There are tons of ways to vibe with the emirate’s favorite season…
Whether you’re into sticking around the city or venturing out into the desert, here are some of the top outdoor activities in Dubai that won’t break the bank…
Jump on a Dhs1 abra ride in Old Dubai!
The Dhs1 abra rides in Old Dubai are a must-do for everyone’s UAE bucket list—at least once! They offer a fantastic way to explore the historic old town, connecting Deira and Bur Dubai. Many locals rely on these boats to skip the traffic, but it’s truly a charming experience, especially around sunset.
Catch a glimpse of flamingos at Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary!
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is just a short drive from Dubai Mall. It’s home to over 20,000 birds from 67 different species, with its stunning flamingo flock stealing the show. To catch a glimpse of them, check out one of the three viewing hides around the sanctuary. Entry is free, and it’s open from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM in winter, and 6 AM to 6 PM from April to September.
Pedal your way down the Meydan track!
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Cycle or jog along this stunning track in Dubai with views of the iconic skyline. You can rent hybrid bikes for Dhs50 per hour or Dhs80 for two hours, and road bikes for Dhs70 or Dhs99 for two hours. All rentals include a helmet, light, bottle holder, and phone holder. The rental shop and café are open daily from 5 AM to 11 PM.
Visit one of Dubai’s outdoor markets
The Ripe Market happens at Academy Park every year from October to May. It was started to showcase seasonal and local products, bringing the freshest and most delicious produce for residents to enjoy. The market runs on Saturdays and Sundays, with a small entrance fee of Dhs5. You’ll find a variety of organic eateries, stalls with home décor and jewelry, plus workshops, live entertainment, a kids’ park, and more.
Location: Ripe Market, Academy Park, Al Sufouh
Hours: 9 AM to 9 PM on Saturdays, 9 AM to 7 PM on Sundays
Dates: From October 12 until May 2025
Contact: Tel: (0)4 315 7000
Set up camp in the desert!
It’s officially camping season! Load up the car and escape the city to the stunning Dubai desert. Beginners can pitch their tents at Al Qudra near the Love Lakes, while more experienced campers can explore the sand dunes of Liwa. No matter where you go, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories. And don’t forget the marshmallows!
Make your way to Hatta for a day full of adventure!
Hatta is one of our go-to spots for a city escape, packed with adventures just waiting for you. From mountain biking and waterslides to a honey bee farm and a swan lake, it’s the ultimate adventure hotspot. There’s a budget-friendly way to reach Hatta from Dubai: the Hatta Express Bus from Dubai Mall costs just Dhs25 per person and takes only an hour and a half. Once you arrive, you can hop on the local bus from Hatta bus station to explore the main attractions for just Dhs2.
Savor a local lunch at Jumeirah Beach!
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If you love strolling along Jumeirah 3 beach, you’ve likely spotted the charming Tent Jumeirah Restaurant. This local Emirati spot offers some of the best views of the Burj Al Arab, along with a touch of traditional Emirati fishing memorabilia. Enjoy their fresh juices (Dhs21), seafood dishes, and classic chicken shawarma (Dhs22) while you kick back on the sand.
Discover the Mangrove Beach in Umm Al Quwain!
About an hour from Dubai, this hidden gem of a beach opened to the public in 2020 and is perfect for a day by the water. With plenty of amenities, you can rent kayaks and paddle boards, and when hunger strikes, there’s a café for snacks. You and your friends or family can paddle around, snorkel, or simply unwind on the sand. Entry is Dhs20 per car, and you can camp overnight for Dhs100. If you’re planning a full day of fun, feel free to BBQ here, as long as you leave the beach spotless when you leave. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along!
Enjoy pedal boats at Al Barsha Pond Park!
Located next to Al Barsha Mall, Al Barsha Park has something for everyone in the family. Open daily from 8 AM, it features a cushioned 1.5-kilometer running track and a cycling path that circles the lake. You’ll also find basketball courts, gym equipment, bike rentals, kids’ play areas, bouncy castles, and pedal boats available for hire.
Take a hike
In June 2023, a brand new 10km hiking trail opened in Dubai’s Mushrif National Park. This free-to-use trail is accessible year-round and offers multiple routes, catering to everyone from beginners to experienced hikers. The trail includes public restrooms, safety instructions, directional signage, and rest areas. You’ll also encounter sculptures, stairways, bridges, and slopes that showcase the stunning views of Mushrif Park’s landscape and wildlife.
Catch the sunset from the Palm Jumeirah corniche!
Whether you’re walking, running, cycling, roller-skating, or enjoying a picnic on the waterfront, there’s nothing like the sunset from Palm Jumeirah’s corniche.
Experience the world at Global Village!
Kicking off its 28th season on October 16, Global Village will be open for seven months. Each year, it attracts millions of visitors from around the world, offering a vibrant atmosphere, stunning shows, delicious cuisines, and one-of-a-kind shopping experiences. Entry tickets are Dhs20 from Sunday to Thursday and Dhs25 on Fridays and Saturdays. You can also buy them online in advance for Dhs18 and Dhs22.50, respectively.
Location: Global Village, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road E 311. @globalvillageuae
Love Lakes
A lake in the desert? It’s not a mirage; it’s real! Love Lakes is one of the most famous man-made lakes in Dubai. The interlocking hearts have captured a lot of attention since they were unveiled a few years ago. Located in Al Qudra Oasis, they’re best appreciated from an aerial view. On the ground, whether you’re picnicking, strolling, or enjoying the sunset, it’s a fantastic spot to connect with nature in the UAE. Nearby at Al Qudra Lakes, you can also spot plenty of flamingos, ducks, and swans.
Hit the beach!
One of Dubai’s newest beaches, Dubai Islands Beach, is the ideal spot to catch some sun and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Beachgoers can play beach volleyball or football, and there are paddleboards and kayaks available for some fun on the water. It’s a welcoming place for families, friends, and even your furry companions to splash around and enjoy the day!
