As temperatures climb across the UAE, residents and visitors alike are being offered a refreshing escape — one that’s rich in history, culture, and art, without costing a dirham.
From Dubai to Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, museums across the Emirates are opening their doors free of charge, inviting the public to explore the nation’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
With the summer sun intensifying, indoor activities are becoming increasingly attractive. For many, that means trading outdoor adventures for air-conditioned cultural experiences — and the UAE’s museums have risen to the occasion, offering a perfect blend of comfort and discovery.
In Dubai, art lovers and curious minds can enjoy a host of unique experiences. The Expo 2020 Dubai Museum and Garden in the Sky are welcoming visitors for free on May 17 and 18 in honour of International Museum Day.
The museum opens from 10am to 8pm, while the sky-high viewing deck is accessible from 2pm to 10pm. A Dh25 ticket can extend access to popular Expo attractions like Terra and Alif.
Art enthusiasts should not miss the Jameel Arts Centre at the Jaddaf Waterfront. This contemporary arts institution, free to enter, is open six days a week and offers guided tours for deeper insight.
Meanwhile, coffee aficionados can delve into centuries of global coffee culture at the Coffee Museum in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. The museum includes demonstrations and rare artefacts and runs from 9am to 5pm, Saturday through Thursday.
For those seeking something more spiritual, the Miraj Islamic Art Centre in Jumeirah presents a striking collection of Islamic art from across the Muslim world. Open daily from 9am to 6pm, the centre features pieces from Egypt, Iran, Syria, and beyond.
Moving to Abu Dhabi, the cultural offerings are just as impressive. On May 18, UAE residents will enjoy free entry to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, home to masterpieces from across civilisations.
Visitors can catch the acclaimed “Kings and Queens of Africa” exhibition and bring the little ones to the interactive Children’s Museum. Additionally, aspiring artists can participate in the final Drawing at the Museum session from 4.30pm to 6.30pm.
Located nearby on Saadiyat Island, Manarat Al Saadiyat offers access to the Abu Dhabi Masterpieces Collection. Open daily from 10am to 8pm, the venue invites guests to register at the entrance for a free and enriching visit. The Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, also on the island, showcases heritage-focused art daily without charge.
Abu Dhabi also mirrors Dubai’s offering with its own Miraj Islamic Art Centre near Marina Mall, open from 9.30am to 7pm daily, presenting a similar treasure trove of Islamic artefacts and fine textiles. Lastly, in Sharjah, the Sharjah Arts Museum stands out as a cultural gem.
Open from 9am to 9pm Saturday to Thursday, and 4pm to 9pm on Fridays, the museum boasts a permanent collection of over 500 works. Highlights include pieces by modern Arab masters such as Abdulqader Al Rais and Louay Kayali.
With something for every taste and age, these free museum visits across the UAE offer an ideal way to stay cool while enriching the mind — proving that culture doesn’t have to come with a cost.