Safa Park is a leafy sanctuary in the middle of the city. An ideal destination to spend the day, especially on weekends, Safa Park has been popular among residents for several years. When it was first created in 1975 (in fact it is Dubai's first public park), the space was located outside the city but is now very central, offering beautiful views of the Burj Khalifa and the Downtown Dubai skyline. Most attractions are accessible to all and the park is designed with special needs visitors in mind – also referred to as 'people of determination' in the UAE. Despite being bordered by the busy Sheikh Zayed Road, the park is a quiet haven where people come to read books in secret gardens, and runners jog around the track. While locals frequently make use of the sports facilities including tennis and basketball courts, the park is bustling with new visitors too. You’ll find a huge range of visitors heading to this green spot to take in the beautiful views of Downtown Dubai and the Dubai Water Canal. Rent a bike for a few dirhams, or enjoy a tranquil afternoon under the shade of trees. It is family-friendly too, and you will fine many residents frequent Safa Park for picnics, using the permanent barbecues set up around the edge.