People hardly associate cycling and Dubai, only to be in for a rude shock upon arriving. It is quite a popular outdoor activity that thousands of people engage in, especially on weekends.
Why not when UAE has excellent dedicated cycling tracks? There are also fantastic facilities, including Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit and Dubai Autodrome.
From cycling across the deserts to mountain biking, there is so much that cyclists can do while in Dubai. There is much to learn about cycling in Dubai for the best riding experience.
Best Cycling Areas in Dubai
First, the initiative to construct cycling tracks was from HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He is the Ruler of Dubai, vice president, prime minister, and minister of defense of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
He aimed to ensure that locals and tourists have suitable and attractive cycling options. Consequently, it could encourage this fun and healthy sport.
Cycling Tracks in Dubai
In response to his directive, the following cycling tracks have emerged;
- Al Qudra Track
- Al Quoz 4 Track
- Al Safouh 2 Track
- Dubai Canal Track
- Dubai Marina
- Jumeira Street Track
- Khawaneej Track
- Meydan Track
- Mushrif Track
- Wasqaa Track
Cycling Public Parks in Dubai
Various public parks have cycling tracks stretching for over 18 km. That’s thanks to the Dubai Municipality, and the parks include the following;
- Al Barsha Pond Park: It has a track length of 1,450m
- Al Barsha South Park: It has a track length of 2,000m
- Al Khawaneej Pond Park: It has a track length of 2,000m
- Al Nahda Pond Park: It has a track length of 345m
- Al Sufouh Park: It has a track length of 230m
- Al Warqaa Park: It has a track length of 3,000m
- Garden Abuhail: It has a track length of 310m
- Mushrif Park: It has a track length of 4,000m
- Nad Al Sheba Park: It has a track length of 906m
- Quranic Park Al Khawaneej: It has a track length of 3,200m
Their opening hours are 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
Other Cycling Areas in Dubai
Other options include;
- Mountain biking at Mushrif National Park
- Cycle club rides in District One
- Al Qudra desert track
- The Dubai Water Canal
- King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street
- Jumeirah Beach Road
- Bab Al Shams
- Saih Al Salam
Best Bike Shops in Dubai
Besides finding the best cycling tracks, a great bike will also play a huge role in giving you a fantastic riding experience. These bike shops will help you get such;
- Revolution Cycles with French and Spanish brands, Look and BH, respectively
- The Cycle Hub in Motor City with brands such as Italian Pinarello and US Specialized
- Wolfi’s with kids, triathlon, road, and mountain bikes
- Adventure HQ for Swiss BMC bikes
- Cycle Souq online bike shop
- Adam Bike online bike store
When Is the Best Time for Cycling in Dubai?
Whereas cycling can be done throughout the year, you need to choose the time wisely for the best experience. That’s especially due to the extreme weather conditions in this place.
The most appropriate time to ride a bike in Dubai is between October and May. Temperatures around this period are usually below 30 degrees Celsius hence ideal.
For people who enjoy cycling amidst the fog, try cycling from December to March. Remember the temperature can go below 10 degrees Celsius around this time; hence advisable t wear warm tights and arm warmers.
If your vacation lasts during summer, that’s between June and September; all isn’t lost despite the temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius. You only have to ensure that you cycle early in the morning, before 8 am or at night.
Cycling Rules in Dubai
Remember these rules for your safety and that of other road users. Adhering to them also ensures that you don’t face the law.
- If a road lacks a dedicated cycling track, the cycling speed limit is 40 km/h
- Avoid any dangerous cycling, including zigzag riding
- Always hold its steering rod when riding your bike, and sticking to the rod with a single hand doesn’t count
- Unless under unavoidable circumstances, your bike shouldn’t be dragged or pulled by a motor vehicle
- Whereas the main reason is safety, don’t ride in Dubai without a helmet since that’s against the law
- Ensure that you stick to the right side of the road when cycling
- If there is a dedicated cycling track, stick to it unless a need to leave it arises
- All cyclists should ride one after another, thus forming a single line
- Never ride your bike on a pavement
- Evert cycle needs a rear reflector, a red rear light, and a headlight
Other Tips When Cycling in Dubai
Observe these safety guidelines when cycling in this city;
- Never ignore any traffic sign or signal
- Ensure that both feet are on the bike’s pedals
- Strive not to ride at night
- If you must ride at night, remember to wear reflective for visibility
- Wear sunglasses when cycling during the day
- Regardless of how short the cycling distance is, always wear your protective helmet
- Always be alert and never lose focus of the road
Common Fines for Bad Cycling in Dubai
Law enforcement won’t be lenient to anyone violating laws and regulations and endangering their lives and those of other road users. Culprits will pay the following fines;
- AED 300 if you endanger your life or other people’s lives
- AED 300 for riding in undesignated lanes
- AED 600 if you Overspeed
- AED 200 for cyclists riding on jogging and walking tracks
Take Away: Participate in the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge
It is the first of its kind and probably the best cycling event in Dubai and, to a greater extent, the entire UAE. It gives riders a great cycling experience while traversing the streets of this city.
Its starting point is the Autodrome, Motor City. The same applies to its finishing point.
Experience cyclists can give the 92 km ride a shot and must maintain a speed of at least 26km/h to finish this course. On the other hand, their less experienced counterparts can try the 38 km ride.
