We Hit 10 Dubai Mountain Biking Trails to Keep Our Hearts Pumping
Ever get random back pains and Google how it can be an effect of sitting too long? I fell into a rabbit hole and saw risks like heart disease, diabetes, all that jazz. I even called up my orthopedist to confirm. Then it hit me—those threats actually run in my family!
And here’s the thing: I travel for work! So at first, I was in denial. But it seems that commuting is basically what counts as my “travel” now, as I mostly sit under a tree to write my blogs. I honestly don’t know if I’m doing enough to keep my blood flowing.
That got me thinking—I need to move, move, move! I started adding more exercise into my routine and even joined a biking club. Now, I’ve been exploring mountain biking trails around Dubai with my new crew. Check them out below and get pumping like us!
Where can you mountain bike in Dubai?
There are a bunch of parks and trails where you can mountain bike in Dubai! Depending on your skill level, you can cruise through notable tracks, like Wadi Lasal Trail, Al Wathba Track, Shawka MTB, and Hatta Bike Trail.
Wadi Lasal Trail
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Website: https://dubaihiking.org/hikes/wadi-lasal.html
Address: Wadi Lasal Hiking Trail – Daynah – Raʼs al Khaymah
Open Times:
- Open 24 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 2 to 3 hours with stops
Just a couple of hours from the city, Wadi Lasal Trail is one of the most easy-going Dubai mountain biking trails. It’s got a flat terrain that we believe makes it ideal, whether you have beginner, intermediate, or advanced skills. Even kids can go here!
The circular cycling route spans a good 10 kilometers, so we reckon you’ll get ample stunning sights throughout. Biking around this track usually takes a couple of hours, so you can go fast or slow, depending on how long you want to sightsee.
We love the fact that this cycling track is open the whole year as well, so you can come whenever you need an endorphin boost!
Pro tip:
Looking more incline at the nearly all-flat Wadi Lasal Trail? We suggest heading uphill along the Wadi until you reach the watershed. You might also come across some mountain bikers along the way.
Al Wathba Track
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Address: 5P6W+8XC – Al Wathbah
Open Times:
- Open 24 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Challenging
Duration: Varies widely
If you need a biking trail for an adventurous workout or just casual cruising, Al Wathba Track is the trail to take! We find it incredible that it provides varying routes—8, 16, 20, 22, and even 30 kilometer loops! This way, people of all skills have something to enjoy.
We think it’s handy that this track has a rental area for cool mountain bikes too! Plus, you may rent aluminum and carbon fiber frames to build bikes—the former is light, strong, and cheaper, while the latter is lighter, stronger, and better in absorbing bumps.
Handy hack:
Need to refuel with snacks? No worries! You can get some along Al Wathba Track if you’re short in supply. For us, one of the best spots is the Adnoc Oasis convenience store because of its wide array of dry goods and cool drinks!
Shawka MTB
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Address: 573J+P3
Open Times:
- Open 24 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: Varies widely
The Shawka MTB is another cycling trail suitable for all types of riders. Note that all routes have varying distances, so we recommend pacing yourself and making multiple stops to marvel at the scenery throughout.
We also appreciate that there are several loops where you can experience some terrains. But if you think you can handle it, we recommend going through the short and narrow trails for a bit more challenge.
Nifty tricks:
Want to see some wildlife? We cross the valley at the Shawka MTB and get to the other side to see the camel village! These agricultural lands are also situated near the dam and many other picturesque vistas.
Those who get exhausted from biking may consider camping too! But if you only fancy an all-day adventure, we also think the wide terrain is nice for a family picnic.
Hatta Bike Trail
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Website: https://www.visithatta.com/en/play/mount-biking
Address: R565+WJC – Sufayri
Contact Details: +971 4 820 5555, +971 4 820 5500, [email protected]
Open Times:
- Open 24 hours
Open Hours (Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre)
- Monday to Friday – 6 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 6 AM to 6:30 PM
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Duration: Varies widely
Those who want to add some thrill into the mix must try the Hatta Bike Trail—it’s among the most dynamic tracks for budding and skilled bikers! It goes through the Wadi’s scenic areas, as well as the mountains and cross-country routes.
While there are many trails around here, we urge you to try the Hatta MTB Center first. This one provides a 50-kilometer track divided into different routes, so you can pick something that fits your ability or vibe.
Insider scoop:
First time? Make sure to have a trail map at the Hatta Bike Trail so you won’t get lost. Also, keep the color-coded system of the trail in mind so you have a guide to explore more routes and maximize your experience!
