Where to picnic and play football in Sharjah?

Do you envision a perfect day where your family enjoys a delicious picnic in the sunshine, followed by an exhilarating game of football on lush green fields, and are now wondering where to picnic and play football in Sharjah? This emirate truly understands the joy of outdoor leisure, offering a fantastic array of parks and open spaces that are specifically designed to cater to both relaxed dining and active sports, making it easy to combine these two beloved pastimes.

The Perfect Duo: Picnics and Football

Combining a picnic with a game of football is a classic way to enjoy the outdoors, promoting both relaxation and physical activity. It’s an ideal setup for families, friends, or even a casual community gathering, allowing everyone to participate at their own pace. In Sharjah, the emphasis on spacious, well-maintained public parks means you can often find dedicated areas for both dining al fresco and kicking a ball around, creating a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Sharjah National Park: The Ultimate Combination

Sharjah National Park is hands down the most popular and suitable destination for those looking to picnic and play football in Sharjah. As one of the largest and most well-equipped parks in the emirate, it boasts sprawling green lawns that are perfect for setting up a game of football, whether it’s a friendly kick-about or a more organized match. Crucially, the park also features numerous dedicated shaded picnic areas with tables and benches, as well as barbecue facilities, allowing you to combine your meal with your game effortlessly.

The sheer size of the park means you can find a spot that’s just right for your group, away from other activities if you wish. After a satisfying picnic, you can easily transition to an open grassy area for a spirited game. The park’s wide-open spaces are a blessing for football enthusiasts of all ages, providing a safe environment for energetic play. The park is often filled with families enjoying similar activities, creating a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.

Al Mamzar Beach Park (Sharjah Side): Coastal Kicks and Breezy Bites

While primarily known for its beaches, Al Mamzar Beach Park (the sections accessible from Sharjah) also offers extensive grassy areas that are suitable for both picnicking and playing football. The park’s vast green spaces are well-maintained and provide ample room for a casual game, especially in the areas away from the immediate beachfront or swimming pools.

The added benefit here is the refreshing sea breeze, which can be particularly welcome during warmer months like June 2025, making outdoor activity more comfortable. You can spread out your picnic blanket on the grass and then easily move to an open area to kick a ball around. The presence of beach amenities, including changing rooms and food kiosks, adds to the convenience of making a full day out of your visit. It’s a versatile spot that combines coastal charm with recreational opportunities.

Al Qasba: Urban Greenery and Leisurely Kicks

Al Qasba, while more urban and less expansive than the large parks, offers charming green spaces and open plazas that can be used for light picnicking and casual football play, especially for younger children. Along its canals and promenades, you’ll find well-manicured lawns and open areas that are suitable for a small group to enjoy a picnic.

While not designed for competitive matches, the open spaces here are great for a relaxed kick-about. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the scenic views of the canal and the Eye of the Emirates ferris wheel, creates a unique backdrop. You can easily find benches and shaded spots for your picnic. It’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for an outing that blends light activity with an engaging urban cultural setting, perhaps enjoying a quick game before exploring the waterfront’s attractions.

Sharjah Corniche (Selected Open Sections): Seafront Sport and Snacks

Certain, less crowded stretches of the Sharjah Corniche, particularly the wider grassy areas or open paved sections that aren’t heavily populated by pedestrians, can also be utilized for a picnic and a game of football. The Corniche offers expansive views of Khalid Lagoon and the Arabian Gulf, providing a refreshing backdrop.

While you won’t find designated football pitches, the open areas are suitable for a casual kick-about, especially with a lighter ball. You can lay out your picnic blanket on the grass and enjoy the sea breeze. It’s important to choose a spot that doesn’t obstruct pedestrian traffic and where there’s enough space to play safely. The accessibility and continuous open stretches make it a viable option for an impromptu game after an outdoor meal.

Masaar Track (Adjacent Lawns): Modern Sport with Green Breaks

The newly developed Masaar community, with its impressive cycling track, also features extensive landscaped areas and open lawns designed for community use. While the focus is on the cycling track, the surrounding green spaces are excellent for picnicking and casual sports, including football. The meticulously maintained environment provides a pleasant setting for outdoor activities.

These areas offer a modern, clean environment for a picnic, and the wide-open spaces ensure you have plenty of room to play football. Given its newer development, it might be less crowded than some older, more established parks, offering a fresh option for your combined outing. The design emphasis on outdoor recreation means you’ll find ample, safe areas for both dining and dynamic play.

Tips for the Perfect Picnic and Football Outing

• Timing: During the warmer months of June 2025, it’s crucial to plan your outing for early mornings (before 9:00 AM) or late afternoons/evenings (after 5:00 PM). The cooler temperatures will make both picnicking and playing football much more enjoyable and safer.
• Shade: Prioritize parks with ample natural shade from trees or dedicated shaded structures for your picnic area.
• Gear: Don’t forget your football, a picnic blanket, and plenty of water or refreshing drinks.
• Hydration: Always carry more water than you think you’ll need, especially if you plan on active play.
• Respectful Play: Be mindful of other park visitors. Choose areas away from quiet zones or designated walking paths for your football game.
• Clean Up: Always ensure you leave no trace behind. Dispose of all trash in designated bins to keep these beautiful parks clean for everyone.

Sharjah truly excels at providing outdoor spaces that perfectly cater to both relaxed picnics and energetic games of football. With its array of vast parks, scenic waterfronts, and accessible green areas, you’re spoilt for choice when planning your next fun-filled outdoor adventure. Which of these fantastic spots will you choose to picnic and play football in Sharjah? This comprehensive guide has been meticulously prepared by the www.few.ae team, dedicated to helping you discover where to picnic and play football in Sharjah.