Best public libraries in Dubai: find options near you

One of the Fav place i love to visit in Dubai. If you are an entrepreneur like me.. then this is the place you need to hangout more. Perfect place for doing work, reading books, and small chill out breaks. The place motivates you for higher goal and purpose. And there are a lot of places to accommodate yourself in this giant Library. One thing is for sure, if you are dedicated, then this place will boost you 10x more. Car parking is FREE. Access to the library is FREE. But I recommend you to carry your own bottle of water.

I recently visited the Mohammed bin Rashid Library in Dubai, and overall it was a very impressive place. The architecture alone is worth seeing the building is beautiful, modern, and designed in a very unique way inspired by a traditional book stand. From the moment you walk in, you can feel how much attention was given to the details of the space. Inside, the library is spacious, quiet, and very well organized. There are multiple floors with different sections for books, reading areas, exhibitions, and study spaces. It’s a great environment for people who want to read, work, or simply spend some quiet time surrounded by books and knowledge. What I appreciated the most was the atmosphere. The natural light, the open spaces, and the calm environment make it a comfortable place to stay for a few hours. It’s clearly designed not only as a library, but also as a cultural destination. The only reason I’m giving four stars instead of five is that some sections felt a bit more like exhibition spaces rather than traditional reading areas, and at times it can feel slightly more touristic than academic. Overall, it’s still a fantastic place to visit if you’re in Dubai. Whether you enjoy books, architecture, or simply peaceful spaces, the Mohammed bin Rashid Library is definitely worth seeing at least once.

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is an impressive and inspiring place with stunning architecture and a calm, welcoming atmosphere. The space is vast, well organized, and very well maintained. They offer private workspaces on a first-come, first-served basis, and shared desks are available whenever a spot is free. There is also a designated area for those bringing their own food. Free parking is available, and the location is easily accessible by public transport through bus C04. Opening hours are from 9 AM to 9 PM, Monday to Saturday, except Fridays, it opens at 2 PM. The staff are courteous, professional, and very helpful, making the overall experience even better. A must-visit for reading, studying, or quiet work in Dubai.

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is an exceptional place for studying and conducting research. It offers a vast collection of books, multiple reading and study halls, private cabins, and excellent facilities that are thoughtfully designed to support learners and researchers in every aspect. The beautiful surroundings and scenic views in front of the library create a refreshing and inspiring environment. Whenever you feel mentally exhausted, a short walk around the area helps you relax and regain focus. Heartfelt thanks to Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai for providing such a remarkable and world-class place dedicated to knowledge, learning, and personal growth

Serene atmosphere and so many interesting activities take place at MBRLibrary. Lots of books, first books editions at the museum. Prayer rooms available. Beautiful garden to walk by the water. Overall, one of my favorite places to go to.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is a remarkable cultural and educational landmark in Dubai, offering an exceptional environment for readers, researchers, and families alike. The architecture is stunning, inspired by the traditional rehl (book stand), and the interiors are thoughtfully designed to provide quiet, comfortable, and well-lit spaces for study and exploration. The library’s vast collection spans multiple languages and subjects, supported by advanced digital resources and modern research facilities. The staff are courteous and helpful, ensuring visitors have a seamless and enriching experience. A particularly impressive feature is the automated monorail book retrieval system. Visitors can request books through the library’s app, and the monorail efficiently delivers them from storage to the collection points. This innovative system not only saves time but also showcases the library’s commitment to blending technology with accessibility, making knowledge more convenient to obtain. Overall, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library stands as a symbol of Dubai’s dedication to education, innovation, and cultural growth. It is highly recommended for anyone seeking a world-class library experience.

I regularly visit the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library with my family, and it continues to be one of the most impressive cultural and educational destinations in Dubai. The architecture is remarkable, and the thoughtfulness behind the building’s design, layout, and functionality is truly exceptional. The wide range of resources, tools, and books available to the public reflects a strong commitment to learning, research, and personal development. The library offers membership at a very reasonable cost, which allows visitors to borrow books and fully benefit from its services. It also provides convenient free parking, along with excellent facilities including beautifully designed halls and dedicated spaces for study, reading, and research. One of the highlights is the stunning waterfront view, which adds to the overall experience and makes every visit even more enjoyable. I would highly recommend becoming a member, especially for those living nearby and looking for a high-quality environment for learning, reflection, and family visits.

