The United Arab Emirates has this image of being extremely luxurious and modern. A trip to the UAE is often filled with sightseeing its numerous historical and modern attractions, visiting its amazing amusement parks, shopping at its enormous malls, and eating at a variety of fine dining restaurants. While all this is true, the UAE is not limited to these experiences. In fact, not many know that this Arab country also has plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. It would probably a surprise to many that the UAE has some great hiking and camping spots as well. The country has plenty of rugged hiking trails and perfect camping spots that give you the chance to admire the raw beauty of the place. So, if you love adventure and the outdoors, here are some of best spots for hiking and camping in the UAE.
Best Hiking Spots in the UAE
Hiking in the UAE will give you the chance to witness a different side of this Middle Eastern country. The hiking spots are usually far away from the sparkling skyline of the emirate cities and will allow you to see its natural landscapes and also peak into its rural lifestyle.
Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
When it comes to hiking in UAE, the first place that comes to mind is Jebel Jais. Located in Ras Al Khaimah, Jebel Jais is the highest peak in the UAE. A part of the Hajar Mountains, Jebel Jais’ rugged cliffs and deep canyons make for breathtaking landscapes. Jebel Jais has three different hiking zones, catering to everyone, from beginners to experts or professionals. Hiking in Jebel Jais will give you the chance to admire the breathtaking view of the place at the different viewing points here. You can hike at Jebel Jais on your own or go for a guided tour. Apart from hiking, ziplining is also popular here. In fact, the Jebel Jais zipline is the longest in the world.
Hatta Mountain, Dubai
The Hatta Mountain in Dubai is another part of the Hajar Mountains that is worth exploring. The Hatta Mountain is home to gorgeous landscapes, rocky paths, lush waterfalls, verdant valleys, gleaming lakes, distinct rock formations, and so much more. When the noise of Dubai city becomes too much, it is the perfect place to retire and breathe in some fresh air. Hatta Mountain has more than 35 km of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging ones. The best part is that there are trails that are family-friendly too. Hatta Mountain hiking trails are perfect for both solo travelers and those in large groups. One of the popular things to do here is hike up to the Hatta sign to click some cool photos.
Wadi Shawka, Ras Al Khaimah
If you are looking for a simpler hiking experience, hiking in Wadi Shawka would be one of the best things to do in Ras Al Khaimah. Wadi Shawka is a beautiful valley, which is home to natural pools, rolling hills, palm trees, wildflowers, plantations, and so much more. While there are multiple trails here, each one starts and ends at the Shawka Dam. At the end of your hiking session, you can relax near the dam area. The place has a children’s play area and a barbecue area, making it perfect for a picnic. Apart from hiking, Wadi Shawka is also great for cycling and running.
Jebel Hafeet, Abu Dhabi
Located in Abu Dhabi’s oasis city, Al Ain, Jebel Hafeet is the third highest peak in the UAE. The hike starts at the Green Mubazzara Park in Al Ain, which is located at the foot of Jebel Hafeet. This hiking Abu Dhabi area is moderately challenging but extremely interesting. Archaeological findings have shown that life existed in the area since the Bronze Age, and you can see the remnants of the past, especially the beehive tombs present here. Moreover, when you reach the top, you will also get to enjoy an incredible view of Al Ain. The hiking trails at Jebel Hafeet stretch 8.4 kilometers and takes around 3 to 4 hours. While the place is beautiful, it is important to remember that hiking on Jebel Hafeet does need some prior experience and is not for novices.
Fossil Rock, Sharjah
If there is one hiking spot in the UAE that is both challenging and fascinating, it has to be the Mleiha Fossil Rock. The Arabian Peninsula was believed to be under the ocean millions of years ago, and the Fossil Rock area in Mleiha, Sharjah, is filled with marine fossils from the ancient era. Spread around an area of 8 km, this hiking trail is your chance to explore the desert area and also check for fossils. You also get to admire the rocky hills, golden sand, and bright blue sky while hiking here. The entire hiking tour takes around 2-3 hours. The tour can be moderately challenging, and it is also best to explore the area with a professional guide.
