Zabeel Park
Name of the park:
Zabeel Park
Location (address, city, area, nearby landmarks):
Zabeel Area, near Al Jafiliya Metro Station, Za’abeel, Al Kifaf, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Size (in acres/hectares or description):
47.5 hectares (117.375 acres) — large urban park
Opening hours / closing days:
Open daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM; no regular closing days
Entry fee (if any):
AED 5 per person (children under 2 years and people with disabilities enter free)
Type of Park
Zabeel Park is best described as an urban public park with mixed-use features.
Main Classifications
Urban recreational park:
With sports facilities, jogging tracks, picnic areas, playgrounds, skateboarding zones, and boating options.Technological and educational park:
Featuring interactive exhibits, educational installations, and themed zones focused on innovation and sustainability.Iconic landmark site:
As the home of Dubai Frame and seasonal attractions like Dubai Garden Glow, the park also serves as a major tourist and cultural destination.
What Makes Zabeel Park Special?
Zabeel Park is one of Dubai’s most innovative and popular urban parks, offering a unique blend of technology, leisure, and nature. Opened in 2005, it holds the distinction of being one of the first technology-themed parks in the Gulf region. Visitors can explore interactive educational zones, a “techno zone” dedicated to innovations in communication and energy, and artistic spaces that highlight Dubai’s modern ambitions.
A major highlight that adds to its special charm is the Dubai Frame, a towering architectural landmark within the park that offers panoramic views of old and new Dubai, symbolizing the city’s remarkable transformation over the decades.
Vibe and Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Zabeel Park is lively yet family-oriented. It’s a favorite spot for joggers, families on picnics, skateboarders, kids at the playgrounds, and tourists eager to experience Dubai’s outdoors. In the evenings, the park becomes even more magical with colorful lighting, live events, street food markets, and attractions like Dubai Garden Glow, which transforms sections of the park into a glowing art and light display.
Park Highlights & Attractions
🚶 Walking Trails
Jogging/perimeter track: Approximately 2.5 km (1.6 mi) loop around the park, ideal for jogging, walking, or cycling along scenic green and lakeside areas.
Pedestrian footpaths: Network of paved paths throughout the park connecting zones, gardens, playgrounds, and picnic spots .
Facilities: Lighting for evening walks, benches, shaded seating, and Wi‑Fi access.
🛝 Playgrounds & Kids’ Zones
Children’s Garden / Play Area: Multiple zones featuring slides, swings, jungle ladders, obstacle courses, and rides designed for children of all ages, including adventurous and motor‑skills challenges.
Number & age ranges: There are at least 2–3 distinct play zones, each tailored to younger children (approx. 2–7 yrs) and older kids (8–12 yrs), with safe, shaded, tented equipment.
Additional attractions:
Dinosaur Park: Seasonal animatronic dinosaurs and prehistoric-themed exhibits—highly popular during Garden Glow winter events.
Mini sports areas: Skateboarding park, BMX track, mini‑cricket pitch—suitable for teens and active kids.
🌳 Gardens & Green Spaces
Themed gardens: International gardens, techno/energy/communications zones featuring educational displays, sculptures, and diverse plant species.
Tree coverage: Over 3,000 palm trees and 7,000+ other trees across 14 species, providing lush shade and biodiversity.
Scenic lawns & landscaped areas: Spacious, well-kept lawns ideal for gatherings, relaxation, and picnics.
💧 Lakes & Water Features
Central boating lake: A 3.2 hectare lake with paddle-boat rentals (approx. AED 40), ducks, and lakeside seating.
Water features: Fountains, reflective ponds, and a striking 30 m geyser–style fountain that enhance the ambience.
Lakeside cafés & docks: Casual snack kiosks and boat docks offer refreshments with scenic views .
Family-Friendly & Facilities
BBQ & picnic zones: Several designated, shaded BBQ areas with seating—popular for family gatherings, birthdays, and weekend outings .
Support amenities: Clean washrooms, baby-changing rooms, prayer facilities, wheelchair‑accessible paths, first‑aid stations, and free Wi‑Fi.
Fitness & sports: Outdoor gyms, tennis and basketball courts, mini-golf, and fitness centre available for various age groups.
Entertainment venues: Amphitheatre, 3D cinema, exhibition gallery, and seasonal events (Garden Glow, flea markets, live music) .
Facilities & Amenities
🚻 Restrooms & Drinking Water
Zabeel Park is well-equipped with multiple clean restroom blocks spread across all major zones, including near the playgrounds, picnic areas, and close to the Dubai Frame entrance. Restrooms include family-friendly units, baby changing rooms, and wheelchair-accessible toilets.
