It’s back to the outdoor activities that we missed over summer…

After a long summer, we’re welcoming back the winter months in Dubai with open arms, especially because it means we can do loads of our favourite outdoor activities once again. From al fresco fitness to theme parks, markets and a spectacular Dubai attraction, here’s 8 fun outdoor activities to try in Dubai this weekend now the weather is cooler…

1. Kickstart your fitness routine

The annual Dubai Fitness Challenge kicks off this weekend, on Friday October 18 to be exact. During the month-long challenge, you’re encouraged to do 30 minutes of exercise per day for 30 days and it’s never been easier as the whole city will transform into a huge gym. Running across two fitness villages and 10 community hubs, there’ll be 40 events and over 5,000 fitness classes and activities available during the month-long event. Why not head to Kite Beach where there’s loads of free classes and fun activities to get involved in?

Dubai Fitness Challenge, Friday October 18 to November 16, various locations across Dubai. dubaifitnesschallenge.com

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2. Check out a stunning Dubai attraction…

The much-loved UAE attraction, Dubai Garden Glow, recently threw open their doors once again after a summer hiatus to the delight of its fans. With ten themed zones which include Panda Paradise and Candy Land, they’ve also got a ‘back to nature’ message this year. As well as the glow garden, the impressive Dinosaur park is also be back, with realistic, animatronic versions of pre-historic dinosaurs. If you’ve not yet visited, get it on your bucket list – you and the kids will be entertained for hours.

Dubai Garden Glow, Zabeel Park, Gate 6 and 7, Area B, Dubai, 4pm to 11pm Saturday to Thursday, 4pm to midnight Friday, Dhs65. Tel: (055) 918 8126. dubaigardenglow.com

3. Browse an outdoor market

One of the nicest things about Dubai are the beautiful outdoor markets, perfect for those days when you just want weekend chills and a nice stroll. Fortunately we’re now well into October which means our favourite markets have sprung back into action. From Reform to the Ripe Market or Bounty Beets to ARTE, you can spend the day browsing to your heart’s content through homemade jewellery, arts, crafts, cute trinkets and fresh produce. Check out our pick of Dubai’s best outdoor markets here.

4. Enjoy a relaxed poolside brunch

In the mood for a relaxed pool day with a deal that won’t break the bank? West 14th at Dukes The Palm have just introduced their brand new-family friendly brunch offering that’s pretty kind to the purse strings. The brunch will take place on the Mediterranean-style terrace with a live DJ, buffet and unlimited house drinks for Dhs250, with access to the Insta-worthy pool and beach included.

West 14th, Dukes The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm, Fridays, Dhs250 house drinks, kids under 12 go free. Tel: (0) 4 455 1101. facebook.com/West14thUAE

5. Watch a movie under the stars

Outdoor cinemas are back in Dubai in a big way and we couldn’t be happier about it. There’s one around the city for pretty much every day of the week but our favourite is the one at Habtoor Grand that comes complete with an epic backdrop of Dubai Marina. This week they’re showing the popular ‘A Star is Born’, starring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper.

Habtoor Grand, Dubai Marina, 7.30pm onwards, Saturday Sunday and Monday, Dhs75. Tel (056) 895 6280. urbanoutdoorcinema.com

6. Zoom through the city on a zip-line

Ever fancied seeing the city from a birds-eye view? That’s exactly what you’ll get if you sign up to Dubai Marina’s XLine, which is the world’s longest urban zip-line. You’ll zoom over the Marina’s stunning skyscrapers, picturesque harbour and impressive yachts, but we’re not sure how much you’ll be able to take in when you’re travelling up to 80km per hour.

XLine, Dubai Marina, from Dhs650, 10am to 5pm, Thursday to Tuesday, closed on Wednesdays. Tel: (056) 507 6366. xline.xdubai.com

7. Go to a theme park

Whilst Dubai’s theme parks stayed open throughout the summer, we didn’t really fancy our chances on a rollercoaster whipping through the thick Dubai summer air, so now’s the time to get our thrills again. Check out Hollywood-themed MOTIONGATE which is centred around all your favourite childhood movies.

MOTIONGATE, Dubai Park and Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 11am to 8pm Sunday to Wednesday, 11am to 9pm, Friday and Saturday. Tel: (800) 2629464. motiongatedubai.com

8. Splash around at a waterpark

Another great thing about Dubai is the numerous waterparks right on our doorstep. Check out Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm with huge rapids, loads of slides (one of which passes through a pool filled with sharks! It’s the ideal way to spend a carefree day out that’s guaranteed to get lots of laughs. Cool off with a drink at Wavehouse afterwards, or fuel up on some pub grub-style dishes.

Aquaventure, Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 10am to 6pm daily, Tel: (04) 426 2000. atlantis.com/dubai

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Images: Supplied / Facebook