Into the wild! Best places to go camping in the UAE
Camping is a popular activity for long weekends in the UAE, and there are numerous fantastic spots to pitch your tent. Gather your friends, pack your 4×4 with supplies and sleeping bags, and head to your favourite camping site! Whether you’re new to the country or a first-time camper, these are some of the best camping spots in the UAE where you can escape the hustle of city life and enjoy a night under the stars. Here is a list of the most popular camping destinations in the UAE for your next adventure.
TOP CAMPING SPOTS IN DUBAI
First, we begin with all the best camping places in Dubai. There is no need to travel all the way to the other emirates to pitch tents and have bonfires; you can have all that fun by camping in Dubai.
Al Qudra Lake
One of the most popular BBQ spots in Dubai, Al Qudra offers the best desert camping experience in the city. The artificial lakes, surrounded by the dunes, provide a beautiful setting.
The fact that it is so far away from the main city makes it the perfect spot for stargazing and one of the best night camping sites in Dubai. After the sun rises, you can even take the time to explore Al Qudra Love Lake to make the experience even more memorable.
This is one of the sites for camping in the UAE that does not require a four-wheel drive to reach, unless you plan on driving over the dunes. The Al Qudra camping location is around one-hour drive from the Dubai International Airport.
If you are barbecuing while camping at Al Qudra Lakes, make sure to adhere to all the rules and clean up after yourself.
- Directions: Use Google Maps plus code: R9QG+2QM – Dubai for directions
- Best time to visit: March to December
Hatta
Another great place for overnight camping in Dubai is in the Hatta Mountains. Over a long weekend, head to the ‘Hatta Camping Site‘ for some fun under the stars. Hatta Wadi Hub is another popular area for camping in the UAE with several attractions and facilities.
You can also set up tents and have bonfires in the wild if you want to get a taste of desert camping in the UAE. A 4×4 is preferred as you can encounter rocky terrain while driving.
The Hatta Mountains offer an all-around fulfilling experience for camping in Dubai. If you plan a camping trip, make the most of your time there and try out all the other fun activities in Hatta, such as visiting the famous Hatta Dam, known for its turquoise waters and the Hatta Kayaking experience.
Apart from these places, many local desert safari tour operators offer overnight camping in Dubai along with their packages, so keep those in mind too!
- Directions: Use Google Maps plus code: R56C+77R – E44 – Sufayri or Q4M8+RHJ – Dubai for directions.
- Best time to visit: February to December
TOP CAMPING SPOTS IN ABU DHABI
The capital has some spectacular camping spots in the UAE, here are some of the best locations for spending a cosy night under the stars.
Liwa Oasis
If you are searching for camping in Abu Dhabi, the Liwa Oasis is a spot you can’t miss. Also known as Rubh Al Khali, this scenic stretch of the desert offers all the peace you need to unwind.
It also makes a pleasant change from towering skyscrapers, with dunes extending for miles under starry desert skies. As you drive deeper into the vast desert, you are bound to find a spot where yours is the only group for miles. Liwa is one of the most popular oases in the UAE, which you will find out why eventually.
It’s easy to lose your way here, so make sure you have a GPS system, compass or map to help you reach and find your way back safely. Make sure to tell others back in the city where you are located.
Don’t forget to carry your phone charger and a power bank to be safe. Since this spot is deep in the desert, a 4×4 is essential to navigate the dunes.
Al Ain City is also a great place to go camping in Abu Dhabi. Al Dhafra Beach or the Al Hayer Forest are two great places for overnight camping in Al Ain.
- Directions: Use the Google Map plus code 2R2C+FJ3, Mzeerʻah
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Shipwreck Beach
Shipwreck Beach is a great option when it comes to the top spots for camping in the UAE. This is where you can enjoy unlimited beach access with the Empty Quarter in the backdrop.
There are many fun things to do at Al Dhafra. Visit the area with all the necessities like sleeping bags, insect repellent, blankets and a first aid kit. Getting to Shipwreck Beach is easy. Simply follow the directions using Google Maps to reach the stunning beach retreat where you can camp.