Sharjah Public Library is a fantastic spot for anyone looking for a quiet, productive environment. It has a really cool, modern atmosphere that makes it easy to spend hours there. ​One of the highlights is the dedicated children’s book area, which is perfect for families; it’s well-organized and keeps the kids engaged in a space designed just for them. The staff are incredibly cooperative and always ready to help you find what you need or navigate the facility. Plus, free parking is available, which makes visiting completely stress-free. Highly recommended for students, researchers, or parents.

It’s a little bit confusing to begin with to figure out the check in and check out system and you can’t seem to take out a lot of the children’s books BUT I am glad it is here. The selection of books seems quite curious, and I shall enjoy coming here again in the future to get more books out.

Having been a regular user of the Dubai Public Library in Mankhool as well as Mohd Bin Rashid Library in Jaddaf, and having experienced House of Wisdom in Sharjah – my expectations from libraries in UAE are set so high… that my first visit here was a big disappointment. Such a huge majestic structure with architectural design to reflect the Arabic theme – and yet the interiors feel like… they are from a bygone era. The electric plugs under neath the workstations don’t work. The carpet flooring is worn out in most places. The chairs at workstations are immobile and have stiff back rest. The reading lamp stands do not have bulbs. Besides the grand structure – I wish there was more positive to write. But there’s hope – I passed by the young adult library and it appeared to be done well. I hope someone fixes these issues and makes it a place for people to come read, write, study and perhaps work in silence.

Ultimate collection of book, and most peaceful part of UAE ❤️

It’s a great place for those who love reading. A neat and clean place with pin drop silence inside. You can spend hours n hours to read your books, Journals, and Reports of choice without any distraction. You can also take lifetime membership for just AED 150. A member can take 10 titles in one time that you can take home for 15 days and those titles can be renewed for further 15 days with an email request or on a phone call. There’s a children section too with beautiful interior where children can spend valuable time in reading or doing activities on computer.

The interior was just delightful – perfectly quiet for those intense study sessions or projects. And who needs public wifi when you can enjoy the bliss of offline work? The temperature was refreshingly chilly, so don’t forget to pack your trusty jacket.

Best place to study and do deep learning. Very helpful staff and all required facilities are there. PS: Sometimes it gets cold so bring your jacket.

Jameel Arts Centre – One of the best place I have personally visited here in Al Jaddaf area of Dubai. Centre is an exceptional institution to serve all the visitors especially who are inclined towards Arts & Culture. There is a library which i have visited for almost a week and I could do my work peacefully without any disturbance within a cosy cubicle. There is High Speed Wifi facility free to use. The staff is extremely co-operative. One may spend some quality time in the evening to stroll around the water front with some cool breeze and some jazzy lights from the boats and Yachts cruising with some exciting music. One can easily walk here from Al Jaddaf Metro station. Its a 15-20 mins walk. An excellent place planned at the Al Jaddaf Water front.

I had a great experience at Jameel Art Centre. The security staff were very friendly and welcoming, even though I unfortunately didn’t catch his name. The second floor was my favorite—it had a creepy atmosphere that really stood out. The Thai artist’s work was incredibly powerful and intense; the use of corpses was disturbing but brilliantly executed. Truly memorable.

The area around this art centre is really nice with a beautiful view. However, the actual exhibitions inside were a bit underwhelming. I think the exhibitions change frequently, but the ones I saw were lowkey weird and unusual. I know contemporary art is subjective and while it was interesting to see different perspectives, some of them just felt a bit strange to me. Also, the guards standing in the exhibitions kept staring at me the whole time and it made me uncomfortable. I understand they’re trying to do their job, but still, what I could have possibly done to be stared at so suspiciously.

outstanding landscape and out door sculptures, lovely colorful playground, with fantastic views along the canal and surrounding buildings, I loved the outdoor theater with semi covered sculpture roof, it gives artistic look and creative atmosphere, landscape details and elements are very nice, its a calm walk specially in winter in the morning, I strongly recommend a visit..

Jameel art centre this is the best design and decoration and best area and all facilities here jameel art and best location of tourist and have yatch here holiday time going all people jameel art and and injoy free time of the day and little money charge this area family and single all people going this is good

Had a really nice experience at Jameel, it’s such a beautiful and clean building, beautiful architecture and layout and the staff are so sweet and welcoming. The galleries they had were nice not my favorite that I’ve seen but still nice. I very much enjoyed going through the building like the library and there little shop near by.