Usage cost: Free
Drinking water: Filtered drinking water stations are available at several points, particularly near the jogging tracks and playgrounds. Visitors are encouraged to carry refillable bottles.
Additional tip: Tissues and soap are generally provided, but during busy weekends, it’s smart to carry a small pack of tissues or hand sanitizer.
🅿️ Parking & Accessibility
Zabeel Park offers ample parking facilities, divided into multiple sections:
General parking lots (north, south, and west sides):
Around 2,300 parking spots available, including standard, family, and accessible (disabled) spaces.Parking cost: Free for up to 2 hours; AED 10 per additional hour on busy days or during special events.
Peak times: Weekends and public holidays can see full lots, so early arrival is advised.
Accessibility:
Wheelchair-friendly: Smooth, paved pathways; ramps at entrances; lifts at Dubai Frame; accessible restrooms.
Mobility aids: While the park itself does not rent wheelchairs or buggies, Dubai Frame offers a limited number of wheelchairs free of charge for visitors.
🍽 Food & Beverages
There is a good mix of food options inside and around Zabeel Park:
Cafés and kiosks: Small cafés and food stalls scattered through the park selling snacks, ice creams, fresh juices, sandwiches, and Arabic street foods.
Prices: Snacks from AED 10–20; drinks from AED 5–15; ice creams AED 10+.
Picnic and BBQ areas: Dedicated, shaded barbecue sections are available for visitors wanting to bring and cook their own food.
Usage cost: Free (bring your own supplies; no rental or charcoal provided).
Rules: Only grill in marked BBQ areas; personal barbecues are not allowed on general lawns.
Nearby dining: Outside the park, especially near the Al Jafiliya Metro side, you’ll find fast-food chains, coffee shops, and casual restaurants — convenient if you want a sit-down meal before or after your park visit.
Special events: During Dubai Garden Glow or flea markets, additional food trucks and pop-up vendors offer international and gourmet options, with meal prices ranging from AED 25–50.
Activities & Things to Do
🏋️ Sports & Fitness
Zabeel Park is a favorite destination for fitness enthusiasts, offering a range of dedicated sports and workout zones:
Jogging & Cycling Track:
~2.5 km perimeter loop, paved and well-lit for running, walking, or cycling.Cost: Free; bring your own bike or rent an e-scooter from providers like Tier or Lime (approx. AED 1 to unlock + AED 0.6/min).
Outdoor Gym:
Several open-air fitness stations with equipment for bodyweight training, stretching, and cardio.Cost: Free; no booking required.
Sports Courts:
Cricket nets (mini size), tennis courts, and basketball courts located near the southern zone.
Cost: Free for casual use on a first-come basis, but for organized groups or tournaments, prior permission and a small fee (~AED 100–200/hour) may be required through Dubai Municipality.
Skateboarding & BMX Park:
Dedicated skate ramps and BMX track suitable for teens and advanced riders.Cost: Free; bring your own gear. No rental shop available.
🧺 Picnicking
Zabeel Park is designed with families and groups in mind, offering:
Designated BBQ & Picnic Areas:
Shaded spots with built-in grills, benches, and trash bins. Located mainly near Gates 1 and 2.Cost: Free to use, but you must bring your own grilling supplies and charcoal.
Tip: Arrive early on weekends to claim a good spot, as no reservations are allowed.
Open Green Lawns:
Large grass areas ideal for laying out picnic blankets, playing frisbee, or informal games.Cost: Free; however, outside caterers or large setups (e.g., tents, inflatable play zones) require prior approval.
Vendors & Food Stalls:
Small kiosks selling picnic-friendly snacks like sandwiches, juices, karak chai, and Arabic sweets.Price range: AED 10–30 per item.
🎉 Events & Festivals
Zabeel Park is not just a green space — it’s a seasonal events hub with some of Dubai’s most popular festivals:
Dubai Garden Glow:
A stunning light and art installation set up every winter, featuring glowing sculptures, a dinosaur park, and an ice park.Entry Fee: AED 70 per person; children under 3 free.
Operating months: October to May, 4:00 PM–11:00 PM.
Dubai Flea Market:
Held monthly, this massive outdoor market lets individuals sell second-hand items, crafts, and antiques.Entry Fee: AED 5 per shopper; AED 290 per seller stall (booked online).
Live Music & Cultural Shows:
Occasional open-air concerts, fitness marathons, and cultural events at the amphitheater.Cost: Varies; some are free, while others (like ticketed shows) range from AED 50–150.
