Zabeel Park Dubai: Entrance Fee, Location
By Hammad Rana Zabeel Park was built by the Dubai Municipality to incorporate green spaces in urban areas and improve the quality of life in the city. It was opened to the Public in 2005. Zabeel Park was designed by Charles Jencks who incorporated technology, contemporary layout, and traditional elements into it. He wanted this park to increase urban greenery and provide recreational spaces for adults and children alike.
It also provides fresh air and reduces pollution caused by cars and factories. Following Zabeel Parks, many parks and green spaces were constructed but it remains the most well-known technology-driven park. It represents the dedication of the UAE to creating green spaces within urban landscapes.
Amenities Offered by Zabeel Park Dubai
Children’s play areas, regular events, picnic spots, Dubai Frame, etc. are some of the amenities offered by Zabeel Park Dubai.
Dubai Frame:
Dubai Frame is a building in the shape of a frame. It is the world’s largest frame and one of the most iconic landmarks of Dubai. Designed by renowned designer, Fernando Donis, this frame spans over 2,300 square meters and covers a total area of 4,197 feet. It has 2 stainless steel pillars that are attached to form a continuous structure. Dubai Frame was designed to create a unique landmark for the visitors of the park.
It is an amazing place to snap pictures and make memories. In addition, it goes up 230 meters above sea level so you can go to its observation deck to enjoy incredible views of neighborhoods of Dubai. There is a huge screen and a giant slide that further enhances the experience of the tourists and doubles their adventures.
Fitness Activates:
Zabeel Park contains well-developed tracks that can be used for running, jogging, and exercise. People come to this park for long walks in the greenery. Locals visit it in the early morning and evening to get some exercise and fresh air.
Children’s Play Area:
This park has a designated Children’s Play area. In this area, there are slides, swings, and numerous obstacle courses that are bound to keep kids busy for quite a while. Both easy and difficult obstacle courses are available for children of different ages and strengths.
Dubai Garden Glow:
Dubai Garden Glow is an enchanting display of large-than-life-creations illuminated by LED lights. During this event, massive plants, natural landscapes, sceneries, and abstract shapes glow in the dark with the help of more than 10 million LED lights. This event aims to provide family-friendly entertainment and bring people together with the promise of thrilling adventures and fun activities.
However, Dubai Garden Glow has a separate entrance fee. You can buy its ticket for AED 70 ($19.06) which seems a little expensive but most people are happy to spend this much for a unique experience. Kids under 3 can enter the event for free. You can attend this event between 5 PM and 11 PM from Sundays to Fridays. The timing for Saturday and National Holidays is 5 PM to 12 PM.
The Dinosaur Park:
The Dinosaur Park is the main attraction for kids. It will transport you to a time when these fearsome creatures walked the earth. In the park, the animatronic dinosaurs walk the area and pose for snaps. This creates a thrilling and exciting ambiance. Your kids can interact with the dinosaurs, touch them, and take pictures. Special booths have also been created to help people take social media-worthy pictures!
Boat Ride:
A beautiful lake flows through Zabeel Park. The lake is filled with fountains that shoot water up to almost 100 feet in the air. The fountains provide a breathtaking display. You can also hop on a pedal boat and enjoy a nice ride through the placid waters of the lake. The cost of a 20-minute boating trip begins at around AED 40 ($10.98).
Sports Grounds:
Zabeel Park contains various sports grounds including cricket, golf, football, etc. You are free to go to any ground and participate in the sports. This will enable you to enjoy an active lifestyle and engage with the locals.
Food Stalls:
After so much physical exertion in the park, visitors are bound to get hungry. This is why small eateries, stalls, and coffee stands are scattered across the park. You can enjoy light snacks and refreshing drinks in between your adventures. Overall, the prices of the food sold at stalls and stands are also reasonable. Furthermore, the Low Battery coffee shop adjacent to Dubai Frame is loved by tourists. It features a quiet, open-air terrace surrounded by trees which makes for a charming ambiance.
Picnic Spots and BBQ:
Designated picnic and BBQ spots are available at Zabeel Park Dubai. Huge Palm trees and canopies keep the barbecue area protected from the sun. Families can use grills to fire up coals and cook their food.
There are also plenty of playgrounds and swings to keep the children distracted. Pork is not allowed because of religious reasons. You can BBQ lamb or beef or seafood or any other meat of your choice as long as it’s not pork.
Magic Park:
Magic Park makes use of optical illusions, 3D artworks, and 25 peculiar installations to captivate the onlookers. It offers many attractions like neon exhibitions, upside-down houses, and 3D animal imagery. The Magic Park charms both Adults and children alike. Its entry fee is AED 45 ($12.25). It is open to the public between 5 PM and 11 PM from Sunday to Monday and on Saturday the timing is 5 PM-12 AM.
