You might not always remember it when you’re at work in the office, or live in a high-rise apartment block, but the city of Abu Dhabi is just a hop, skip and a jump (or at least a short drive in a 4×4) away from absolutely incredible scenery. And with the winter weather upon us, there’s no better time to go on an adventure. From dreamy desert escapes (you know, the Insta-friendly ones with private pools and a photographic oryx) to camping under the stars (don’t forget to charge your iPhone and bring plenty of marshmallows) there’s loads out there to explore.
Back to nature
There are few things greater than staring up at the stars, cooking over a campfire and catching up with your family in the middle of nowhere. And happily the UAE is full of picture-perfect spots to do just that.
Essentials you’ll need are a tent, sleeping bag or bedding and some pillows (a good sleep is key), as well as some a good water supply and food. A spade is useful if you need to dig your car out, a cool box and cooking equipment are also worth an investment.
It’s important that you respect nature though so remember to take bags so that you can pack up all your waste as well and leave nature the way you found it.
New to camping? Finding a good spot to camp and knowing what to bring, how to use it and all the rest is important. It’s always a good idea to go on your first few trips with experienced campers.
Ajman Desert
This a good spot for novice campers as it’s not too far from the city. It’s popular with families too, so you’re sure to see other like-minded campers enjoying a trip into the wilderness. The stretch of desert is one of the top spots to whip out your barbecue grill and campfire gear, sit back and enjoy the bliss of the desert. It gets chilly though, so remember to bring extra layers, like your granny taught you.
Free. Open daily 24/7. Off Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Ajman (no number).
Al Dhafra Beach
Al Dhafra takes up two thirds of the desert in Abu Dhabi, which means hundreds of kilometres worth of spectacular beaches to set up camp. This vast stretch of the capital’s coast is “where the desert meets the sea”. Head towards the Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort west on the E11, there’ll be signs along the road to help you get there, and you’ll find your way there. Sleeping under the stars listening to the the waves lap against the shore? Yes please. Be sure to check the tide forecast by visiting www.tide-forecast.com before you pitch your tent, though. No one likes a soggy sleeping bag (or worse).
Free. Open daily 24/7. Between Shuweihat Power Complex and Al Hamra Airport, Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi (no number).
Al Qudra Lakes
New to camping? This is a top idea for those that don’t want to stray too far but still want to get back to nature. Head off road and pitch up at this gorgeous retreat a mere 48km from Dubai. Birdwatchers will be in their element as there are about 130 species to spot here. Or you could just cook up some tasty grills on the barbie and share your most compelling campfire tales. Camping with your partner? Romance them will a wander around the stunning Love Lakes while you’re there for a special outdoor trip to remember. You can even bring your bikes and go for a spin around the 86km Al Qudra bike track for exercise
Free. Open daily 24/7. Al Qudra Road, Dubai (no number).
Fossil Rock
This archaeological wonder is abundant with wildlife, both alive and fossilised. If you take a trip about an hour out of the city of Sharjah towards Mleiha you’ll find this landmark, and it’s an ideal area for hiking and camping. Wildlife-lover? Don’t forget your camera and your binoculars because as well as loads of birds you’re likely to spot oryx, gazelles and mountain deer here. It’s famous for its sunsets too, so bring the folding chairs and a coolbox and get ready to relax, unwind and sip sundowners away from it all.
Free. Open daily 24/7. Near Mleiha, Sharjah (no number).
Hajar Mountains Foothills
For those with a 4×4, start at Wadi Seder. Follow the trail up to a village in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, turn right and rejoin the tarmac road – within a kilometre you’ll find the village of Al Hala. Here, you can enter Wadi Taybah and drive through to the village of Al Taybah. Rejoin the highway at Al Taybah and follow it to Masafi, famous for its spring water. There are no options for camping in Wadi Taybah, but plenty on the approach through the mountains. You’ll need a four-wheel drive to tackle the above route, though you can easily take your two-wheel-drive car into Wadi Koo for an abundance of secret places to camp or hike. For mountain bikers, the region offers ideal tracks with 50km-plus trails.
Free. Open daily 24/7. Near Masafi (no number).
