Al Safa Park is a public park in the Al Safa area of Dubai, run by Dubai Municipality and set between Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Wasl Road and Al Hadiqa Street, right beside the Dubai Water Canal. First opened in 1975, it is one of the oldest parks in the city and is known for its shaded running track, open lawns, barbecue areas, children’s play zones and clear views of the Burj Khalifa. The park opens daily from 8am, entry costs AED 3 per person, and children under two and People of Determination enter free. It sits only a few minutes by car from Downtown Dubai, City Walk and Jumeirah Beach, which makes it an easy green stop on any Dubai itinerary.
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The park suits families planning a weekend picnic, runners and cyclists who want a loop away from traffic, and visitors who need a calm break between sightseeing stops. The Dubai Water Canal project took away part of the original grounds, so Al Safa Park is smaller and quieter today than the park many long time residents remember, yet it is still one of the most central green spaces in the city.
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Al Safa Park timings and entry fee
Al Safa Park usually opens at 8am every day. It closes at 10pm from Monday to Thursday and at 11pm from Friday to Sunday. Hours often change during Ramadan, Eid and New Year, when Dubai Municipality may keep major parks open later, sometimes until 1am.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Monday to Thursday | 8am to 10pm |
| Friday to Sunday | 8am to 11pm |
| Entry fee | AED 3 per person |
| Free entry | Children under two and People of Determination |
| How to pay | Bank card, Apple Pay, Google Pay or Samsung Pay at the smart ticket machines, or cash at the counter |
| Parking | Parking areas beside the main gates, with Gate 2 often the most convenient |
Major Dubai parks have moved to smart ticket machines, and Gulf News reports that the system was first introduced at Safa Park. You pay at the machine, receive a paper ticket with a QR code and scan it at the entry gate. Timings and prices may change and T&C apply.
Things to do in Al Safa Park
- Run or walk the track: a tree lined track of roughly 3.5 km loops around the park, and it is a favourite with Dubai running groups in the cooler months.
- Cycle along the canal: paths near the park connect to the Dubai Water Canal boardwalk, so you can ride or stroll towards the canal waterfall and Business Bay.
- Have a picnic or barbecue: wide lawns and designated barbecue areas make the park a classic weekend spot for families and groups of friends.
- Let the kids play: several children’s play areas sit close to the main paths, with plenty of space to run around on the grass.
- Play team sports: open lawns and sports areas are used for football, cricket, basketball and volleyball, though some courts may be closed for upkeep.
- Take skyline photos: the Burj Khalifa and the Business Bay towers rise just behind the trees, which makes for great sunset pictures.
- Join a community event: in 2026 the park hosted The Grand Picnic classic car day by Flat12 in February and the seventh Dubai Canal Run in October, and it is often used for Dubai Fitness Challenge activities.
How to get to Al Safa Park
- By car: reach the gates from Al Wasl Road or Al Hadiqa Street, which both connect to Sheikh Zayed Road. Parking sits next to the gates but fills fast on weekend afternoons.
- By metro: Business Bay Metro Station on the Red Line is the closest, and a short taxi ride takes you from the station to the park. See more Dubai tourist places near metro stations.
- By taxi: the ride from Downtown Dubai or Dubai Mall usually takes about ten minutes, depending on traffic.
- From the airport: the park is around a 20 minute drive from Dubai International Airport, and White Sky can arrange airport transfer services to your hotel.
Best time to visit Al Safa Park
The best season is from October to April, when daytime weather in Dubai is mild enough for long walks and picnics. Go early in the morning for running and cycling, or after 4pm for sunset views and barbecues. Weekdays are calmer, while Friday to Sunday brings more families and busier car parks. Before you go, check the weather in Dubai 10 days forecast, and read our guide on when is a good time to visit Dubai if you are still choosing travel dates.
Plan your visit
| Visit type | Best time | How long | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning run or walk | 7am to 9am | About 1 hour | Start at Gate 2 for easy parking |
| Family picnic | Late afternoon | 3 to 4 hours | Bring mats, shade and plenty of water |
| Barbecue with friends | Weekday evening | 3 hours | Use the designated barbecue areas only |
| Quick stop between sights | Any time | About 1 hour | Combine it with the Dubai Water Canal |
Common issues and quick fixes
| Issue | Why it happens | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| No parking | Weekend crowds | Arrive before 9am or come on a weekday |
| Too hot | Summer months | Visit early or after sunset and stay in the shade |
| Hungry group | Few food options inside | Pack snacks and drinks before you arrive |
| Hard to find your car | Several gates and car parks | Note your gate number when you enter |
Rules to follow in Al Safa Park
Keep the grounds clean, use the bins and stay off planted and fenced areas. Barbecues are allowed only in the designated zones, and camping is not permitted in Dubai’s public parks. Commercial photo or video shoots and private events need prior approval from Dubai Municipality, and staff may ask to see it on the day.
When to pick another park
Al Safa Park works best for a relaxed walk, a run or a casual picnic. If you want boating, a much larger playground or beach access, Zabeel Park with the Dubai Frame, Mushrif Park with its forest trails, or a beach day at Kite Beach may suit you better. Large private parties and tournaments are also better at venues built for them.
