What’s On profiles Al Qudra Lakes. Find out what cafes, bikes shops and wildlife are in the area next to the Al Qudra cycling track.

More…
– Camping in Dubai
– PICS: Al Qudra Lakes

Next to the Al Qudra cycling track, a cluster of manmade lakes – home to hundreds of exotic birds – is waiting to be explored. Here’s a pick of the best bits.

Map of Al Qudra

1. TREK BICYCLE STORE
Whether you’re a cycling pro looking for expert advice or just want to hire a bike for a leisurely ride, you’ll be in safe hands at Trek. There’s  a fully operational workshop to tend to speed bikes, or you can rent a roadster for a daily rate of Dhs105. If you fancy an off-road adventure, try one of the sand bikes instead.

Seih Al Salam, Al Qudra, Sun to Thu 6am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 5am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 8327377. Taxi: Al Qudra cycling track. facebook.com/TREKSeihAlSalam

Trek Bike

2. CYCLING TRACK
Dubai doubters who often bemoan the lack of outdoor activities have obviously never been to the starting line of Al Qudra bike track on a Friday morning. One of the world’s largest designated cycle tracks, the 84km trail loops through the desert and attracts amateurs and triathletes alike. Cycle Safe organises rides here on Friday mornings for beginners and advanced cyclists.

cyclesafedubai.com

Al Qudra cycling track

3. CAMPING
Head south – away from the lakes – and you’ll find dozens of perfect desert camping spots accessible to non-4WDs owners.

Terrain: Beach/desert
Distance from Dubai: 25 minutes
Coordinate: 24.837586, 55.376922
Great for: A daycation
Bad for: Adventure seekers. This is just a pleasant day/night out; nothing too serious.

4. ZAD FOOD STORE
This charming café serves coffee, organic smoothies and Arabic snacks. You can also pick up firewood and other camping supplies here.

Seih Al Salam, Al Qudra, Tel: (800) 923923. Taxi: Al Qudra cycling track. facebook.com/pages/Zadfoodstore/442581085817120

Zad food store

5. WILDLIFE SPOTTING
After a huge renovation project, Al Qudra’s manmade lakes are now visited by over 130 species of birds including starlings, eagles, falcons and flamingoes.

*PICTURES: AL QUDRA LAKES*

Bring your binoculars – and your barbecue – for a unique picnic by this desert oasis.

Wildlife spotting at Al Qudra Lakes