Community Events:
School fun runs, charity walks, and fitness bootcamps like Les Mills on Tour or Fitness First pop-ups are sometimes hosted here.Cost: Free to AED 50+, depending on the event.
Visitor Information
🕰 Opening Hours
Zabeel Park operates year-round but with seasonal and special adjustments:
Regular Days (Sunday – Saturday):
8:00 AM – 11:00 PMRamadan (Holy Month):
10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Note: Food outlets inside adjust hours to open post-iftar; visitors are expected to respect local fasting customs.Eid Holidays (Eid Al Fitr & Eid Al Adha):
8:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight
Extended hours to accommodate family celebrations and events.UAE National Day / Independence Day (December 2–3):
8:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight
Special national events and shows; expect higher visitor numbers.Winter Season (October – March):
8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Outdoor events like Dubai Garden Glow operate during these months until late.Summer Season (April – September):
8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Note: Fewer outdoor events due to heat, but early mornings and late evenings are popular for visitors.Family Day:
There is no fixed “family day” at Zabeel Park, unlike some government-run parks in the UAE. All days are open to families and mixed groups, but Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest family days.
💰 Entry Fees
General Park Entry:
AED 5 per person (children under 2 years and people of determination enter free).
Payment is made via Nol card — ensure you have one topped up before arrival or use the on-site kiosks.Dubai Frame (inside park):
AED 50 for adults, AED 20 for children (3–12 years), free for children under 3 and people of determination with 2 companions.Dubai Garden Glow (seasonal, October–May):
AED 70 per person; combo tickets for Dinosaur Park/Ice Park available at additional cost.Parking:
Free for 2 hours; AED 10 per extra hour during peak periods or special events.
📜 Rules & Regulations
Dress Code:
Modest clothing is recommended, especially during Ramadan or national holidays.Food & Beverages:
Outside food and picnicking allowed in designated areas; BBQ only permitted in marked zones.Pets:
Not allowed inside the park.Sports Equipment:
Personal sports gear like bikes, skateboards, and frisbees are allowed, but motorized devices (except licensed e-scooters) are not.Conduct:
No loud music, no smoking in children’s play areas, no alcohol, and no littering. Offenders may face fines or removal.Photography:
Allowed for personal use, but commercial shoots (weddings, ads, etc.) require a permit.Events:
Organizing group events, corporate activities, or setting up tents/inflatables requires prior permission from Dubai Municipality.People of Determination:
Wheelchair-accessible paths and free entry are provided; Dubai Frame also offers complimentary wheelchair use.
How to Get There
🚗 By Car
Zabeel Park is located in the Zabeel area, near Al Jafiliya, Dubai, and is easily accessible by car from anywhere in Dubai or neighboring emirates like Sharjah, Ajman, or Abu Dhabi.
From Dubai:
Use Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) or Sheikh Rashid Road (D75). The park is well-signposted near Al Jafiliya and Trade Center area.From Sharjah/Ajman:
Take E11 towards Dubai, exit onto Sheikh Rashid Road, and follow signs to Zabeel Park.
Approximate travel time: 30–45 minutes depending on traffic. Toll: AED 4 per Salik gate.From Abu Dhabi:
Take E11 or E311 towards Dubai, follow to Sheikh Zayed Road, then exit at Trade Center/Zabeel.
Approximate travel time: 1 hr 15 min–1 hr 45 min. Toll: approx. AED 12 (three Salik gates).Estimated taxi fare (from other emirates):
Sharjah: AED 80–120
Ajman: AED 120–160
Abu Dhabi: AED 280–350
Tip: Check live traffic on Google Maps or Waze; Dubai rush hours (8–10 AM, 5–8 PM) can add delays.
🚇 By Public Transport
Nearest Metro Station:
Al Jafiliya Metro Station (Red Line) — just a short 5–10 minute walk to Gate 6 of Zabeel Park.From Dubai International Airport (DXB):
Take Red Line metro from Airport Terminal 1 or 3, stop at Al Jafiliya.
Cost: ~AED 5–7 per person (Nol card).From Deira/Bur Dubai:
Red Line metro, direct to Al Jafiliya.
Alternatively, RTA bus routes (C1, 28) serve the nearby areas.From Sharjah or Abu Dhabi (by public transport):
Intercity bus to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (Bur Dubai), then metro Red Line to Al Jafiliya.Sharjah–Dubai bus: AED 20–30 one way.
Abu Dhabi–Dubai bus: AED 25–35 one way.
