Nothing can be as pleasant like sitting in some quiet corner on a slow Sunday morning with a good book. It can be a fantasy epos, an enchanting mystery, a contemplative non-fiction book, but the winter in Dubai is the most appropriate moment to rediscover the pleasure of reading.
Fortunately, the city does not lack welcoming places and book lovers. Neighbourhood public cosy libraries in Dubai all the way up to spectacular architectural sites, Dubai boasts of libraries that have cozy reading nooks, quiet study rooms, and bookshelves with literary wonders. You may be in need of some peace, or need to get inspired, here is a full list of the 2026 cosy libraries Dubai to assist you in finding your next great read.
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Who Can be Members of Libraries in Dubai?
Every Dubai citizen and all residents of the UAE can borrow books in the public libraries. In order to do this, you would have to take out a library membership and pay the necessary fees.
Reading and visiting of most of the public libraries are free. Nonetheless, in order to borrow books to carry home, one needs to have an active membership.
Membership fees:
- Adults: Dhs200
- Children: Dhs75
- Family membership: Dhs250
What is the Situation with Borrowing Books in Dubai?
Registered members will be able to borrow books in any public library in the city.
Borrowing limits:
- Adults: Up to 15 books
- Children: Up to 10 books
- Families: Up to 25 books
Borrowing period:
During 28 to 35 days based on the membership.
You have now understood the functioning, the following are the best places to begin reading in Dubai.
The Top Libraries in Dubai
Al Rashidiya Library
This is a friendly library located close to the Al Rashidiya Park, and it is popular with families and frequent readers. It has a great stable of popular titles and a great children section.
Details:
- Address: 44 th street, Al Rashidiya.
- Timings: Sun-Thu: 8am-8pm Fri: 8am-midnight
- Facilities: reading hall and activity room, audiovisual facilities of kids.
Al Safa Art and Design Public Library
This library is ideal to people with creative minds as it is devoted to art, architecture and design. The space is redesigned in a way that shows its artistic intent and is peaceful and well thought out.
Details:
- Place: Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 3.
- Timings: Mon-Thu: 8am-8pm Fri: 8am-noon
- Highlights: Art and design titles, peaceful interiors, natural light.
Al Twar Library
Al twar library has over 68,000 titles which can give an opportunity to all readers. It is also especially popular with families due to its children programmes and the outdoor garden.
Details:
- Location: Al Twar 1
- Timings: Mon-Thu: 8am-8pm Fri: 8am-noon
- Activities: Although the garden has an extensive reading space, kids play, yearly activities.
Beach Libraries
Four walls are not always necessary in reading. The libraries of Dubai beaches enable the readers to read books by the sea through self-service borrowing system.
Details:
- Places: Kite Beach, Al Mamzar Beach, Jumeirah Beach.
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Features: reading outside, browsing, beachy ambiance.
Fiker Institute
The Fiker Institute is a combination of research, creativity, and aesthetic which makes it one of the most striking libraries in Dubai. It is situated in the Alserkal Avenue, and it is perfect to read or work on something.
Details:
- Location: Alserkal Avenue
- Timings: Tue-Sun, 9am-9pm
It has 15,000 bilingual books, you can purchase day passes, and access the cafe.
Hor Al Anz Library
This casual library was created to cater to the population of the Deira community and has designated areas where women and children can go.
Details:
- Location: 16th Street, Deira
- Timings: Sun-Thu & Sat: 8am-8pm
- Features: Staircase, outdoor cafeteria, power sockets, Arabic titles, English titles.
Jameel Art Centre
Jameel Art Centre is more than a gallery, though it has a very good curated library which specializes in art, culture, and contemporary thinking.
Details:
- Location: Jaddaf Waterfront
- Timings: Sat-Mon & Thu: 10am-8pm Fri: noon-8pm
- Highlights Workshops, talks, bilingual collection.
Mohammed Bin Rashid Public library
This library is an open-book-shaped seven storey library which is regarded as one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in Dubai and accommodates several million of titles in a variety of forms.
Details:
- Location: Al Jaddaf
- Timings: Mon-Thu: 9am-9pm Fri: 9am-noon Sat: 9am-9pm
- Features: Audiobooks, e-books, themed rooms, huge collections.
The Old Library
This non-profit library is a cosy reading space operated by volunteers and gives a nostalgic reading experience with a great sense of community.
Details:
- Where: Gold and Diamond Park, Building 7.
- Timings: Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm
- Strengths: 25,000 books, traditional library experience.
Umm Suqeim Library
Umm Suqeim Library is a full service public library that appeals particularly to researchers and families.
Details:
- Location: the Jumeirah Street, Umm Suqeim.
- Timings: Sun-Thu: 8am-8pm Fri: 8am-noon
- Highlights: Lecture centers, children camps, audiovisual centers.
Elsewhere
Hatta Public Library
It is a wonderful place to visit when in Hatta as it is a serene library that has an extensive assortment of books.
Details:
- Location: Hatta, Neighbourhood of Al Wadi Park.
- Timings: Mon-Thu: 8am-8pm Fri: 8am-noon
- Facilities: Shuttle service, multi-purpose hall.
House of Wisdom
The House of Wisdom is worth the little journey though it is situated in Sharjah. It combines reading, discussion and culture in a beautiful, green surrounded area.
Details:
- Location: Al Juraina 1, Sharjah
- Timings: Sun-Thu: 8am-11pm Fri-Sat: 8am-midnight
- Special activities: Reading clubs, study areas, cultural activities.
Final Thoughts
The independent cosy libraries in Dubai 2026 use their membership and charges. Should you want to join one, you had better contact the library in the matter.
Prefer reading digitally? The official e-library service is also available in Dubai, which is accessed online where it is easy to read inside or outside depending on the location.
