What’s On details walking paths in Abu Dhabi, as well as Abu Dhabi walking groups to help you get walking in Abu Dhabi, part of Let’s Walk.

Following its launch earlier this month by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the Lets Walk campaign has sparked a new found intrigue in the community.

Walking with school children along the Corniche, the event was aimed at promoting a healthy and active lifestyle for youngsters. Hosted as part of the Healthy Children 2021 campaign, which continues until mid-April, the initiative aims to reduce obesity levels among children here in the UAE by 12 per cent by 2021.

“Children’s health is the focus of the government’s plans and we aim to support them in all areas considering that they are the main pillars of growth and development. Their contribution is vital to making the UAE one of the best countries in the world by 2021,” said Sheikh Mohammed.

Below, we do our bit by pointing you in the right direction of the best walking routes and groups in the capital. So come on, walk this way…

WALKING ROUTES

Eastern Mangroves Promenade
The sounds of lapping water, birdsong and buzzing insects will be on your playlist if you can squeeze in a few laps here. It’s not the biggest of spaces, to be sure, but the view of the peaceful mangroves does make up for it.

easternmangrovespromenade.ae

Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi

Corniche
The 8K street running along the waterfront is centrally located in town and is a popular spot with families and fitness fanatics alike. There’s a dedicated pedestrian lane, so you can stroll around in relative peace – just watch out for kids on hire bikes, as certain sections can get a bit crowded.

Mushrif Central Park
The newly opened park in Mushrif has plenty to keep the kids busy while you take in a few laps around the park. Be sure to check out the exercise equipment on hand to get in a sneaky workout too. Entry is Dhs5 per person, with children under three free.

mushrifcentralpark.ae

Yas Marina Circuit
Join runners and cyclists doing the rounds (5.5K a lap to be exact) on Tuesday evenings around the track at Train Yas by Activelife from 6pm to 8.30pm. Or if you prefer more privacy, Wednesdays are women-only. Just be sure to register online before you go.

yasmarinacircuit.com

 

The Galleria at Al Maryah Island
Walk along the water fronted promenade behind this upscale mall to take in views of the developing skyline on Al Maryah Island. Despite the construction, it’s a lovely sight and there are benches if you get tired. Plus squeaky-clean facilities are a stone’s throw away.

thegalleria.ae

WALKING GROUPS

Abu Dhabi Mall Walkers
Head to the Abu Dhabi Mall before 10am to get in a power walk in the comfort of the AC. Just be sure to visit the information desk and bring two passport pictures and a copy of ID to apply to join the club beforehand. You’ll receive a card that you need to bring with you to have access to the mall before shops open.

abudhabi-mall.com

Abu Dhabi Walkers
This meetup group is aimed at helping others maintain a healthy lifestyle. The walks are usually between 5km to 10km, and take around an hour or two to complete. Locations for previous walks include Hiltonia Beach Club, Corniche and Yas Beach.

meetup.com/ADwalkers

Abu Dhabi Striders
More known for running than walking, you can certainly build your fitness levels with this group. In addition to weekly runs, the group also hosts fun runs (or walks, depending on your level) at Zayed Sports City.

abudhabistriders.com