The Best Bike Tracks in Dubai

Posted on Sep 02, 2013 by Luke James  | Filed Under: Bike riding, cycling, exercise, Dubai, UAE, fitness

Maintaining a healthy body and mind requires a commitment to physical exercise, and cycling represents one of the best ways to get a low-impact cardiovascular workout. It can be enjoyed by people of all ages and has a number of physical and mental health benefits. We take a look at some of the best places to either enjoy a leisurely ride or satisfy your need for speed.

Cycling is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of so many health problems: stroke, diabetes, heart attack, cancers, obesity, arthritis and more. No matter what your age or fitness level, riding a bike is a great way to improve your health, state of mind and the environment as a whole.

Just a few years ago, the infrastructure for bike riding in Dubai was relatively limited, but community calls for a place to get some pedal power eventually became too loud to ignore. The first 100 kilometres of dedicated bike tracks were opened in 2010 and have been embraced by Dubai locals, expats and visitors alike.

Increasing demand for more environmentally friendly and healthier forms of transport coupled with the high usage rates of recently built facilities has prompted an expansion of the bike riding facilities in Dubai. Whilst already into the second phase of an expansion of Dubai’s cycling facilities, as of late June 2013, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) unveiled a further plan to build cycling tracks stretching 850 kilometres across the length and breadth of Dubai. The idea is to prioritize infrastructure to further encourage cycling as a transportation mode with the whole project set to continue until 2030.

In the meantime, we look at a selection of some of the best bike tracks and paths in Dubai:

Seih Assalam - Dubai Cycling Course

Neighbours Qatar and Oman both stage high profile cycling races, and with the completion of the Dubai Cycling Course in January, 2013, Dubai is set to host the first major cycling race to be held in the UAE, the Dubai Tour. The 67 kilometre course at Seih Assalam is the most recent project completed by the RTA as part of the second development phase of the cycling infrastructure improvement plan; at an estimated cost of Dh19 million. The course runs around 18 km along Al Qudra Road North, and from there continues past the Bab AL Shams Hotel, through the Al Qudra Road roundabout and then southward alongside the road to Seih Assalam. Along the length of the course are a number of public facilities, bike hire and accessory shops; making this trail an ideal leisurely cruise or a long distance slog for those that like to challenges themselves.

Nad Al Sheba Cycle Path

Originally used as a camel racing track, the Nad Al Sheba Cycle Path has been converted into the perfect location for one of the best family-friendly bike tracks in all of Dubai. The track features three circuits that look out over the skyline of downtown Dubai. Cyclists can select between 4, 6 and 8 kilometre paths which are illuminated at night for safety. In addition to the longer bike paths there is also an 850 metre children’s track, featuring roundabouts and speed bumps to teach kids the importance of safety on the roads. Usage of the track is free of charge and it’s the ideal way to burn off some energy for those little ones that aren’t exhausted from a long day’s playing. The area is equipped with restrooms, changing rooms and showers, so it’s the perfect place to pop into and get a bit of exercise at the end of a work day.

Dubai Autodrome

Whilst normally the host of petrol powered means of propulsion, every Wednesday night from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., the Dubai Autodrome opens its doors for cyclists, joggers and rollerbladers to enjoy facilities. The 2.7 kilometre track is wide enough to accommodate everyone from toddlers to seasoned professionals, so it’s a great opportunity for anyone to practice their sport without the dangers of cars on the road. The smooth surface of the race track makes an ideal surface to ride on and there are a couple of inclines and declines to provide some variation for those on the track. Entry is free for everyone and the only requirement to hit the track is that you wear a helmet. For extra safety, there is 360 degree CCTV surveillance at all times as well as medical staff on standby. To access the Autodrome, exit from the Motor City turnoff from the Arabian Ranches interchange, drive beyond the track on your right and then follow the road to the rear entrance where there is ample parking in the Autodome Pit Lane.

Al Barsha Park

At just 1,500 metres long, the beautiful Al Barsha Park path is an ideal destination for family cycling. There are local businesses that rent out bikes at a reasonable rate so it’s not necessary to bring your own. With a playground area for kids, basketball courts and a beautiful lake and fountain, there’s plenty on offer for the whole family. Entrance is free and the park is open from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. each night.

Dubai Creek Path

For a leisurely 11.5 kilometre route, the Dubai Creek is a great starting point to explore a bit of the city by bike. Start with a couple of laps of the park before heading to the creek, past Dubai Courts and through Bastakiya, riding alongside the creek past the souks and abra stations before arriving in Shindagha at the Heritage Village. At this point, a pedestrian tunnel runs you under the creek and back opposite the Gold Souk on the Deira side. From here, riders can cruise back along the creek through Al Ras and past the Spice Souk, past the abra stations and hundreds of traditional sailing vessels before returning via the floating bridge.

Mushrif Park

Along the inside perimeter of Mushrif Park, there is a 4.5 kilometre bicycle track that is accessible for AED 5 per person. The track is popular with both cyclists and joggers and is located off Airport Road, past Mirdif. Although the park is open until 11 p.m., the path is not lit so it is essential that you have a good night light to illuminate your path effectively.

Jumeirah Beach Track

For those that want to have a cycle along the beach, the Jumeirah Open Beach Track runs around 2 km from the Jumeirah Mosque with a dedicated path for cyclists alongside the pedestrian footpath.

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