Whether you’re just bored over summer and need to get in shape, or looking to train on a budget, we’ve got some great suggestions for you.
Staying out of the heat often means more time indoors over the summer and less time out and about, which can increase the chance of the dreaded Dubai stone. Fortunately, there are tons of fitness-friendly things you can do in Dubai that are impossible to avoid, as they’re also completely free of charge.
Get a Free Class with Class Pass
Actually you can get way more than just one class for free as the Class Pass app offers a 14-day trial of gyms, hotels, pools, salons, spas, and more. They host some of the coolest activities and clients such as Crank and Warehouse Gyms, Facette Facial Spa, tons of yoga places, and cycling studios such as the Platform. If you do sign up you can visit all their destinations for as little as AED 150 per month – but get your free trial first.
Cycling at Al Qudra
A beautiful cycling track popular with fitness fanatics, the path covers a whopping 86 KM where you have the chance to see Arabian wildlife such as the Arabian Oryx. The perfect spot for a solo spin with your bike or a group trip with friends, there are plenty of rest spots with shade, and there’s even somewhere to rent a bike if you don’t have your own.
Hiking in Jebel Hafeet
The second highest mountain in the UAE, Jebel Hafeet has incredible views from its 1,249m height. Located in the Tawam region near Al Ain, it’s also known as the ‘barren mountain’ due to its meandering roads and impressive appearance. The Jebel Hafeet Tombs are reminiscent of something from Star Wars, and worth a look. You can head there by car in under two hours or take public transport (a few buses) and hike anytime of day, though we recommend between 5am-6pm during daylight hours.
Hiking around Hatta
Another superb hiking spot close to the Oman border (anyone who’s done a visa run will know this area), the Hajar Mountains have peaks and troughs perfect for advanced or beginner hikers, and it’s completely free to visit all year round. There is varied terrain from rugged sheer rock, patches of grass, and even some sandy patches. The giant Hatta signboard is like the giant Hollywood sign in California and makes an epic social media snap. If you want to do something more adventurous and have some cash to spend, you can make your hiking trip a weekend and stay at the Sedr Trailers and take advantage of the water sports, rock climbing, and more around Hatta Dam. For more information on this read our latest Hatta feature here.
Bike around Mushrif Park
If Al Qudra doesn’t interest you and you’d prefer more varied terrain, then Mushrif Park’s Mountain Bike Trail might be perfect for you. With tracks for beginner level and more advanced, it can be tough to cycle through the softer sandy spots but the wildlife and nature more than make it worthwhile. You get a map of the routes on arrival, which are over 20 KM and split into blue, green, and red, and there are plans to extend it even further. You can also rent bikes on site if you don’t want to bring your own.
Boardwalk Palm Jumeirah
One of Dubai’s original “wow” spots, the Palm Jumeirah has incredible Arabian Gulf views on one side and Atlantis the Palm on the other. Along the scenic stretch, the boardwalk is a great place to indulge in some cardio and enjoy epic views, particularly around sunset where it gets rather busy. There’s also lots of cafes, the occasional food truck, and spots to drink and dine along the route if you’re thirsty, plus parking for 350 cars, making getting in and out easy.
Fitness Class with At the Park UAE
This group of fitness enthusiasts offer free classes and bootcamps at various parks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi – all you have to do is join their WhatsApp group here to find out what’s happening or follow them on Facebook. Classes include HIIT, bootcamps, running, dance classes, and fat blast.
Walk around Dubai Marina
You’ll often see people wandering around Dubai Marina in the early and evening hours getting their steps in, and that’s because the Walk is a fabulous place to soak up the sights and sounds of yacht life, stop for a coffee, or walk your furry friend. Spread out over 7 KM the beachfront paved walkway has 305 outlets and nearly 70 restaurants to keep you entertained over the course of a brisk morning stroll or full day out.
Kite to Jumeirah Beach Running/Cycling Track
Kite Beach is the perfect path for intermediate runners, spread over 10 KM the track is perfect for endurance and stamina and has incredible views of the Kite Surfers and other water sports. Less developed than the Jumeirah running track, there are still a few spots to grab a rest and a cold beverage, while closer to the Burj al Arab there’s a SALT burger joint (too tempting if you’re there to burn calories) and some chic little cafes and food trucks serving snacks, coffee, and more.
Volunteer with Riding for the Disabled
A great way to get some exercise and give back to the community, EAPD focuses on equestrian lessons for people of determination, and requires volunteers to help with the horses and students. Experience is preferred but not essential, and you’ll get your steps in during the lessons leading the horses around, and engaging in learning and development activities such as an egg and spoon race, and shopping list task.
Callisthenics at Skydive Dubai
The Calisthenics Park at Skydive Dubai is a popular haunt for bootcamps, personal trainers, and gymnasts. With top-of-the-range equipment that’s all completely free, you can climb ropes, swing from monkey bars, or flip tyres over as you please. Alternatively, you can focus on your own private workout using a fitness app like Freeletics or Madbarz and learn how to flip and balance like the pros.
Aquaventure (if it’s your birthday)
If it’s your birthday you can visit Aquaventure completely free of charge. The best part? You can bring along two friends with you who get a 20% discount on their entry fees. Explore 105 record-breaking slides, attractions like Dolphin Bay, Raging Rapids, 1km of private beach, wave pool, and various dining outlets when you’ve worked up an appetite.
