Picnic spots in Dubai

Just a short drive from Dubai's city centre, Al Qudra Lakes are a manmade oasis hidden amid golden sands, perfect for a private, out-of-town picnic. Unpack your hamper while observing the wildlife – falcons, eagles, ducks, swans and the pastel pink flamingos that gather to fish during the winter. During twilight, watch the native impalas venture to the water’s edge for a drink. Cyclists can also take advantage of the area's cycling track, with road and sand bikes available for rent on-site. Stretching up to 86km, it's the longest designated cycling road in the Middle East.

If you're not done with mealtime festivities, the Picnic Pantry brunch by Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City makes for an excellent addition to your weekend checklist. Taking over the hotel's bayside lawns every Saturday afternoon, the picnic-themed fiesta is as upbeat as it is a celebration of scrumptious nibbles. Expect a walk-in pantry, BBQ stations, artisanal bread baskets, a special kids' picnic box – and even a candy floss and popcorn kiosk. While you enjoy the live music and pool access, the little ones will have plenty of fun activities to keep them occupied.

Zabeel Park is one of Dubai's favourite picnic spots. Choose your location: the shaded lawn, outdoor seating or the amphitheatre, and while away the day with the family. This incredible park is also home to Dubai Frame, offering visitors splendid views of both old and new Dubai. Little ones can explore three different technology-based zones featuring educational exhibits, hop on a boat ride or visit Dubai Garden Glow – the region's first glowing theme park.

Located between Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Al Sufouh Beach is one of the city's quieter and more secluded seaside locales (which is why residents call it 'Secret Beach'). While it's free to visit, there are no public amenities around and barbecues aren't allowed here. Its sandy stretches and resplendent sights, however, make it a lovely spot for laidback picnics. Pack yourself a basket of tasty treats and head out here for a glorious afternoon by the water. 

Amid sweeping vistas of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall sits a humble respite in the energetic Downtown Dubai neighbourhood. Burj Park, a small island with lush lawns, is a charming destination for a family picnic, with plenty of sun, scenes and space for little ones to run free. Pack a picnic of delicious treats – or collect a multicultural spread from all the restaurants nearby – and cross the bridge from Burj Plaza to find the perfect spot in this vast urban expanse.

Dubai's most popular outdoor market pops up every weekend at a range of venues during winter months, with a flagship location at Academy Park. Combine a fun day of shopping for artisanal wares with a picnic on the lawn. Bring along a basket and top it up with delicious offerings from the nearby food trucks, as well as fresh fruit from the local farmers' stalls. The atmosphere here is always upbeat and friendly, with live music, workshops and activities.