Very nice relaxing spot , exhibition is not that big , but it’s nice to walk around

So I have my first Library experience in Dubai. Loved this place. As a novice researcher I was able to get some of the books I wanted to study. The receptionist was really kind to me. You can even suggest them to suggest a book you want so you can read later. My research is on Exploring history and teaching and learning from video games so I will suggest some books to them which will really be interesting to keep in the shelves. People will love them.

I really enjoyed studying at this library. It’s peaceful, well-maintained, and has a great environment for reading and concentration. The staff is polite and helpful too.

Exceptional place to work from in silence. Working desk with computers or if you want your own laptop. Natural light flows in, creating a beautiful environment. They also have pods incase you want to take calls. Upstairs they have prayer room and a pantry for a quick bite Only thing I wish they could improve upon is the parking

If you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful place to study, then Al Mankhool Public Library is the place. You can refer to books, use the available Wi-Fi, and utilize the desks and chairs for studying or reading. Quiet rooms are also available. The library has clean restrooms, and there are nearby restaurants and cafes. Overall, it’s a good study environment.

This is the outside area of Al Mankhool Public Library, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Place was not so quiet as it’s next to a car wash area of gas station. But it is outside where you can also do phone calls, online meetings or enjoy a snack. There are only two tables with several chairs under the shade. Not so many people opt to sit outside. But if it is too cold inside you can choose to be outside. There is a big tent to offer shades so it is nice. Masjid is very near so you can go there to pray at prayer times. Library is open Sunday to Friday from 8 AM to 22 PM except on Friday closes at 12 PM

Such a beautiful surroundings and atmosphere.. calm and Quiet… friendly staffs…. They guide you smoothly….. I think free gawa or tea/coffee is served on a front tea poi., I didn’t try., I have seen people serve and drink… the main thing I liked is beautiful namaz room.. Sukoon…. Clean washrooms.. for each gender seperate…. I have been to garden to study morning time., uff.. so beautiful.. wind…(in December)… Pantry and dining in 1st floor… and other thing is., there is a ladies department separate., we can do group studies… full of books… Power sockets…. Water dispenser upstairs…Free wifi….unlimited stay from morning to night till 8 …. If you carry a lunch and brunch… you can sit there for a long time and study… I really really liked… if there is any I will add more.. Dubai and Dubai things are just love and love… Thank you Dubai culture and authorities..

A peaceful place that contains many books of diverse fields, equipped with sophisticated needs: Pcs, Wifi, diversity of titles, quiet study area, mosque, eating room. however, the staff -women-are very noisy, they are talking too much with each other loudly, I was all time wondering if they could feel what does library represents, but anyway, forget about them. Literally, The public library is fabulous .

This library equipped with computers, Wi-Fi, and digital catalogs, the library integrates modern technology seamlessly. It has a calm and serene ambiance, offering a distraction-free zone for reading, studying, or research. Noise is usually minimal, encouraging focus and concentration.

Great place to work. They have a vast collection of books from different categories and languages. High speed wifi but many websites are blocked especially streaming platforms like Netflix 😛. But a great place to work peacefully without any distraction. The place is quiet but most of the seats will be occupied in the afternoon. The library has a good prayer room. Overall the best place to read and work without any distractions. Working hours are 8 AM – 8PM

Membership is very reasonable. Family membership enables taking more books. Their online app enables renewing books taken without going there. Quiet and peaceful. Ideal for studying. Study rooms can be booked too . Free wi-fi available. Variety of Arabic books available. English fiction books less in comparison. The newly made study rooms are very well made. Compact for students to study. I love the corner – Our book is your book, from.which you can pick up a book and take it home. Great initiative. It motivates me to get more books for this corner to donate!!

A public library with a very peaceful ambience. A very mindful space for reading. It serves as a hub for learning, literacy, and cultural engagement, welcoming individuals of all ages to read, study, explore, and connect. Highly recommended space for calm reading and learning

Very well maintained! Dubai Airport Free Zone metro station is at 10 minutes walking distance. Big library. Thanks to Dubai culture and government for these types of places! Amazing! 😇 Atmosphere gives you motivation to read the books!!

A very nice and peaceful library which has been maintained very well. It has free wifi provided by the Library and also from du (free for 1 hour only). This library has computers that can be used and also tables where you can use your own laptops, charging ports available. No free parking available but ample RTA paid parking available around the premises.

