The Palm Fountain – world’s largest fountain to be launched at The Pointe

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The first 5,000 customers to arrive at The Pointe will receive a free LED wristband.

If you think you’ve seen it all already, well, think again. The Pointe, one of Dubai’s premier lifestyle and dining destination, is launching the world’s largest fountain. ‘The Palm Fountain’, Palm Jumeirah’s latest waterfront attraction, will attempt to break a Guinness World Records™ title on Thursday, 22 October during its inaugural launch event, and the public is invited to witness the celebration.

Key world record-breaking information about the fountain

  • Spread over 14,000 sqft of seawater
  • The fountain’s super shooter will stand tall at 105 meters
  • Come alive with over 3,000 LED lights.
  • The only multicolored fountain in Dubai

Fountain show details

The Palm Fountain will have 20 bespoke shows with five different shows running daily.

  • The first show starts at 7 in the evening.
  • The last show is at 12 midnight.
  • The fountain will dance in popular music from Khaleeji, pop, classic, and international genres.
  • Each show will last for 3 minutes and will be performed every 30 minutes.

The ‘high’ fountain show is a celebration of Dubai’s resilience, resurgence, and ambition to aim for the sky. At the launch, visitors are invited to enjoy a day of festivities, with all-day events and competitions from restaurants. By 4pm, an array of live entertainment including multiple DJ sets, dance shows, performers, and magical fireworks will unfold.

“The Palm Fountain is yet another incredible addition to Dubai’s list of world-famous landmarks. It is sure to be a big draw among residents and visitors alike. Its launch further cements the city’s status as a must-visit destination where guests from around the world can experience the best sights and sounds as well as unrivaled retail and tourist spaces.

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment

The Guinness World Records body said that this is a great addition to Dubai’s long list of attractions that make this city iconic. GWR also confirmed that it is already in the process of verifying the Largest fountain and they are looking forward to declaring this world-class landmark “Officially Amazing™” very soon.

The launching details

By 8pm on 22 October, guests can enjoy the breathtaking views of The Palm Fountain show from 30 different restaurants at The Pointe. The day-long event is open to the public upon registration, and the first 5,000 customers who arrive will receive a free LED wristband.

The public is encouraged to RSVP for the launch event and join in The Palm Fountain’s Guinness World Records™ attempt via platinumlist.net. For guaranteed restaurant seating, the public is highly advised to book a table at any of the restaurants at The Pointe. Free shuttle buses will be available to take visitors from Nakheel Mall to The Pointe every 30 minutes.

  • The Palm Fountain Inaugural Launch Event will take place on 22 October
  • Time: 4pm until midnight.
  • Where: East and West promenade of The Pointe.
  • Tickets to attend are FREE to the public upon registration via platinumlist.net

For more updates on new offers, events, and activities on The Pointe, please follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Dubai Safari reopens its doors with new experiences

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Dubai Safari, home to around 3,000 animals, re-opens its doors today with an array of amazing new experiences for visitors.

Set to be one of the greatest conservation institutions across the globe, the park opens with a full range of interactive, educational, and entertainment experiences for audiences of all ages. Dubai Municipality also adopted many changes in addition to promoting a wide range of animal welfare and conservation strategies that underpin the park’s creation.

New experiences in the park

The 119-hectare, new-look wildlife reserve features new animals, including African elephants and giraffes, as well as several unique new experiences, such as the Safari Journey and a Behind The Scenes tour, where visitors can experience the park like a Dubai Safari Park Animal Keeper.

The Safari Journey

The Safari Journey features a private guide and driver who will bring the wonders of Dubai Safari Park to life in the most vivid way. VIP interaction, special access to shows, and ambassador animals in private vehicles make up the experience.

Behind the Scenes Tour

A simplified hop on-hop off bus service will take visitors to each area of the park, including the Asian, African, and Arabian Villages, and along the banks of the Wadi river that stretches the length of the park.

Visitors will experience a world of adventure and discovery as they get up close to a host of animals including some of Africa’s most stunning wildlife such as lions, rhinoceros, elephants, and giraffes.

The park is divided into the following villages:

  • African Village
  • Asian Village
  • Arabian Desert Safari
  • Explorer Village
  • Adventure Village

The villages offer unique experiences as they depict the home of the animals from that region.

Guests can explore the free-roaming areas and experience standout attractions such as the Safari Journey, Kids Farm, and VIP Treks.

The park also features a variety of food and beverage options – with everything from food kiosks to higher-end restaurants.