Jebel Ali Beach
Not a fan of tents? Have a caravan? You’re in luck as on October 24 Dubai Municipality announced it is allowing camping with caravans on Dubai’s Jebel Ali beach, so camping gets an upgrade (if you’re not partial to kipping on the floor). You will need a permit though, before you set off all excited, but that’s free to get. All you need is a valid copy of the ownership of the caravan or trailer and a copy of your Emirates ID and to register on the Dubai Municipality website. The beach has Makani number 0001864652.
Jebel Ali.
Ras Al Khaimah Desert
You could cheat and book the Bedouin Oasis for the night (or book into the popular Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert, keep reading for more on that one) or you could find your inner adventurer and pitch camp in the desert. This part of the UAE is rich in Bedouin history, and shows off a glimpse of what it was like living in the desert back in the day. There are no facilities, though, it’s still a desert adventure, so take everything with you, including plenty of food and water. Explore the trails dotted around, amid the fabulous flora. There are few things more delightful than waking up to see an Arabian Oryx (as long as it’s not eating your breakfast before you, mind).
Free. Open daily 24/7. Off Al Shohadaa Road, Ras Al Khaimah (no number).
The Empty Quarter
Head into the vast void of the Rub’ Al Khali for a night of sheer escapism, far from the madding crowds. This serene spot is the perfect place to find some inner zen. Just remember to pack a map and compass or you might lose it again.
Free. Open daily 24/7. Off the E90, Liwa, Abu Dhabi (no number).
Umm Al Quwain coast
The least conspicuous emirate offers some cracking coastal camping sites where you can really feel the sea breeze whistling through your hair. Popular with families, come here for sunset and later drift off to sleep with the Gulf’s soothing sounds as your lullaby. Camping on the beach is favoured but you can find a secluded spot just off the E11 main road. As for the beachgoers, they can camp on the beach to the north and south of Al Rafaah.
Free. Open daily 24/7. Off the E11, Al Rafaah, Umm Al Quwain (no number).
Desert activities
Desert Safari
Don’t fancy doing it alone? Tour groups such as Desert Rose Tourism and Arabian Safari Tour organise trips into the Abu Dhabi desert, where you’ll go dune bashing (and not have to drive) as well as enjoy camel rides, a barbecue dinner, falcon show, stargazing and more. You can even choose overnight stays. Expect to see plenty of wildlife along the way and you might even be able to try sandboarding.
Pick-up and drop-offs included. Various locations across Abu Dhabi. www.arabiansafaritour.com, www.desertrosetourism.com.
Dune Bashing
Even after years of living in the UAE, we at Time Out Towers never tire of taking our visiting loved ones for a thrill-a-minute dune bash in the Liwa Desert. If your heart doesn’t start racing as your daredevil driver pulls off mental manoeuvres, you’re braver than us.
Dhs1,000 for four via Nuzhath Ideas, Abu Dhabi (050 966 0720).
Wildlife Safari
Sir Bani Yas Island is easily the UAE’s foremost wildlife wonder with oryx, giraffes, hyenas, gazelles and even cheetahs calling this place home. Yes, you have to stay at a resort to experience a safari here but trust us, it’s the bee’s knees (or giraffe’s calves).
From Dhs1,197 per room, per night. Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi (02 801 5400).
Glamping
Hatta Sedr Trailers and Hatta Damani Lodges
Fan of glamping? Fancy trying kayaking? There are two types of accommodation in Hatta Resort – the Hatta Sedr Trailers and Hatta Damani Lodges. The Hatta Sedr trailers have a kitchenette attached for home-style cooking, while Hatta Damani Lodge overlooks the Hatta Dam on three different levels on the mountain. Each has its own private terrace and a large TV and prices start at around Dhs700. Or you can also bring your own tents and camp at Hatta Wadi Hub, where prices start from Dhs129 a night to camp outside.
Prices vary. Hatta, Dubai, www.visithatta.com/en.
Longbeach Campground
Camping doesn’t always have to involve spending hours trying to pitch a tent and squeezing into an uncomfortable sleeping bag. At the Longbeach Campground in Ras Al Khaimah, guests are treated to deluxe tents with king-size beds, cosy décor and sea views. The beachfront site has panoramic bubble tents – which offer spectacular vistas of the night sky – and each comes with a private hot tub and bathroom. Or, if you really want to up the home comforts, check in to a safari suite tent which has its own private terrace and indoor bathroom. There’s also beach volleyball, along with a barbecue dinner with live cooking stations.
