Dubai, often hailed as a city built for cars, surprises many with its extensive network of pedestrian-friendly paths and walkable neighborhoods. Much of Dubai’s terrain is incredibly flat, making it an ideal destination for explorative strolls. Walking is not just a mode of transportation here; it’s an immersive experience that allows you to uncover hidden gems and witness the pulse of the city that might be overlooked when zooming by in a taxi. In this article, we have covered the best places for a leisurely walk in the UAE, everything you need to know about walking in Dubai.
Excited for your next stroll around the city? Let’s explore!
When Can I Walk in Dubai?
The deciding factor for a pleasant walk in Dubai is undoubtedly the temperature. While the scorching summer months might make outdoor strolls less appealing, the winter season is the best time for roaming around the bustling streets of Dubai. The evenings, in particular, offer a respite from the daytime heat, and the weather can even turn a bit chilly, providing a perfect ambiance for a leisurely walk. Even in the warmer months, Dubai residents have found a clever solution: the city’s malls. You can briskly walk in the malls, taking advantage of the climate-controlled environments.
What Should I Take on My Walk?
No matter the season or place, if you are walking during the daytime, it is recommended to carry a bottle of water, sunscreen, a hat or head covering, and sunglasses. Even in winters, the sun can be surprisingly warm during extended periods of exercise, so carry all the essentials. A phone with wifi can be useful unless you intentionally want to get pleasantly lost in an area. Not to forget, your purse or wallet and any necessary documents.
Where Can I Walk in the City?
Walking in Dubai extends to most parts of the city, but it entirely depends on your purpose for walking; for leisure or exercise. Residential areas, though walkable, might lack the tourist-friendly appeal found in more commercialized hotspots. Generally, the more developed and commercial areas, like Old Dubai (Bur Dubai, Satwa, and Deira), offer delightful strolling experiences. Meanwhile, newer districts such as Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, and Dubai Marina boast dedicated walking routes and pedestrian paths, making them popular choices for pedestrians.
Where Can I See Greenery and Wildlife?
If you want to see greenery and wildlife, Dubai’s public parks like Safa Park, Zabeel Park, Creek Park, Umm Suqeim Park, and Al Mamzar Beach Park offer serene walking and jogging tracks. Al Qudra Lakes, an artificial oasis on the desert’s edge, boasts more than 100 bird species and occasional wildlife sightings. For a wilder experience, consider heading to Hatta to hike the Hajar Mountains or enjoy a stroll through Hatta Hill Park, offering a completely different landscape in Dubai’s rugged exclave.
Where Can I Walk for Exercise?
If you want to have an active walking experience, you better choose routes with well-defined, continuous walking tracks. Walking in commercial districts can hinder your pace as it has cars, pedestrians, shop displays, and shawarma stands. Notable exercise-friendly routes include the 11km Palm Jumeirah crescent, Dubai Marina Walk’s picturesque waterside path, and the fascinating Dubai Water Canal.
What Areas of Dubai Can I Explore on Foot?
Old Dubai, with its heritage areas like Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and traditional souks, is best experienced on foot. Food enthusiasts can indulge in walking tours offered by Frying Pan Adventures, exploring diverse routes like Rigga Road or gourmet itineraries showcasing Dubai’s culinary richness. Dubai Marina, with its glittering sights, provides a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely stroll, concluding by the sparkling shores of Jumeirah Beach Residences.
Conclusion:
Dubai can be explored on foot; there is so much to enjoy. Whether you’re a resident seeking daily exercise or a tourist eager to explore beyond the skyscrapers, Dubai’s walkable avenues, when you have nothing to do, can be a great thing. So, put on your walking shoes and enjoy these best places for a leisurely walk in the UAE. For more interesting articles, keep following AZCO Holiday Homes.
