Mushrif National Park in Mirdif. Photo: Tashmetova808, Wikimedia Commons, “Mushrif park, Dubai city, UAE”, CC BY-SA 4.0 (resized).
Ever walked past a new playground on your street and wondered who chose its name? This winter, that person could be you. On Wednesday 11 November 2026, Dubai Municipality launched Name Your Park. The competition invites residents to suggest names for 35 new community parks opening across the city this season.
Each winning name earns Dh2,500, so the total prize pool is Dh87,500. Moreover, the chosen names will appear on official signs and maps for years to come. Here is how the Name Your Park competition works, who can enter, and which existing parks are worth a visit while the new ones open.
What Is the Name Your Park Competition?
Gulf News reported the launch at 10:57am Dubai time, and Khaleej Times followed at 1:19pm. Both also reported that the initiative is run by Dubai Public Parks, part of Dubai Municipality. In short, residents propose names for 35 new neighbourhood parks, and a panel picks one winner for each park.
- Prize: Dh2,500 for each selected name.
- Total prize pool: Dh87,500 across 35 winners.
- Deadline: Wednesday 9 December 2026.
- How to enter: online, through the official Dubai Municipality website.
- Results: announced at a public event in December 2026.
Mohamed Ahli, Director of the Public Parks and Recreational Facilities Department at Dubai Municipality, explained the thinking behind it. “Every neighbourhood in Dubai has its own identity, history and stories,” he said, “and we want our new parks to reflect the character of the communities they serve.”
Who Can Enter Name Your Park in Dubai?
The competition is open to residents of all ages, including children. However, entries are limited to people living in the 11 neighbourhoods where the first new parks are opening:
- Al Khawaneej
- Al Mizhar
- Muhaisnah
- Al Barsha
- Al Warqa
- Mirdif
- Nad Al Sheba
- Al Margham
- Al Lisaili
- Al Nahda
- Ghadeer Al Tair
If you live elsewhere, do not lose heart. According to Ahli, the 35 parks opening this winter are the first phase. As a result, the initiative could extend to other areas as more parks are built.
The Six Rules for a Winning Park Name
Creativity is welcome. However, Dubai Public Parks has set six criteria. Before you submit, check your idea against each one:
- It reflects the neighbourhood’s identity, history, local meaning or future aspirations.
- It carries a positive and welcoming message.
- It is distinctive within Dubai’s existing network of public parks.
- It is easy to pronounce, spell and remember in both Arabic and English.
- It will stay meaningful for future generations.
- It works on official park signs and maps.
In practice, the bilingual rule is the one most people will trip over. For instance, a clever English pun may not survive translation into Arabic. Likewise, a long Arabic phrase can be hard to fit on a sign. For that reason, short names with a clear local link tend to work best.
Tips for a Strong Entry
Good park names usually tell a small story, and the Name Your Park judges in Dubai will be looking for exactly that. With that in mind, here are a few ideas to get your family thinking:
- Look to local nature. Ghaf trees, date palms, desert birds and wildflowers all have deep roots in Emirati heritage.
- Remember the area’s past. Ask long-standing neighbours what the land was used for before the houses arrived.
- Think about how the park will feel. Words linked to shade, breeze, gathering or play suit a family space.
- Keep it short. Two or three words are easier to remember, sign and say aloud.
- Check the existing list. Search the Dubai Municipality app or website so you do not repeat a current park name.
Because children can enter too, Name Your Park also makes a lovely weekend project. For example, you could walk around the neighbourhood together, sketch what you see, and then brainstorm names over dinner.
What the 35 New Parks Will Offer
The naming contest builds on a plan Dubai Municipality announced in April. At the time, Gulf News reported a budget of about Dh348 million. The parks will also cover more than 340,000 square metres. They will serve 23 residential communities and sit within roughly a five-minute walk of nearby homes.
Notably, the parks are designed as open, unfenced spaces. In addition, each one is built around five zones. These cover early childhood play, active playgrounds, sports, food and drink, and flexible community spaces. Across the whole programme, the municipality promised:
- more than 60 children’s play areas
- 18 football fields and 20 multi-use sports courts
- skate areas, running tracks and cycling tracks
- shaded seating, picnic spots and water features
Looking further ahead, Dubai Municipality aims to deliver 310 new parks and upgrade more than 220 existing ones by 2040. Meanwhile, Khaleej Times noted that the current network already welcomes more than 31 million visitors a year.