Animal welfare

The physiological and psychological well-being of the animals at the park are given the utmost importance. The park is committed to creating an environment where the animals in its care can thrive. Staff will also be involved in a range of welfare, behavior, and veterinary research programs.

Through Dubai Safari Park, Dubai Municipality aims to boost conservation and breeding projects for endangered local species.

Park Timings

Open daily from 9am to 5pm

Tickets

Online reservation is required. Please visit the website www.dubaisafari.ae to book your entry tickets.

Packages and Pricing

  • General Admission Adult Ticket – AED 50
  • General Admission Child Ticket – AED 20
  • Safari Journey Adult Ticket – AED 85
  • Safari Journey Child Ticket – AED 30

Children below 3 years old is free to enter.

What animals can be seen inside the park?

Of the 3,000 animals, there are 84 species of mammals – including 15 different carnivores and 18 primates – 60 types of reptiles, 115 kinds of birds plus amphibians, and invertebrates, all living on the 119-hectare site.

Dubai Fitness Challenge 2020 is happening

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Dubai Fitness Challenge is returning to disrupt the humdrum mood of 2020. It’s okay if you and me have just been taking it easy in the last few months. Who doesn’t? The good news is, you can always bounce back.

And this 4th edition of the annual fitness extravaganza which will run from October 30 to November 28, 2020 is surely a great way to get started.

What is Dubai Fitness Challenge?

Known by its #Dubai30x30 hashtag on social media, Dubai Fitness Challenge is a month-long initiative that aims to encourage Dubai residents to do 30 minutes of any physical exercise every day for 30 days. 

In the previous years, there’s a lot of free fitness and health and wellness sessions, challenges, competition and activities promoted widely all over Dubai.

Now that we are living in unprecedented times, all the events and activities will be carried out in compliance with health and safety guidelines set by Dubai government and health authorities.

Follow @dubaifitnesschallenge on Instagram to get the latest updates. Or visit dubaifitnesschallenge.com for more encouraging content.

Stay tuned for more details on this blog. But for now, consider this as an early invitation to get yourself involved.

We are planning to join, hope you are too!

Top photo from unsplash.

Dubai Museum of the Future lights up for the final piece

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If there’s a category for the most popular under construction landmark, Dubai’s Museum of the Future could be in the running. The icon has gained worldwide fame even before its opening – thanks to its unique artistic design.

Last night, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai witnessed the final piece being attached to the facade of the Museum of the Future, as its lights shone brightly.

In his Twitter account, he shared that he “…reviewed the installation of the final piece of the Museum of the Future, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Covering an area of 30,000 sq.m, the 7-storey column-less marvel stands at 77m high, with 1,024 Arabic Calligraphy panels on the façade manufactured by robots.

He added that “the museum will explore the future trends and opportunities in science, technology and innovation.”

By making Dubai a testbed for emerging technologies, our aim is not merely to build another architectural marvel, but to build the foundation of tomorrow.

Sheikh Mohammed

A GLocal icon

The museum, which is enclosed in shiny stainless steel adorned with Arabic calligraphy, combines Arab originality with Dubai’s global ambitions. This latest “glocal” icon will become a unique incubator for futuristic innovation and design in the emirate.

“It is a global engineering icon, but speaks the Arabic language.”

Powered by renewal energy

Gulfnews reports that the museum will be provided with 4,000 megawatt-hours of renewable energy by a solar photovoltaic (PV) plant that was designed and constructed by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). Once completed, the museum will be the first in the Middle East to receive Platinum certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design “LEED”, the highest rating for green buildings in the world.

Here’s a timelapse video of the Museum of the Future’s construction

More photos from last night’s ceremony

The last published date of its opening is September 2020, so we expect that it will be open to the public very soon.

Photos from HH Sheik Mohammed Twitter.

Ben&Ben to perform full live streaming concert for Balik-Eskwela initiative

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Ben&Ben will perform their massive hits for a free, one-hour live concert, on Sunday, October 4, 2020 – 5pm Manila, 1pm Dubai.

The concert, Balik Eskwela (Back To School): Puhon Part 2, will be streamed simultaneously on Ben&Ben’s Facebook Page and YouTube Channel for fans across the world to watch and to donate funds in support of teachers and students who are “left with limited to no ability to adapt to the changes” implemented in the Philippine education system during the pandemic.

Fans who work on Sundays will be able to watch the replay and still be able to donate after the live event.

This concert is the latest addition to a series of fundraising initiatives by the artists themselves, including ‘Puhon: A Ben&Ben’ Facebook Live event, and their YouTube Live “Doors” Single Launch + Fundraiser – which raised a total of $85,000 US Dollars (AED 312,222) for emergency relief efforts during the COVID-19 crisis in the Philippines.