- Directions: Google Maps plus code Al Gharbia – Abu Dhabi
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year, ideal for night camping
Shuweihat Island
Located off the coast of Abu Dhabi is the stunning and isolated Shuweihat Island. The area has stunning rock formations, beaches with pristine water perfect for a swim and clear skies at night. The rugged terrain and rock formations by the beach are perfect for taking excellent pictures as well.
The island is remote, so you might need to plan to get here. It’s one of the top spots for stargazing in the UAE. Make sure to stock up on fuel and other supplies before heading to the island for a camping trip. The area has a UAE military facility; make sure to stay clear of that. However, other parts of the island, including the beaches, are open to the public.
- Directions: Google Maps plus code Al Gharbia – Abu Dhabi
- Best time to visit: March to May or mid-October to December
Best Spots for Camping in Sharjah
If you are searching for UAE camping places closer to Dubai, why not head to Sharjah? Here are a few of the best Sharjah camping spots where you can pitch your tents.
Fossil Rock
A favourite among Dubai weekenders, the area around Fossil Rock in Sharjah is one of the most popular places for desert camping in the UAE.
Close enough to the city, the Fossil Rock area is ideal for first-time campers and large families making it a popular Kalba camping spot.
Take a 4×4 to navigate through the dunes and enjoy a bit of dune-bashing. Located just off the Sharjah-Kalba road, this is one of the easier spots to reach. Once you get to the Fossil Rock site, walk around a bit to find the perfect spot. Set up camp, bring out the food and enjoy your night in the desert.
- Directions: Google Maps plus code 4RRM+QGW, Al Khatim, Sharjah
- Best time to visit: Summer, suitable for overnight camping
Al Dhaid Desert
If you’d prefer to drive to the open desert and camp, Al Dhaid Desert is the perfect camping spot in Sharjah. Since it is such a vast area, finding the right spot can be tricky, but if you drive along Al Dhaid Road (E88), you can find an open space to set up camp in the desert. Al Dhaid Desert is one of the best places in the UAE for night camping so make sure you are well prepared for a night under the stars.
- Directions: Google Maps plus code 8X75+W7C Al Dhaid, Sharjah
- Best time to visit: November to March | Overnight camping in Summer
BEST CAMPING SPOTS IN THE UAE: FUJAIRAH
From all the activities in Fujairah, camping at the following places will offer a fun experience.
Wadi Sana
If you feel like heading to the mountains, drive straight towards Wadi Sana, one of the well-known wadis in Fujairah. The Masafi-Dibba road makes for a picturesque drive as the surroundings change from desert to rocky mountains before winding up to a plateau with breathtaking views below.
You can spend the day relaxing, enjoying the scenery, or hiking in rocky terrain. Wadi Sana also has great mountain-biking trails, so if you’re feeling adventurous, this is the place to be.
You will be sleeping on what is basically a giant rock, so make sure you carry extra blankets and a comfortable sleeping bag for a good night’s sleep. Also, you will need a 4×4 to navigate through the rocky terrain of the Wadi Sana.
- Directions: Google Maps plus code G536+V3, Wadi Sana, Fujairah
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Al Aqah Beach Camping
Just three hours away from Dubai, Al Aqah is a great place to visit and is one of the best places for beach camping in Fujairah. It is home to Al Aqah beach, located close to the Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort.
You can set up tents right by the water and even a campfire and barbecue pits. There are also plenty of restaurants nearby, so you won’t have to worry about running out of food.
Take part in the various beach/watersport activities on Al Aqah Beach. This is one of the UAE camping spots where you will not need a 4×4.
- Directions: Google Maps plus code G968+7MV, Al ʻIqqah, Fujairah
- Best time to visit: End of November to mid-March
Snoopy Island
Another popular site for beach camping in Fujairah, especially with families, is Snoopy Island. The place is characterised by the famous boulder shaped like the comic character Snoopy’s head. Just like Al Aqah Beach, you can set up tents by the beachside and you don’t need a four-wheel-drive to get to it.
- Directions: Al ʻIqqah, Fujairah
- Best time to visit: End of November to mid-March
BEST SPOTS FOR CAMPING IN RAK
Jebel Jais is one of the best camping places in UAE. Here is everything you need to know about camping in Jebel Jais.
Jebel Jais Camping
This UAE camping spot is the tallest mountain in the UAE and is home to the world’s longest zip line. This place is a firm favourite amongst city-dwellers. With breathtaking views, Jebel Jais has rugged terrain and a winding road that leads to the top.
