Cycling culture is growing in the UAE despite the extremely hot summers, making any outdoor activities pretty unbearable. For the brave ones who can stand cycling in summer or better yet in the winter, or for the seasonal cyclists, there are an increasing number of places to take their bikes and enjoy stunning views while working out.
Al Qudra Cycle Track
This track is one of Dubai residents favorite places to cycle, as the track is 86 kilometers long and provides cyclists with a breathtaking view of the desert dunes and if lucky, the local wildlife. The track welcomes both professional cyclists and amateurs and offers two different routes, one of 18km and a second of 50km, catering to all stamina levels. For those visiting without their bike, you can rent bikes, helmets and lights at the start of the track at the TREK Bicycle Store. Cycling at this track is entirely free of charge and the best time to go is sunrise.
Yas Marina Circuit
The Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi is known for its Formula 1 races and fast cars; however, twice a week it welcomes cyclists to ride around the arena. On Sunday and Tuesday evenings from 6pm to 10pm, cyclists of all levels of expertise can ride the track. During these two evenings, cyclists and runners, to encourage physical activity and a healthy lifestyle – can only use it and the entrance is free. For those without bicycles, the arena has 400 bikes available, which are complimentary.
Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Also read – Best Cycling Routes in Oman
Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park
This cycle track has one of the most privileged views of the Burj Khalifa and the Downtown Dubai skyline. What once was an abandoned camel racing track, now is one of Dubai fitness lovers favorite locations for cycling and running. The Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park offers path choices of 4km, 6km and 8km – as well as 850 meter cycling track for children to learn, with a few different obstacles to enhance their training. What differentiates this cycling track from the rest is that it has great amenities, including air-conditioned changing rooms with showers and lockers.
Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park, Muscat Street, Dubai
Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre
For adventure seekers, this is the ideal location to bike. However, beginners should not be discouraged to cycle at the Hatta Mountains, as this centre consists of curated biking trails for all levels, permitting the less skillful bikers to choose a trail to match their experience level. Here at the Hatta Mountains, cyclists will be dazzled by the spectacular views. Another exciting feature of these trails – other than that biking here is entirely free of charge – is that they are open 24 hours a day all year round. Cyclists should bring their own bikes or rent one on their way out of town at Wolfis Dubai and download the trail map on the website.
Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre, Dubai
Jebel Hafeet
For experienced cyclists looking for a real challenge, your best option is to head to Al Ain and cycle the Jebel Hafeet Mountain. This is the UAEs second highest peak and its not for the faint of heart. It is an extremely testing winding trail with an incline of as high as 30 percent in certain parts of the road. Jebel Hafeet does not have a specific cycling trail, so riders will have to be careful with cars sharing the same road as them, although its wide enough to easily fit both. For those willing to take on this challenge, the view atop of the mountain will certainly be worth it.
Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
