The weather right now is beautiful and we are making the most of getting outside and enjoying all the wonderful outdoor activities in Dubai.
From Dubai’s best parks to where to go camping, plus beach clubs, pool clubs and brilliant outdoor bars, here are some of our favourite outdoor activities in Dubai.
Yes, sipping that sundowner and soaking in those views is absolutely an activity.
If you prefer something with a little more actual action, we’ve got hiking, horse riding and waterparks too.
The city is home to a number of brilliant things to do when the weather is a little cooler.
As breezes blow through the city, these are the outdoor activities in Dubai you need to try.
JUMP TO:
- Attractions
- Outdoor bars and clubs
- Beach clubs
- Road trips
- Glamping
Outdoor activities in Dubai: Attractions
Aventura Parks at Mushrif Park
Located within Mushrif National Park, Aventura Parks is the ultimate zone for adrenaline-pumping activities. It has a number of circuits, including the ‘Thriller’ circuit, featuring a 166-metre zipline, the longest one in Dubai. You’ll zip across nine consecutive lines before ending with the longest one. Bring the kiddos along to try the ‘Ranger’ zip line circuit, ideal for little beginners.
From Dhs35 (per person). Mon-Thu noon-6pm and Fri-Sun 10am-9pm. Aventura Parks, Mushrif National Park, Gate 1, aventuraparks.com/ (052 178 7616).
Camp in the desert
We all need a bit of digital detox from time to time as the pressures of modern life (and social media) can become a little too much. In these instances, we can think of nothing better than packing up the car and heading out to the desert for a spot of camping and some solace in the sand. Without a doubt, the most popular spot to pitch up is Al Qudra Lakes, where the combination of man-made ponds and wonderful wildlife make this one of the best outdoor activities in Dubai. Don’t ever just drive into the desert and set up camp in a random spot on your own as this could be seriously dangerous. At Al Qudra there is strength in numbers and plenty of room for everyone.
Glamping is another option but if you like it really wild, then peg out that two-man tent, get the barbecue going and cosy up with a loved one as the sun sets and the stars start twinkling.
Free. Open daily 24/7. Al Qudra Lakes.
Dine outside at Time Out Market
Want to dine and drink al fresco in Downtown Dubai? Time Out Market Dubai boasts a huge outdoor terrace and, with drinks starting from Dhs35, it’s one of the best places in town to soak in the views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa and it’s easily one of the prettiest outdoor activities in Dubai – no we’re not biased.
Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, timeoutdubai.com/time-out-market-dubai.
Dubai Islands Beach
When it comes to family-filled beach days, a public beach is always a winner. Located along Dubai’s northern coastline around Deira’s waterfront, Dubai Islands Beach is free to access and dog-friendly.
Deira Waterfront, near Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai.
Experience a desert safari
The Dubai visitors’ checklist is extensive, but one pursuit that’s definitely not to be missed is a desert safari. This trip out to the wilderness is offered by countless companies and comes in several guises with loads of activities available. But we believe you can’t have the true desert safari experience without a spot of dune bashing. Haring up and down the sandy mounds in a specially modified 4×4 is a thrilling way to blow the cobwebs out.
Once your heart has stopped racing, settle down for a traditional dinner and show combo at one of the many camps where belly dancing and tasty local food are on the menu. If you want to make it extra special try the open top 4×4 tour with Platinum Heritage, which is one of the most memorable outdoor activities in Dubai.
Prices vary. platinum-heritage.com.
Explore Global Village
Anyone who knows anything knows that Global Village is one of the best outdoor activities in Dubai, and you have less than two months to make to make the most of the current season before it closes on Sunday April 28. The Global Village has plenty of things to explore, see, do (and eat) and is a budget-friendly day out for all the family.
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. globalvillage.ae (04 362 4114).
Go to Palm West Beach
With restaurants, bars, entertainment and water sports along the beach, it’s billed as “the ultimate sunset destination” – so that’s a clue about the perfect time to rock up. The 1.6km promenade and beachfront is pet-friendly and home to 300 palm trees, which light up at night. Top choices include Koko Bay, a Balinese-themed beach bar and restaurant, swanky beach club and restaurant Lucky Fish and Mexican venue Señor Pico. Grab your camera, it’s time for sunset sips.
Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, nakheel.com.
Have a picnic and ride the swans at Al Barsha Pond Park
An urban oasis of absolute serenity, Al Barsha Pond Park is one of our favourite places to be at any time of the year. You’ll either want to grab a spot by the pond itself or in the shade. Then all that’s left to do is roll out the picnic blankets, lay out the spread and dig in, hoping you’ve remembered to cater for everyone’s dietary requirements. For a fun way to burn off some of the calories, you can hire one of the super-cute swan paddle boats and make a race of it. Don’t get too competitive, now.
Park entry free (swan boat hire from Dhs40). Opposite Al Barsha Mall (800 900).
Hop on an abra and wander around Old Dubai
With its wealth of skyscrapers, five-star hotels and supercars on Sheikh Zayed Road, it’s sometimes easy to forget that Dubai was once a humble pearl-diving and fishing village. But if you want to be reminded of its modest origins, head over to Old Dubai. Forget the speedboats, take a trip on a traditional abra across the Creek and discover the historic part of town with the breeze in your hair. Shop in the souks where your haggling skills will be put to the test before wandering around Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, where the homes have been recreated to bring visitors a sense of an oft-forgotten past. Criss-crossing across the banks of the Creek, you can discover Bur Dubai, Deira, Al Seef and Al Shindhaga – the original heartbeat of this modern city.
From Dhs1 (per ride). Open daily, 6am to 12am. Baniyas Road, Deira Old Souk Abra Station (054 284 4444).
Play a round at Emirates Golf Club
It’s tricky to pick our favourite golf course in this great city, but as Emirates Golf Club is within walking distance (or at least a short buggy ride) from Time Out Towers, this place just gets the nod. Home of the ever-competitive Dubai Desert Classic, EGC was built in 1988, becoming the first-ever grass course in the Middle East. The EGC has three courses within its premises. The Faldo and a par-3 academy version both pose their own challenges for golfers of all abilities, and the former offers you the chance to try some night golf. Not up to par? Give Topgolf a go instead, for a fun-packed challenge suited to every level (with a licensed bar to boot).
From Dhs370 – Dhs1,250. Open daily, 6.30am to 10pm. Emirates Golf Club, Sheikh Zayed Road (054 380 2222).
Shop at Ripe Market
The much-loved Ripe Market is open every weekend at Academy Park, Umm Suqeim, until May so grab your tote bag and get ready to shop. Wander through the park to find fresh organic produce, merchandise by talented local artisans, and a warm community spirit – all the hallmarks of a great farmer’s market. It’s the perfect place to hang out, especially as the weather cools off and everyone heads back outside. They will have a special Ramadan market from March 13 to April 5 as well.
Dhs5. Sat 9am-9pm, Sun 9am-7pm. Ripe Market, Academy Park, Umm Suqeim, ripeme.com (04 315 7000).
Splash at Aquaventure
Pack your goggles and slap on the suncream – water park fans, this is for you. Dubai is packed full of incredible waterparks, but none more so than Aquaventure – the world’s largest water park. It has more than 105 slides for kids and grown-ups of all ages. There are discounts on offer for UAE residents of up to 40 percent off day tickets.
From Dhs300 (UAE resident), Dhs260 (UAE resident kids). Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah (04 426 2000). Tickets
Smell the flowers at Dubai Miracle Garden
The world’s largest natural flower garden can be found in Dubailand. It holds three Guinness World Records including a huge jumbo jet and a very, very tall Mickey Mouse. There’s plenty of spots here for the gram and ticket prices are reduced if you’re a UAE resident.
Dhs75 (adults), Dhs60 (kids), kids under 3 free. Dubailand. miraclegardentickets.com.
Stroll around the Love Lakes
Just around the corner from Al Qudra, the Love Lakes are the perfect spot for a sunset stroll, hand-in-hand with the one who makes your heart skip a beat. They are peaceful, pretty, well-maintained and clean. And just in case you can’t find the words to express your adoration for your other half, the trees here will quite literally spell it out for you.
