Public Libraries in Abu Dhabi You Should Visit!

Is it in your nature to seek out new information and read widely to increase your understanding of the world? The citizens of Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) capital, can choose from several public libraries.

Are you interested in this trip’s educational value (including its historical and cultural significance)? Do you want reliable data to use in making decisions? If that’s the case, you’ll find plenty of helpful information below.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) places a premium on learning and knowledge. Hence, libraries are highly valued there. In Abu Dhabi, the government has always emphasized the importance of education. Therefore, they made many libraries available to the public covering subjects such as education, history, child development, and national and international statistics.

In this article, we will introduce you to some of the most amazing public libraries in Abu Dhabi that you should visit.

The Top 12 Public Libraries in Abu Dhabi

There is a wide selection of libraries in the nation’s capital. There is almost certainly an Athenaeum within walking distance of your home, no matter where in the city you happen to be.

1- Qasr Al Watan Library: Classical public library in Abu Dhabi

Have you ever wished you could spend time in a library that seemed both presidential and classical? Have you ever wished you could go to school in a more regal atmosphere? The Qasr Al Watan, often known as the “Palace of the Nation,” is one of Abu Dhabi’s most illustrious libraries. It provides academics with a grand setting in which to pursue their passions and further their knowledge.

The president of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, and the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, agreed in 2019 that the palace should be open to the public so that more people may appreciate its ancient structures and libraries.

Moreover, besides Abu Dhabi, Dubai also has so many libraries with the best atmosphere. Also, there are so many cheap bookstores in Dubai for those who want to own a book with the lowest prices.

The atmosphere of Qasr Al Watan public library in Abu Dhabi

Passing through the library’s main entrance, your eyes are immediately drawn to the towering, imposing walls surrounding you. To spruce up the entryway, the big chandelier was lowered all the way from the roof. The bottom level is sectioned off into reading rooms that include regional and cultural texts about the United Arab Emirates and the Arab world, emphasizing the contributions of Arab scientists.

The musty, enveloping scent of ancient books carries with it the heady aroma of knowledge. Rooms on the bottom level are stocked with Arabic literature for those who want to escape reality temporarily. Numerous book sets on economics and statistics are also available for mathematicians and those who just like the subject.

As soon as you step foot off the elevator on the first level, the intricate French architectural concept will strike you. Connected chambers provide the feeling of becoming lost in a delightfully challenging and instructive labyrinth, much like when you were a youngster.

Workshops on a variety of educational topics are often held there. The library has specialized sections for English literature, computer science, medicine, and pretty much anything else you can think of.

• Location: F864+XPX – Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
• Opening horse: 11 am–6 pm

2- Abu Dhabi ‘Khalifa Park’ Public Library

The Khalifa Public Library is a great place for working parents to go and hang out with their kids while they get some work done. The Khalifa Park Library is unlike any other library you have visited. Its expansive layout and surrounding greenery provide a tranquil and revitalizing atmosphere.

The Khalifa Park Library in Abu Dhabi is both the most well-known and one of the biggest public libraries in the world. Since then, the collection at Khalifa Park Library has expanded to include over 50,000 books in Arabic and English, the two official languages of the nation.

Many individuals can fit inside the library because of its size and layout. It is a sanctuary of tranquility and profound insight. The volumes are organized alphabetically on seemingly endless rows of bookcases.

The rare books of Khalifa Park Library are a major draw for graduate students. The library also has a large collection of more general interest literature. Tables are carefully arranged next to the enormous clear windows, which give the room a wonderful air of calm and serenity.

The atmosphere of Abu Dhabi Khalifa Park Public Library

When you get to the heart of the library, you’ll find a children’s library in a different building with its own entrance. In the center of the room, there is a cluster of colorful, low tables topped with shelves of books designed to stimulate young minds and spark their creativity.

The room was filled with the sounds of gentle murmuring and wide-eyed wonder, and the air carried the sweet scent of instruction to the children’s ears. A female storyteller captivates her small audience with her reading.

There are fliers advertising various activities, including storytimes, book signings, art exhibits, celebrations of holidays and national days, and even “back to school” parties. All of them take place within the library. Now that we mentioned schools, it is the best time to introduce you to the top 10 schools in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi.

• Location: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street, Khalifa Park
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm

3- Abu Dhabi Children’s Public Library

The Abu Dhabi Children’s Library provides a nurturing space where young bookworms may grow and learn. The UAE capital of Abu Dhabi is home to the library. The library provides a wonderful setting for children, one that is both educational and fun.

It is creating opportunities for children to discover their capabilities and fulfill their potential. Also, it is a chance to interact in a relaxed setting while embracing one’s academic pursuits.