Places to visit near Al Safa Park
- Dubai Water Canal: the canal runs right past the park, with boardwalks, bridges and a waterfall that lights up at night under the Sheikh Zayed Road bridge. Read our Dubai Water Canal guide.
- Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall: only a short drive away, perfect for an evening visit after the park. See Burj Khalifa At The Top tickets.
- La Perle at Al Habtoor City: the famous aqua theatre show at Al Habtoor City, just across the canal from the park, with evening performances. Learn more about La Perle in Dubai.
- City Walk and The Green Planet: an open air shopping street with cafes, plus an indoor rainforest that kids love.
- Box Park: a strip of shops and restaurants on Al Wasl Road, a short drive from the park.
- Jumeirah Mosque: one of the few Dubai mosques that welcomes visitors, a short drive towards the beach. See Jumeirah Mosque visiting tips.
Hotels and resorts near Al Safa Park
Several hotels sit within a short walk or drive of the park, from simple city stays to five star resorts:
- Holiday Inn Express Dubai Safa Park: a simple, good value stay on Sheikh Zayed Road, just across the canal from the park.
- V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton: a stylish hotel at Al Habtoor City, close to the canal.
- Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City: a large hotel with canal views and easy access to La Perle.
- Habtoor Palace Dubai, LXR Hotels and Resorts: a classic luxury stay at Al Habtoor City.
- JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai: a landmark tower hotel in Business Bay with many restaurants.
- Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach: a beach resort a short drive from the park.
White Sky can book any of these through our Dubai hotel booking service, with the option to split the cost using Tabby, Tamara or UAE credit card instalments for up to 12 months. T&C apply.
Food spots near Al Safa Park
Food options inside the park are limited, so many visitors pack their own picnic. For a sit down meal nearby, try Box Park and the Wasl 51 dining enclave on Al Wasl Road, the cafes and restaurants of City Walk, or Galleria Mall on Al Wasl Road with its family friendly cafes. Supermarkets near the park gates are handy for picnic and barbecue supplies.
Plan your Dubai trip with White Sky
Al Safa Park is a public park, so there is nothing to book in advance and you simply pay the small entry fee at the gate. If you are travelling to Dubai, White Sky Travel and Tourism can arrange your flights, hotels and transfers in one place, with easy payment plans through Tabby, Tamara or UAE credit card instalments for up to 12 months. Message us on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 to plan your trip. T&C apply.
Related Articles
Explore more parks and attractions in Dubai:
- Dubai Water Canal: Waterfall, Boat Rides, Hotels and Things to Do
- Zabeel Park Dubai: Timings, Entry Fee, Gates and Things to Do
- Mushrif Park Dubai: Entry Fee, Timings, Trails and Things to Do
- Kite Beach Dubai: Guide to Fun, Food, and Activities
- Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai: History, Location, Timings and Visiting Tips
- Dubai’s Must Visit Tourist Attractions
- Dubai Tourist Places Near Metro
Frequently asked questions
What are Al Safa Park timings?
Al Safa Park opens daily at 8am. It closes at 10pm from Monday to Thursday and at 11pm from Friday to Sunday. Hours may change during Ramadan, Eid and public holidays, and T&C apply.
How much is the Al Safa Park entry fee?
Entry costs AED 3 per person. Children under two and People of Determination enter free. Prices may change and T&C apply.
Where is Al Safa Park located?
Al Safa Park is on Al Hadiqa Street in the Al Wasl and Al Safa area of Dubai. It sits between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Wasl Road, on the south side of the Dubai Water Canal, about ten minutes by car from Downtown Dubai.
Which metro station is closest to Al Safa Park?
Business Bay Metro Station on the Red Line is the closest. From the station, a short taxi ride takes you to the park gates.
How do I pay the entry fee at Al Safa Park?
You can pay by bank card, Apple Pay, Google Pay or Samsung Pay at the smart ticket machines near the gates, or in cash at the ticket counter. You then scan the QR code ticket at the entry gate.
How long is the Al Safa Park running track?
The running track loops around the park for roughly 3.5 km under shady trees, and it is popular with runners in the early morning and evening.
Is barbecue allowed in Al Safa Park?
Yes. Barbecues are allowed in the designated barbecue areas only. Bring your own grill and supplies, and clean up before you leave.
Is Al Safa Park good for kids?
Yes. The park has children’s play areas, open lawns for games and picnic spots, which make it a good choice for a relaxed family day out.
Is Al Safa Park the same as Al Safa 2 Park?
No. Al Safa 2 Park is a separate neighbourhood park in the Al Safa 2 community. In 2026 Dubai Municipality launched a design challenge to reimagine Al Safa 2 Park, while the main Al Safa Park stays open next to the Dubai Water Canal.
Conclusion
Al Safa Park is a calm, central and budget friendly escape in the middle of Dubai, with a shaded running track, picnic lawns, barbecue areas and Burj Khalifa views for just AED 3 per person. Visit between October and April, go early or near sunset, and pair it with the Dubai Water Canal, La Perle or City Walk for a full day out. If you are planning a trip to Dubai, contact White Sky on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 for flights, hotels and transfers with flexible payment options. T&C apply.
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