Why Education?

“Ever since the end of the first Puhon, we’ve been aching to help out even more in our own little way,” said lead vocalist and guitarist Miguel Benjamin. ”And so, when we were figuring out where to help with the myriad of problems in today’s landscape, we eventually zeroed in on helping out a sector that is very close to our hearts: education.”

Puhon means “God-willing” or “hopefully” in Visayan, a southern Philippine dialect.

‘Balik Eskwela (Back To School): Puhon Part 2’ aims to raise funds for e-learning and physical supplies for distribution to public schools, care packages including items such as Personal Protective Equipment and vitamins for teachers and to support distribution efforts that will be coordinated with local government units.

“We have concluded upon analysis that education is one of the areas wherein most help is needed in these times,” added lead vocalist and guitarist Paolo Benjamin.

“School in the time of the pandemic is something that none of us expected, and so we will do our best to help out in this major challenge.”

Paolo Benjamin, Ben&Ben

According to Miguel, this is the first time that Ben&Ben will self-produce a full-length online show during the pandemic, live from the BBTV house. “Expect a very intimate, premium live concert experience straight from our home to yours,” the singer-songwriter said.

‘The Balik Eskwela (Back To School): Puhon Part 2’ project is the second fundraising initiative of Ben&Ben through their community-driven website, www.puhon.ph, which aims to inspire, uplift and boost the collective morale of all the key stakeholders of the COVID-19 response through uplifting stories, music, art, and more.

It could be remembered that Ben&Ben had an exclusive engagement to their Dubai fans through their Facebook performance for Amicable Barter Community in Dubai (ABCD) in July.

Bunch of heart for the community

“We couldn’t be prouder of Ben&Ben!” said Roslyn Pineda, General Manager of Sony Music Philippines, who has supported the artists in raising funds and promoting their concert. “Currently the Philippines’ #1 artist, they are brilliant not just in their music but in their swift orchestration of funding and support where it is most needed – this time around, in the public school sector.  With this being Ben&Ben’s first full-length concert online, it will be exhilarating for sure – and we hope to move people to give generously.”   

To know more about how you can be part of Ben&Ben’s fundraising campaign, visit www.puhon.ph or check out Ben&Ben on Facebook.

10 things to do in Dubai this weekend (that avoids the crowd)

Time to ask again, “What to do this weekend?” And in addition, you may be wondering if there are still places in Dubai that don’t have THE crowd.

Well, maybe it’s just a matter of getting to these places at the earliest to avoid people or at least maintain the necessary social distancing. I mean, here are 10 ideas on how to do it:

1. Find a less popular beach like Daria Island

Now that the extreme heat is going away, more people will surely hit the beach. I would recommend avoiding the popular spots like Kite Beach and the Jumeirah Open Beach. Instead, go to the ‘secret’ spots like this one along Jumeirah 1 fronting Daria Island.

(Aaaand… If the hundreds of you reading this will go there, go find another beach – there’s always one to discover.)

2. Jog at Jadaf Walk

By now, it’s not a secret anymore. But while still only a few of us know this place, go check it out and have a good jog without others closely jogging next to you.

3. Bike at Dubai Canal

Get on your bike or rent Careem Bike in Dubai Canal for as low as 20 dirhams for a day. Not too many cyclists or joggers are there between 6 to 8 in the morning.

4. Watch the sunset from the Dubai Creek

Choose your spot: Jaddaf, Dubai Creek Harbor or Dubai Festival City, Marsa Plaza.

The photo below by my good friend, Rod Fernandez, captures the sunset in the background of one of Dubai’s latest icons Mohammed Bin Rashid Library and the Burj Khalifa and Business Bay skyline.

5. Explore Downtown for a majestic photoshoot

Roam around Downtown Dubai as early as 6am and you’ll get the best chance to take amazing photos without worrying about the usual tourist crowd being in the picture.

Best spots: Burj Park, Dubai Fountain Lake, Palace Downtown, Dubai Stars, Wings of Mexico, Love Me (heart sculpture by The Dubai Mall), Dubai Opera, Souk Al Bahar.

6. Birdwatching at Ras Al Khor Sanctuary

Not too many people are into bird watching these days, so if this is your thing, go and check Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary and you’re in for a lovely treat. You’ll only find a crowd of flamingos.

7. Stroll at The Yard in Khawaneej

This vibrant suburban hideaway features fancy food trucks (Last Exit) for unique dining experiences. Early mornings are the best time to visit if you want to enjoy an exclusive walk in the Promise Bridge in the newly revamped Khawaneej Walk.