Moreover, it promotes a community-driven approach to value acquisition that encourages social discussions and linguistic communication among participants, which in turn helps increase children’s interest in reading and other topics.

The library provides various programs and activities, such as art, music, and acting classes, to help children improve their extracurricular interests and talents. The library is an interesting and enjoyable location because of the many varied activities available there.

The top feature of Abu Dhabi Children’s Public Library

The library has a big play area with gigantic alphabets placed strategically around it, so kids can learn to spell by soaring from one letter to the next. There are a total of eight “spaces” inside the library.

The Book Mountain, one of the library’s open auditorium spaces, is an innovative solution that allows patrons to enjoy movies and books in a bright, airy setting. Another option is the Dunes, whose design was inspired by the country’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural surroundings.

In the Dunes region, tourists may take a dreamlike trip back in time to experience life as it was for the forefathers of this wonderful country while teaching their children about the formation of sand dunes from the saddle of a camel.   The visitors are allowed to interact with various species in their natural habitat.

• Location: F9M4+3WR – Rashid Bin Saeed Street with – Zayed the First Street – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
• Opening horse: 9 am–7 pm

4- Study Public Library in Abu Dhabi

The Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research Library is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the social sciences, humanities, and politics. If you’re a young adult, the library’s name may seem scary, but don’t let that stop you from checking it out!

The top feature of Study Public Library in Abu Dhabi

Let us explain why ECSSR stands apart from other Abu Dhabi public libraries that are also free of charge.

The peaceful environment; the library’s architecture is something to be admired by anybody who sets foot inside. It is open to the public without charge, but its primary purpose is to inspire and motivate its patrons to further their education. As a result, the atmosphere is ideal for fostering concentration and productivity.

In addition, ECSSR offers courses that teach every resident of the UAE how to do research and apply what they learn in the workplace. Those courses are open to anybody who wants to take advantage of them.

• Opening hours: 8 AM to 4 PM.

5- Al Bahia Park Public Library in Abu Dhabi

A location where you can find literature appropriate for children and young adults. The Al Bahia Library can be found in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and has a beautiful location among the parkland of Emirates Park in Al Bahia.

The top feature of the Al Bahia Park Public Library

The library, which has a collection of 30,000 volumes, provides the perfect atmosphere for looking through books and reading them, particularly for young people and children.

The Main Hall is home to the library’s biggest selection of volumes, study areas, and terminals. There are Arabic and English newspapers and magazines available.

One of the most popular features is the children’s library. The library not only has a wide selection of books for kids and teens but also provides programs for both young and old and trips to local schools to spread the joy of reading. Also, Wi-Fi is available at no additional cost. Speaking of schools, you can also enroll your child in the best Indian schools in the city. There is a list of the best Indian schools in Abu Dhabi for those Indians who are looking for the best schools for their children.

• Location: 2nd Street, inside Al Bahia Park, Al Shahama
• Opening hours: Monday to Thursday from 08:00 am to 08:00 pm | Friday from 12:00 pm to 08:00 pm | Sunday from 12:00 pm to 08:00 pm

6- Mazyad Mall Library in Abu Dhabi

The library opened its doors in 2012 and now has over 30,000 volumes, with 2,000 books just for kids. The library provides free Wi-Fi, laptops with internet access, library book services, training sessions, programs for kids and adults, and community outreach for local clubs and organizations.

The top feature of the Mazyad Mall Library

Customers can now borrow library books without ever interacting with a librarian, thanks to the library’s “self-check-out” option. If you don’t have an Emirates ID, you may still use the library as a “guest visitor,” although registering is much easier. However, you will definitely need a UAE ID card or citizenship to use some libraries. To do so, you can check step by step process on how to register for Abu Dhabi citizenship.

With over 30,000 volumes, this library can be found on the first floor of Mayzad Mall in Mohammed bin Zayed City. The percentage of books aimed at kids is disproportionately high among those totals.

• Location: 79th St, Mohammed bin Zayed City, Mazyad Mall – Abu Dhabi
• Opening hours: Daily 8 AM – 8 PM

7- Al Marfa Library: The best public library in Abu Dhabi for students

This is a unique library created just for students and young readers. A unique library that attracts young readers as well as adults. In addition to its extensive collection on the oil and gas business, the Al Marfa Library also has books on various other topics, from those appropriate for young readers to the specialist volumes needed by researchers and professors.

The top feature of the Al Marfa Library

Three large reading rooms and a smaller library dedicated to kids house a total of over twenty thousand volumes. The Activity Room of the children’s library is where stories, puppet performances, and movies are presented to kids of all ages (but primarily those between the ages of 5 and 12).