Al Qudra.
Try kayaking in Hatta
Hatta has plenty to offer the outward-bound among you. Hiking and mountain biking are two of the most popular ways to discover the rugged terrain. But if you prefer an aquatic adventure, then hire a kayak and take a trip around the simply stunning Hatta Dam. The majestic mountain scenery will take your breath away, if all that paddling hasn’t already made this one of the best outdoor activities in Dubai.
From Dhs60. Open daily, 7am-11am, 3pm-9pm. Hatta Dam, Hatta visithatta.com (056 6162111).
Walk along Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk
Long-time Dubai residents will probably confess they don’t do enough walking, but this 11km stretch of seaside path means there is no excuse not to get out and get active. Hugging the Arabian Gulf, this six-metre-wide promenade will let you feel the cooling sea breeze on your face as you take in the five-star hotels on one side and the vast ocean on the other.
Free. Open daily 24/7.
Walk around Dubai Garden Glow
Dubai Garden Glow is one vibrant attraction with displays of animals, plants, insects, fruits, vegetables and more made out of energy-saving bulbs of handmade colourful lights. There is also a Dinosaur Park featuring Jurassic Park vibes with oversized prehistoric creatures that move and make noises. A great place to visit in the cooler months with the brood.
Dhs70 (Garden Glow and Dinosaur Park). Daily 5pm-10pm. Zabeel Park, Gate No 6 & 7, Area B, dubaigardenglow.com (055 918 8126).
Outdoor activities in Dubai: Brilliant outdoor bars and clubs
Take your nightlife to the next level – outdoors.
Attiko
One of the coolest places to grab a drink in the city. You can take in the Palm, Dubai Harbour, Dubai Marina, JBR and Ain Dubai as the sun sets and the lights flicker on. It’s got swift, friendly service and Asian-inspired bar food. Throughout the night live musicians roam among the tables while DJs provide the beats, keeping the vibe lively. With a superb view, cooler-than-cool vibes and delicious bar bites, make this your next night out.
Sun-Fri 5pm-2am, Sat 2pm-5pm and 7pm-2am. W Dubai, Mina Seyahi, Al Sufouh. theattiko.com. 04 350 9983
Caña by Tamoka
The 2023 winner of Time Out Dubai’s Best Beach Bar award, Caña by Tamoka is a proper toes-in-the-sand beach bar with super views and a chilled vibe. Found right on the sand at JBR beach, the cute, petite bar has stunning sea vistas, as well as a front-row view of Ain Dubai. Be sure to visit at sunset to soak in the sights and vacay vibes, while there’s plenty both of style and substance here. The mixed drinks menu is worth exploring, while the Latin American bites are delicious, too.
Daily midday-10pm. The Ritz-Carlton Dubai, JBR, tamokadubai.com (04 318 6724).
CÉ LA VI
One of the most instantly recognisable set-ups in the city, this sky-high restaurant and bar has an amazing terrace. Not only is there that much-snapped swing (perfect for the Gram), there is also a bird’s eye view of Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai, from this bar’s vantage point on the 54th level of Address Sky View. Expect pan-Asian bites, as well as master mixologists and entertainment, plus loads of weekly events and fun. What are you waiting for?
Daily 6pm-3am (night lounge) Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai (056 515 4001).
Mercury Lounge
This is a truly beautiful spot, with a great open space for mingling while taking in the Dubai skyline alongside cosier, more secluded seating areas that offer a little more privacy. The views are jaw-dropping and it recently underwent a major refurb.
Daily 8pm-3am. Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah (04 270 7804).
Monkey Bar
This quirky bar in the 25 Hours Hotel One Central is a brilliant spot for outdoor sundowners. Hailing from Berlin, Monkey Bar is an ultra-cool al fresco hangout. Perched on the sixth floor, expect some impressive skyline views to pair with your tipples, not to mention a fantastic vantage point to see the Museum of the Future on high. The good times never stop with the nightly roster of live DJ performances that set the vibes for good times. What’s more, there are some Latin American bites to get stuck into if you get peckish.
