So, can you actually bike anywhere in the city or is it just impossible? We’re here for a couple of weeks (and might move here) but can’t figure out where bikes are allowed; help?
It’s true, there aren’t many places to bike in the capital yet. But if you haven’t heard, the municipality is working on a plan to implement bike roads – yes it’s still in the early stages but like most development in the city we expect the routes to be up and running very quickly after the plan’s been finalised.
But don’t despair, TOAD towers has a few bikers within our ranks and we all manage to find space to ride. The number one destination would be the Corniche, as it has its own bike path and a nearby park where people often bike. We’re not sure if you’re allowed to bike in the park, to be fair, but we’ve seen plenty of people do it; we tend to stick to the bike path. The Corniche is also a winner because of the Byky bike renting booth you’ll find there. An hour on one of their bikes will set you back Dhs20, and you’re not allowed to leave the path – but it’s long enough so you won’t want to. The Yas Marina Circuit also opens up for bikers every Tuesday (7pm-9pm during Ramadan) and it’s a pretty awesome place to head to if you feel the need for speed.
Having said all that, are you sure you should be biking these days? With the mercury pushing 50 during the day, the only time we can endure it ourselves is at night – especially since you cannot drink in public during the whole month of Ramadan. We strongly advise you don’t risk any daytime riding.
But at night, remember to drink enough water, eat well beforehand and don’t overexert yourself. If you’ve not biked in the heat before it can be quick a challenge, and if you feel the least bit faint, stop and walk back (or grab a cab). And if you will be biking at night, try to avoid the main roads. Abu Dhabians aren’t used to bikers to begin with, and have a hard enough time avoiding collisions during the day; so it’s quite a bit more dangerous at night. Lights, reflectors, and safety gear should be standard stuff all the time.
So be safe, take precautions, and we hope you have a great time. In a couple of years, we’re sure biking around here will become a simple task; so stick around!
