Ten of the best parks in the UAE

Get a dose of Vitamin D in one of the UAE's top public parks.

In the middle of the concrete jungle, Capital Park on Khalifa Street in Abu Dhabi. Ravindranath K / The National
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DUBAI // The UAE celebrated its 33rd Plantation Week with the opening and commissioning of 25 new parks last week.

New spaces include Al Hubab Park and Al Warqa 2 Park in Dubai, with more parks planned for Mohammed bin Zayed City, Al Shahama and Khalifa City B in the capital.

But you don't have to wait for those to open to soak in the open air. Here are 10 of The National's favourite places to go alfresco.

Capital Garden, Abu Dhabi

On Khalifa Street in downtown Abu Dhabi, the 5.6-hectare space is a green oasis in the concrete jungle and is open 24/7.

The small park was opened in 1976 but was recently refurbished and now includes rock fountain, where high-pressure nozzles shoot boulders a few metres into the air.

Corniche Park, Abu Dhabi

Stretching 5 kilometres along the Abu Dhabi coast is the 50-hectare Corniche Park. A fun way to see the park's restaurants, play areas and beaches is to rent a bicycle from one of the many stations.

Creek Park, Dubai

The only park with its own cable car can be found in the heart of old Dubai, between Maktoum Bridge and Garhoud Bridge. The park is also home to the Dubai Dolphinarium and Children's City, a centre where children aged 2 to 15 can investigate, explore, play and learn about the world they live in.

Jumeirah Beach Park, Dubai

Opened in 1989 on 12 hectares of land, it was Dubai's first beach park. Besides having the best spot on Dubai's coastline, the park is an ideal location for a family picnic, with barbecue areas, children's playgrounds, volleyball courts and a swimming pool with lifeguards.

Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi

In 2007, 45 hectares were set aside for this park. One of the main attractions here is a Maritime Heritage museum, including a tunnel ride. The 20-minute ride charts the history of the country from before the Union to present day. A favourite among children is the Murjan Splash park.

Mamzar Beach Park, Dubai

On the edge of Dubai is this 106-hectare space that includes five stretches of beach, all monitored by lifeguards from watchtowers. The park is one of only two locations on the Dubai coastline that attracts surfers.

"I like coming here to surf because it's only a few minutes from my house and it's not as crowded as Jumeirah beach," said Adil Mohammed Ali, 32. "I've made friends with the lifeguards there so they always let me know if the waves are good."

Mushrif Park, Dubai

Created in 1980 as an international village, it still contains 13 models of houses from around the world. Visitors can also enjoy camel and horse-riding here, or learn about UAE culture at a Bedouin camp.

Surrounded by a Mushrif Forest tree sanctuary, the park's amphitheatre is a popular concert venue during Eid and on holidays.

Safa Park, Dubai

When Dubai opened its first public park in 1975, it was on the outskirts of the city. Today Jumeirah's iconic 64 hectare landmark, Safa Park, is in the heart of a buzzing metropolis. The park contains three lakes, an outdoor ice-skating rink and a three-kilometre rubberised jogging track.

"I remember when Safa and Mushref were the only parks in Dubai," said Dr Hasna Al Saeed. "I still remember how much we loved riding that ladybird merry-go-round in Safa Park. These days I feel children have too many distractions. A day at the park - some fresh air and sunlight - can be just what they need."

Saqr Park, Ras Al Khaimah

In Rak's Kieran area, Saqr Park is a popular family weekend destination. Beside the lush greenery, the park also offers some amusement rides, a video game arcade and table tennis tables.

"The park is close to the mountains, so you get a very nice view," said Mahmoud Al Mahmoud. "It is a very green, family friendly, quiet place where you can really relax with your family. It doesn't get too crowded either so you still have some privacy."

Zaabeel Park, Dubai

Dubai's first technology-based park, Wi-Fi access is available throughout this green haven and three portions are reserved for exhibits on alternative energy, communication, and technology.

The 47.5-hectare park also hosts activities such as minigolf, a skateboard and BMX track, a cricket pitch, and a 4.3km jogging track.

"I like going to Zabeel Park to ride my bike," said 9-year-old Shaima Al Awadi. "The playground toys there are more interesting for kids my age."