Dhs700 (deluxe tent), Dhs800 (family tent), Dhs1,399 (safari suite tent), Dhs1,999 (bubble tent). Ras Al Khaimah, binmajid.com (07 221 9736).
Adventure
Arabian Nights Village
It’s glamping but with a traditional twist, taking in aspects of Bedouin heritage and modern comforts. Visit Arabian Nights Village and you can spend the night stargazing whilst soaking up the traditional Arabic atmosphere and scenic views of the desert dunes. Plus, if camping doesn’t float your boat you’ll be pleased to hear that you can book a 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, too.
Prices vary. Arabian Nights Village Road, Abu Dhabi, arabiannightsvillage.com.
Bear Grylls Explorers Camp
Think you have the survival instincts of famed British adventurer Bear Grylls? The world’s first Bear Grylls Explorers Camp (BGEC) is in Ras Al Khaimah, along with Bear Grylls Survival Academy’s first camp accommodation, and it’s set on Jebel Jais. Adventurers can expect to be exposed to practical and extreme survival techniques necessary to survive some of the toughest terrains, for half-day sessions (three to four hours), eight-hour and even 24-hour options. Activities include how to make a fire in the wild, building emergency shelters, navigation techniques and extreme weather survival. There will be a 20-container accommodation, set to welcome visitors in 2021.
From Dhs450 per person (half day experience). Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah, www.beargryllscamp.ae.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Thought you couldn’t get any more exhilarating than the world’s fastest rollercoaster? Ferrari World is upping the ante once again. From Thursday November 5, you’ll be able to go on a roof walk and try out the new zip line. Both will offer up incredible views over Yas Island, with the zip line passing through Flying Aces roller coaster loop. If you’re going with friends and family, you can try out the dual racing challenge, too, and see who makes it to the end first.
From Nov 5. Open daily 11am-8pm. Yas Island, Abu Dhabi (052 713 5134).
Hatta Resorts and Hatta Wadi Hub
Hatta’s popular outdoor adventure destination is back for a third season, and it runs all the way through until April 30, 2021. And there are brand-new activities too. Set in Dubai’s largest national park, and surrounded by Hajar Mountains, Hatta Resorts and Hatta Wadi Hub first opened in 2018. There’s loads to do with glamping, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and more. And this winter there will be new activities including a climbing wall, zip line, slingshot, paragliding and more. If you’re into hiking there are 32.6km of hiking routes – which you can do for free or with a guide. There are several levels, which are colour coded from green to black, for beginners to experienced hikers and off-road runners. The new activities at Hatta include a ten-metre high climbing wall with five separate lanes; a 350m dual lane zip line, a slingshot that shoots you 50m into the air and paragliding. There’s also Hatta Heritage Village for spot of culture, with craft shops, heritage centre and Emirati restaurant, Al Hajrain.
www.visithatta.com/en.
Jais Adventure Peak
Think you’ve already conquered the world’s longest zipline at Jebel Jais? It’s time to check out Jais Adventure Peak, a new collection of adventure attractions that includes more ziplines, a viewing deck, adventure centre and an all-new Sky Maze. The attraction features the world’s longest zipline, Jebel Jais Flight, the recently launched seven zipline Jais Sky Tour and a Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park to check out the scenery.
Open Wed-Sun 9.30am-5.30pm (Sky Maze); Wed-Sun 10am-6pm (Sky Tour); Wed-Sun 9am-5pm (Jebel Jais Flight). Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah,
www.visitjebeljais.com (050 265 6224).
The Arch
Calling all adventure seekers who don’t fancy a long drive. The Arch is a new adventure park opening in Dubai Festival City in November, which will be home to a climbing wall, a zipline, bag jump and quick flight. You’ll be able to fly through the air on the 230-metre zipline and take in the stunning Dubai views or take on the climbing wall which is made up of five different routes, suited for both beginners and experienced climbers. A massive leap of faith from a 13-metre platform awaits those taking on quick flight and the only way down is by jumping off the platform and if you’re looking for some more excitement, take on the bag jump and leap through the air from different platforms of four or six metres and land on a giant inflatable bag.