Bike Riding:
There are bike tracks in Zabeel Park Dubai and bikes are also available for rent. Bike riding is a thrilling activity that will cause a significant adrenaline rush. However, keep in mind that renting vendors have some rules in place to ensure the safety of the visitors. They will likely have an age limit and appropriate clothing requirements for the rider. In addition, you need to have your ID card, driver’s license, or passport to rent a bike. The price of bike riding usually starts at about AED 45 ($12.25).
Flea Market:
The flea market is set up in Zabeel market on Saturdays and Sundays. At the market, you will find second-hand items, local handicrafts, vintage treasures, and exquisite jewelry. You are likely to get a great deal on products by bargaining with the locals.
Moreover, you can sell your own craft or unneeded belongings at this market by participating as a seller. For a fee of AED 290 ($78.95), you can secure a place to set up your stall at the market. You will also be given a table, two chairs, and a canopy by the management. Flea markets operate between 8 AM to 3 PM on weekends.
Eateries Near Zabeel Park Dubai:
You can visit the areas surrounding Zabeel Park to have a scrumptious meal. The places around it are filled with cafes, high-end restaurants, and small eateries. Sallet Al Sayad is a popular spot for fresh seafood lovers. Their seafood is infused with Arabian and Mediterranean flavors. Plus, many cafes and food trucks serve refreshing beverages and drinks to visitors at affordable prices.
Many Indian eateries are located near Zabeel Park. Visit Saleem’s Of Delhi to enjoy authentic Indian cuisines and a nice ambiance. Another well-known spot is Boardgame Cafe which provides spaces and board games for people to play while they wait for the food. This cafe serves mouthwatering pizzas and granola bowls.
How much is the entrance fee in Zabeel Park?
The entrance fee for Zabeel Park is AED 5 ($1.36). Disabled people and children under two can enter the park for free. The entrance fee is reasonable considering the facilities offered by the park. Once you enter the park, you can exercise, walk, jog, and play the sports of your choice. However, you will need to pay separately for the tickets to Dubai Frame and Garden Glow events.
What is the Best Time to Visit Zabeel Park?
The best time to visit Zabeel Park is in the cooler months, between October and March. Visit in the late afternoon or evening so that you can avoid the sun and enjoy all the fun activities. Go to the park after 5 PM, if you visit it during summer.
How to Reach Zabeel Park?
You can reach Zabeel Park by Metro, bus, or taxi. For Metro, travel through the Red Line and alight at Max Station (formerly Al Jaffliya Station). From the station, it is a 15-minute walk to Zabeel Park. You can either walk or take a taxi. If you want to travel by bus, take any of these busses, 10, 21, 27, 29, 32C, 61, 88, C26, F12, and X28. Get off at Department Health 1 or Department Health 2 stop. These stops are within walking distance from the park.
Use Google Maps to reach Zabeel Park, if you are traveling in your car. Google Maps will take you to your destination through the ideal route. You can park your car in the areas around the destination. Don’t forget to pay the parking fee or else you could get a fine. The parking fee is usually AED 10 ($2.72) per day. Many people prefer to opt for a taxi. You could use Careem or Uber or hail a local taxi.
Points to Keep in Mind While Visiting Zabeel Park
Keep the following points in mind while visiting Zabeel Park:
- Take a valid form of identification (ID card or passport) with you because you may need it to rent boats or bikes.
- Bring Sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Pack light snacks to save money on food.
- Take a hat, umbrella, and shades with you for sun protection.
- Visit during the cooler months in the late afternoon and after 5 PM in the summer.
- Dress appropriately and respect the local norms.
Note: Smoking is not allowed near the Children’s play area and Shisha is strictly prohibited in the park. You can get in trouble if you break the no-smoking rule. Plus littering and damaging park properties are illegal. Pets and camping are also banned.
Is Zabeel Park worth a visit?
Zabeel Park is an excellent attraction that provides plenty of amenities and entertainment. It has adventurous activities for people of all ages. Children can enjoy the play area, visit Dinosaur Park, and get some fresh air. Adults can go to flea markets, Dubai Frame, and different events organized by the management. They can enjoy boating and bike riding.
Additionally, you can have a picnic or BBQ in Zabeel Park. The entrance fee for this park is only AED 5 ($1.36) which is quite reasonable. It is better to go there in cooler months to avoid the heat. You should definitely visit Zabeel Park next time you are in Dubai.