8. Play board games in a cafe

Even if you visit in the afternoon, board game cafes these days doesn’t get overcrowded. Click here to check two of the most popular board game cafes in Dubai. I picked them because they observe stringent safety measures like disinfecting and sanitizing every board game used by the customers before allowing others to use them.

9. Catch the sunrise at Expo 2020 Lake

Forget the usual Al Qudra and Love Lake for now – they are always crowded for sure. Go and discover this equally beautiful man-made lake that was built to celebrate Expo 2020 (supposedly beginning today – October 1, 2020).

It’s near Bab Al Shams in Al Qudra. Check out this link to Google Maps.

10. Try Jollibee’s newest breakfast offering

Have a hearty breakfast at Jollibee as early as 8am to avoid the crowd.

Last week we tried the new Bacon and Egg muffin and it’s good. It reminds me of a better-tasting creamy pandesal bun oozing with cheese, squeezing the pristine sunny side up egg and beef bacon on the inside, partnered with Jollibee brewed coffee. For only 9 dirhams ala carte, it’s a sure good breakfast deal.

We also tried their latest flavored fries (yeah on a breakfast 😊 ) – Spicy and Chili Pepper. Surprisingly, for someone who loves that ‘corner’ taste, they come so full of flavor. Man, that was addictive.

And speaking of avoiding crowds, Jollibee encourages diners to keep proper distance on queues and to skip some space on the table seats as well.

So where will you bee this weekend?

Whatever you’ll do, wherever it may be, please stay safe and be responsible for you and for the people around you.

Remeber, to enjoy these things and stay safe, it’s better to go ahead of everybody.

(Top photo from unsplash)

Free coffee in Dubai today to celebrate International Coffee Day

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International Coffee Day is celebrated on October 1 since 2015. It is an occasion that is used to promote and celebrate coffee as a beverage, with events usually happening across the world.

This day is also used to promote fair trade coffee and to raise awareness for the plight of the coffee growers. On this day, many businesses offer free or discounted cups of coffee.

So here are the cafes in Dubai where you could get your free cup of coffee today:

Flow Dubai, Emirates Towers

The first 100 people to visit our healthy hub in Jumeirah Emirates Towers will snap up free coffees on October 1!

One Life DXB, D3

To celebrate #InternationalCoffeeDay on October 1st and claim your free coffee, simply follow @onelifedxb on Instagram and tag them on your post.

London Dairy Cafe

As posted on their IG Stories, head on to any of their locations on October 1st (until 5pm only) and get your free coffee.

Al Nafoorah – Emirates Towers

Complimentary traditional coffee with Lebanese biscuit ma’amoul stuffed with dates for everyone who visit the cafe.

Godiva

Free coffee with any purchase.

Babaji – Citywalk

Celebrate Turkish coffee tradition complimentary tomorrow.

Al Mashowa Emirati Cuisine

Free Arabic coffee ‘qahwa’ on October 1. (Check T&Cs)

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القهوة العربية هي رمز للكرم والضيافة في معظم دول الخليج. توضع القهوة بعد التحضير في “دلة”. تتميز القهوة العربية بنكهتها القوية بسبب البهارات كحبوب القهوة و الهيل. تقدم القهوة العربية دائمًا مع التمر أو الحلويات لخلق طعم مثالي. وبمناسبة اليوم العالمي للقهوة في الأول من أكتوبر نقدم لكم فنجان قهوة عربية مجاناً. تطبق الشروط والأحكام * Arabic coffee ‘Qahwa’ is the symbol of generosity, heritage and hospitality in Gulf countries. Brewed in a ‘dallah’, the qahwa has a strong flavour with spice undertones as the coffee beans are blended with cardamom. This traditional coffee is always served with dates or sweets to offer the perfect balance of flavours. To celebrate International Coffee Day on 1st October, we welcome you to enjoy Al Mashowa’s flavourful qahwa with our compliments. T&C* apply

A post shared by Al Mashowa 🇦🇪 (@almashowa) on

Sikka Cafe

Revo Cafe – Anantara The Palm

Complimentary bottomless coffee all day when you dine in.

Eggspectation

Free bottomless brewed coffee throughout the day when you order any main dish.

Almost free coffee

Dunkin Donuts

Get one free with every coffee you buy.

Tim Hortons

Buy one get one on October 1st.

Stomping Grounds DXB

Cafe Barbera

Buy one get one coffee.

To The Moon and Back

Buy one get one coffee from 7am to 10am only.