🅿️ Parking Details
Parking capacity:
Around 2,300 parking spots, divided across multiple lots on the north, south, and west sides of the park.Charges:
Free for up to 2 hours on regular days.
AED 10 per extra hour, especially during weekends, public holidays, or special events (e.g., Dubai Garden Glow nights, flea markets).
Best hours to find parking:
Weekdays before 5 PM — plenty of availability.
Weekends and public holidays — arrive early (before 4 PM) to secure a spot.
During major events or evenings (7–10 PM), expect full lots; consider using metro.
Special parking:
Reserved spots for people of determination are available close to the gates, with ramp access.
Nearby Attractions
🏙 Dubai Frame (inside Zabeel Park)
One of Dubai’s most famous landmarks, the Dubai Frame offers panoramic views of both Old Dubai and New Dubai from a 150-meter-high glass bridge. It’s an architectural marvel and gives visitors a unique “past meets future” experience.
Why Zabeel Park is better: Dubai Frame is just one attraction within Zabeel Park — so by paying the park’s small entrance fee (AED 5), you access vast green spaces, playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports zones, not just the single monument. You get both nature and an iconic experience in one visit.
🌆 Dubai Garden Glow (inside Zabeel Park, seasonal)
A seasonal light and art festival featuring glowing sculptures, illuminated walkways, Dinosaur Park, and Ice Park. It’s highly popular with families, especially in the evenings.
Why Zabeel Park is better: While Garden Glow is ticketed separately (AED 70), visiting the regular park during the day offers a much more affordable and peaceful experience, especially if you want open green spaces, sports, and picnics without the crowds and lights.
🛍 BurJuman Mall (approx. 5–7 min drive)
A mid-sized shopping mall with retail stores, restaurants, cinema, and a metro connection. Good for shopping and dining.
Why Zabeel Park is better: Instead of indoor malls, Zabeel Park offers outdoor family time, fitness, and nature — healthier, more refreshing, and budget-friendly compared to spending time indoors and shopping.
🏛 Dubai Museum (approx. 10 min drive)
Located in Al Fahidi Fort, it’s a cultural spot showcasing Dubai’s history from pearl diving to skyscrapers.
Why Zabeel Park is better: While the museum offers cultural insights, Zabeel Park provides interactive tech zones, educational exhibits, and live events — combining learning with outdoor play, making it more engaging for families with kids.
🌊 Dubai Creek & Al Seef (approx. 10–12 min drive)
A heritage waterfront area with traditional dhow rides, restaurants, and souks. Great for heritage walks.
Why Zabeel Park is better: At Zabeel Park, you avoid the tourist-heavy souk experience and get space to relax, play, and exercise — it’s more of a local favorite for family outings rather than a shopping or tourist district.
🌳 Safa Park (approx. 15 min drive)
Another popular urban park in Dubai with running tracks, lakes, and green spaces.
Why Zabeel Park is better: While Safa Park is charming, Zabeel Park stands out with unique attractions like Dubai Frame, Garden Glow, and Techno Zone, offering far more than just lawns and jogging paths — plus better metro access.
🏢 World Trade Centre & Exhibition Halls (approx. 5 min drive)
Dubai’s business district hosting events, expos, and conferences.
Why Zabeel Park is better: Instead of the formal, corporate vibe, Zabeel Park offers an unwind spot where both locals and tourists can relax, exercise, and socialize.
Visitor Tips
To make the most of your visit to Zabeel Park, here are some handy tips:
✅ Visit early or late — Dubai’s midday sun can be intense, especially in summer. Plan your visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and better light for photos.
✅ Bring a picnic or snacks — While there are food kiosks, bringing your own snacks or picnic can make for a relaxed family outing under the shady trees or by the lake.
✅ Explore nearby attractions — Make your Dubai itinerary richer by pairing your Zabeel Park visit with nearby family-friendly spots. Dubai Safari Park is a fantastic choice if you love wildlife, offering an immersive safari experience with animals from around the world.
✅ Dress comfortably — Wear light, breathable clothing and comfy walking shoes. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to stay protected.
✅ Plan for kids — Zabeel Park has playgrounds, train rides, and the Dubai Frame, making it ideal for kids. But if you want more adventure, consider a trip to Shees Park, known for its stunning mountain scenery and waterfall, or Mushrif Park, famous for biking trails and the Aventura adventure park.
✅ Check event schedules — Zabeel Park often hosts flea markets, fitness classes, and light festivals. Check ahead to see if something exciting is happening during your visit.
✅ Carry cash or card — While many vendors accept cards, it’s handy to have cash for small purchases or entry fees.