Best Camping Spots in the UAE
One of the best adventure activities to try in the UAE is camping. While most of the mountains and hiking spots mentioned above make for great camping spots, they are not limited to these. In fact, the UAE has plenty of desert and beach areas that are ideal camping locations. Here are some of the best camping spots in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain.
Liwa Desert, Abu Dhabi
One of the best places to go camping in the UAE is in the deserts of Abu Dhabi, Liwa Desert to be specific. The overnight desert safari experience at Liwa Desert Abu Dhabi will provide you the opportunity to enjoy a serene atmosphere of the UAE desert. If you have a 4×4 vehicle, you can try some off-roading, before reaching your desert camp. If you are lucky, you can catch the view of desert animals on your way. At the desert camp, you can watch a beautiful sunset, savor a BBQ dinner, and cozy up in your tent. The morning brings to you the chance to see a breathtaking sunrise and the desert sand basked in golden glory. The Liwa desert also gives you the option to enjoy a glamping experience in the UAE.
Al Qadra Lakes, Dubai
Overnight camping in desert safari Dubai is quite popular complete with adventure, entertainment, and delicious food. But if you want to experience a different camping scene in Dubai, Al Qadra Lakes is where you must head to. A part of Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Qadra Lakes is a string of artificial lakes surrounded by desert foliage. This is also the place where you can catch the sight of desert animals and birds. The place has designated BBQ spots here where you can enjoy a barbecue meal. If you are serious about camping Dubai at Al Qadra Lakes, you need to carry your tent and other camp supplies.
Hatta Dam and Hatta Wadi Hub, Dubai
Another place for camping in Dubai is the Hatta Mountain. There are two options here: the Hatta Dam and the Hatta Wadi Hub. If you want to enjoy the raw camping experience with your own camping gear, the Hatta Dam is the one for you. However, you do not have to worry about food, as you will find plenty of food trucks in the area. For a more elevated camping experience, the Hatta Wadi Hub nearby would be a better option. It is an organized campsite area that offers camping gear and supplies, including tents and is lined with food trucks too. You can also enjoy a variety of activities apart from camping in Hatta like hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and axe throwing.
Jebel Jais Campsite, Ras Al Khaimah
If you are not keen on hiking at Jebel Jais, you must definitely try camping or you can do both. After all, the view of the surrounding areas makes it worthy for spending a night or two in the area. Two types of camping are available at Jebel Jais. The first one is roadside and casual camping, where you can put up your tents at roadside and small camping areas. Here you will find basic amenities like food and washrooms, and you can spend your time enjoying the view as well as stargazing at night. The second type of camping is Camp 1770, which is a private campsite. It offers an exclusive and luxury camping experience, also known as glamping. Here you can enjoy comfortable camping setups, guided hiking tours, delicious local food, stargazing, unlimited access to Arabic coffee, and traditional Arabic hospitality as well.
Umm Al Quwain Beach
Image Credit : sandee.com
The UAE is home to plenty of coastal cities and towns. If you are someone who loves the beach and the waves, a camping experience at a beach is a must. And Umm Al Quwain has some of the best beaches and camping areas. The best part about camping at the beaches of Umm Al Quwain is that it is much less crowded and more tranquil than the beaches of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Moreover, the emirate is affordable as well. Here, you can choose a camping experience as per your likes, interests, and budget. You can go for the rawest camping experience to the most comfortable and luxurious experience here. While camping on the Umm Al Quiwan Beach, you can try activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Moreover, there is something calming and serene about enjoying a bonfire on the beach, with stars twinkling above.
Conclusion
The UAE offers innumerable spots for hiking and camping, many of them known for their beauty. Most of them also offer numerous amenities to the campers and hikers. Hence, it is the moral responsibility of the visitor to keep the places you visit clean. It is extremely important to be gentle and kind to the surroundings you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the best time for hiking and camping in the UAE?
Q. Can I join a hiking tour in the UAE?
Q. Do I need special permission to camp in the UAE?
Q. Is camping safe in the UAE?
Q. What are the essential items that hikers and campers should carry?
- Sunscreen
- Plenty of food and water
- Tent and other camping gear (if necessary)
- Navigational tools
- Fully charged power bank
Q. When should I avoid hiking in the UAE?