The Coffee Club

50% off on all coffees.

Cassette, The Courtyard – Al Quoz

Buy one get one 8am to 6pm only.

Ultra Brasserie

5 dirhams coffee throughout the day

Coffee for a cause also available

Caffe Nero

Photo from unsplash

The ultimate guide on everything you need to know about cycling or biking in Dubai

Dubai is an amazing city for cycling. In fact, it has over 250 kilometers of dedicated cycling paths today and is continuously building more tracks in fulfillment of its vision to promote cycling as one of the great ways to stay fit and healthy.

Where to bike in Dubai

Whether you are a hardcore cycling enthusiast or a hobbyist who just wants to ride for fun and leisure, Dubai gives you a lot of choices based on your mood – all with the right infrastructure for cycling with a bonus of stunning views of the city skyline, the marina, or the desert.

Here are the most popular cycling tracks in Dubai:

Al Qudra

Arguably the most popular cycling track in the desert, this 2-part cycling track is more than 80 kilometers in length. The first part ends at the 18th-kilometer mark, and the next one links right after. The second track offers breathtaking views of sand dunes.

Location map (to car park)
Rental available: Yes
Amenities: Toilets, bike shop, cafe, supermarket, food trucks (Last Exit)
Lit at night: No

Nad Al Sheba / Meydan

One of the most popular cycling destinations in the emirate, this former camel racing track has three loops of 4, 6, or 8 kilometers.

It also has a dedicated 850-meter course for children with street signs, bumps, and roundabouts to teach young riders about road safety.

Location map
Amenities: Lockers, changing rooms, showers
Lit at night: Yes

District One

This cycling track has 8 kilometers of scenic tracks by tree-lined avenues looping around the community.

Location map
Lit at night: Yes

DXBike

The track offers a magnificent view of the Burj Khalifa and the Business Bay skyline. It has access to Nad Al Sheba main cycling track.

Location map | Facebook | Website
Lit at night: Yes

Mushrif Park

Mushrif Park is one of the oldest parks in the UAE located on Khawaneej Road right next to Mirdif. Before, cyclists have to enter the park (and pay an entrance fee) to use the track. Now, the 5-kilometer track starts outside the park and is free to use.

Location map
Opening hours: 6am to 9pm daily (as long as the park gates are open)
Lit at night: Yes

Dubai Canal Cycling Track

The Dubai Canal is one of the best waterfront cycling tracks in the city. It starts at Marasi Drive and runs through Sheikh Zayed Road across Safa Park and ends at Jumeirah.

You can only cycle on the designated bike lanes and STRICTLY NOT on the walking path by the waters. However, you can bring your bike up the Tolerance Bridge to cross to the other side.

Location Map | Instagram
Lit at night: Yes

Hatta Mountain Bike Trail

Hatta Trail Centre is the first MTB Centre in the Middle East. It is home to multiple cross country routes of various grades that cater to all levels of ability from beginners through to experienced riders.

According to its website, the Hatta Trails are free to ride and are open all year round. Hatta Municipality provides ample parking and guest facilities.

Dubai Autodrome

As of 17th September 2020, TrainDubai – Dubai Autodrome’s weekly cycling night is “on hold” as per @dubaiautodrome’s reply to my question on Instagram. But they are hoping to restart soon, the reply added.

Casual & Leisure Cycling

The Palm, Jumeirah

The cycling path is what’s outlining the outer crescents. Cyclists will love the sea breeze with a view of Burj Al Arab in the 11.6-kilometer long track.

Location map (Atlantis)
Lit at night: Yes

Quranic Park Cycling Track

The Quranic Park is located in Al Khawaneej, near Mushrif Park and Last Exit Khawaneej. The 2.5-kilometer cycling (and jogging) track outlines the park also features some free to use gym equipment.

Location map
Lit at night: Yes

Khawaneej – Mirdif Cycling Track

This track is right next to Quranic Park’s. According to RTA, this track covers 32 kilometers across Mushrif, Mirdif and Al Khawaneej areas.

Mamzar Beach Cycling Track

An approximately 2.5-kilometer cycling path outside the park, across the calm Mamzar beach.

Location map
Lit at night: Yes

Marasi Boardwalk Cycling Path

This is the side of Dubai Canal where bicycles are allowed. It also offers a picturesque view of Business Bay skyline across the canal.

Location map (car parking)
Lit at night: Yes

Jaddaf Walk 2 Cycling Path

An approximately 5-kilometer walk and cycling path by the creek, in between Business Bay and Dubai Creek Harbor, this is one of the best spots to view the stunning Dubai skyline.

