Dubai’s sunny weather is perfect for cycling in the city. And you also have plenty of places to explore, from the breathtaking landscape at Al Qudra Cycling Track to the scenic and rugged surroundings in Hatta.
But if you’re not ready to own a top-of-the-line city or mountain bike, why not rent one?
What to Know About Bike Rentals in Dubai
Bike rentals come in different varieties. Dubai, being the bike-friendly city it is, you’ll be spoilt for choice. You can rent road bikes or cruisers from a bike shop. You can download an app and book a bike in one click. You can head to a rental station in popular tourist spots and ride around the city for half an hour.
Whether you’re cycling for fun, fitness, or travel, you’ll find the right rental place with the right ride.
How to Rent Bikes in the Emirate
When you rent a bike in Dubai, you need to provide identification. You can present either your permanent resident ID, passport, or any valid ID that the rental place will accept.
Then, choose your bike. Some places specialize in electric bikes, others in mountain bikes, and some offer all kinds of bikes. If you just want to cruise around the city, like by the marina or the beach, a standard bike would suffice. If you’re into off-road cycling, go for a burly mountain bike. Alternatively, you can give e-bikes a go and experience the thrill of going on longer distances without much effort.
Are there family-friendly bikes or trailers available? Yes, many shops rent out kids’ bikes, child seats, or trailers. It’s best to reserve ahead, especially on weekends or holidays.
Once you’ve picked your ride, go over the rental agreement. You’ll want to read the agreement before signing it. What’s the rental period? What are your liabilities in case of damage or loss? What are the restrictions on using the bike?
Most bike shop rentals restrict bike usage to specific areas and terrain. Others require a security deposit. Each agreement will differ with each rental place, so read it carefully.
How much is it to rent a bike?
The average rental cost for a standard bike is about AED 20 to AED 40. The minimum charge gets you 30 minutes on the bike. Mountain bikes, e-bikes, and other specialty bikes will cost more. You might have to shell out AED 60 to AED 80 or more for an hour’s worth of riding.
If you intend to use the bike for more than three hours, you might as well ask about a daily rate. Some shops offer a package, including repair kits and other extras necessary for long rides. Some rental periods can be as short as half an hour or stretch across multiple days.
Some bike shops or stations require credit cards, but others accept debit, cash, or apps. Helmets, locks, and lights might be included in the package or come with a small fee.
What happens if you go over your rental period?
Check the policy before renting. You might have to pay a late return fee. Although some bike shops have a grace period for late returns, others may charge full-day rates.
When accepting the bike you’re renting, check the tires, brakes, and speed gear to make sure everything is in good condition before riding out. If necessary, ask for adjustments or a better-fitting model.
What to Know Before Pedaling Off
Dubai has laws regarding the safety of cyclists and pedestrians. You need to know them before riding off. All cyclists must follow traffic rules: using designated cycling crossings, stopping at red lights, and using only designated lanes and paths for bikes.
You need to signal when turning and keep a safe distance between vehicles and pedestrians. If you want to ride leisurely, stay on the right of the path to allow speeding cyclists to overtake on the left safely.
You can’t ride your bike on highways or pedestrian-only zones. You must also wear your helmet and reflective vest. This is mandatory. You also need to wear proper cycling clothes and cycling shoes.
The law also requires bikes to be fitted with a white front light, a red reflector, and a red rear light for nighttime or low-visibility conditions. A bell must also be mounted on the handlebars.
Enjoy Cycling in Dubai
If you’re riding the bike for a few hours, bring bottled water. You need to stay hydrated, particularly during summer, because temperatures can rise and feel a bit stifling. You could also try to ride early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler.
Whether you’re renting for a weekend ride or exploring a new part of the city, the right rental can make all the difference. You’ll have a range of options in terms of budget and rider type.
So find a rental place, and ride on two wheels today.
