Al Barsha Pond Park: Lake, Running Trails, Bike Rental

A guide to Al Barsha residents’ favorite park: from lakeside runs to family picnics and a farmers’ market.

For a moment, forget about the glittering skyscrapers and bustling malls. There’s another Dubai—one that’s cozy, green, and truly alive. Its heart beats in places like Al Barsha Pond Park. To tourists, it’s just a dot on the map, but to residents of the Al Barsha area, it’s their very own personal oasis, almost like an exclusive country club—only it’s free and open 24/7. People come here not for Guinness World Records, but for the perfect morning run, a leisurely stroll with family, or the finest farm-fresh produce at the Saturday market. Let’s explore why this unassuming park means so much to Dubai’s residents and how it might captivate you, too.

What to do in the park: a guide to activities

For sports and an active lifestyle

This park is a true magnet for amateur athletes. From early morning until late evening, its paths and grounds are brimming with the energy of runners, cyclists, and those who prefer team sports.

The park's main pride is its perfect 1.5-kilometer running track that circles the lake. Its soft rubber surface protects the knees, and clear markings every 100 meters help track pace—a small detail that serious runners will appreciate. Nearby, a separate path winds for cyclists, ensuring no one gets in anyone else's way. Don't have your own bike? No problem—rentals are available on-site for both children and adults. And just a bit further away, life buzzes at the free outdoor courts: here someone's shooting a ball into a basketball hoop, while on neighboring courts, players are engaged in a game of tennis or badminton. For strength-training enthusiasts, there are also several zones equipped with outdoor gym equipment.

For family fun with children

The park has been designed with great care for families. Spacious, well-maintained lawns practically beg you to spread out a blanket for a picnic, and for children, this place is a true paradise—with several modern play areas.

The playgrounds here are far more than just a couple of swings. They’re entire play towns featuring tube slides, rope mazes, and countless climbing structures that can keep even the most restless child engaged for hours on end. And all of this is set atop a safe, soft surface, so you don’t have to worry about scraped knees.

For peaceful strolls and relaxation by the water

The park’s main attraction is a large artificial lake that creates an astonishing contrast between tranquil water and the urban landscape. The calm, glassy surface reflecting the surrounding skyscrapers fosters a soothing atmosphere, allowing visitors to momentarily forget the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. It’s the perfect spot for leisurely walks or relaxing on one of the many benches overlooking the water. And if you’re in the mood for romance or some fun for the kids, you can always rent a catamaran or one of the delightful swan-shaped boats.

A Saturday tradition: Ripe market farmers’ market

During the cooler season (typically from October to May), the park undergoes a remarkable transformation every Saturday. That’s when the renowned Ripe Market comes to life—a true festival celebrating local culture, cuisine, and crafts. Forget the hustle and bustle of ordinary markets. Ripe Market is more like a laid-back, open-air Saturday festival. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of freshly brewed coffee, street food, and crisp, fresh greens. All around you, you can hear children’s laughter, soft music, and the cheerful chatter of friends who’ve gathered here to take a leisurely stroll among stalls brimming with artisanal cheeses, organic vegetables, and unique handmade jewelry. This is a place where people come not so much for shopping as for the atmosphere—and leave with bags full to the brim and in high spirits. Before your visit, we strongly recommend checking the exact dates and opening hours on the official Ripe Market website.

Planning your visit: detailed information

Getting there and parking

The park is located right in the heart of Al Barsha, close to Mall of the Emirates. For those arriving by car, there’s ample, and importantly, free parking right at the entrance.

On-site amenities

• Clean public restrooms.
• Water fountains offering free drinking water.
• Numerous benches for relaxing in the shade or in the sun.

A few words about local etiquette to help you feel at ease:

• What to wear? The park is a very casual setting. For sports, regular athletic wear is fine; for a stroll, any comfortable clothing will do. But remember, you’re in Dubai, so overly revealing attire isn’t appropriate here—better to keep your shoulders and knees covered.
• Can you have a barbecue? Unfortunately, no. It’s forbidden to light fires or set up barbecues in the park, but nothing prevents you from bringing a picnic basket and settling down on any of the lawns.
• What about alcohol? As in all public spaces in the UAE, consuming alcoholic beverages here is strictly prohibited.
• Photograph with respect: You can and should take beautiful photos of the park, but please refrain from photographing other people—especially women and children—without their prior consent. This is an important aspect of local culture.

Why is Al Barsha Pond Park truly “local” Dubai?

Dubai is renowned for its ability to astonish the world with its grandiose projects. But perhaps the real miracle isn’t the tallest skyscraper—it’s a simple, convenient, and completely free park like this one, where everyone can find something special for themselves.

Al Barsha Pond Park is Dubai without the gloss and filters. It’s the city that’s shed its business suit and stepped out for a jog. If you want to see this side of Dubai, to hear its quiet rhythm far from the tourist hotspots—just come here. It’s possible that right here, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of real life in the Emirates than you ever could from the top of Burj Khalifa.