Opening Fri Nov 6. Dubai Festival City Mall, www.dubaifestivalcitymall.com.
Jebel Hafeet Desert Park
Al Ain is home to one of the UAE’s newest glamping sites, found at the foot of Jebel Hafeet. Called Jebel Hafit Desert Park, it occupies a nine-kilometre stretch at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, so guests can bed down surrounded by fascinating archaeological and historical remains that include remnants of the Neolithic period 8,000 years ago and excavated 5,000-year-old tombs. Campers can either pitch their own tent, book serviced camping in one of nine Bedouin-style tents, or go luxe and stay in one of the bubble or dome tents. Regardless of which accommodation option guests choose to check-in too, they’ll be able to embrace the historic surroundings of the UAE’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site with hiking, biking, horse riding and guided buggy tours all available.
From Dhs500 (tent hire). Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain, jebelhafitdesertpark.ae (03 711 8362).
Luxury desert escapes
You’re in the UAE, it’s time to make the most of the beautiful scenery. And you don’t need to kip in a sleeping bag if you don’t want to.
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
This exceptionally luxurious resort might only be an hour’s drive from Dubai Marina, but it couldn’t feel further from the city. You’re likely to come across a leaping gazelle here – or if you’re really lucky, an Arabian oryx. All Bedouin Suites have plunge pools and after all, where’s better to watch the wildlife than from your very own private pool? Dreamy.
Prices vary. Dubai, www.marriott.com (04 832 9900).
Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Abu Dhabi
Just 30-minutes from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Al Wathba is designed to be reminiscent of a historic desert village. It has 103 rooms and villas, with Arabesque design hues throughout and Bedouin finishes. Nestled within a garden, the spa has 11 treatment rooms, including a crystal salt sauna, Turkish hammam, a yoga pavilion, ice shower, steam rooms, plunge pools and snow caves. Fancy.
Prices vary, Abu Dhabi, www.marriott.com.
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort
If communing with nature above and below sea level appeals to you, then Sir Bani Yas Island is for you. Luxury villas are spread out amid the lush savannah at this Sir Bani Yas Island hotel, each with a private pool – perfect for gazelle or peacock watching while wallowing in the water.
Prices vary. Abu Dhabi, www.anantara.com/en/al-sahel-sir-bani-yas (02 801 4300).
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa
Head to this desert resort and you’ll get a beautiful, relaxing stay in the dunes. It’s a wonderful, family-friendly resort with a lush infinity pool and loads of desert activities from safaris to quad biking and more.
Prices vary. Al Qudra, Dubai, babalshams.com (04 809 6100).
Mysk Al Badayer Retreat
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 55 inch smart TVs and free Wi-Fi on the Silk Road, eh? It’s all decked out to feel traditional, in the most luxe way possible.
Prices vary. Al Badayer, Sharjah (06 556 0777).
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
If there was ever a visual representation of an oasis in the desert, the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara would be the picture perfect image. The décor of its 154 rooms and 52 villas is brimming with rich colours and beautifully designed fabrics giving off rustic Arabian vibes and select pool villas come complete with plunge pools overlooking the picturesque desert. Sounds lovely.
Prices vary. Abu Dhabi, www.anantara.com/en/qasr-al-sarab-abu-dhabi (02 886 2088).
Sonara Camp
If you’re looking for a super-chic glamping experience, Sonara Camp is the one for your bucket list. The luxury, eco-friendly desert experience has launched an Overnight Adventure experience where guests can enjoy an al fresco dining experience followed by a night under the stars. You’ll enjoy a camel ride, sundowners and a tasty menu with dishes including steaks, mezze and more. Set within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve get ready to get back to nature.
Dhs1,160 (per adult), Dhs380 (per child). Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Ain Road (050 336 7909).
