Circuit X: What you'll find at Abu Dhabi's newest outdoor adventure hub


Janice Rodrigues
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Adventure enthusiasts in the capital can get their adrenalin fix in various ways.

Shortly after the opening of OCR Park, the UAE's biggest permanent obstacle course, another outdoor entertainment destination has launched in Abu Dhabi's new Hudayriyat Leisure and Entertainment District.

Circuit X is an adventure hub that features a range of activities and challenges set across four main parks – BMX, High Ropes, Skate, Splash & Climb Parks –  all spread across 15,000 square metres.

The Splash & Climb and Skate parks are located on the Marsana side of Hudayriyat Island, next to the restaurants and retail spaces.

The Splash & Climb Park, for children aged 1 to 12, is currently closed because of Covid-19 restrictions. However, when it opens, little ones will be able to enjoy a child-friendly pool and vertical maze at the Pirate Playground, with temperature-controlled water, while parents can unwind by the beach or the adjacent infinity pool.

The Skate Park offers a mix of challenges for all skill levels, with three skate bowls in addition to an array of ledges, handrails, quarter pipes and bridges. Professionals and beginners can bring their own skateboard or scooter, or rent one at the park.

The BMX and High Ropes parks are located next to Bab Al Noujoum – a camping concept unique to the UAE. Both areas are connected by a heritage trail.

The BMX Park features tracks and training facilities for both aspiring and ardent cyclists. There are two types of tracks: one of the largest asphalt pump tracks in the UAE with several areas for skills and jumps, and an outer dirt track constructed using natural materials and custom-built ramps, hills and turns.

Finally, the High Ropes Park offers activities with varying stages of difficulty, such as a 100-metre zip line, a 13-metre free fall and a 15-metre climbing wall. There are three levels on the high ropes course: the lowest helps younger participants to build their confidence at heights, while the scouts course allows older children to explore more challenging games.

The extreme course is designed for older participants and allows them to push their limits.

“Our parks provide the opportunity for all to escape the ordinary, explore thrilling and challenging activities, and immerse themselves in a fun-filled day in a seaside setting,” says Hadi Fakhoury, chief executive of Tamana Adventures LLC and managing director at Circuit X.

Prices start at Dh40 per hour for the Skate Park; Dh40 per hour for the BMX Park; and Dh35 for activities including the climbing wall and zip line at the High Ropes Park. The Splash & Climb Park is priced at Dh50 for one-hour access, once it opens to the public.

More information can be found at circuitxuae.com

The specs

Engine: 3.5-litre V6

Power: 272hp at 6,400rpm

Torque: 331Nm from 5,000rpm

Transmission: 8-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 9.7L/100km

On sale: now

Price: Dh149,000

 

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Director: Elie Semaan

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Rating: 3/5

A cheaper choice

Vanuatu: $130,000

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The specs

Engine: 3.0-litre 6-cyl turbo

Power: 435hp at 5,900rpm

Torque: 520Nm at 1,800-5,500rpm

Transmission: 9-speed auto

Price: from Dh498,542

On sale: now

MATCH INFO

Uefa Champions League semi-final, first leg
Bayern Munich v Real Madrid

When: April 25, 10.45pm kick-off (UAE)
Where: Allianz Arena, Munich
Live: BeIN Sports HD
Second leg: May 1, Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid

GAC GS8 Specs

Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo

Power: 248hp at 5,200rpm

Torque: 400Nm at 1,750-4,000rpm

Transmission: 8-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 9.1L/100km

On sale: Now

Price: From Dh149,900

Engine: 80 kWh four-wheel-drive

Transmission: eight-speed automatic

Power: 402bhp

Torque: 760Nm

Price: From Dh280,000

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Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais

Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.