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The 8 best cycle tracks in Abu Dhabi

There are many workouts that combine fitness with fun, but not many come close to the exhilarating experience of cycling in the great outdoors.

From November to May, the weather in Abu Dhabi is perfect for getting out on two wheels. The capital is full of incredible landmarks and tranquil nature, which means there are many places to take your bike for a ride. Whether you’re after a demanding mountain climb, an adrenaline boost around a Formula 1 track or just a more peaceful pedal by the beach, there is something for everyone here.

If you want to take it more seriously and find some cycling chums, there are also several clubs and groups you can join - one of the most popular being the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club.

So, what are you waiting for? It's time to blaze your own trail and get on your bike in Abu Dhabi...

Feed your need for speed

Yas Marina Circuit

Where else could you ride a bike around a world-famous Formula 1 track? TrainYAS as Yas Marina Circuit is one of the most unique ways to break into a sweat - every Sunday and Tuesday evening the circuit on Yas Island is opened to the public so you can jog a lap, cycle or take a leisurely stroll around the track. Entry is free but make sure to register online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Out in the desert

Al Wathba cycle track

Surrounded by miles and miles of desert, Al Wathba cycle track is one of the most scenic spots in the emirate. The ethereal landscape played a starring role in the film Star Wars: The Force Awakens, with a cycle here promising picturesque vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset.

The illuminated track can be broken down into several routes. Beginner cyclists can ride the 8km or 16km loops, while expert cyclers can take on the 20km, 22km or full 30km routes.

Cycling on Al Wathba Cycle Track in Abu Dhabi

Down by the sea

Corniche bike track

A fun and healthy way to tour the Corniche is to hire a bike. There are a number of accessible rental stations along the Corniche boardwalk, where you can rent a variety of bikes, from mountain bikes for the more adventurous to city bikes that can fit two or three passengers on the back, and even specially designed bikes for ladies wearing abayas.

Cycling on Abu Dhabi Corniche in Abu Dhabi

Island of adventure

Hudayriat Island track

The newly developed Hudayriat Island is a whole island dedicated to sports and beach activities. The Leisure and Entertainment District offers 5 to 10km of cycling tracks stretching through a recreational park and along the edges of pristine green spaces with scenic sea and city views.

Cycling on Al Hudayriat Island in Abu Dhabi

Sand, sand and more sand

Qasr Al Sarab sand dunes

The award-winning five-star Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara has become the region’s first resort to introduce fat-tyre biking as a guest activity. With a fleet of 10 fat bikes – bicycles that have 4.8-inch wide tyres that can be deflated to tackle the enormous dunes that surround the resort – guests can now explore the Empty Quarter’s dunes that make up the world’s largest uninterrupted sand mass.

Climb the mountain

Jebel Hafit

If you have the stamina, then the road winding up the rocky Jebel Hafit mountain is one of the most rewarding rides in the emirate. Rising to a height of 1,249 metres, this skyline-dominating peak is Abu Dhabi’s highest, and offers incredible sunrise and sunset photos, as well as majestic views of Abu Dhabi’s lush garden city of Al Ain. Not for the faint-hearted!

Go west...

Al Dhafra Region

Where the desert meets the sea, Al Dhafra makes up over two-thirds of the emirate of Abu Dhabi and boasts some of the country's most dramatic scenery - including the biggest dunes this side of the Sahara. Venture deep into the western region and you will discover one of the most breathtaking desert roads cutting a swathe between rolling dunes. Fortunately, Abu Dhabi Cycling Club have a branch in Al Dhafra so make sure to get in touch if you need any advice.

Going green

Al Ain cycling track

If you want to explore our emirate's heritage heartland and get some exercise at the same time, then a bike trip in Al Ain is exactly what you're looking for! With a modern well-lit track, suitable for both beginners and professionals, that meanders through some stunning scenery and even a branch of Abu Dhabi Cycling Club located in Al Ain, the garden city is ripe for exploration on two wheels. For something a little different, why not try a relaxing ride underneath the dappled shade of the palm fronds in Al Ain Oasis?