Dubai residents will soon be breaking a sweat in container-style gyms popping up at some of the city’s most popular parks and outdoor spots.

Dubai Municipality has announced the opening of applications for investors to operate these innovative gym facilities at three locations across the city.

The selected sites are:

• Al Khawaneej Pond Park
• Al Barsha South Park
• Al Mamzar Corniche

The move is part of Dubai Municipality’s ongoing push to enhance public amenities and encourage active, healthy lifestyles among residents and visitors.

The call for applications is open to Emiratis, expats, and private companies, with the deadline set for January 25.

What are container gyms?

These gyms are designed as sheltered workout spaces built inside container-style units, offering protection from the elements while still giving users the feel of exercising outdoors.

An image shared by the municipality shows a container gym mounted on a truck, raising questions about whether the facilities will be mobile or permanently stationed. For now, officials have not confirmed if the gyms will move between locations or remain fixed at the three designated sites.

Not a brand-new idea

Dubai has experimented with similar concepts before. During past editions of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, mobile gyms housed in 20-foot cargo containers were rolled out across the city, particularly in areas with limited access to traditional fitness centres. The initiative proved popular, offering residents a convenient way to stay active close to home.

Several major parks already feature outdoor gym equipment, and these have seen strong usage, suggesting demand for expanded fitness options.

Interested investors can submit applications via the Dubai Municipality’s investment portal before January 25, 2026.