Ever found yourself staring out at the Abu Dhabi skyline, wondering what to do with a free weekend? While the capital’s museums and malls get plenty of attention, Abu Dhabi is also packed with outdoor experiences just waiting to be explored. From kayaking through mangroves to hiking rocky trails near Oman’s border, there’s something for every mood and every kind of explorer. Whether you’re after a laid-back picnic or a full-throttle desert adventure, this guide is your open-air roadmap—crafted with love and detail by the www.few.ae editor.
JUBAIL MANGROVE PARK
Kayak through the calm waters of Abu Dhabi’s hidden green lung
Jubail Mangrove Park is more than a photo spot—it’s a haven of biodiversity nestled inside the city. Kayaking is the most popular way to explore the area, but wooden boardwalks offer easy access for a relaxed walk. Look for herons, crabs, and sometimes even flamingos if you’re lucky. The site is ideal during early mornings or just before sunset. No swimming is allowed, but waterproof shoes will help in case of low tides. Guided kayak tours typically cost around AED 80 for 60 minutes.
LIWA OASIS
Experience sand dunes that make city skyscrapers look tiny in comparison
Liwa is one of those places that truly makes you feel small—in the best way possible. Located over two hours southwest of downtown Abu Dhabi, it’s home to some of the tallest dunes in the world, including Moreeb Dune. Whether you’re interested in sandboarding, 4×4 dune bashing, or stargazing, Liwa delivers. Plan well in advance and bring plenty of water, especially if you’re self-driving. Guided desert tours with overnight camping are common here and provide a cultural angle, often including falconry demos or Emirati cuisine.
SIR BANI YAS ISLAND
Spot free-roaming gazelles and hike among acacia trees
Sir Bani Yas Island is one of the eight desert islands that make up the Al Dhafra region’s nature reserve system. It was transformed into a wildlife sanctuary and now features over 17,000 animals including cheetahs, hyenas, and Arabian oryx. Hiking, mountain biking, and snorkeling are all on offer. You’ll need to book through the eco-lodges or resorts on the island, and boat transfers run from Jebel Dhanna port. This spot is ideal for couples or families looking to combine nature with relaxation.
UMM AL EMARAT PARK
Feed goats, watch a movie outdoors, or just relax under the palm trees
Located in the city’s Mushrif area, Umm Al Emarat Park has become a weekend favorite among locals. Designed with families in mind, the park has a petting zoo, splash areas, botanical gardens, and even an amphitheater. Entry costs AED 10, and events like open-air movies and yoga sessions are often held on Fridays and Saturdays. The park is also home to several food kiosks and pop-up cafes, making it a relaxed yet engaging spot.
YAS BEACH
Clean, calm waters perfect for paddleboarding and beach volleyball
Yas Beach isn’t just for hotel guests—it’s a public beach that offers plenty of amenities. You can rent a paddleboard or kayak, grab a sunbed, or join a game of beach volleyball. There are shaded cabanas available for rent and food outlets serving everything from burgers to mocktails. Weekends can get busy, so arriving early is a good idea. Entry fees apply for non-Yas hotel guests, generally ranging from AED 50 to AED 100.
EASTERN MANGROVES PROMENADE
Cycle or walk along a waterside boardwalk full of cafes and local life
While most people visit for the kayaking, the promenade itself is a lesser-known gem. Spanning a few kilometers along the water, it’s dotted with restaurants, cafes, and shaded rest areas. The cycle path here connects to Corniche trails, making it ideal for those combining exercise with views. Early mornings or golden-hour evenings are best, especially during cooler months.
AL AIN OASIS
Step into a 3,000-year-old oasis hidden behind date palms and mud walls
Al Ain might be technically outside the capital’s city center, but it’s well worth the drive. The Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO-listed site, features a sprawling network of shaded walkways lined with palm trees. What sets it apart is its falaj irrigation system, which still operates today. Entry is free, and it’s a fantastic educational spot for families. Bring a water bottle and walking shoes—some paths stretch over 3 kilometers.
CORNICHE BEACH
A long, sweeping coastline ideal for long walks and family picnics
Corniche Beach is a staple in Abu Dhabi’s outdoor scene. Divided into sections for singles, families, and the general public, it offers lifeguards, rental umbrellas, and even free Wi-Fi. There are jogging tracks and cycling lanes that run parallel to the beach, along with exercise stations and water fountains. Public access is free, though some sections may charge for loungers or cabanas.
JEBEL HAFEET MOUNTAIN
Watch sunset from the second-highest peak in the UAE
Rising 1,240 meters above sea level, Jebel Hafeet provides jaw-dropping views of the desert and Al Ain city. The winding road to the top is popular among cyclists and road-trippers. At the summit, you’ll find a parking area, shaded benches, and small cafes. Sunrise and sunset offer the best photo opportunities. If you’re staying nearby, the Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet is a popular choice.
AL WATHBA WETLAND RESERVE
Flamingos, silence, and endless sky
This quiet nature reserve is one of Abu Dhabi’s best-kept secrets. It’s home to hundreds of flamingos, especially from October to April. The reserve has two walking trails: one 1.5 km and another 3 km long, both clearly marked and flat. Birdwatching huts along the way offer seating and shade. Entry is free, but opening hours are seasonal. It’s ideal for photographers, nature lovers, or just anyone who wants silence with a view.
If you’re ready to skip the shopping mall routine and see another side of the UAE capital, these outdoor picks deliver in every sense—fresh air, authentic culture, and activities you’ll actually remember. This guide was written with local insights by the www.few.ae editor to help you make every weekend count.
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