Buckle up folks, we have a summer of soft play and Encanto on repeat ahead of us, so while the weather is glorious, it’s time to get outside. From burning off some excess energy to exploring the UAE, here are some of my favourites that both the children and the grownups will enjoy.
BEACH BIKE TRACK
While joggers and walkers have long enjoyed beach views from their track, bikes and scooters have just got their very own. It opened in February, mirroring the shoreline from the Burj Al Arab to Jumeirah 1, and covers 7km. Car parks are dotted along the way (the one behind Sunset Mall is usually quiet and there’s the chance to rent Careem bikes here too), and there are plenty of spots for a break, coffee and toilet break. We love Circle at Kite Beach for pancakes, and don’t forget to bring your water bottle, as you’ll find new Dubai Can refill stations down the track too. Just be safe with a helmet, and move to the side if you need to stop.
KAYAKING
One of the best family trips we’ve done was around the mangroves in Ajman’s Al Zorah Nature Reserve. Organised by Quest for Adventure, an adult and child will share a kayak for a two-hour guided tour, where you’ll spot wildlife, including a flock of flamingos (fun fact: the collective noun for flamingoes is a ‘flamboyance’). No prior experience is needed, but if it’s windy you’ll need a reasonable level of fitness – and a willingness to get your feet wet as the tide can mean a walk through water, which the children will love. Booking is essential, and prices start from AED135.
AVENTURA PARK
Dubai’s largest zipline park just keeps getting bigger. Tucked away in Mushrif Park, it’s an oasis of fun, boasting 24 ziplines, six circuits and 80 obstacles for woodland adventures. Depending on their height and ability, children can explore a number of routes, both low and up in the Ghaf trees, and there’s also an area for really little ones to try, while adults can challenge themselves with some adrenalin-pumping courses. There’s also a lovely café and a nature trail if you’d rather stay close to the ground.
aventuraparks.com
JEBEL JAIS
The UAE has caught hiking fever, and Ras Al Khaimah’s Jebel Jais has some lovely, kid-friendly routes around the bottom. Head to the top of the emirate’s highest peak, however, and you’ll be rewarded with amazing views, 1484 by Puro café and a lot of action. The new sledder (think Cool Runnings) is open to over 3s and costs 60 AED for an adult and child to ride together.
Older kids can try the zipline, ropes course, Bear Grylls Explorer Camp and more.
visitjebeljais.com
HATTA WADI HUB
We camp in Hatta a lot, and often head here in the morning, either for a hike up to the Hatta sign, or to try some of the activities. There’s everything from zorbing and waterslides to mountain biking and huge trampolines, and you can book on the spot. It gets busy, so I’d recommend getting there first thing, grabbing a coffee from the café and making a plan. Axe throwing is available for adults if you need to get ride of some aggression..
visithatta.com