Great place for a quiet reading session or working. Since it is quite small, the place gets full pretty early, especailly seating near power outlets.

This is my go-to place every weekend. Calm surroundings, less crowded, and the perfect escape. ❤️📚

Great library with rich bank of books for children. I was told that kids books couldn’t be borrowed, when asked.

Good place for individual work space cabins for meeting and wide range of books and culture things to explore in the library

What a fantastic place, I feel that I lost a lot by not visiting this library or other public libraries before. The Library was opened thirty three years ago, and still feel in excellent shape. It is well maintained and serviced, it has prayer rooms as well. The collection of books for all ages, the quietness of library, the amazing staff make it nice venue to visit, read books and enjoy time. I highly recommend it.

Very helpful experience there in the al rashidiya library .there are 2 sections, one for kids and one for adults, and have many books 📚 especially for kids.

Amazing place Helpful and quiet ❤️ Very kind and helpful stuff

Best place for children

It’s incredibly spacious, quiet, and has such a peaceful atmosphere, making it perfect for studying or getting work done. One of my favorite features is the private study pods, they’re ideal if you need to focus without distractions. There’s also a lovely restaurant right next to the library, so it’s super convenient to grab a meal during a study break. Definitely one of the best places to study, read, or work in a calm environment. Highly recommend! 📚☕✨

One of the best libraries is Dubai area. Designed to target the audience of art. I was here to attend Photography Workshop Training during the month of June 2026.

In general i like any Library, special this one have a great vibes ans atmosphere, good lighting, comfortable spaces, many book titles, birds sound’s every where without annoying.. love it !

I haven’t had the chance to visit Al Safa Art and Library yet, but it’s definitely on my list! From what I’ve seen and heard, it looks like a wonderful space that blends creativity, learning, and community all in one place. I really appreciate places like this that encourage both artistic expression and a love for reading. The atmosphere seems calm and inspiring—perfect for anyone looking to relax, explore books, or engage in creative activities. I’m especially excited about the idea of discovering a quiet corner to read or simply spend some peaceful time away from the busy city. Looking forward to visiting soon and experiencing it firsthand!

My favorite place to study or prepare for meetings; very friendly and helpful staff, modern and tidy + you can rent a study room or tele-booth for AED 10/2hours 🤝🥳

This library completely changed my perspective!!! I found a book that perfectly matched my current life situation, and I left feeling like a changed person. The library has an incredible diverse selection of interesting books. The space is clean, very quiet and perfect for focused reading. They also provide great perks like free Wi-Fi and free water 😛😛. I ran out of time to read everything I wanted, but I cannot wait to go back 😊

A beautiful library, very quaint and sweet and surrounded by touches of green. A great place to read, relax or focus on whatever you want. They also have a great kids section, with great Arabic books. The addition of the Resturant Forma Next door is great for that delicious coffee, a quick snack, or a proper delicious pizza. Really love this space.

friendly nove staff. Small cozy library. There’s parking behind it. Fun small area for kids to read and some good books for adults also. It’s cute place! but not much space to stay for reading, since it’s not large library. In the picture I posted, you can see the end of it. Worth to go there with small kids

I’ve been working around Gold and Diamond Park for about a year now and I haven’t gone to this part of the area and I should’ve had! I love books! This one just reminded me of the old school ways of being able to read a book that’s trending, a book that you want to read again, or perhaps a book of your interest. I just had my membership earlier and I am truly looking forward to borrow more and read more. As an expat who has a temporary home here in Dubai, I can’t really keep as much books that I can so this is a more practical and strategic way to still get to read what I like without worrying a space to keep them. I should say, if you like to read and shy away from the digital media era that’s becoming elaborate thing on this planet, visit The Old Library!

We visit mainly for children’s books. If you sign up for membership, you can borrow more than 6~7 books at once with generous rental period. All staffs(&volunteers) speak excellent English and are always friendly and helpful to visitors.

Amazing variety of books for the most voracious reader that suits all ages, tastes and gender, warm and helpful staff.

Best place for kids, they almost all books for kids. Supported by volunteers of all age.

Nice library with great collections for kids as well. Located in Gold and Diamond Park building 7, right opposite to FAB metro station and behind the main building. Ample car parking with 1 hour free parking on weekdays until 6 pm. And, full free parking after 6 pm on weekdays and on weekends. Closed on Friday.

