From converted camel tracks to safe-cycling autodromes, local cyclists have always known that jumping on a bike is the perfect opportunity to get to know the ever-changing face of Dubai. It’s also a great way to spend time outdoors, take your fitness to the next level and get in your 30 minutes per day for the Dubai Fitness Challenge.

Dedicated cycle tracks

Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park - The Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park is a converted camel track located near Meydan racecourse, which offers brilliant views of Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa. There are three different loops – 4km, 6km and 8km – plus lockers, air-conditioned changing rooms and shower facilities. The course is even lit for night riding. If you want to bring the kids along, there is a children’s course, complete with street signs, speed bumps and roundabouts to teach young riders about safety.

Al Qudra Cycling Track - The various cycling paths at Al Qudra are perfect for middle- to long-distance riders. If you want something short, try the 18km path. If you prefer a longer ride, the 50km loop is for you. And if you’re really serious about cycling, then there are well over 100km of total tracks to ride. The cycle track’s routes open up both the breath-taking landscape of the sand dunes, as well as the five-star Bab Al Shams resort, where you can stop by for refreshments en route. And you can easily hire a bike right by the Al Qudra Cycling Track from Trek Bikes.

DXBike - DXBike is an 8.4km track located by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City – District One project, offering tree-lined avenues and stunning views of the Dubai skyline. The track is eco-friendly and purpose-built – it incorporates solar lighting and is designed with low-impact surfaces. Riders are welcome to use it, as well as the surrounding facilities like changing rooms, showers, benches and vending machines, from 5am to 10pm daily.

Cycleways in the city

Many of Dubai’s municipal parks have excellent cycleways, which are generally accessible during the parks’ opening hours (usually 8am to 10pm daily – some parks offer longer opening hours at the weekends).

Parks with cycle tracks include:

Mushrif Park 4km
Quranic Park Al Khawaneej 3.2km
Al Warqa3 Park 3km
Al Khawaneej Pond Park 2km
Al Barsha South Park 2km
Al Barsha Pond Park 1.4km
Al Nahda Pond Park 1.3km

Jumeirah Beach also has a bike path, which provides a 19km stretch along the beach, passing by the Burj Al Arab. This track also links to the 7km Dubai Water Canal cycling track, which takes you along one of Dubai’s newest developments.

Dubai Marina Walk also allows cycling, with a 5km loop around the marina, beneath some of Dubai’s most impressive buildings – and with plenty of places to stop and grab some refreshments.

Mountain biking

For a more adventurous bike ride, head to the ruggedly beautiful mountains of Hatta. The Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre offers more than 50km of mountain bike trails, suitable for everyone from beginners to serious mountain bikers.

The trails are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and are free to use – but bear in mind you may need to bring a bike with you from the city, as rental facilities in Hatta are limited. Head to Visit Hatta for more information.

Getting yourself a bicycle

There are many dedicated cycling outlets around Dubai where you can either buy or rent high-quality bicycles, helmets and accessories.

Master the Roads with Road Bikes - For those who like a bit of speed and adventure, the road bikes are a testament to engineering precision. Experience unmatched performance, aerodynamics, and agility as you conquer every road.

Triathlon Marvels - Triathlon bikes are designed to be your trusted companions, helping you break barriers and reach new horizons in your athletic journey.

Leisure and Comfort - Not all journeys are about speed; some are meant for pure enjoyment. Buy or rent a leisure bike for the perfect blend of comfort and style, ensuring every ride is a delightful experience.

A good speedometer, so you can track your ride, is also a worthwhile investment. For starters, there is the popular Wolfi’s Bike Shop in Al Quoz; Trek Bikes is conveniently located at the Al Qudra cycle track; Revolution Cycles, which is by Dubai Autodrome, has a great range; in the vicinity is The Cycle Hub, which offers the super-healthy and delicious Cycle Bistro as a bonus.

Join a cycle group

Looking to pedal up on fitness with a group? There are a number of cycling organisations in Dubai that serve as a great way to connect with local riders.

Dubai Roadsters, among the first cycling clubs in Dubai, organises lots of different rides throughout the year for cyclists of varying competencies. Velo Vixens Dubai is for women of all ages who share a love of biking, while Revolution Cycles holds popular Monday night rides and provides great advice on the best bikes, accessories and nutrition for your needs.

Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge

If you’re interested in a serious competition, plan ahead to ride in the next edition of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge. This is the largest cycling event in the Middle East, having attracted over 1,800 riders in past events. As its name suggests, it stretches over 92km and has many categories, including junior and tandem challenge options.

Cycling rules to remember

Cyclists need to wear a helmet; they’re available in bike shops or from sports stores at major malls.
You can’t ride your bike on major roads or highways; use the dedicated cycle paths provided.
Don’t ride on pedestrian pathways.
Double-seat riding is not allowed unless the bike is designed for two.
Use front and rear lights for night rides. Wearing reflective clothing is also advisable.
Stay hydrated by drinking water before, during and after cycling.

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Cycling in Dubai: Your go-to guide