Telal Resort
This desert resort in Al Ain gives you a chance to relax and get away from it all. You’ll need to save up as it’s one of the pricier ones on the list, but when you’re soaking up the getaway vibes you won’t regret it. There are a range of packages available and you can choose from a Heritage Deluxe Room, to a two-bedroom Heritage Suite, the Gazelle one-bedroom villa to a Reem Presidential Pool Villa, or an Arabian Oryx Royal Pool Villa if you’re feeling extra flush. There are a range of packages from a half-board romantic desert escape to an adventure getaway, plus a UAE residents’ rate to check out.
From Dhs525. Al Ain, www.telalresorts.ae (03 702 0000).
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert is one of the most popular desert retreats, offering secluded private pools and Insta-worthy backdrops of rolling dunes and delightful wildlife. And for the rest of the year it’s offering a special family-friendly deal. The Ritz Kids Rangers deal includes a three hour kids’ programme, plus breakfast and kids’ lunch. Family fun in the desert, without anyone having to dig the car out of a dune.
Prices vary. Until Dec 30. Wadi Khadeja, Ras Al Khaimah, www.ritzcarlton.com (07 206 7777).
Tilal Liwa Hotel
This hotel is located on the edge of the Rub Al Khali (also known as The Empty Quarter) which is the largest uninterrupted sand desert in the world. It adheres to traditional Arabian design and interiors and boasts 111 rooms and suites as well as having a host of desert activities on offer. We’re talking camel riding, quad biking, sand boarding and dune bashing as well as cosy bonfire nights under the stars.
Prices vary. Madinat Zayed, Zayed City, Abu Dhabi www.danathotels.com/zayedcity/tilalliwahotel (02 894 6111).
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
This stunning resort is arguably the nicest hotel in the emirate and even the UAE. Pay a visit and you’ll quickly be able to see why it was voted the Most Instagrammable Hotel in the world in 2019. Settled in between sweeping dunes you can trek up the sand for amazing pictures and stunning sunsets and enjoy a range of activities including dune bashing, camel trekking and sand boarding. If that’s not your vibe you can chill by the pool, or your private pool if you book a villa and make use of the in-house spa that offers a range of treatments. There are also glamping experiences available for those feeling a little more adventurous.
Prices vary. The Empty Quarter, www.anantara.com/en/qasr-al-sarab-abu-dhabi. (02 886 2088).
Five camping tips
1 Pack plenty of water
Dehydration is not only uncomfortable it can also be fatal. Experts say that while camping in the desert, you should drink four to five litres of it a
day at least.
2 Practise pitching
It might sound stupid but the last thing you want is your camping trip curtailed because you can’t get your tent up. Have a couple of dummy runs in the front room before you set off. Better still, borrow your rich mates’ garden and do so there.
3 Wrap up
It might be wonderfully warm during the day but once our solar friend puts his night cap on, the mercury plummets. Extra layers and additional blankets are a must. Don’t freeze, please.
4 Chill at noon
Even if you’re a mad dog or Englishman, don’t overexert yourself in the midday sun. Find some shade and dive into a good book, or take a nap if pitching your tent proved particularly troublesome (see number two, above).
5 Clean up
Don’t be that person who leaves food wrappers, drink cans and other detritus strewn around your camp site when you leave. Do us all a favour and bag it up before you go and take it with you.
Where to get the gear
Adventure HQ
Thinking of doing some major adventuring while camping? All the outdoor gear you need can be found at Adventure HQ.
Various locations, including Dalma Mall, Mussafah, www.adventurehq.ae (02 445 8903).
Go Sport
For the extreme types, Go Sport has the essential equipment needed for everything from kayaking to rock climbing.
Various locations including Abu Dhabi Mall, Al Zahiya, www.gosportme.com (02 645 4595).
Ace Hardware
From beach tents and four-person dome tents, to water coolers and fancy picnic baskets that can hold all those dining tools, camping gear at Ace Hardware will make your camping experience more comfortable – at an affordable rate.
Various locations including Mina Street, Zayed Port, www.aceuae.com (800 275 223).
Amazon.ae
Now that Amazon is up and running throughout the UAE, with access to free delivery for members, it’s easier than ever to stock up on all manner of camping gear.
Amazon.ae.
noon.com
Another e-commerce site that does a roaring trade with camping gear selling everything from tents to sleeping bags.
noon.com.
