I am very interested in camping in the desert, but I’ve heard that camping is illegal. Before I spend hundreds of dirhams in Carrefour on camping equipment, can you verify whether I’d be breaking the law or not?
The desert is so large, that as long as you’re not on anyone’s land and are away from major settlements, it’s fine to head out there and pitch your tent. We’d recommend driving out to the Empty Quarter near Liwa as it’s home to what is probably the most picturesque desert scenery in the whole of the UAE. Imagine cooking some steaks over a barbecue and sipping a cold one while surrounded by rolling orange dunes. Sounds idyllic, we’re sure you’ll agree.
However, there are a few essential safety precautions that you must follow before you even think about leaving the confines of the city. First of all, you need to have a suitable vehicle for the journey. A 4×4 is essential, but make sure it has been serviced beforehand. Secondly never head out into the desert alone; travel in a convoy of vehicles in case one of them gets stuck. The Liwa desert is a vast expanse and getting stranded out there alone isn’t recommended if you’ve plans for the future.
Most of the equipment you need can be brought from supermarkets such as Carrefour or Lulu. But make sure you’re equipped with a tent, lightweight sleeping bag, torch and spare batteries, water (always take at least 15 litres), matches and lighters, insect repellent, firewood or barbecue, sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, first aid kit, warm clothes for colder evenings, a fully charged mobile phone and a spade. Navigation equipment such as maps, a compass and GPS systems is also a good idea, while a small mirror will not only help you check your make-up, but could be used to signal passing aeroplanes in case of a serious emergency.
Camping by wadis is also a popular choice, but be careful here, especially at this time of year, as they’re prone to flash floods and you could end up in severe danger in case of sudden downpours.
Closer to home, don’t try camping on any of Abu Dhabi’s beaches – this is, as you suspected, illegal and the police will be joining your party in no time at all. However, Bahraini Island, which is 30 minutes off the coast of the capital, is a picturesque desert island, though it is flooded with revellers during the weekend, so don’t expect a peaceful time.
Our main advice is to get out and enjoy the great outdoors while you can. The desert is one of the UAE’s greatest resources and is begging to be explored. Come May next year, the extreme heat will mean you’re confined to the air-conditioned indoors once again.
