Umm Al Emarat Park Abu Dhabi

Umm Al Emarat Park is one of Abu Dhabi’s most significant green spaces by offering a unique blend of nature, leisure and community activities. Originally established as Mushrif Park in 1982 it was designed primarily for women and children. However following an extensive renovation the park reopened in 2015 under its new name and became a premier public attraction for all residents and visitors.

 

Location and Accessibility

Umm Al Emarat Park is centrally located on 15th Street in Mushrif Area which makes it easily accessible from various parts of Abu Dhabi. Its location in the heart of the city allows residents and tourists to visit without the need for long travel distances. The park is well connected by roads with ample parking space for visitors. Since Umm Al Emarat Park is located in the center of city public transportation like taxis, ride hailing services and buses provide convenient access.

 

History and Development

Mushrif Park was originally opened in 1982 as a dedicated recreational space for women and children. Over the years as Abu Dhabi expanded and the need for more inclusive public spaces grew the government decided to redevelop and modernise the park. In 2013 the park was closed for an extensive renovation project aimed at making it a world class green space with improved amenities, accessibility and sustainability features. In 2015, it reopened as Umm Al Emarat Park and named in honour of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak the Mother of the Nation. The revamped park was designed to be a family friendly destination catering to all age groups with a focus on education, recreation and environmental awareness.

 

Major Attractions and Features

Umm Al Emarat Park is a landmark green space in Abu Dhabi by offering a variety of attractions that cater to all age groups. It is designed to provide a balance between leisure, education and environmental awareness. Umm Al Emarat Park seamlessly integrates nature with modern amenities. Below are the descriptions of its major attractions and features.

·        The Great Lawn: The Great Lawn is one of the most prominent and versatile spaces in Umm Al Emarat Park. This vast open green area is perfect for relaxation, recreation and social gatherings. It serves as a venue for outdoor concerts, fitness sessions and seasonal markets. Families and groups frequently gather here for picnics where children can run and play freely. The lawn is also used for yoga sessions, open air movie screenings and cultural events which makes it a dynamic space for community engagement.

·        The Shade House: The Shade House is a towering structure designed to protect plants that require cooler temperatures in Umm Al Emarat Park. It is home to a variety of plant species that thrive in controlled conditions to promote biodiversity. The elevated walkway of structure allows visitors to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the landscapes of park which makes it an excellent spot for photography and nature appreciation. The Shade House also contributes to sustainability by providing natural cooling through its design to reduce the need for artificial climate control.

·        The Botanic Garden and Arid Land Garden: The Botanic Garden and Arid Land Garden serve as educational hubs to showcase the rich plant diversity of UAE in Umm Al Emarat Park. These gardens house various native and drought resistant plant species to demonstrate the importance of sustainable landscaping in desert environments. Visitors can learn about traditional uses of plants, water conservation techniques and the role of vegetation in maintaining ecological balance. The gardens are not only a scenic attraction but also play a crucial role in raising awareness about environmental preservation.

·        The Animal Barn and Petting Zoo: The Animal Barn is one of the most popular features among children which provide a hands on experience with farm animals such as goats, ponies, rabbits and chickens. The petting zoo allows children to interact with and feed the animals under the supervision of trained staff. The Animal Barn and Petting Zoo aims to educate young visitors about animal care, farming practices and the importance of kindness towards animals. Pony rides are also available which makes it an exciting and memorable experience for children in Umm Al Emarat Park.

·        The Children’s Garden: The Children’s Garden is designed for young visitors. The Children’s Garden is a dedicated play area featuring safe and engaging equipment. The garden includes interactive water fountains, climbing structures and creative play zones that encourage physical activity and imaginative play. The space is shaded and well maintained to ensure a comfortable and secure environment for children. It also serves as an educational area where kids can learn about plants, insects and the importance of nature in a fun and interactive manner.

