A Mushrif Park BBQ is one of the most popular winter weekend plans in Dubai. Families and groups come for the shade of the Ghaf trees, the space to spread out and the chance to grill outdoors. This guide explains where you can barbecue, the rules and fines, timings, how to pick a good spot, and what to bring.
Last updated: Nov 2026
Mushrif Park BBQ: quick facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Is BBQ allowed? | Yes, in designated BBQ areas only |
| BBQ fee | No separate BBQ fee is published; normal park entry applies |
| Park entry | AED 3 per person, AED 10 per car (see ticket details) |
| Timings | Park opening hours: 8 am–10 pm on weekdays, 8 am–11 pm at weekends |
| Fine for grilling outside designated areas | AED 500 |
| Best season | October to April |
| Busiest times | Winter weekends and public holidays |
Is BBQ allowed in Mushrif Park?
Yes. Barbecues are allowed at Mushrif Park, but only in the areas set aside for them. Look for the marked BBQ zones with stands, benches, and shaded seating, and grill only there.
The rule is there for good reasons. Dubai Municipality has explained that grilling outside purpose-built stands damages the landscape and the irrigation system, and puts other visitors’ safety and the park’s cleanliness at risk. Mushrif Park is also a forest. Its Ghaf trees and dry undergrowth can catch fire easily, so fires in the wrong place are a real danger.
Best BBQ spots: how to choose your area
Mushrif Park is large, and the BBQ areas fill up at different speeds. Instead of driving around, think about what your group needs most:
- Shade: pick a spot under trees or a shelter, especially if you are staying into the afternoon. Even winter sun is strong in Dubai.
- Parking nearby: you will be carrying coolers, charcoal and bags. A short walk from the car makes a big difference.
- Toilets and water: spots close to restrooms are easier for families with children.
- Playgrounds: if you have kids, a BBQ area near a play area lets adults cook while children play within sight.
- Space for groups: large families should arrive early to get neighbouring tables, as spreading out over several areas is harder later in the day.
Keep away from the forest trails. Cooking and fires are not allowed on the Mushrif Park hiking trail or in its forest sections, so stay inside the main park’s BBQ zones.
Tip: once you are through the gate, drive slowly through the park and check two or three BBQ areas before you unload. A spot with shade, a bin nearby and a short walk to the car is worth a few extra minutes of looking.
Mushrif Park BBQ rules
Follow these rules to keep your day safe and avoid fines:
- Grill only in designated BBQ areas. Use the stands and zones provided.
- No fires on grass, sand or in the forest. This includes the hiking and bike trail areas.
- Never leave a fire or hot coals unattended, especially with children around.
- Clean up fully. Take all rubbish to the bins provided, and leave the area as you found it.
- Dispose of charcoal safely (see below).
How to dispose of charcoal safely
Hot charcoal ash thrown in a bin or on the ground is a fire risk. Gulf News recommends three simple steps after your BBQ:
- Pour water over the charcoal to cool it down.
- Wait until it is completely cold.
- Put it in a separate bag, seal it tightly and place it in a waste bin.
Fines to know
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| BBQ outside a designated area in a public park | AED 500 |
| Littering in a public park | AED 500 |
| Dumping waste outside designated places (Dubai) | AED 1,000 |
Fine amounts as reported by Gulf News. The AED 1,000 waste fine falls under Dubai Executive Council Resolution No. 14 of 2015.
Mushrif Park BBQ area timings
There are no separate published timings for the BBQ areas. They follow the park’s opening hours:
| Days | Hours |
|---|---|
| Weekdays | 8 am – 10 pm |
| Weekends | 8 am – 11 pm |
Hours can change during Ramadan and on public holidays. Check the latest Mushrif Park timings before you go, and plan to finish cooking and cool your coals well before closing time.
What to bring for a BBQ
Pack everything you need before you arrive:
- Food: marinated meat or vegetables in a cooler with ice packs
- Charcoal and a lighter (or fire starters)
- Tongs, skewers, foil and a cutting board
- Plenty of water, for drinking and for cooling the coals afterwards
- Plates, cups and napkins (reusable if possible)
- Bin bags, including one for cooled charcoal
- A picnic mat or folding chairs
- Wet wipes and hand sanitiser
- A small first aid kit
- Bank card or nol card for the park gate fee
If you plan to bring your own portable grill, use it only inside a designated BBQ area and follow any instructions from park staff.
Picnic without a BBQ
Not everyone wants to cook. Mushrif Park is just as good for a simple picnic on the lawns or under the trees, and you don’t need a BBQ area for that. Bring sandwiches, fruit and drinks, and choose a shaded spot.
A picnic is also easy to combine with other things in the park: the playgrounds, the Mushrif Park swimming pool, a walk through the International Village, or the treetop ziplines at Aventura Park Dubai for older kids. See all the things to do in Mushrif Park to plan a full day.
Tips for a great Mushrif Park BBQ
- Go in the cooler months. October to April is the best season for outdoor cooking.
- Arrive shortly after opening on weekends. BBQ areas get busy quickly on winter weekends and holidays.
- Try a weekday evening. It is quieter, and the park stays open until 10 pm.
- Start the charcoal early. Coals take time to get ready, so light them before everyone gets hungry.
- Keep children away from the fire, and give them a play area within sight instead.
- Leave no trace. Take every bag and bottle to the bins, and check the ground before you go.
Planning your trip? Our guide on how to reach Mushrif Park covers gates, parking and public transport.
Frequently asked questions
MushrifPark.ae is an independent visitor guide and is not affiliated with Dubai Municipality. Rules, fines and timings can change, so follow on-site signs and official guidance.