There’s something about sleeping under the stars that’s good for the soul.
Bringing you closer to nature, allowing you to take deep breaths of fresh air and do something a little exciting, it’s great to spent evenings outdoors.
Camping is great fun but it’s not for everyone when the sand, mud and cold evening temperatures become a reality?
Are you a bit too fancy for sleeping bags and putting up a tent?
Here are seven top places in the UAE to go glamping.
Al Badayer Oasis
Built to resemble a roadside inn (or caravanserai) for weary travellers, this recent opening is gorgeous to look at and houses ten of the best kitted out tents you’re likely to find. You didn’t get 55in smart TVs and free wi-fi on the Silk Road, eh?
From Dhs1,250 a night (one-bedroom tent). Al Badayer, Sharjah (06 556 0777).
Arabian Nights Village
For the ultimate glamping experience, visit Arabian Nights Village where you can spend the night stargazing whilst soaking up the traditional Arabic atmosphere and scenic views of the desert dunes. Stay in the luxury Bedouin tents with modern amenities such as air conditioning and washrooms. You’ll also find a small souk, a huge swimming pool with sun loungers, an al fresco dining area and a restaurant with tables and comfy sofas outside.
Arabian Nights Village Road, Abu Dhabi, arabiannightsvillage.com.
Caravana Alzorah
A coastal campsite with its own private beach, comfy vans, outdoor cinema, hot tub and even the offer of room service, this Ajman haven is a far cry from the tacky seaside parks you’d find in Blighty. There’s no clubhouse, bingo or awful house band here, just rolling dunes and beautiful sunsets.
Prices vary. Alzorah Beach, Ajman (055 644 2022).
Jebel Hafeet Desert Park
Situated the foot of the Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain’s tallest mountain, you can expect incredible views here. Not only does it offer glampers fully equipped and air-conditioned bubble or dome tents as well as traditional Bedouin-style ones but Jebel Hafeet Desert Park is the perfect place to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend your days seeing the historic remains from the Neolithic period and 5,000-year-old Bronze Age tombs and your nights stargazing in your luxury tent.
Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain, www.jebelhafitdesertpark.ae.
Sedr Trailers Resort
Book yourself one of the 13 shiny metal American-style airstream trailers and revel in the marvellous mountain scenery (especially from the viewing deck). As it’s run by Meraas, there just had to be an on-site food truck, or fire up the barbie for some DIY dinner.
Prices vary. Hatta, Dubai (800 637 227).
The Starlight Camp UAE
For a romantic retreat with that personalised touch it’s hard to beat this pop-up glamping experience. A crystal-topped tent and fantastic facilities await the most swooning of stargazers. The location is so secret they’ll take you there handcuffed and blindfolded (just kidding).
Prices vary. Near Dubai (050 345 5358).
The Longbeach Campground
With five levels of luxury to choose from you can really ramp up the glamping at this seasonal, two-days-a-week beach camp. The panoramic dome suite tent comes with its own hot tub but even if you go for the more basic version, you’ll still have a great sea view.
Prices vary. King Faisal Street, Ras Al Khaimah (800 5700).
