Food trucks make for chill vibes at Al Hudayriat Island - in pictures

City residents have a new oasis of leisure across the former bridge to nowhere

Over the bridge to Al Hudayriat Island, an oasis of food trucks is becoming the place to be seen and to enjoy refreshments, including coffee from the Shot truck. Victor Besa / The National

The food truck area features a variety of cuisines, drinks and sweet treats to eat in your car or to take away for a walk on the beach. Victor Besa / The National

Rolled ice cream is a trendy, fun take on the classic dessert that can be found at Al Hudayriat. Victor Besa / The National

Mohammad Al Mazzrouie (left) and Mohammad Alomeariah enjoyed some freshly brewed coffee during their visit to Al Hudayriat Island. Victor Besa / The National

The popular Boutique ice cream truck sees long lines of customers waiting for their icy refreshments. Victor Besa / The National

Sunset at Al Hudayriat Beach is a busy time of the day, with residents coming out to enjoy the beach, walking, biking and even speed boxing. Victor Besa / The National

The relaxed atmosphere of Al Hudayriat Island feels like an oasis within the city, with plenty to do and amenities for visitors. Victor Besa / The National

Then it's just a quick hop -- or ride -- back over the Al Hudayriat bridge to the city. Victor Besa / The National

What was once known as the bridge to nowhere has become our connection to a dynamic seaside sport and leisure oasis within the city. Al Hudayriat Bridge leads to Al Hudayriat Island, where the first phase of development has been launched with a 600-metre beach, swimming area, a 10-kilometre bicycle track, football fields, basketball and volleyball courts, shower and restroom facilities, prayer areas, playgrounds, walkways and a food truck area.

Recently, photographer Victor Besa of The National visited the food trucks, just as the sun was setting and city dwellers as well as tourists were on the island for a leisure experience. "I really loved the atmosphere," said Besa. "Very chill and friendly vibes all over." He saw families drive up to the ice-cream trucks and come away with loads of treats for the kids, people enjoying an evening hot beverage from Shot coffee truck, and others walking along the beach, participating in a boot camp class and engaging in speed-boxing exercises.

Happy visitors also made it easy for Besa to get some great images. His photography tip? “Always ask permission to take a photo. The trick is to smile and say hello.”

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