The cooler weather is the perfect time to hop on your bike and get pedaling and here’s where.
Words by David Young
Abu Dhabi is steadily developing its cycling network and there are no signs of this new-found fascination fading any day soon.
With UAE Team Emirates winning the Tour de France last summer, biking is set to blossom in the capital and we round up some of the best.
Al Hudayriat Leisure and Entertainment District
Head to Al Hudayriat Island which is arguably one of the top places in the city for cycling. Choose between the 5km and 10km tracks, depending on how much your legs can manage. The surroundings will probably take your mind off any saddle soreness. Top tip – try taking in a sunset spin; you won’t regret it.
For more information, visit hudayriyatisland.ae
The Corniche
It’ll only take an hour to spin from one end of the Corniche to the other, and back again. Don’t fret – there are plenty of distractions and cafes along the way to coax you off the cogs. You won’t be alone either – there is space dedicated for walkers and runners too. Bike rental stations can be found in several locations along the Corniche boardwalk.
Yas Marina Circuit
On Sundays and Tuesdays, 6pm to 10pm, you can test your mettle on a world famous race track. Impressively, it’s free to enter; just make sure that you register first with Train YAS. For more information, visit yasmarinacircuit.com
Al Wathba
A more remote choice, but what a choice all the same – flanked on all sides by desert. For the real enthusiasts, there are loops from 8km all the way up to 30km. Located near the camel race track, and open 11am to 11pm, this is definitely one of the most memorable cycling spots in the entire UAE.
Al Ain
Al Ain Zoo has introduced a brand-new cycling experience but it’s not for the faint hearted. This bike trail at the man-made safari park, takes cyclists along the rugged terrain of Hafeet Mountain, with two tiers to choose from. You’ll even get to see some of the zoo’s residents.
For more information, visit alainzoo.ae