The library’s collection of scholarly literature on religion, politics, and other niche topics are one of its best features. A separate section features the most recent publications, which number over 2,000.

You may study in peace with a selection of Arabic and English periodicals and current publications available in the Study Room. Connected computers are available for use in the Computer Corner. The library provides several services to help patrons make the most of library indexes and specialized reference books.

• Location: Ghweifat International Highway, New Al Marfa.
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm

8- Zayed Central Library (Al Ain)

The Zayed Central Library in Al Ain is the next most visited public library on our list of Abu Dhabi’s public libraries. You may discover a wide variety of books in this area, which is just close to the kid-friendly Sulaimi Gardens.

The top feature of the Zayed Central Library (Al Ain)

More than 100,000 books, including magazines, newspapers, and scholarly volumes, are available for both young and old readers.

The enormous complex also has a movie theater, a library, and a bookshop. Be sure to keep an eye out for the art exhibits and book signing events that are often held at this location.

• Location: Mohammed Bin Khalifa Street, Al Mutawa, Al Ain.
• Opening horse: 8 am–4 pm

9- Al Wathba Public Library in Abu Dhabi

This public library in Abu Dhabi is located in the beautiful Al Wathba Park, and it has a collection of over 50,000 books in Arabic and English. The library is light and airy, with comfortable reading nooks, access to the internet, and a brightly colored children’s section stocked with engaging books.

This fantastic library is located in Abu Dhabi, but don’t worry if you live in Dubai. There are so many ways to get to Abu Dhabi from Dubai. So if you want to visit this library, you can come to Abu Dhabi and enjoy the atmosphere and facilities of this library.

• Location: Al Ras Al Akhdar
• Opening hours: 10:00 am to 04:00 pm

10- The Sheikh Zayd Grand Mosque Library in Abu Dhabi

In the northern minaret of Abu Dhabi’s remarkable Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a library accessible only from the third level. This library is a treasure trove for scholars, including original copies of the Holy Quran and scholarly periodicals, research, and publications on Islamic art and history.

One of the best free things to do in Abu Dhabi is to explore the mosque’s sacred rooms. That’s right, in this region, it’s all about Islam. The materials collected here represent the most important information sources on Islamic history, architecture, art, and science, as well as a wide range of papers that provide light on how other cultures see Islamic civilization.

The top feature of the Sheikh Zayd Grand Mosque Library

Approximately 7,000 volumes make up their collection right now. Not included are over a hundred important books that are no longer in print; most of them dealt with the history and contemporary practice of Islamic architecture in the Middle East, India, Spain, and Persia.

Everyone in the community may have free access to a computer and the web at their center. There’s also the option of using your own laptop, which you’re welcome to bring. This location also provides access to Wi-Fi. Excellent for reading or studying in peace.

Guidelines for Borrowing Books

To join, just visit the registration page and enter your Emirates ID information to join for free. They will provide you with a photo ID card.

There is a three-book limit for public users, with loans lasting 15 days and being renewable once. You may renew your books either by bringing them back to the Circulation Desk or by calling 02-4191919 during business hours and providing your ID card number.

The cost of replacing the books will be your responsibility if they are misplaced. The circulation staff will determine the cost of the service.

• Opening hours: Monday – Friday 09:00 am to 06:00 pm | Closed on the weekend
• Location: Inside Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

11- Alliance Francaise: Best french public library in Abu Dhabi

12,000 books, audio/visual materials, and French magazines may be found in this library maintained by the French Alliance Association. The library’s collections and programming promote the French language and culture while honoring regional traditions. Anyone may visit, but only members can check out books.

• Opening hours: Monday – Friday 09:00 am – 06:00 pm | Closed on the weekend
• Location: 99, Villa A1, Al Qouʻ Street, Al Bateen

FAQS about public libraries in Abu Dhabi

So, let’s address some of the most pressing questions that others, including you, may have.

Can you recommend any good bookstores in Abu Dhabi?

Three of Abu Dhabi’s finest bookshops are Magrudy’s, Kinokuniya, and Jarir Bookstore.

Do Abu Dhabi libraries have online books?

Customers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) may purchase books online from Book Point and Virgin Megastore retailers. Before visiting these bookstores, don’t forget to make a bank account for yourself. You can find the best banks in Abu Dhabi to use their fantastic services.

Conclusion on the best public libraries in Abu Dhabi

Even in our increasingly digital environment, libraries are essential to the progress of any civilized community. Their roles and procedures have changed to some extent, but they continue to be an essential and intriguing component of the education system. Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, is home to a variety of world-class libraries.

They are places of tranquility and ideal for developing one’s intellect via reading, contemplation, and study. All the amazing public libraries in Abu Dhabi that you should visit are listed above, along with their addresses and hours of operation.

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