Follow The Shade | Al Fay Park, Al Reem

We recently discovered a new spot in the city where we could spend time with the kids and would surely not run out of things to do. Though just a few minutes drive from the city center, we don't usually come to Al Reem Island. There were a couple of times that we went there, like to join the #ADMoments fun or check out the place while jogging, but that would be it.

Since we're on a Christmas break, I need to find things/places that the kids could do and keep them away from their laptops and gadgets. And here's what I found--

Al Fay Park

Carrying the tagline, "Where the city meets the shade", it is a fairly new park at Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi. It has lots of plants and trees planted around it, all native to the region. There are indeed lots of shades to retreat to even on a sunny day.

_{A peek of the Gate Towers from the park.}

The park is designed to keep the hustle and bustle of the city away. The lush greens seem to block the traffic noise, even just a few meters away.

Forest Paths

It did not feel like we are in a desert country at all!

As we entered the park, there were several points that lead to a Forest Trail surrounded by different trees. There were also picnic tables to settle and just absorb the nature around.

Golf

Hidden in the forest paths is a 9-hole mini golf course.

The start of the course is near Entrance 1, near the car park.

If you're up for a tee, do not fail to bring your golf gear!

Play Zone

Did I say there's something for everyone at this park?

Small kids from 2 years up would hahve lots of fun here at the play zone where there's a mini slide, hill rope, and stepping posts.

Ready to get wet? There's a splash pad nearby.

Football

Do you still have the FIFA hang over? Want to be the next Lionel Messi? There's a space for the football lovers here, too!

Ping-Pong

Argh! We forgot to bring our ping-pong rackets! We could have had tons of fun chasing after the ball. LOL.

There are several ping-pong tables with net already. Since we came early, the all spots were free.

Basketball

"Do you believe you can fly?"

There are three half-basketball courts available for the park-goers.

Next time we come, I'd make sure we bring our basketball, too!

Beach Volleyball

Smash it! Feel the sand between your toes, play a match of beach volleyball with your friends or family.

Badminton

Are you tired yet?

How about a set of badminton, perhaps? Because, why not?

Skating & Bouldering

Of all the spots, this was one of the areas where we stayed for a long time. The kids are learning to skateboard and and my heart could not contain the anxiousness and nervousness each time they roll.

The space is huge, where skaters could comfortably do their tricks on the ramps.

Gym

Next to the basketball court, you would find this outdoor gym with bars and other equipments.

These keep-fit equipments and the nice jogging track around the park would be a nice work out area especially during this pleasant weather season in the UAE.

There are several boards around the park that have "pandemic reminders" shown, like wearing masks, social distancing, and washing hands. While these pandemic restrictions are already lifted, these signages are still great reminders to keep our hygienes in check.

Additional Information

Park opens daily from 7:00am to 11:00pm.

To get there, follow this map link.

Entrance to the park is free. The park could get busy in the afternoon and it is suggested that you book the courts with the admin office located near the gate.

Do not forget to bring your own balls, skateboards, and skates!

We are very happy to have had the chance to visit Al Fay Park. This is now one of the top parks we have in our list each time there is a chance. Closer to nature, indeed. The kids and adults alike have activities to do.

One downside that I have to mention, though, is that due to the bushes and trees, there are lots of mosquitoes too. Better have the kids wear insect repellants just to be safe.

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_{All photos are owned by the author.}