·        The Wisdom Garden: The Wisdom Garden is a serene and reflective space. The Wisdom Garden is dedicated to the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan the founding father of the UAE in Umm Al Emarat Park. This garden features inspirational quotes from Sheikh Zayed which are displayed alongside beautifully landscaped pathways. It provides visitors with a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation and relaxation by making it a meaningful part of the park. The garden also highlights vision of Sheikh Zayed for sustainability and conservation to reinforce the educational mission of park.

·        The Amphitheatre: The Amphitheatre is an open air venue that serves as a cultural and entertainment hub within the park. The Amphitheatre hosts live performances, musical concerts, theatrical productions and film screenings to attract both local and international artists. The design of venue ensures that audiences have an immersive experience while enjoying a variety of artistic and community based events. During special occasions the Amphitheatre is used for storytelling sessions, poetry readings and educational workshops for further enriching cultural landscape of Abu Dhabi.

·        The Park’s Fountains and Water Features: Strategically placed fountains and water features add to the aesthetic appeal of Umm Al Emarat Park while providing a cooling effect in the outdoor environment. The interactive water fountains in the Children’s Garden are especially popular which allows kids to splash and play in a safe setting. The beautifully designed ponds and streams throughout the park create a relaxing ambiance which makes them ideal spots for visitors to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings.

·        Walking and Jogging Tracks: Umm Al Emarat Park features well maintained walking and jogging tracks that encourage fitness and outdoor activities. The pathways are lined with trees and greenery by offering a scenic and refreshing route for visitors. Fitness enthusiasts, joggers and casual walkers frequently use these tracks which makes them an integral part of the park’s layout. The park also has designated areas for group exercise sessions such as yoga and aerobics to promote a healthy lifestyle.

·        Restaurants and Cafés: Umm Al Emarat Park is home to a variety of restaurants and cafés. The park’s dining options provide a range of choices for a quick snack, traditional Emirati dishes or international cuisine. The outdoor seating areas allow guests to enjoy their meals while taking in the beauty of the park. Some cafés also offer organic and healthy food options in line with the park’s focus on wellness and sustainability.

Seasonal Events and Community Activities:

The park hosts a wide range of seasonal events and community activities throughout the year. These include:

·        Food festivals: To showcase diverse cuisines and local delicacies.

·        Outdoor cinema screenings: where families can enjoy classic and contemporary films.

·        Wellness programs: such as yoga, meditation and fitness challenges.

·        Cultural events: featuring traditional music, dance and art exhibitions.

·        Interactive workshops: includes gardening, sustainability education and creative arts for children.

These events make Umm Al Emarat Park a lively and dynamic destination to attract residents and tourists alike.

Umm Al Emarat Park offers a rich blend of nature, recreation, culture and education which makes it one of most treasured public spaces of Abu Dhabi. Each attraction within the park is designed to cater to visitors of all ages by providing an opportunity to relax, explore and learn. The park has something for everyone for a peaceful retreat, a place for children to play or a venue for cultural activities.

Entry Fee and Timings

Umm Al Emarat Park operates with an entry fee which is used for the maintenance and enhancement of facilities. The general admission fee is affordable to ensure accessibility for all visitors. Children under a certain age and people of determination often receive free or discounted entry.

Opening Hours:

Daily: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM

The park may have special hours during Ramadan and public holidays.

 

Why Visit Umm Al Emarat Park?

Umm Al Emarat Park is more than just a green space. It is a cultural, educational and recreational landmark in Abu Dhabi. Its diverse attractions make it an ideal place for:

 

·        Families looking for a safe and engaging environment for children.

·        Fitness enthusiasts seeking well maintained tracks and open spaces.

·        Nature lovers interested in botanical gardens and shaded areas.

·        Art and culture enthusiasts attending performances and exhibitions.

·        Tourists looking to experience the serene beauty of Abu Dhabi’s urban landscape.

 

Umm Al Emarat Park (formerly Mushrif Central Park) stands as a testament to Abu Dhabi’s commitment to sustainable urban planning and community well being. It continues to be one of the most beloved public parks in the UAE with its beautifully landscaped gardens, educational attractions and family friendly amenities.