The best camping sites in Dubai you need to visit

Whether you’re a fan of camping, glamping, or lying under the stars, Dubai has plenty to offer all types of campers. The spotlight is currently on camping sites in the emirate, thanks to Dubai Media Council’s latest #DubaiDestinations initiative, which focuses on a wide range of attractions found in Dubai. But the emirate has been creating one-of-a-kind outdoor experiences for locals and visitors alike for years now.

With plenty of nature both in and around the city, it’s only natural for people to want to spend time enjoying it. In fact, overnight camping is one of the most popular outdoor activities in the area, offering a quiet escape from busy city life. If you’re wondering where to go camping and hiking in Dubai, this Pacific Prime Dubai article is your one-stop source for Dubai’s best camping sites.

Hatta

Arguably one of the best camping spots in Dubai, Hatta is an ideal place to set up your tent and get cozy around a campfire. Described as an eco-friendly adventure destination, Hatta’s landscapes are not only easy on the eyes but also home to several facilities and activities during the daytime. Head to the Hatta Wadi Hub adventure center to get your thrill-seeking kicks and enjoy activities like mountain biking, hiking, and zorbing – to name a few.

Located around 100 kilometers away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai, Hatta offers options for both avid outdoor explorers and new campers. Just bring your own tent or caravan to camp on your own, or check out Damani Lodges Resort and Sedr Trailers Resort for a taste of Dubai glamping. For a truly unique experience, Hatta Dome Park features permanent luxury tents complete with panoramic windows. If staying in a luxury caravan sounds more your speed, you can rent one for the night at the Hatta Caravan Park.

Al Qudra

Does your idea of camping in the Dubai desert involve kicking back by a lake? Then Al Qudra is calling your name. What’s great about Al Qudra Lake is that you don’t have to travel far to get some R&R. Just an hour by car from Dubai International Airport, Al Qudra is one of the emirate’s most developed camping spots.

Here you’ll find Flamingo Lake and Love Lake (featuring heart-shaped lagoons). Likewise, the 86-kilometer long Al Qudra Cycling Track provides stunning views of the desert. With the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve conveniently situated right beside it, Al Qudra offers glimpses of local wildlife and greenery too.

Additionally, Expo 2020 Lake is one of the newest additions to the area and is a recommended camping destination in its own right. This is where you’ll catch perfect sunrise and sunset views. Plus, convenient washrooms and facilities make it a crowd favorite.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is yet another place where you can go to reconnect with nature in the emirate. Situated on a former camel farm, the reserve is home to wildlife like Arabian oryxes, reptiles, birds, and gazelles. Here you can ride on camels and dig into delicious barbeque meals, all while soaking in the gorgeous surroundings.

Unlike the aforementioned camping spots, you’ll have to book this one through special tour companies who will arrange tents and meals in the protected area. What’s more, you’ll know how to safely navigate the desert in your own four-wheel drive after your lesson from the tour operator.

Other desert camping options

There are many other picturesque places for camping in the desert and spending time among the red sand dunes. If you’re looking for something more secluded, Al Awir Desert is just 40 minutes from Dubai city, while Lahbab Desert is another good option that’s less than an hour away from the city as well. The latter is great for adventure seekers in particular, with more than enough entertainment to keep you satisfied – from sandboarding and quad biking to stargazing and more.

The Al Ruwayyah Desert near Dubai Outlet Mall is also worth mentioning for a quick camping getaway. Last but not least, the Dubai Half Desert is a unique blend of city and desert and a great place to set up your tent. It’s especially popular amongst first-time campers and families, and also attracts videographers and photographers with its sand-covered roads.

Tips for the best camping experience in Dubai

Unless you’re working with a desert tour operator, you’ll have to make sure you pack everything you need. Create a list of camping gear and essentials, and check it twice before heading off. Campers must adhere to safety guidelines for outdoor camping as well. Family Travel in the Middle East lists helpful safety precautions, such as:

• Don’t go off-road unless you’re in a convoy (in case you get stuck)
• Always have a full tank of petrol
• Monitor the weather

No matter which camping spot you choose on this list, do your part and leave it as you found it or, if possible, even better.

Your health comes first with Pacific Prime Dubai

Whether you’re an avid outdoor adventure seeker or not, the reality is that you could require medical attention at any given time. A robust health insurance plan gives you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you can access quality healthcare whenever you need it.

At Pacific Prime Dubai, we help you find the best health insurance plans in Dubai or anywhere in the world. Thanks to our 20+ years of experience and advisor expertise, comparing health insurance plans and narrowing down the right choice for your needs and budget can be easy. Contact us for impartial insurance advice and a free quote today!

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Jantra Jacobs

Senior Copywriter at Pacific Prime Dubai

Jantra Jacobs is a Senior Copywriter at Pacific Prime with over 10 years of writing and editing experience. She writes and edits a diverse variety of online and offline copy, including sales and marketing materials ranging from articles and advertising copy to reports, guides, RFPs, and more.

Jantra curates and reports on the results of Pacific Prime’s monthly newsletters, as well as manages Pacific Prime’s Deputy Global CEO’s LinkedIn posts. Complemented by her background in business writing, Jantra’s passion for health, insurance, and employee benefits helps her create engaging content - no matter how complex the subject is.

Growing up as a third-culture kid has given her a multicultural perspective that helps her relate to expats and their families while 8 years of working remotely have given her unique insight into hybrid work arrangements and enthusiasm for employee benefits.

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