There are various sports activities that expats can enjoy in Abu Dhabi. In fact, it hosts several international sporting events all year round, especially during November when people from all over the world flock to Abu Dhabi for the Formula 1 races.
Sports clubs in Abu Dhabi
If you are sports-minded, you do not have to go far to access sporting facilities. In Abu Dhabi, which is a short drive away, there are various sports clubs that you can use to play your sport of choice. These venues offer facilities, and you can play there for a reasonable price. Below are some examples:
- Al Forsan International Sports Resorts – They have a shooting range, archery, horseback riding, motorsports, watersports, paintball, padel courts, football pitches, tennis courts, and basketball courts;
- Zayed Sports City – True to its name, it's a city of sports, including bowling, ice sports, roller skating, table tennis, rugby, volleyball, and much more;
- Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting, and Golf Club – A little farther out from the city center, this facility offers horseback riding, a shooting range, golf, cricket, a climbing wall, and more.
Outdoor activities in and outside Abu Dhabi
For the more outdoor type, there are activities as well. Check out our list below to learn more about what you can do outside in Abu Dhabi.
Go camping in the desert
If you are more of a nature type, you can always go camping in various campsites in the desert within Abu Dhabi. It is the favorite pastime of residents who enjoy the great outdoors. Some of the popular desert camping areas are Liwa Oasis and Al Khanzah. Remember, the summer months may be too hot for camping in the desert, so opt for cooler months. Do bundle up, although, as desert winters can get relatively cold.
Off-roading and dune bashing
For desert and off-roading enthusiasts, various hobbyist groups go dune bashing regularly. Some of these are Abu Dhabi 4x4, Desert Fellas, and UAE Offroaders.
Swimming at the beach
When the weather permits, the beach is an excellent venue for swimming; it is a favorite among the city's residents. Some groups also train by the beach, and you can also participate in triathlon races.
Enjoy cycling outdoors in Yas Marina
Get out for some fresh air and sweat as you pedal your way to fitness. The Yas Marina Circuit, home to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, offers biking and driving experiences. There's a playground for kids and even Crossfit for Kids – or let them splash around the musical fountain.
Explore the wild side at Xtreme Zone
Xtreme Zone is a large park at The Galleria Mall in Al Maryah Island that offers trampolines, zip lines, and three-story adventure drops, as well as obstacle courses for kids.
Explore wildlife at Sir Bani Yas Island
Off the coast of Abu Dhabi, there is a natural reserve for protected animals. The Arabian Wildlife Park, where 13,000 animals live, covers half of the island. This conservation zone features walks, horse trekking, biking, and nature drives. Animals, such as cheetahs, jackals, oryx, and giraffes, among others, tromp around. Both kids and animals will get a kick out of seeing animals up close.
Head over to Al Ain Adventure
Excitement rules over this outdoor park for the entire family or solo visitors. Al Ain Adventure (formerly Wadi Adventure) is the UAE's first man-made whitewater rafting, kayaking, and wakeboarding park, as well as surfing. There is a large surf pool, an airpark with obstacle courses, wall climbing, a zip line, and a giant swing.
No matter what age, if you crave indoor or outdoor sporting activities, Abu Dhabi surely delivers and will not disappoint.
Useful links:
Al Forsan International Sports Resorts
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