Now that the weather has started to cool down, the UAE's outdoor attractions are finally making their way back on to weekend plans. One must-see is Dubai's Quranic Park. Here's why...
It's a world-first
That's right – there's nothing else like it on the planet. The Quran-inspired park opened in Al Khawaneej this April, offering more than 60 hectares of green space dedicated to the teachings of the holy book. It is divided into small gardens with various themes, including Islamic, desert and Andalusian.
The Glass House
The park is filled with attractions, but one of the most intriguing is the Glass House, which boasts 29 plants and trees that are mentioned in the Quran and the Sunnah. This includes bananas to olives and tamarind to oud. Plaques for each plant give visitors fascinating information on each breed.
There's also an observation deck here, so you can take a look at the garden from above, plus a small food cart outside where you can grab a bite or a beverage.
It's world renowned
The park was recently named one of the World's Greatest Places by Time magazine.
"The park's aim, per the city's municipal government, is to bridge cultures and promote tolerance by offering visitors exposure to Islam in a family-friendly space," writes Hillary Leung for Time.
The annual list celebrates the "100 destinations to experience right now".
To compile it, the publication called for nominations across a variety of categories – including museums, parks, restaurants and hotels – from its editors and correspondents around the world, as well as industry experts.
The Cave of Miracles
A man-made cave, complete with faux stalactites, uses technology to educate people about the seven miracles revealed in the holy text. Videos are dotted around different sections throughout the cave, which guests are guided to.
It's great for families
There are two children's play areas for kids aged between 2 and 12, and even a section dedicated to teaching little ones about Umrah and Hajj. If you're looking for a place to exercise as a family, too, you can take advantage of a jogging track and cycling path that outline the park. There's also some gym equipment that's free to use. Entrance to the park costs just Dh5 as well, so it makes for a cheap day out for the family by all accounts.
The solar-powered 'trees'
You can also see beautiful solar power-harvesting 'trees' that feature calligraphy and offer a place for visitors to charge mobile phones, not to mention find a spot of shade.
Look through the photo gallery above to see more of the park.
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Read more:
Dubai's Quranic Park named one of the World's Greatest Places by 'Time' magazine
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