Mushrif Park
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Address: 6FF2+GV3 – Mushrif
Open Times:
- Monday to Sunday – 5:30 AM to 7 PM
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 3 hours
Have the guts to rattle through the wild? We believe Mushrif Park has one of the most exciting bicycle tracks for that reason! It’s a relatively new 50-kilometer trail meant for the most daring bikers out there.
On top of that, we reckon the natural scenery is just magnificent! The park is filled with more than 70,000 trees and the whole trail features its wonders.
We bet you won’t get lost around here, either. The track starts and ends at the same location—the main gate. And if you make a mistake, don’t fret! We’re glad that there are 3 quick-return lanes, so you can easily reset when needed.
Expert advice:
Fan of birds? Check out the aviary at Mushrif Park to see many different species up close. If you’re lucky, you might just see a magnificent peacock showcasing its colorful feathers!
Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park
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Address: 573J+P3
Open Times:
- Open 24 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: Varies widely
Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park offers a short biking track, with an 8 to 10-kilometer trail for runners and bikers in Dubai. Still, we like that it’s got restrooms and showers, making this location so convenient.
Moreover, there are rental shops all across the main section—we suggest upgrading your bike with cool accessories for a better performance!
In the same area, you can find some cafes in case you’re feeling peckish or thirsty on a hot sunny day. Alternatively, you can get a water refill at the right hand side of DxBike fitness center nearby.
“Paw-some” tip:
Missing your pup? Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park has a dog park for your furry friends! Just be sure to bring pet essentials, like leashes, wipes, and waste bins to keep the park clean!
Al Nahda Bicycling Track
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Address: Al Nahda Pond Park – 79RJ+48V – Al Nahda – Al Nahda 1
Contact Details: +971 50 844 0556
Open Times:
- Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 12 AM
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: Varies widely
Al Nahda Bicycling Track is known for being one of the smoothest tracks in the city (almost no cracks or pits anywhere!). And in case you need a reminder, we find it handy that the distance is written on the track every 100 meters.
There are also 3 trails here: the white track is for both biking and walking, the soft red track is for walking, and the black gravel track is for biking. We advise following this guideline to avoid accidents.
The park is kid-friendly too, with a swing area and a dirt pit the children can play with. Afterwards, you can have a nice picnic before another round of playing or biking around.
Just a reminder:
In the early mornings, Al Nahda Bicycling Track’s water shower will automatically turn on and sprinkle around some spots on track. Best to keep an eye out!
Al Warqa’a Jogging and Cycling Track
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Address: 5CQ8+8H2 – Unnamed Rd – Warqaa Big Park
Contact Details: +971 800 900
Open Times:
- Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 10:59 PM
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: Varies
Al Warqa’a Jogging and Cycling Track offers a 3-kilometer jogging track and a separate biking trail. We reckon this is amazing for dates and picnics, since this spot typically draws few visitors. On some occasions, people also play musical instruments here!
Besides cycling, you can use the tennis court, football turf, and the open gym. And if you love advocating for the planet, we think you’ll appreciate that the entire park is powered by solar energy.
Plus, visitors can bask in lovely sunset views because of the park’s elevated point compared to its surroundings. However, a downside for us is that BBQs aren’t allowed, so we suggest bringing other snacks instead.
Must-know move:
We think it’s wise to bring your own water at Al Warqa’a Jogging and Cycling Track. There’s only one place selling one at the main gate, and that might be a tad pricey.
Al Qudra Cycle Track
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Address: X8X4+HQ8
Open Times:
- Open 24 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: Varies widely
Those who came to Dubai to see the golden desert dunes will likely be delighted by the Al Qudra Cycle Track—it’s got a whopping 86-kilometer trail with fantastic desert views!
Many pro and beginner riders also frequent this track to see the lovely sunrise and sunset. And if you love animals, you’re lucky because you’ll probably spot local wildlife, like the Arabian oryx (a medium-sized antelope with a distinct shoulder bump)!
Friendly advice:
Every week, Al Qudra Cycle Track is utilized by cycling clubs. We suggest joining one to get motivated in making your biking workouts more consistent. Meeting like-minded peeps can make you new friends too!
Al Barari Cycling Track
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Website: https://www.albarari.com/move/
Address: 38WG+RV7 – Majan
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: Varies
Al Barari Cycling Track is among the greenest trails you can explore as a cycling enthusiast! Located in a gated community, this 40-kilometer trail is known for its safe, lush greenery and serene setting.
This space is accessible to casual riders and pro bikers. Additionally, its trail passes by a lovely lake, which we feel can help you meditate. So if you’re looking for that sweet spot between nature and fitness, we think this is where you can get that zen.
Just a heads-up:
Al Barari Cycling Track is in a private residential area, so we recommend checking the community website for details on how to get a gate pass. It helps to be prepared!