If you are looking to get the kids away from the ‘box’ and make the most of the cooler weather, then check out our top picks of Dubai’s best parks and beaches!
Dubai Miracle Garden
Known as a “piece of Eden”, Dubai Miracle Garden in Dubailand is the world’s largest natural flower garden and comprises of more than 45 million flowers arranged in beautiful shapes and patterns. The floral displays are changed regularly, so you can expect to have a new experience every time you visit. Some of the garden’s highlights include the Butterfly Garden, Fragrant Village, Edible Garden, Interna-tional Garden, Flower Watch, Colourful Peacock, Petal Pedals and many more. Open from 10am to 10pm daily and from 10am to midnight during public holidays and weekends, admission is priced at Dhs 30. For more information, call 04-4228902.
Al Barsha Pond Park
This park has become quite the spot for families and sport enthusiasts. Surrounded by a man-made lake, the park offers walking and jogging tracks, as well as rentable bicycles, tennis courts, football pitches, volleyball court, fitness machines and basketball courts. There are also numerous playgrounds - perfect for the little ones. The park also hosts the Ripe Night Market on Saturdays from 4pm to 9pm. Open from 8am to 10pm daily, admission is free.
Kite Beach
This is where kite surfers meet, making for a truly beautiful sight especially when seen at sunset. And thus, the name was born! While this particular beach was accessible long before it became as famous as it has, it has most recently been the beach where you can find Salt, the burger food truck, as well as other food outlets. It has also become a hub for joggers who enjoy running on the special material running track. With views of Burj Al Arab and the soothing crash of the not too distant waves, this beach is sure to leave you feeling peaceful. Admission fee is not required.
JBR Beach
With the latest developments of The Beach at JBR, this beach has become one of Dubai’s most popular sunbathing and swimming locations simply because of its convenient proximity to The Walk. You are only a few minutes away from ice cream shops, cafes and juice bars. What better way to spend the weekend? Admission fee is not required.
Zabeel Park
One of the first technology-driven parks in the Gulf, Zabeel Park is home to Stargate, a children’s amusement complex and edutainment centre. Located between along Sheikh Zayed Road, the park is divided into sections, with pedestrian bridges connecting the major parts of the park. It also contains wide open spaces, play areas, a lake that offers boat rides, an ice rink, a large amphitheatre, barbecue and picnic areas and jogging track, mini golf and a skateboard park. There is even WiFi connection across the entire park. Open from 8am to 11pm Saturdays to Wednesdays and 8am to 11.30pm Thursdays and Fridays, admission is Dhs 5 per person.
Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa
If you are looking for something a little more private, the Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa is located in Jumeirah 1 and has a very homey feel. Besides the quiet yet pleasant strip of the beach, there are also other facilities to enjoy such as three swimming pools, including one just for the kids, Jacuzzi, spa, gym, two well-stocked bars to keep your thirst at bay throughout the day and many others. The resort is also surrounded by numerous restaurants, making it the ideal place to spend a lazy afternoon. Entrance Sundays to Thursdays is Dhs 130 (Dhs 40 for children), and Dhs 245 on Fridays (Dhs 90 for children) and Dhs 150 on Saturdays (Dhs 60 for children). For more information, call 04-3461111.
Nasimi Beach
If you’re looking for something a little more extravagant, then Nasimi Beach at Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah is the place for you. Ideal for both couples and families, you have a variety of seating options to choose from such as sun loungers, plush day beds and private cabanas. Head down there on Saturdays to catch the chilled out tunes of DJ Clarita De Quiroz. With their free flowing barbecue lunch and bottomless bubbles, you are sure to have one heck of a relaxing weekend with entertainment, food and drinks. If you are also looking to do a little shopping, there is the Nasimi Beach Boutique with a collection of designer fashion, jewelry and accessories. Prices range from Dhs 50 to 200. Call 04-4262626.
Creekside Park
Creekside Park is one of Dubai’s oldest parks, most famous for its Abra rides and dhow cruises. There is also a train that runs through the entire park, a cable car that gives you a wonderful view of old Dubai, numerous children’s play areas, snack kiosks and restaurants. Situated in Bur Dubai alongside the creek, you are sure to find some of the most spectacular views in the city. While you are there, do not forget to visit Children City, an education and adventure park for kids, and to catch a show at the Dolphinarium. Open on Sundays to Wednesdays 8am to 11pm and on Thursdays to Saturdays from 2pm to 11.30pm, entrance to the park is Dhs 5. For more information, call 04-3367633.
With thanks to Nada Ramadan.