Customer Reviews
1️⃣ Ayesha Khan, Marketing Manager, Abu Dhabi
*”We visited Zabeel Park last weekend with our two kids, aged 6 and 9. It was such a refreshing family outing! The kids loved the dinosaur park and the mini train ride — they were so excited to see the life-sized dino models. We set up a small picnic near the lake, and the view of the Dubai Frame was just stunning.
One thing we really appreciated was the cleanliness and how well-maintained the gardens are. The public washrooms were also surprisingly clean, which is rare in big parks.
However, I feel there could be more shaded seating areas, especially near the playgrounds. We had to walk quite a bit to find a bench under a tree. Also, the food options were limited — a couple more cafés or snack kiosks would have been nice. Overall, it was a memorable day, and we’d definitely return!”*
2️⃣ Rahul Mehra, Software Engineer, Dubai
*”I went to Zabeel Park with my wife and parents who were visiting from India. We mainly wanted to show them the Dubai Frame, but we ended up spending half the day in the park itself! The walking trails were lovely, and my parents enjoyed the boating area.
We joined a local flea market event happening there, and it was a fantastic surprise — lots of handmade crafts, local food stalls, and music. We also loved how eco-friendly the park is, with recycling bins everywhere and solar-powered lighting.
If I have one suggestion, it’s about signage — sometimes it was confusing to find our way to certain attractions inside the park. A few more clear direction boards or maps would really help first-time visitors.”*
3️⃣ Fatima Al Shamsi, School Teacher, Sharjah
*”Our school organized a field trip to Zabeel Park for our Grade 5 students. It was a hit! The children had so much fun exploring the educational exhibits at the Edutainment Centre and learning about sustainability.
The large open spaces allowed them to run around safely, and the staff at the park were very cooperative. I personally enjoyed the peaceful gardens and took a short break at the jogging track, which is shaded and well-maintained.
One challenge was managing the group during lunchtime — the picnic areas were a bit crowded, and we wished there were more group-friendly sitting zones. Still, as a teacher, I found it an excellent venue for an educational and fun day out.”*
4️⃣ James Carter, Travel Blogger, UK
*”As a travel blogger, I explore parks worldwide, and Zabeel Park stands out for its unique blend of nature, architecture, and tech. I visited solo but saw plenty of families and fitness enthusiasts. The skyline views from the Dubai Frame at sunset were breathtaking — highly recommend timing your visit for that!
What I appreciated most was the balance: you can chill on the grass, get active on the jogging paths, or engage in photography with the futuristic cityscape backdrop. The only downside I experienced was the Wi-Fi connectivity, which was patchy in some areas, making it hard to upload live stories.
That said, Zabeel Park is a must-visit for both locals and tourists. It’s not just a park; it’s an experience.”*
FAQs about Park
What are the opening hours of Zabeel Park?
Zabeel Park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM. However, please note that on Fridays and public holidays, it may open slightly later or close earlier depending on crowd levels or special events. The Dubai Frame, located within the park, has its own operating hours (usually 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM), so plan accordingly if you wish to visit it.
Is Zabeel Park suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely! Zabeel Park is one of the most family-friendly parks in Dubai. It has dedicated playgrounds, a mini-train, picnic areas, and even a Dinosaur Park that’s a hit with kids. Families often bring picnic mats and spend hours enjoying the wide-open green spaces. However, it’s a good idea to bring a stroller for toddlers, as the park is large and involves quite a bit of walking.
How much is the entrance fee to Zabeel Park?
The entrance fee to Zabeel Park is very affordable — typically AED 5 per person. Children under 2 and people of determination (with valid ID) can enter free of charge. Do keep in mind that attractions like the Dubai Frame or Dinosaur Park have separate entry tickets, so budget extra if you plan to visit those.
Are there food and drink options available inside the park?
Yes, there are several kiosks and small cafés inside the park where you can grab snacks, drinks, and light meals. That said, many visitors prefer to bring their own picnic or packed food, especially families and school groups. If you’re looking for more variety or sit-down dining, you’ll find restaurants just outside the park or nearby in the Zabeel area.
What are some nearby attractions to combine with a visit to Zabeel Park?
Zabeel Park is conveniently located, making it easy to pair with other attractions. We highly recommend visiting Dubai Safari Park for a thrilling wildlife experience or heading to Shees Park for a mountain escape and waterfall views. For adventure lovers, Mushrif Park offers bike trails and the famous Aventura adventure park. All of these make excellent add-ons to your Dubai outdoor itinerary.
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