket details on the official website before setting out. An early or evening visit suits a walk; allow extra time if you plan to see the gardens, children’s areas and animal barn in one trip.
FAQ
How much does entry to Umm Al Emarat Park cost?
Admission is reported at about AED 10 per person. Check the park’s official website for current ticket details.
What can children do at Umm Al Emarat Park?
Children can explore the Children’s Garden and its water-play areas, and visit the Animal Barn. The park also has playgrounds and a music garden.
What is the Shade House at Umm Al Emarat Park?
It is a raised, sheltered plant space with viewing platforms overlooking the park. The Botanic Garden and Shade House are separate stops.
When is The Ripe Market at the park?
The market has been held on Saturdays and includes local and organic produce. Check whether it is running on your visit date.
