Best Parks in Dubai – Where to Play, Picnic, and Light a Bonfire

Looking for a green escape in a city of skyscrapers? Dubai actually packs a handful of parks that suit every mood – from a lazy family picnic to a night‑time bonfire with friends. Below you’ll find the most popular spots, handy tips, and a few rules you shouldn’t ignore.

Family‑Friendly Parks You’ll Love

First up, the parks that keep kids smiling all day. Al Barsha Pond Park offers a wide jogging track, playgrounds, and a cool pond where ducks actually chase the bread you toss. It’s open from 6 am to 10 pm and has free parking, so you can spend a full afternoon without hunting for a spot.

Zabeel Park is another favorite – it’s massive, has a lake, plenty of shaded benches, and a cable car that gives a quick aerial view. The skate park and laser show on Friday evenings make it a go‑to for teens. Bring a blanket for the lawn, but remember the park closes at 11 pm.

If you’re near the Mall of the Emirates, Safa Park is the easiest drop‑in. The central lake, cricket pitch, and well‑maintained kids’ area make it perfect for a quick lunch break. The park charges a modest entry fee on weekends, so keep some dirhams handy.

For a more modern vibe, swing by My City Park in Al Quoz. It’s a newer development with themed play zones, a mini‑golf course, and food trucks that pop up on weekends. The layout is stroller‑friendly, and there’s a dedicated bike‑rental stand if you want to cover more ground.

Nighttime Bonfire Hotspots & What to Know

When the sun sets, Dubai’s parks turn into great spots for a low‑key bonfire. Al Barsha Pond Park allows small, contained bonfires in the designated area near the pond, but you must book the spot through the Dubai Municipality website. Bring your own firewood, a portable grill, and a blanket. The park’s lighting makes it safe, and the surrounding trees keep the fire from spreading.

Creek Park along the Dubai Creek also offers a bonfire zone, especially popular with expat groups. The rules are strict: the fire must be under 30 cm high, and you need a permit that you can request at the visitor centre on the day. The view of the creek’s night lights adds a cool backdrop.

If you prefer a desert feel without leaving the city, head to Al Qudra Lakes. While not a traditional park, the area has designated picnic spots where you can set up a small fire pit. It’s more of a “bring‑your‑own” situation, so check the latest Dubai Police guidelines to avoid fines.

General bonfire etiquette is simple: always put out the fire completely, clean up any trash, and respect nearby families. Most parks provide waste bins and a water tap for extinguishing flames, so you won’t have to carry a bucket of water.

Getting to these parks is a breeze. The Metro’s Red Line stops close to Al Barsha Pond and Zabeel Park, while a short taxi ride gets you to Safa Park and Creek Park. If you’re driving, most parks have free or low‑cost parking, but they fill up fast on weekends – arrive early to snag a spot.

Now you’ve got the lowdown on Dubai’s best parks for daytime fun and nighttime fires. Grab a blanket, pack some snacks, and enjoy the green side of this desert metropolis. Happy exploring!