Open daily 5pm-2am. Trade Center St, Trade Centre, Trade Centre 2, Dubai, 25hours-hotels.com/en/hotels/dubai/one-central (04 210 2525).
Reform
Winner of the Time Out Dubai Nightlife Awards best pub garden in 2023, Reform Social and Grill is the perfect place to grab a pint in the sunshine. With a community feel and a pet-friendly outside area, it’s ideal for a relaxed afternoon drink, and the crowds week in, week out are in agreement. A top pub garden in Dubai, especially for families.
Daily 8am-midnight. The Lakes Club, The Lakes, reformsocialgrill.ae (04 454 2638).
SoBe
This super-swish bar at trendy hotel W Dubai – The Palm is a hit in winter months thanks to its expansive rooftop space and glamorous crowd. The views across to Dubai Marina are fantastic, so if you’re looking to impress your guests, or if you’re just in town on holiday, this is a good shout.
Mon-Tue 5pm-1am, Wed-Fri 5pm-3am, Sat 4pm-3am, Sun 4pm-1am. W Dubai – The Palm, Palm Jumeirah (04 245 5555).
Tagomago
A newcomer to Dubai’s best beach bar scene, Tagomago is perfectly positioned out into the ocean on the Palm. Housed in what was formerly Il Faro, the lighthouse-shaped building is the ideal place for a Mediterranean meal overlooking the sea, while there’s a beach club with sunloungers, too. The bar serves up creative mixed drinks and a decent range of grape, making it an ideal spot for sunset drinks on a date or with friends. Coming from the team behind Twiggy by La Cantine and La Cantine du Faubourg, you can expect good things from this beautiful beach bar on Palm Jumeirah.
Daily 10am-sunset (beach and pool), midday-1am (restaurant). Azure Residences, Palm Jumeirah, tagomago.ae (04 832 6620).
TIKI’s by Canary Club
Perched atop Canary Club in JLT, TIKI’s Rooftop Bar is exactly as described, and no wonder, considering it’s a meditation on Polynesian chic. And the vibe under the stars is as on-the-nose as the aesthetic. Vibes are effortlessly cool, as is the setting, with soft lighting creating both a moody date night setting and a cosy pick for a post-office drink with the work besties. Oh, and the outdoor toilets are the coolest we’ve seen in the city.
Mon-Wed 5pm-1am, Thu-Fri 5pm-2am, Sat 2pm-7pm and 8pm-2am, Sun 2pm-10pm Canyan Club, Banyan Tree Residences, JLT. canaryclub.com. 04 584 5999
The Duck Hook
One of the most-loved, and best, pub gardens in Dubai, The Duck Hook’s outdoor area is one of the busiest pub gardens in the city come a sunny winter weekend. With a huge space for kids, and dogs, to run around in, it’s a huge hit with families who will flock from around town to enjoy the garden. With proper grass, views of the golf club and Burj Khalifa beyond that, it’s a picturesque spot too, so a top one for visitors. And don’t miss the roast dinners – they’re marvellous (and massive).
Daily, 11.30am-midnight. Dubai Hills Golf Club, @theduckhookdubai (800 323 232).
The Irish Village, Garhoud
The Irish Village is one of the most popular pubs in Dubai, not least because of its expansive pub garden. With a terrace directly outside the pub, a lawn beyond that and then a duck pond beyond that, it has all the feels of a homely pub garden in the Emerald Isle. It’s family- and dog-friendly, so don’t be surprised to see the whole gang out come the weekend, tucking into giant platters of fish and chips, chopped sausages and the like. There are few better places to be on a winter’s day if you’re looking for a pint of the black stuff, which is why it’s one of the best pub gardens in Dubai.
Daily 11am-1am (Fri and Sat closes 2am) Garhoud, theirishvillage.com (04 282 4750).
The Penthouse
Because where else in town could claim to have a better rooftop al fresco bar experience than this simply magnificent terrace bar on Palm Jumeirah? It has what can only be described as the best views of Dubai from a bar, with the Dubai Marina skyline on one side and the Jumeirah coast on the other. Get your phone into selfie mode and get your new profile pic sorted. It also serves up cracking food, a top ladies’ night and a Saturday pool party brunch. What more do you want?
