A cup of freshly brewed coffee, a good book and a cosy environment combine to create the perfect scenario for a book lover. Libraries in Dubai offer the same, making them a perfect spot for bibliophiles.
We have curated the list of the best libraries in Dubai. Explore their location, timings and features that make them an ideal spot for you.
Best Libraries in Dubai
Dubai has some hidden gems in the form of libraries. One can find them inside museums, communities and on the outskirts. With this guide, plan your next Library visit and spark your literary fondness.
1. Mohammed Bin Rashid Public Library
A literary masterpiece and a fusion of tech and literature! This library in the UAE stands out because of its unique architecture, which signifies a rehl (in English, a lectern used for resting the Quran).
A perfect place for people looking for a serene environment with a diverse title collection. Spend time paging through books or chatting with people on similar reads.
- Address: Al Jaddaf, Dubai Creek, Dubai, UAE
- Timings:
- 09:00 am to 09:00 pm (Monday to Thursday)
- 02:00 pm to 09:00 pm (Friday)
- 09:00 am to 09:00 pm (Saturday)
- Contact Information: +971 8 0062 7523
- Features: Over 1.5 million printed books, a 7-story building with each floor dedicated to a separate library, such as a Children’s Library or Business Library, an automated book transportation system, a Theatre with seating capacity of 550+, a Digitisation Lab and Wheelchair Access
- Ticket Price: Free entry
2. Hor Al Anz Library
Located in Deira District, Hor Al Anz has an organized interior with dedicated shelves for women’s and children’s books. Besides, their helpful staff will make sure you find the best title to read. The outdoor cafeteria is a must-try, designed for people to relax.
- Address: 16th Street, Deira, Dubai, UAE
- Timing: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Saturday to Thursday) and 08:00 am to 12:00 pm (Friday)
- Contact Information: +971 8 003 3222
- Features: Plenty of Arabic and English book titles, outdoor cafeteria with power sockets, comfy seats and kids’ room
- Ticket Price: Free entry
3. Al Safa Art and Design Public Library
Experience the tranquillity in a minimalistic interior, head to Al Safa! Best for people looking to have a noise-free workplace, do some research or relax and read a book.
- Address: 56QQ+7MW, 564 Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 3, Dubai, UAE
- Timing: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 08:00 am to 12:00 pm (Friday)
- Contact Information: +971 8 003 3222
- Features: Peaceful environment, children’s library, exhibition spaces, easily accessible and community events
- Ticket Price: Free entry, cost for borrowing books
4. Al Rashidiya Library
Looking for a place with a family-friendly environment? Al Rashidiya Library is the spot to visit! It is ideal for families with kids, as it has a wide collection of children’s titles. Besides, their Arabic tea and coffee are a must to try.
- Address: 31 Street Number 11, Al Rashidiya, Dubai, UAE
- Timing: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 08:00 am to 12:00 pm (Friday)
- Contact Information: +971 8 003 3222
- Features: Family environment, kids’ section and free parking
- Ticket Price: Free entry for everyone, membership available for UAE citizens and residents at a minimal cost
5. Al Mankhool Library
Al Mankhool is famous for its collection of journals and periodicals. Its wealth of books in different languages makes it ideal for people from diverse backgrounds.
- Address: Bur Dubai, 133 Al Mankhool Road, Dubai, UAE
- Timing: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Sunday to Thursday and 08:00 am to 12:00 pm (Friday)
- Contact Information: +971 8 003 3222
- Features: Space for Children, VIP section, best for group studies and separate women’s area
- Ticket Price: Free entry
6. The Old Library
This library is home to 25,000 books today, starting with two donated books. It is the oldest English Language Library in Dubai. Whether you are looking for intriguing novels or classic fiction, children’s stories or author biographies, this is the perfect place to visit.
- Address: Gold & Diamond Park, Building 7, Dubai, UAE
- Timing:
- 10:00 am to 02:00 pm (Monday to Friday)
- 10:00 am to 06:00 pm (Saturday)
- 12:00 pm to 04:00 pm (Sunday)
- Contact Information: +971 4 321 3939
- Features: Attractive ambience, run by volunteers and accessible via metro
- Ticket Price: Free entry, membership available
7. Umm Suqeim Library
Opened in 1989 in the Umm Suqeim community, it is popular among students because of its fiction and non-fiction collection. The library organizes camps and activities to provide skill training.
- Address: 770 Jumeirah Street, Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah 3, Dubai, UAE
- Timing: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 08:00 am to 12:00 pm (Friday)
- Features: Literary camps every summer and winter for kids and activities area
- Price: Free entry
8. Al Twar Library
Visit Al Twar, a conveniently accessible library, via the metro. The library offers over 68,000 books and periodicals to read. Head to the Library’s garden space and experience the mesmerising sunset view while paging through your favourite title.
- Address: 1, Emarat Al Mawred 2, Al Twar 1, Dubai, UAE
- Timing: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 08:00 am to 12:00 pm (Friday)
- Features: Stunning view, well-maintained, regular workshops and literary activities
- Ticket Price: Free entry
FAQs
Dubai is home to top public libraries, which offer a variety of English and Arabic books and are free to enter.
Clothing must cover the knees and shoulders. Visitors are not allowed to enter the library without following this rule.
By registering for Dubai Library, one can enjoy all the membership benefits. These include free Wi-Fi and book borrowing. Membership is valid for five years.
Follow the below process to apply for a membership:
– There are two ways: one through the Dubai Culture & Arts Libraries Website or the Dubai Public Libraries App.
– Sign up by using one of the above two ways.