Location Map
Rental available: No
Amenities: None
Lit at night: Yes

Dubai Wharf / Jaddaf Waterfront Cycling Path

Dubai Wharf is another luxury waterfront community situated along Dubai Creek, next to Palazzo Versace in Jaddaf. It has about approximately 4 kilometers of curvy cycling and running path.

Location map
Rental available: No
Amenities: Elevators that fit bikes
Lit at night: Yes

Daria Island Cycling Path

This is just a short 2-3 kilometer cycling path crossing Jumeirah Beach and Jumeirah Bay Island – where Bulgari Hotel is – ideal for city leisure biking.

Location map (beach parking)
Rental available: No
Amenities: None
Lit at night: Yes

The Pointe Cycling Path

Located 5 kilometers out to sea, this 1.5-kilometer strip of fine dining restaurants and entertainment spot opens its Atlantis-facing promenade to cycling enthusiasts and joggers alike.

Location map
Rental available: No
Amenities: F&B fine dining, retail
Lit at night: Yes

Warqa

This park has a dedicated 3.5 cycling (and jogging) track.

Location map
Opening hours: 6am – 11pm
Lit at night: Yes

Burj Park Cycling Path

Location map
Rental available: Yes (within Downtown area)
Amenities: Shops at Downtown & Dubai Mall
Lit at night: Yes

Bluewaters Island Cycling Path

Follow Pinkydude on Instagram for more cycling and other photos of activities around Dubai.

Location map
Rental available: Yes (Careem at Dubai Marina)
Amenities: Mall, F&B, Retail
Lit at night: Yes

Jumeirah Open Beach Cycling Track

A 14-kilometer cycling and jogging track starting from Dubai Sailing Club to Umm Suqeim, adjacent to one of Dubai’s most popular and oldest beach.

Location map
Rental available: Yes (Careem at Jumeirah)
Amenities: Toilets, showers, changing rooms, refreshments
Lit at night: Yes

Al Nahda Pond Park

A small community park in Al Nahda 1 ideal for family biking.

Rental available: No
Amenities: Mini grocery
Lit at night: Yes

Al Barsha Pond Park

A park with a 1.5 kilometer cycling track ideal for families with small kids

Amenities: Park store
Opening hours: 8:00am to 10:00pm every day
Lit at night: Yes

Dubai Marina Walk

Rental available: Yes (Careem)
Amenities: F&B, Retail
Lit at night: Yes

Sustainable City

‘The happiest community’ in the GCC provides a variety of sports facilities including cycling and jogging tracks, a gym with green equipment, and half-olympic sized swimming pool.

Lit at night: Yes

Dubai Pump Tracks

Pump tracks are also gaining popularity in Dubai. A pump track is a circuit of rollers, banked turns and features designed to be ridden completely by cyclist “pumping” -generating momentum by up and down body movements, instead of pedaling or pushing. 

Remraam Pump Track

Dubai Sports City Pump Track

Public roads with biking lanes in Dubai

  • Bur Dubai
  • Business Bay
  • Jumeirah Beach Road
  • Karama
  • Mirdif
  • Rigga

What are Dubai’s safety guidelines in riding a bike?

Dubai motorists are not used to seeing cyclists on public roads. And because of that, Road and Transport Authority issued the following safety protocols (also published on their website):

  1. Wear a suitable helmet even when riding in short distances.
  2. Wear sunglasses in the morning.
  3. Wear reflective clothes so other drivers can identify cyclists at night.
  4. Stay alert and pay attention to everything on the road.
  5. Better not to ride a bike at night.
  6. Do not do acrobatic movements or show skills while riding.
  7. Ride as near to the right-hand curb as possible in the same direction as the cars are going.
  8. Keep both feet on the pedals.
  9. If you are riding with others, ride in a single file.
  10. Obey all traffic signs and signals.
  11. If there is a cyclist track present, use that.
  12. Be a courteous bike rider.
  13. Get off your bike and walk, across busy corners.

You need to be alert at all times, dismount at pedestrian crossings, and use hand signals with fellow riders and motorists.

What are the rules about cycling in Dubai

While Dubai is actively promoting cycling as a way to keep fit, there are some laws that everyone must follow.

You can only ride a bike to the maximum speed limit of 40km/h on the roads, except if you are on a dedicated cycling track.

Riders are advised to use front and rear lights during night riding.

What are the fines for cycling violations?

