Calling all adventurers! Explore the great outdoors at Hatta
Want to go on an adventurous trip to the mountains? Take your backpack and head to the captivating Hatta Valley! From kayaking in the waters beyond the famous dam to exploring the heritage village, Hatta is ideal for a family trip. Read on to discover all the fun and exciting things to do in Hatta!
WHAT CAN I DO IN HATTA?
Located 130km from central Dubai, Hatta is a stunning escape filled with rocky mountains set against crystal waters. Several upcoming tourism projects in Hatta promise more places to explore.
Perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay, the venue now boasts many attractions, old and new. Here are some of the best activities to try in Hatta.
VISIT HATTA WADI HUB: A HAVEN FOR ADRENALINE JUNKIES
With countless adventures and thrills, Hatta Wadi Hub is the ultimate adventure destination and one of the must-visit attractions for adrenaline junkies.
The Wadi Hub Centre is where visitors can participate in adventure sports such as football, zorbing, inflatable obstacle course, tube sliding, archery, net walkway, zipline and more.
- Timings: Monday to Sunday, 07:00 am – 10:00 pm
- Location: Off the Dubai-Hatta Road
- Contact: +971-4-820-5500
GO KAYAKING
When you reach Hatta Dam, prepare for one of the most impressive sights. Surrounded by mountains and home to a sparkling lake ideal for kayaking in Hatta, the first sight of the dam will always take your breath away.
Explore Hatta’s blue waters by renting a kayak or paddle boat! It’s one of the most fun things to do with family and friends in Hatta. Remember, there will be a huge weekend crowd for renting these kayaks.
Perhaps the best of attractions in Hatta, you have the option of driving your car along the dam or discovering the area on foot.
- Prices: From AED 60 per adult
- Timings: Monday to Sunday, 07:00 am – 09:00 pm
VISIT THE HATTA HERITAGE VILLAGE
After your adventure at Hatta Dam, head to the Hatta Heritage Village. Undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Hatta, this historical site gives visitors a glimpse into life in one of the ancient villages in Dubai. Restored in 2001, the village is home to an old ruler’s house and artefacts like weapons and instruments. Keep an eye out for cultural events during occasions like UAE National Day!
You can pick up handicrafts and heritage items as souvenirs. And don’t miss the neighbouring farms with falaj – old water channels used for irrigation.
RELAX AT HATTA HILL PARK
If you’re in the mood for a laid-back outing, there’s no better place to visit in Hatta than its gorgeous park. Built over a mountain, Hatta Hill Park is just the place for a picnic with the family. Think lush green spaces, shaded areas and beautiful views.
Shaded huts serve as dedicated BBQ spots in Hatta for those who want to make the most of their outing. The park’s running track, football fields and tennis courts give visitors plenty of fun things to do in Hatta.
Finally, head up the mountain walkway that leads to a tower at the peak. Here, you can enjoy unparalleled views of the area and the Hajar mountain range.
VISIT THE HATTA 360 OBSERVATORY
Get unparalleled views of the Hatta Wadis and admire the natural beauty of the Hatta 360 Observatory. This popular attraction dates back to 1880 when the region was prone to attacks from neighbouring emirates. The stunning viewpoint is the perfect spot to get a birds-eye view of Hatta.
GO MOUNTAIN BIKING
The first in the Middle East, the Hatta MBT Centre is home to a cross-country route with trails for all abilities. You can find trails for all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, making it one of the best mountain bike trails in Dubai.
Mountain bike across Hatta’s trails to explore the area uniquely! The best part? Hatta’s trails are free to ride, open year-round to visitors, and come with plenty of free parking.
Pack your off-road bikes and go to one of the more thrilling attractions in Hatta! Don’t have your bike? There are bikes available for rent as well at Hatta Wadi Hub. Check the Hatta MBT Centre’s website for more information on the routes and trails.
- Price: AED 65 to AED 85 (normal bikes)| AED 150 (e-bikes)
- Timings: Monday to Sunday, 06:00 am – 06:00 pm
- Contact: +971-4-820-5500
TRY ARCHERY IN JA HATTA FORT HOTEL
Known as the Sport of the Kings, archery is another one of the must-try activities in Hatta. Its located in the well-kept lawns of JA Hatta Fort Hotel. This archery range is equipped for beginners and seasoned archers. Try to hit the bull’s eye with the stunning Hajar Mountains in view! You can also check out these archery places in Dubai.
- Price: AED 60 per person (non-hotel guests)
- Contact: +971-4-814-5400
VISIT THE HATTA FORT AND JUMA MOSQUE
Wondering which places to visit in Hatta? Experience a slice of Emirati history by visiting these preserved sites. The Hatta Fort is a popular architectural monument that served as a defensive structure and residence! Check out the 11-metre-high watchtower that overlooks Hatta.
Finally, the Juma Mosque, built in 1780, is the oldest building in Hatta. The beautiful ivory mosque is set against the rocky mountains and palm trees.
CAMPING IN HATTA
Plan to spend a night under the starry skies amidst a rugged landscape? Try camping in Hatta for an unforgettable experience. The area has several camping grounds and trailer parks, so visitors have many options. Camping is one of the popular activities in Hatta, but you can also try glamping at one of the lodges or the Hatta Dome Park.
FAQS ABOUT FUN ACTIVITIES IN HATTA
HOW TO GET FROM DUBAI TO HATTA?
The best way to get from Dubai to Hatta is by car. You can reach Hatta from Dubai by taking the Sharjah-Kalba Road (E102) via Emirates Road (E611). Getting to Hatta from the city takes approximately an hour and a half.
WHERE TO STAY IN HATTA
There are several options for a stay in Hatta if you don’t want to camp. Here’s a list of the best hotels that you could stay at.
- JA Hatta Fort Hotel – One of the oldest hotels in the UAE, this hotel offers rooms and villas with breathtaking views of the Hajar mountains.
- Contact: +971-4-814-5400
- Hatta Dome Park – A prime luxury glamping spot, Hatta Dome Park has unique dome-shaped tents with all the amenities for a comfortable stay.
- Contact: +971-4-820-5500
- Sedr Trailers – Make your trip memorable by staying overnight in these repurposed trailers situated on the banks of the Hatta Dam. You’ll also have access to barbecue facilities and a viewing deck.
- Contact: +971-4-820-5700
- Damani Lodges – Located near the Wadi Hub activity centre, these mountain lodges offer a unique experience.
- Contact: +971-4-820-5500
And that wraps up our guide on the best things to do in Hatta, one of the must-visit destinations in the UAE! You can head to the Hatta pools for a remarkable experience.
The resorts in Hatta also offer an array of activities for visitors, so don’t miss out on a staycation in one of the top resorts in the UAE.
The UAE offers many quick and fun getaways, such as Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls.
