If your idea of a perfect day involves getting lost in a gripping thriller novel or giggling over a cheesy romance book, then Dubai has plenty of reading spots to add to your list. With the cool weather and cosy spots, it’s the prime reading season, and across the city you’ll find everything from serene public libraries to cultural spaces and cosy community favourites. Whether you’re after a free reading nook or don’t mind paying a small fee for a workspace, this guide rounds up the best libraries in Dubai.
Also Read: Beyond The Glitz & Glam – 8 Quiet Places In Dubai For ‘Me Time’
1. Beach Library Project
Books + beach = an unbeatable combo. Thanks to the Beach Library Project, you can grab a book from a self-service shelf and flip through the pages with your toes in the sand. These outdoor libraries operate around the clock and are perfect for spontaneous reading sessions.
- Operating Hours: Varies according to beach timings
- Location: Kite Beach, Jumeirah Beach, Al Mamzar Beach
- Price: Free
2. Mohammed Bin Rashid Public Library
An architectural icon shaped like an open book, this seven-floor mega library is home to millions of printed books, e-books and audiobooks. Each level is themed, making it easy to spend hours exploring without noticing the time.
- Operating Hours: Daily | From 9 AM – 9 PM
- Location: Al Jaddaf
- Price: Free (on-site reading)
- Contact: 800 627523
3. Al Safa Art And Design Public Library
Perfect for the creative minds, this beautifully revamped library focuses on art, architecture, interior design and modern culture. Here you can expect sunlit interiors, spacious desks and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for slow reading or study sessions.
- Operating Hours: Sun-Thurs from 8 AM – 8 PM | Fri from 8 AM – 12 PM
- Location: Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 3
- Price: Free (on-site reading)
- Contact: 800 33222
4. Jameel Art Centre Library
Located inside one of Dubai’s coolest cultural spaces, the Jameel Library features a curated collection of English and Arabic titles. The best part is that you can attend regular workshops, talks and reading events during your visit.
- Operating Hours: Sat-Thurs from 10 PM – 8 PM | Fri from 12 PM – 8 PM.
- Location: Jaddaf Waterfront
- Price: Free
- Contact: 04 873 9800
5. Bookends
More bookstore than library, Bookends is a cosy haven for preloved books. You can browse, buy at discounted prices, donate books and even earn credit when your donated titles sell!
- Operating Hours: Daily | From 10 AM – 9 PM
- Location: Dubai Digital Park, Building A3, Silicon Oasis
- Price: From AED 25 per book
6. Al Rashidiya Library
A welcoming neighbourhood library near Al Rashidiya Park, known especially for its excellent kids’ section. Families will love the activity rooms, reading halls and audiovisual facilities available for little readers.
- Operating Hours: Sun-Thurs 8 AM – 8 PM | Fri from 8 AM – 12 PM | Closed on Sat
- Location: 44th Street, Al Rashidiya
- Price: Free (on-site reading)
- Contact: 800 33222
7. Umm Suqeim Library
A favourite among researchers and students, this library covers everything from history, medicine, to literature and religion. Kids are well looked after too, with dedicated reading rooms and seasonal camps.
- Operating Hours: Sun-Thurs from 8 AM – 8 PM | Fri from 8 AM – 12 PM.
- Location: Jumeirah Street, Umm Suqeim
- Price: Free (on-site reading)
- Contact: 800 33222
8. Hor Al Anz Library
Serving the Deira community, this relaxed, family-friendly library features Arabic and English titles. Additionally, the library is also equipped with outdoor seating with power sockets. This spot is ideal if you want to read or study without rushing.
- Operating Hours: Sun-Thurs from 8 AM – 8 PM | Fri from 8 AM – 12 PM | Closed on Saturdays
- Location: 16th Street, Deira
- Price: Free (on-site reading)
- Contact: 800 33222
9. Fiker Institute
Part think tank, part library. This is one of the most aesthetically pleasing reading spaces in the city. With 15,000+ bilingual books and café access included in the day pass, it’s perfect for working, reading or creative brainstorming.
- Operating Hours: Sun-Tues from 9 AM – 9 PM | Closed on Mon.
- Location: Alserkal Avenue
- Price: AED 85 (day pass)
10. The Old Library
A Dubai classic run by volunteers. The Old Library feels like stepping into a childhood storybook. For some hardcore reading time, this spot is equipped with cosy armchairs and shelves packed with fiction, non-fiction and children’s favourites.
- Operating Hours: Mon-Thurs from 10 AM – 6 PM | Sat from 10 AM – 6 PM | Closed on Fri.
- Location: Gold & Diamond Park, Building 7
- Price: From AED 250 (annual membership)
- Contact: 04 321 3939
Prefer Digital Over A Physical Copy?
If you’re not one to dive into a book, the Dubai Municipality also offers a free e-library service. Through this service, residents have access to books, journals, and digital resources via the Dubai Smart Government platform. You can choose your e-book, head to one of these libraries and spend your day flipping through your digital copy!