  • 200 dirhams for cycling on jogging and walking paths, and anything dedicated to pedestrians
  • 200 dirhams for double seat riding (unless the bike is designed for two people)
  • 300 dirhams for riding in a way that endangers pedestrians
  • 300 dirhams for cycling on restricted areas and prohibited lanes
  • 300 dirhams for risky riding
  • 600 dirhams for riding on roads with speed limits of 60km/h or greater

There’s also a fine of AED400 for driving your car with your bike racks blocking the visibility of the car registration plate number. (This falls under the category of ‘driving with unclear plate numbers.‘)

How about safety from COVID-19?

When we bike on weekends, we go at the earliest hour of the daylight (5:30am) to ensure that we avoid crowds. When we go at night, we find a place where there’s not much people. Hence, the different locations every time. Safety is always a priority.

Just like in any sports and exercise, we pull down our face masks when on the go, and we put it back when not riding.

Dubai’s Future Plan for Bike Lanes

Dubai is set to extend the length of cycling tracks to reach 560 kilometers by 2022. Dedicated biking paths continue to sprout in many parts of the emirate as the call to stay fit and healthier grows. Motorists are constantly being encouraged to leave their cars at home and switch to bikes.

In an article on the RTA website, His Excellency Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, said “(The Soft Mobility Plan) envisages the use of non-conventional transit means such as walking and cycling as well as the use of electric scooters. It addresses first and last-mile challenges by providing an infrastructure that supports the integration of mobility such as the construction of cycling tracks, pedestrian crossings and rest areas, shaded paths, landscaped areas, parking for rented cars, and bike racks.” 

Is Dubai temperature good for cycling?

Temperatures can peak over 50 degrees Celsius during the height of summer – that’s from June to early September. It is advisable to go cycling in the first hours of the morning (which we usually do), or towards the evening.

It is important to remain hydrated to keep going. Drinking water or other replenishing fluids ensures that the salt you lose in sweating is replaced. So drink occasionally before, during, and after your ride.

October to April are probably the best months for cycling in the UAE.

Where to buy bicycle in Dubai?

Well, you can buy bicycles from any sports shop at the malls or even at shops by the roadsides.

We bought our humble B-Twin city bikes from Decathlon in Mirdif City Centre (back in 2016) at AED820 each (after the 50% discount).

Many people have advised me to also check Dragonmart for more affordable options of almost all types of bikes.

Wolfi’s

If you’re looking for the best brands, the oldest cycle shop in the UAE got you covered. Wolfi’s on Sheik Zayed Road has mountain bikes, city bikes, triathlon bikes and even kids bikes across the top international brands such as Zipp, Lightweight, Castelli, Scott, Cervelo and Storck.

How and where to rent a bike?

Careem BIKE is the first large-scale, bike-sharing initiative in the Middle East that was launched through a partnership with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). They have 780 pedal-assisted smart bikes available for rent across the city.

Bike rental rates are as follows

  • 20 dirhams per day
  • 50 dirhams per week
  • 75 dirhams per month
  • 420 dirhams for the whole year (that’s less than 2 dirhams per day)

There are 78 Careem BIKE rental stations which be found at the following areas:

  • Al Qudra
  • Dubai Canal
  • Downtown
  • Dubai Internet City
  • Dubai Marina
  • Dubai Media City
  • Jumeirah Beach Road
  • JLT
  • Karama
  • Mankhool
  • The Greens

Click here for the complete map. You can download the app from here.

Where can I get my bicycle for repair, cleaning and maintenance services?

We bring our bikes to Bike Shop Dubai in Business Bay (they also have in Barsha) for regular service. Full package costs AED157.50 per bike which includes the following services:

  • Bike wash
  • Drivetrain degreasing
  • Drivetrain lubrication
  • Gears and brakes tune-up
  • Tyre pressure checking
  • Disassembly/assembly of the bike

What gears do I need to buy?

Check the following links to Amazon to browse through options that you can buy:

Check this link for more bike gears and accessories to buy.

Are there any cycling groups in Dubai

There are professional groups and there are also communities for hobbyists.

Dubai Cycling Community (DCC)

The Dubai Cycling Community (DCC) Facebook Group, which has 10,000+ members, is a forum to share cycling/training tips and experiences, advertise cycling and fitness related products for sale, arrange rides with other members/cyclists outside the normal weekly rides, and events organized by various other groups.

Dubai Roasters Cycling Group

The Dubai Roadsters are a diverse group of riders with a variety of skills and fitness levels and have been riding in Dubai from before the year 2000.

All riders are welcome to join the weekly rides as long as you have a bike in good working condition, a helmet, and lights for the night rides. 

