Dubai has a long-standing relationship with cars. From luxury models cruising through Downtown to vintage classics parked at weekend meets, automobiles are part of the city’s everyday scenery. Still, there are moments when this passion comes together in one place.
One such moment returns this February.
On Sunday, February 15, Safa Park will transform into a large open-air car gallery as The Grand Picnic makes its annual comeback. For one day only, the park will host hundreds of vehicles, food stalls, music, and family activities, turning a familiar green space into one of Dubai’s most relaxed lifestyle events.
The event is hosted by Flat12 Café, a well-known name among Dubai’s motoring community. Over the years, Flat12 has built a reputation for celebrating automotive heritage and design, and The Grand Picnic reflects that same spirit, open, social, and accessible.
A car showcase in the heart of Dubai
What sets The Grand Picnic apart is its location. Safa Park sits right between Sheikh Zayed Road and Jumeirah, making it easy to reach from most parts of the city. For a day, its lawns become a display space filled with vehicles from different eras and styles.
Visitors can expect to see classic cars, sports cars, modern supercars, motorcycles, and trucks, all parked side by side. It’s not arranged like a formal exhibition. Instead, people are free to walk, stop, chat, and explore at their own pace.
Last year’s event featured more than 1,000 vehicles, and organisers say the number is expected to grow this year. The scale alone makes it one of the largest outdoor car gatherings in the UAE.
Car owners stay with their vehicles, answering questions and sharing stories. That personal touch turns the experience into something more than a visual display. It becomes a shared passion.
From restored classics to modern supercars
Dubai’s car scene is diverse, and that variety shows clearly at The Grand Picnic.
Vintage models sit alongside modern performance cars. Some vehicles are restored originals, while others are cutting-edge designs built for speed and precision. For long-time enthusiasts, it’s a chance to admire craftsmanship up close. For younger visitors, it’s often the first time seeing these cars outside of social media.
The open layout of Safa Park allows for easy movement and clear views, making it ideal for photography and casual browsing. There’s no fixed route and no pressure to rush through.
A relaxed food line-up for a full day out
Food is a big part of the experience. The Grand Picnic brings together a mix of popular homegrown food brands, many of which are already familiar to Dubai residents.
Visitors can expect a wide range of options, from baked goods and desserts to comfort food and specialty drinks. The line-up includes names such as The Picnic Society by GOAT, Burnt Butter, Home Bakery, Pie Planet, Minimelts, Temple, Trio, Knot, Flat12, Orto, FLTR, and Food Babies.
The concept is simple. Pick up food, find a spot on the grass, and enjoy the surroundings. It feels more like a casual weekend outing than a typical city event.
Live music runs throughout the day, adding to the atmosphere without overpowering it.
Something for kids and adults alike
The Grand Picnic is designed to be welcoming for families. Safa Park’s wide open spaces, shaded areas, and central location make it a comfortable venue for visitors of all ages.
Children can enjoy dedicated activities, including a Ferrari-themed activation that adds an interactive element to the day. Parents can explore the car displays knowing there’s plenty to keep younger visitors engaged.
It’s an event that works just as well for families as it does for groups of friends or solo visitors looking for something different to do on a Sunday.
Safa Park offers the perfect setting
One of the main reasons The Grand Picnic attracts large crowds is its affordability.
The event itself is free to attend. Visitors only need to pay Safa Park’s standard entry fee of Dh3 per person. Children under the age of two can enter for free.
To make entry smoother, visitors are encouraged to book park access through the Dubai Municipality “Destinations and More” app. Arriving early is recommended, especially for those keen to see the full range of vehicles before the park gets busy.
Planning your visit to Safa Park
Dubai’s events calendar is packed, but The Grand Picnic continues to stand out because it keeps things simple. It doesn’t feel commercial or rushed. It focuses on community, shared interests, and enjoying public spaces.
For residents searching for relaxed things to do in the city, it offers a break from malls and indoor venues. For visitors, it provides a snapshot of Dubai’s lifestyle beyond the usual attractions.
For one day, Safa Park becomes more than a public park. It turns into a meeting point for car lovers, families, and food fans, all enjoying the city at a slower pace.
Whether visitors come for the vehicles, the food, or simply a relaxed day outdoors, The Grand Picnic captures a side of Dubai that feels open, social, and easy to enjoy.
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