Lavinia Woolf
Blessed with natural terrain that served as the backdrop for the Abu Dhabi Adventure Challenge in 2009 and 2010 Abu Dhabi is a mountain biker's haven waiting to be discovered by biking enthusiasts.
Located within the heart of the oasis of Al Ain this mountain biking landscape is not for the faint of heart. Used as part of the race route of the Abu Dhabi Adventure Challenge in 2010 the area is home to the highest peak in all of the Emirates. Known as Jebel Hafeet the rocky outcrops of this mammoth hill supply rugged mountain biking terrains for experts and racers. A challenging course for the best of bikers this uneven landscape littered with natural barriers and rocky protrusions offers cycling enthusiasts a stunning expanse to hone their skills and test their limits.
Attracting large numbers of cyclists all year round the Yas Marina Circuit is home to a purpose-built track with state-of-the-art facilities for the modern biker. Open every Tuesday the cycling events organized by Fun Ride Sports sees the Formula One racing track of Yas Marina open up to cyclists from around the city. Fully equipped with proper biking signage, ultra-modern cycling paths as well as maps the venue which also houses cycle stands is a dream come true for mountain bikers and racers. Bike renting facilities (including racing bikes) are also available on-site for the added convenience of novice bikers learning the ropes. Located near Abu Dhabi villa accommodation providers such as Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Resort tourists can also join in the action at leisure.
Regarded as one of the most peaceful biking tracks in Abu Dhabi the Al Wathba Cycling track is a tried and true favourite among cyclers despite its recent opening. Giving the sport of cycling and mountain biking a much needed boost this well-constructed track offers cyclers of all ages a space to enjoy their sporting activity of choice. Offering cyclists 16km of sturdy tracks running alongside a camel track the venue is ideal for racers as the wide track facilities offer plenty of room for speed training.
Also part of the 2010 Abu Dhabi Adventure Challenge race route this vast expanse of sand is one of the largest mountain biking territories in Abu Dhabi. With its landmass larger than the total landmass of Belgium, Holland and France this vast, sandy terrain is a challenging dessert trek that could make or break a mountain biker. Littered with 200m tall sand dune this strenuous bike trail is all about tactics and energy preservation as desert cycling is reserved for seasoned experts.
A mountainous region that is blessed with great views and intriguing biking trails Shawka is a popular haunt for mountain bikers hailing from foreign lands. Littered with a comprehensive network of biking trails the rugged but negotiable mountainous landscapes of Shawka offer something for everyone. Offering bikers trails spread out over nearly 50km this engaging venue provides single track paths that are ideal for weekend excursions.
Running parallel to the eastern shorelines of the country the Hajar Mountains reach cloud-piercing heights of nearly 2000m. Littered with summits and rock laden valleys this breathtaking terrain is ideal for cross-country mountain bikes. With wide tracks the venue offer easy trails with a few steep spots thrown in the mix. Requiring little or no technical skill mountain biking in this idyllic mountain foothill landscape is a must-have experience for avid bikers.