Several wadi beds along the route give campers plenty of options to pick the right location (or height) to pitch their tents and settle in for a night. It can get a bit too windy and chilly as the night wears on, so make sure you carry extra blankets and firewood to stay warm. It is without a doubt one of the best places in the UAE for night camping.
Recently, regulations have been put in place to discourage open fires. It is advisable to light your bonfire in a fire pit or your barbecue grill to avoid complications. When making your trip, you can also try out all the activities in the magnificent Jebel Jais to make your drive worthwhile.
- Directions: Google Maps plus code R3WV+5V, Wadi Shehah, Ras Al Khaimah
- Best time to visit: October to April
Al Ghalilah Forest
Looking for one of the best camping spots in the UAE with mountain views? The Al Ghalilah Forest might be a good option. However, finding this camping site can be tricky with just a map. It’s strongly recommended to go with a group of campers. Travelling together helps everyone stay on track and avoid getting lost.
- Directions: Google Maps plus code X3RG+RMP Albund, Unnamed Road, Ras Al Khaimah
- Best time to visit: October to April
Al Rafaah Beach Camping
There’s nothing quite like falling asleep to the sound of waves. Head to the Al Rafaah area. Just get onto Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) heading towards Ajman, take the Dreamland Aqua Park exit and then follow signs for Al Rafaah.
Pick your spot a little further away from the shoreline to avoid getting completely drenched while you are asleep (the tides have a mind of their own). For those who enjoy fishing, make sure you carry your gear and have a go at it.
Along with the camping experience, kayaking is also a great activity where you can make your way to explore the mangroves along the coast. You can also set up tents along some of the areas along the open Umm Al Quwain beach located stone’s throw away.
- Directions: Google Maps plus code MP5X+237 – E11 – Al Medfeq – Ras Al Khaimah
- Best time to visit: November to March
WHERE TO GO CAMPING IN AJMAN?
Ajman also offers a handful of camping options. Read on to find out where to go camping in Ajman.
Zorah Camping Beach
Zorah Camping Beach in Ajman is a sought-after camping site in Ajman. It’s one of of the top spots for beach and night camping in the UAE. The campsite is located on Al Zorah Beach, one of the most popular camping areas in Ajman. It is one of the top options when it comes to the top night camping places in the UAE.
- Directions: Google Maps plus code CFH4+C56 – الزورا, Ajman
- Best time to visit: October to March
FAQs
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHILE CAMPING IN THE UAE?
Here are some quick tips about camping in the UAE to make the most of your night under the stars.
- Make sure you carry lots of water.
- Plan your meals so you take the right amount of food.
- Be prepared with phone chargers and of course, an extra battery and memory card for your camera.
- Make sure you have GPS on your phone or in your car.
- Research the area well and take the right car. A 4×4 is usually a safe bet.
- Tell someone in the city where you’re planning to go.
- Travel in large groups if you’re planning to head camping deep into the desert.
- Practice your tent-pitching skills before you go, so you can set up camp quickly and enjoy the scenery.
- Make sure you don’t leave any trash behind.
- Fuel up, so you don’t find yourself stranded in the middle of nowhere.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR GLAMPING SPOTS IN DUBAI?
There are several glamping spots in Dubai, such as the Al Maha Desert Resort, Hatta Wadi Hub, Sonara Camp and much more. Similarly, the Hatta Dome Park is a mesmerising glamping spot near Dubai that offers facilities like air conditioning, comfortable beds, bonfires, delicious food and much more.
Enjoy the panoramic views of the Hajar Mountains and make the most of the hiking trails in the rugged valleys. These glamping spots offer a luxurious getaway by taking your camp experience up a notch.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BEST NIGHT CAMPING PLACES IN THE UAE?
If you’re looking for night camping spots in the UAE, some of the top options include Jebel Jais, Liwa Oasis and Al Qudra Lakes.
That’s all for our list of the best areas to go camping in the UAE. But if you’re looking for other options, particularly on the luxury side, then Pura Retreat in Jubail Island is one of the best options.
Looking for other ways to make the most of your upcoming holiday? Plan a fun road trip across the UAE with your friends and family!
