Dubai is fast becoming the most coveted tourist destination for die hard travelers and sports lovers especially cyclists. People who are passionate about cycling in Dubai would love the newly converted camel tracks and safe-cycling autodromes. In fact cycling is the best way to discover and soak in the culture and warmness of Dubai. Local cycle clubs organize long rides from November right through to May in the hope of getting more people on the bike. International events attract cyclists from around the world who are attracted by the great weather, varied terrains and state-of-the-art cycling. Here are some of the great cycling tracks to check out.
Dubai Autodrome
On a Wednesday night the Dubai Autodrome opens up the 2km+ loop for joggers and cyclists. The short 2.5km circuit is perfect for beginners or those getting back after a break from cycling.
Al Qudra Cycle Path
A desert track with enough undulating path to satisfy weekend peddlers with short, 18 km path and serious long-haul extreme cyclists with longer ride of 50 km loop .With picturesque dunes and sandy hillocks at the background, the cycling paths are perfect for middle- to long-distance riders.
Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park
Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park located near Meydan racecourse, offers brilliant views of Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa. The cycle path used to be a camel racing track and has different loops – 4 km, 6 km, or 8 km. The park is even lit for night riding and boasts of lockers, air-conditioned changing rooms and shower facilities. It is a good place for children who are just starting on the bike. The learner tracks are complete with street signs, speed bumps and roundabouts to teach young riders about safety while cycling in Dubai.
Al Barsha Pond Park
At Al Barsha Pond Park, separate jogging and cycling lanes are built around the 1,500 km circumference of a lake. It is a safe zone for learners as well.
Jumeirah Open Beach
A 1.5km track running from the open beach (behind Loca) to Mankhool Road, is a safe haven for cyclists. It is a good place for beach cycling.
Al Mushrif Park
Near Mirdif is this beautiful park for cyclists with a 5km cycle track looping in and around the sandy dunes. Bike rental is possible here.
Cycling Clubs
If you are looking for people to push you through long distance training rides or it may be you’re just looking to socialise in Dubai, take a look at some of the most popular cycling clubs. These clubs also gives lessons on the rules of safe cycling like the importance of wearing a helmet at all times and correct hand signals. They also advise to use front and rear lights and wearing reflective clothing for night rides.
There are some excellent safe cycling locations where beginners can master the basics.
Cycle Safe Dubai
Cycle Safe Dubai hosts the popular Friday morning rides at the Al Qudra Cycling track, as well as the Saturday morning coffee run to Bab Al Shams and back.
This is the most popular club among keen cyclists.
Dubai Roadsters
One of the first cycling clubs in the Emirates, Dubai Roadsters is the brainchild of the Wolfi Cycling Shop, and organizes many different rides along the safest routes all over Dubai. The events are organized throughout the year catering to different levels and distances.
Velo Vixens
Velo Vixens is a community of women of all ages, from single women to mums and grand mums, who all share their common love of biking.
Revolution Cycles
The main force behind the Wednesday night Autodrome rides, Revolution Cycles tutors you everything about cycling from the best recommended bikes and biking accessories to the fitness aspects of cycling regularly.
Laws for Cycling in Dubai
Although the Government of Dubai is actively promoting cycling as a way of commuting and ensuring fitness in Dubai, there are safety laws that must be followed on the road.
Rules for Cycling in Dubai
Since Dubai is known for its fast cars and excellent road conditions, it is, therefore, essential that cyclists follow the rules and regulations set forth by the government.
- It is mandatory to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle in Dubai. Helmets can range in price from AED 150 to over AED 1000 for top quality head gear.
- Cyclists are encouraged to use internal roads and dedicated cycle paths and are prohibited from riding their bikes on major roads or highways, however, this is not always enforced by police.
- Cyclists found cycling in Dubai with speed limits of 60kmph or greater may be fined up to AED 600. This fine is doubled for repeat offenders in the same year, and police have the authority to impound bikes of repeated offenders for up to a month.
- Double seat riding is not allowed unless the bike is designed for two people. Offenders may be fined AED 200.
- There is an AED 200 fine for bike riders who use paths dedicated for pedestrians, while riding in a way that endangers pedestrians can get you fined AED 300.
Dubai Cycling Events
One of the biggest cycling events in the UAE, The Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge, takes place on December 15. It’s a 92km race, which is open to Cycling enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. The advanced riders (who can average more than 38kph for the race), and intermediate riders (at 37.5kph and under) are marked accordingly in the qualifying rounds. For further information on the upcoming Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge events please visit www.cyclechallenge.ae.
