It is believed that one of the best ways to explore any city is on a bicycle which is supposed to bring the rider in closer contact with the inhabitants and provide city views at street level. This is true of Abu Dhabi as well, preferably when the sun is not too hot! However with plenty of water and a wide brimmed hat it should be quite enjoyable from October to March that are the cooler mont
hs of the year. Although cycling through the streets of Abu Dhabi can be dangerous, where there are designated bicycle lanes it can be pleasurable.
The 8 km Corniche Road where everything happens, is a good place to start a bike tour. Its separate cycle pathways diminish the possibility of endangering life and limb by dodging between busy traffic on the highway. Riders can pedal away on their own or join a guided tour to explore and enjoy cafes and restaurants, the city’s evolving skyline and the Corniche Beach area that is internationally recognized as a clean and safe beach. Mountain bikes or city bikes that can fit two or even three passengers at the back can be hired including specially designed bikes for ladies wearing abayas.
Yas Island is another area that can be easily explored and enjoyed on a cycling trip. Purpose built cycling paths with signage, maps, water stations, shaded rest areas and stands make this easy. Bikes can be rented to explore the area on your own or as part of a guided island tour. There are even Yas Island night cycling tours that afford grand views of several attractions on the island. Some of the hotels have also got into promoting cycling as a fun way to see Abu Dhabi. The Fairmont Hotel provides guests with Mercedes bikes, safety helmets and a cycling map during their stay with suggestions of routes in 3, 5 and 10 km options. Train Yas Night at Yas Marina F1 Circuit held in the evenings of Tuesdays and some Sundays offer cyclists the opportunity to use the 5.5 km track as a training space. The event is turned into a glamorous and fun occasion with the world’s largest LED display and pop music. However as the days get hotter cycling becomes an after dark activity.
For those who want to have a desert adventure there are the quad bike tours. Enthusiasts can opt for a total package that includes a desert safari ending with dinner or an overnight stay at a Bedouin night camp. Riding over sand dunes in the desert will indeed satisfy the inner cravings of the adventurer in everyone.
With a spread of hotels in important places in the region Millennium and Copthorne Hotels Middle East are able to offer their clients a range of accommodation options to suit business and leisure clients as well as families. These Middle East hotels are known to offer some of the most luxurious experiences to their guests as well as great value. Take advantage of great promotional offers at these UAE hotels to experience a special brand of hospitality.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.