The best places for a city escape in Dubai

Anyone who’s been to Dubai, never mind actually lived here, knows how wonderful it is. But it’s hard not to feel occasionally overwhelmed by the pace, traffic, noise and sheer busyness of daily life. Sometimes, heading out of town to a quieter spot is all that’s needed to recharge the batteries, allowing you to return to daily urban life refreshed. Here, we round up of some of the best places for doing just that.

The saltwater Dubai Creek now extends all the way to the Persian Gulf and is the perfect location to unwind while escaping some of the heat of the city. Experience it from the deck of a water taxi or wooden dhow and cool off as you cruise along the creek, or just watch the boats bobbing on the water’s surface. Creek Park, by the river, is Dubai’s second largest and an oasis of tranquility, with botanical gardens, lawns and play areas with some great views over the creek – an excellent place to settle down for a pleasant picnic and some fresh air.

Covering an area of around 6 km at the southern end of the creek, the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses salt and mud flats, lagoons and mangroves, providing superb habitats for a huge range of wild bird species, from herons to egrets, osprey and others. Three bird hides on the edge of the reserve are available during daylight hours if you really want to see some rare species. This Dubai nature reserve is also a breeding ground for mammals, fish and various crustaceans – but it’s the migratory flamingos that are the real showstoppers.

One of the best ways of escaping the pressures of city life is to catch a ride to one of the various natural parks dotted around Dubai: Dubai’s central Zabeel Park is the size of 45 football fields, combining well-kept greenery with the city’s characteristic modern look. If offers numerous technology-based attractions and educational exhibits, plus stunning views over the city from the Dubai Frame. Umm Suqeim Park offers an incredible view of the Burj Al Arab, and is a fitness hotspot, while Barsha Pond Park takes its name from the large pond it was built around. If you really want to get active in the outdoors, Aventura Park Dubai is the go-to place for some adrenaline-pumping fun, from Tarzan swings to zip-lining and high rope obstacles. Request an UberXL to get the whole If you really want to get active in the outdoors, Aventura Park Dubai is the go-to place for some adrenaline-pumping fun, from Tarzan swings to zip-lining and high rope obstacles. Request an UberXL to get the whole gang over there for a day of bonding in nature – and there’s no need to feel guilty about requesting another one home again afterwards!

At the Green Planet, you can experience an indoor rainforest in the heart of urban Dubai. This truly special experience is perfect for those wanting not just to leave the city behind, but to step into a whole new natural environment. Learn about and get up close and personal with more than three thousand animal species from place as far-flung from Dubai as South America.

If you want to escape the stresses of city life in Dubai, the last thing you need is more hassle. So, leave the car at home: Uber can whisk you away from urban hustle and bustle safely, comfortably and affordably. All these spots and more are available with a few taps on the Uber app.