Discover Dubai July 2015 | Page 34

SIGHTS & attractions Park life Although you may be in the desert, you can still get close to nature in one of the many public parks around Dubai. If you miss the smell of freshly cut grass, then why not spend the day lounging around one of these popular locations. CREEK PARK As the name suggests, Creek Park runs along the side of Dubai creek. Although one of the earliest parks in Dubai, Creek Park has a modern layout, with well-planned children’s play areas, recreational facilities, easy to navigate footpaths and a number of handy refreshment stands. Creek Park is also home to Dubai Dolphinarium, Children’s City, the ‘teleferic’ cable car rides, rental bikes, train rides, camel and pony rides and restaurants. Open Sunday to Wednesday 8am to 10pm, Thursday to Saturday and official holidays 8am to 11pm. Entry is Dhs 5 per person. Call 04-3367633. MUSHRIF PARK ZABEEL PARK Zabeel Park is a highly maintained innercity park, with lush green lawns and bridges connecting the 3 main areas around the Trade Centre roundabout. In addition to the beautifully kept gardens, the park is home to Stargate (a space age theme park), Megabowl (a large outdoor amphitheatre) and the Space Maze. There is also a boating lake, mini golf, cricket field, assault course and food court, with a separate area designed to host functions. Open Sunday to Wednesday 8am to 10pm, Thursday to Saturday and official holidays 8am to 11pm. Entry is Dhs 5 per person. Call 04-3986888. Situated on the Al Awir Road in 124 hectares of natural ghaf forest, Mushrif Park boasts swimming pools, fountains, lakes, children’s play areas, camel and pony rides and 26 picnic areas equipped with wooden shades, seats and modern grills. It also supports a healthy population of birds, including Owls, Orphean Warbler’s, eastern Black Redstart’s, Yellowthroated Sparrows and Hoopoe's, making it the ideal place to escape the city. Open Sunday to Wednesday 8am to 10pm, Thursday to Saturday and official holidays 8am to 11pm. Entry is Dhs 3 per person. Call 04-2883624. 34 | JULY Discover Dubai