My first visit to the old library was when it was situated in Ductac, Mall of the Emirates. I became a member when it moved to The Gold and Diamond Park. Now set amongst jewelry stores, The Old Library shines as the oldest and brightest jewel in Gold and Diamond Park. Run by a highly talented group of volunteers who have been serving the library and its community of readers, some for more than 10 to 20years to those who are new and the very new assistant volunteers. The Library is administered by the Dubai Community Development Authority with the help of volunteers. It has books to pique the interests of all age groups. I find the book collection varied and amazing with titles and topics to suit every mood and event one can think of. The camaraderie of the chirpy and motivated volunteers makes it a happy place to be. The amazing student volunteers make our lives easier. There are so many of them, but I know only a few by name, Varsha, Platon, Anaisha,Aarav. Among adult volunteers Giuletta, Liv, Roshni, Meghna,Naee’mah,Karina, Priyo, Shiva, Aroma, Saagarika, Almas, Insiyah, Whitney, Jyothi, Tara, Ramya, Nitu, Natalie,Sumera, Charu, Sherin, Easwari Ameira and the rest of the team, all of you are amazing and wonderful. A lot of cafes around lends an ideal setting for reading and hosting book club meetings. The library too has story time sessions once a month for junior readers as well as a book club for juniors. Request everyone to become a member and support the library and become a part of this thriving community.

I’m from China and after running Walk through this library, here was really Nice stay to read English books. From entrance Here 2 separate libraries,on the right side is English/Arabic books, on the other side is Arabic only . Kindly notice SATURDAY no open.🙅 Wifi and private reading room offer great !👍 Front desk very kinder to guide.👍

A really nice library with variety of books and working areas. Well maintained

Old books collection but good quantities to choose from different genre. There are small rooms for meeting (reservation required) and solo tables with chair big enough for laptop, books, bag (no reservation required) also the adapater for charging port is readily available in the security (but just dont forget to return) , wifi speed is fast and restroom is very clean. There is also free refillable tea and water. Comfortable to study and stay. If you are commuting very accessible because outside the building is a airconed bus stop and lots of restaurant around the area. Very good location 👍🏻

I loved this place. I took my kids to study there and took the study room. The workers are amazing and polite and very helpful and patient.

The English collection at this branch was underwhelming. There was only a meagre aisle of classics and recent titles(more of the old than the new). I guess it makes sense cuz it’s just a small library, yet they’ve managed to include Arabic titles, English ones, educational, design and reference books with a section for computers, plus study desks. The staff were warm and polite. They also had a feedback machine and another for book check outs. You have to register on a tablet at the front desk. Only locals and residents can borrow books. Oh, and they also had a ‘New Arrivals’ shelf, which I thought was a nice feature. All in all, not bad.

The library and staff are very polite and accommodative. The problem is with the library parking, it is intended for the library visitors, however, it’s always full and when you go to the library, the library is empty. People from outside the library park their cars for free and the library visitors are left paying 12 DHS per hour to go to library. Too shame, the library location is good.

Very quiet place where you can study or read. You can bring your own books or laptops, etc. The staff are very friendly. Not a big variety of books, though. I recommend it if you want to concentrate.

I have traveled to many countries, cities, and regions, but I have never seen such a beautiful library.The staff are very polite and the building is quite beautiful.It includes free Wi-Fi, water, tea, magazines, newspapers, and articles.What impressed me most was that you can use the photocopier and other equipment for free.

the two women working there sent me to check which computer was available instead of knowing which one to give me, they kept assigning me the wrong one and when she assigned me a computer, the keyboard was not working. Please note that is is a paid service.

Good place to study and brainstorm. A draw back is limited spacing. They should expand this amazing library.

Very friendly staff 5/5 Books variety is really good in both arabic and english Also the condition of all books is really good Take your little ones to the dedicated kids library full of books and fun corners Also self borrowing system is easy to use and easy to return

I’m so excited to visit Dubai public library

There is not a single Urdu book here, although I was told that history books are available in all languages.

Had the pleasure of visiting this library recently and was so impressed by the helpfulness, kindness and professionalism of the staff. I wish I had thought to get her name because she truly made my day. The library was quiet and while it’s not big it had a very wide range of books. I don’t recall seeing a children’s section but will probably check the next time round. It’s so great to have a library close to this side of town. I wish we could have another one further on this side now that Dubai is expanding. Thank you, Dubai Culture!