Dubai Parks to Enjoy This Winter
While you wait for the new parks to open, the cooler months are perfect for the city’s established green spaces. Gulf News’ October park guide lists most big municipal parks as costing Dh5 or less, and many are free. Opening times usually start at 8am, although they can change on public holidays.
Mushrif National Park, Mirdif
First, Dubai’s woodland park suits long picnics under mature trees. There is also a small train ride for children, while Aventura Parks offers ziplines for a separate fee. Entry was listed at Dh3 a person and Dh10 a car, paid by Nol card at the gate.
Zabeel Park, Bur Dubai
Thanks to its wide lawns, playgrounds and skyline views, Zabeel Park is a classic choice for families. Better still, it is next to Max Metro Station on the Red Line, so you can leave the car at home. The Dubai Frame stands inside the park but needs its own ticket.
Quranic Park, Al Khawaneej
Because Al Khawaneej is one of the eligible neighbourhoods, Quranic Park is a natural place to start thinking up names. Even better, its gardens and lake are free to explore. The Cave of Miracles and the Glass House charge a small separate fee.
Al Barsha Pond Park
This free park in Al Barsha 2 covers about 20 hectares. Inside, you will find shaded play zones, a large pond, sports courts and cycling paths. If you work remotely, see our guide to the new Work From Park desks at Al Barsha Pond Park.
Al Mamzar Beach Park, Deira
Finally, for a full day out, Al Mamzar combines sandy beaches, lawns, pools and bookable chalets. Entry was listed at Dh5 a person and Dh30 a car. Before you go, read our update on the Al Khaleej Street Tunnel, which affects the drive towards Al Mamzar.
Practical Tips for Park Days
In any case, a little planning makes a park visit smoother. Above all, keep these points in mind:
- Carry a topped-up Nol card, since some gates take payment that way.
- Children aged two and under, along with People of Determination, usually enter public parks free of charge.
- Arrive in the late afternoon for softer light and cooler air.
- Check whether barbecues are allowed, because some parks, such as Al Barsha Pond Park, ban them.
- Take your rubbish home or use the bins, as littering in public places can lead to fines.
If you enjoy exploring on two wheels, our cycling in Dubai guide covers several park-friendly routes. Similarly, families looking for a bigger outing can read our Dubai Safari Park Season 8 guide.
Conclusion
Name Your Park is a small idea with a lasting payoff. It gives residents a direct say in their neighbourhoods, and it rewards 35 good ideas with Dh2,500 each. So, if you live in one of the 11 eligible areas, gather the family and check the six rules. After that, submit your suggestion before 9 December. Then, when winter arrives in earnest, enjoy the new parks along with the old favourites.
FAQ
How much can I win in the Name Your Park competition?
Each of the 35 selected names wins Dh2,500. As a result, the total prize pool is Dh87,500.
What is the deadline for Name Your Park entries?
Entries close on Wednesday 9 December 2026. After that, the winning names will be announced at a public event later in December.
Can children take part?
Yes. Dubai Municipality says the competition is open to residents of all ages, including children.
Which neighbourhoods are eligible?
The first phase covers 11 areas: Al Khawaneej, Al Mizhar, Muhaisnah, Al Barsha, Al Warqa, Mirdif, Nad Al Sheba, Al Margham, Al Lisaili, Al Nahda and Ghadeer Al Tair.
How do I submit a park name?
Submissions are made online through the official Dubai Municipality website. Check the six naming criteria before you send your idea.
Key Takeaways
- Dubai Municipality launched Name Your Park on 11 November 2026.
- Residents of 11 neighbourhoods can suggest names for 35 new community parks.
- Each winning name earns Dh2,500, from a total pool of Dh87,500.
- Entries close on 9 December 2026, and winners will be named in December.
- Names must work in Arabic and English and reflect local identity.
- The 35 parks are the first phase, and more areas may follow.