Cycle Safe Dubai

Team Cycle Safe Dubai (CSD) offers you numerous benefits when you become a member. The group aims to make your cycling experience in Dubai not only fun and enjoyable but also safer.

According to their website, an annual fee of AED 580 entitles you to the following benefits:

  • Free CSD official team kit
  • Personalized CSD membership card
  • 10% discount at Revolution Cycles on all in-house brands (Look, BH, Louis Garneau, White Lightning, Vision, FSA, Vittoria, fi’zi:k, MET & SiS)
  • Free bike wash on your birthday at Revolution Cycles Dubai
  • Sponsored MonViso water on all official CSD Rides
  • Access to Revolution Cycles Dubai’s support car on all official CSD rides
  • Invitation to join all CSD rides
  • Access to a members’ only weekly Newsletter as well as an online blog (login required), that will give you access to health and nutrition tips and advice on training in the summer heat and during Ramadan
  • Training information in the build-up to the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge on members portal on our website (login required).
  • Access to Team CSD Facebook page
  • Assistance with obtaining UAE licenses from the UAE Cycling Federation
  • Annual membership costs just Dh 580 (excluding UAE Cycling Federation licence)

Did I miss anything? Please let me know in the comment section below.

Top photo from wowabouts.com

Boardgame cafes in Dubai ideal for dates and game nights

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Cafes are everywhere, but not everywhere you can find board games. Especially these days when we are more glued to screens than actual physical games.

That’s why it’s a gem to have known a few of them within the city.

Unwind Cafe

Unwind brings you a world of nostalgia where you can indulge your senses and relive those special times where we’re all thrilled with tabletop games. There are 700+ board games to choose from with learned Game Masters on standby to tell you how to play every game. They can also guide you on what’s the best game for you and your group.

Location: Hessa St. Instagram: @unwinddubai
Cost: Adults: AED18 per hour, 27 for 2 hours | Students: AED15 per hour, 21 for 2 hours
Food: Smoothies, milkshakes, crepes, nachos, and other cafe food

You might be interested: Why a daddy and daughter date in a board game cafe is important?

The Six

Photo from The Six Instagram

This cafe located right in front of Burj Khalifa in Downtown aims to reconnect people through board games and good food. They have about 1000+ board games in their massive library. They are about providing and curating a fun and engaging haven for board game lovers and the part of the community that want to explore the wonderful worlds of the new generation board games.

Location: Burj Vista, Downtown Instagram: @thesixcafe
Cost: AED35 per person for UNLIMITED game time
Food: Salad, sliders, cakes, cafe food

There used to be more…

It’s sad that the other board game cafe we know are not operating anymore. Do you know other board game cafe in the city? Let us know in the comments please.

Ras Al Khaimah had a successful summer staycation campaign despite of the pandemic

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Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) is pleased to announce the success of its ‘Shortcation’ staycation campaign which ran from 7 June – 31 August.

Together with its hospitality partners, RAKTDA created a special summer package inviting UAE residents to take a well-earned break and enjoy the Emirate’s exceptional beaches, outstanding hospitality, thrilling adventure attractions and authentic cultural experiences for the ultimate ‘Shortcation’.

Guests staying for three or more nights at any of Ras Al Khaimah’s participating 4 & 5 star hotels enjoyed a series of value-adds for a unique and memorable stay, including the Suwaidi Pearls farm, the iconic ‘Jais Adventure Peak’ with the Jebel Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline; the Jais Sky Tour featuring seven ziplines and a 15m sky bridge; and the Jais Sky Maze, a suspended obstacle course of rope swings, wobbly bridges and swinging loops.

15,000 room nights were generated during the first 12 weeks of the ‘Shortcation’ campaign.

Grand Summer Raffle – all ‘Shortcation’ guests automatically entered a weekly raffle hosted by RAKTDA, to win a number of high value prizes, including the grand prize of a brand-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2020 automobile, courtesy of Gargash Enterprises.

Despite the regional effects of the pandemic, Ras Al Khaimah leads in RevPAR in the UAE and is second in the GCC, after Riyadh.

Ras Al Khaimah became the first city in the world to be certified as safe by Bureau Veritas and the first Emirate to receive the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels Stamp. RAKTDA partners with the National Crisis & Emergency Management Authority and Ras Al Khaimah Preventive Medicine Department provide free COVID-19 PCR testing for all hospitality staff in the Emirate.

All 45 hotels in Ras Al Khaimah have received the Bureau Veritas certification.

Since April 2020, the Authority has conducted a series of destination-focused webinars which showcased the Emirate’s diverse offering and resulted in training more than 4,000 travel partners.