Daily 5pm-4am. FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai (052 900 4868).
Verde Beach
Verde Beach occupies some prime real estate, sitting pretty in front of the world-famous Burj Al Arab. Born on the golden sands of Saint Tropez, Verde Beach set up shop in Dubai in 2023, as a sister to late-night restaurant Verde in Jumeirah. Found at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Verde is a pricey spot if you want to spend the day lazing on a lounger, but if you want to visit for a drink or a bite to eat, it’s worth splashing out to take in that view.
Daily 10am-midnight (beach closes 7pm). Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqeim, verdebeach-dubai.com (04 228 5053).
Outdoor activities in Dubai: Banging beach and pool clubs
AURA Skypool Lounge
Perched 200m-high in the sky, on the 50th floor of the standout Palm Tower you’ll find Aura Skypool, a super-cool spot, and one of the most famous pool clubs in Dubai. The gorgeous infinity pool sweeps around the tower, giving you stunning views of the city from a birds’-eye vantage point. The world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool, it’s a record-breaker and pretty spectacular, and whether you visit for the day, or by night, the views are eye-popping. A must-visit and one of the best pool clubs in Dubai.
Daily 10am-7pm, opens 6am Thu and Sun, closes 11pm Tue and Fri.The Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, auraskypool.com (04 566 2121).
Barasti
One of the most famous beach bars in Dubai, this longstanding spot has everything. Deck for watching sport? Check. Live music? Check. Pool? Check. Beach? Check. Post-brunch party? Check. You get the picture. Popular among residents and tourists alike, a lively night is always guaranteed when you venture to this sprawling beach bar. As long as you’re not looking for a romantic night out, you’ll probably find it here.
Daily 9am-3am. Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Al Sufouh (04 318 1313).
BCH:CLB
BCH:CLB opened at W Dubai — The Palm on January 1, welcomed in by DJ Roger Sanchez. Designed to ‘redefine poolside leisure’, the venue is bright white with pops of neon orange with art installations throughout the venue. Even the pool has an embossed BCH:CLB logo on the bottom. A day-to-night beach club, there’s a Mediterranean menu and day beds for hire with a Dhs350 minimum spend. Once you’ve got your spot, you won’t want to leave.
Daily 11am-late. W Dubai — The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, @bchclbdxb (04 834 3803).
DRIFT Beach
Super sleek and ever so elegant (the alluring no kids allowed rule plays a big part), DRIFT at the One&Only Royal Mirage is one of the classiest beach clubs of them all. The island bed-flanked pool is a beaut, the sun-dappled, Provencal-inspired restaurant is lovely and the bar is a fabulous spot for sundowners, with pink grape and holiday feel aplenty. Treat yourself to a day at this chic spot when you want to unwind in laid back yet luxurious style.
Mon-Thu, Dhs250 Fri-Sun. Mon-Thu ,10am-7pm, Fri-Sun, 9am-9pm. One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh. driftbeachdubai.com (04 315 2200).
Cloud 22
Featuring 60 sun loungers and 15 floating beds, guests can also settle into one of 11 private cabanas, or opt for the two-storey VVIP cabana that offers AC and features two chic lounge rooms, a private bathroom, a stunning private pool and a suspended plunge pool. Swish.
Daily 10am-8pm, Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah. atlantis.com (04 462700).
Eva Beach Club
Tulum comes to Dubai at Eva Beach House, which is part of The Club on Palm West Beach. Don your designer sunnies and fill your on-trend beach bag as this beach club is one for those who like the finer things in life.
Mon-Fri, 10am-1am, Sat-Sun, 10am-2am. Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeriah.evabeachhousedubai.com.
Koko Bay
This Bali-influenced bar, set at Palm West Beach development, is part of the stretch of restaurants sitting on the beach. Ideal for casual sunset drinks with your toes in the sand, there’s a range of Asian-inspired dishes to snack on. Head here at sunset for chill toes-in-the-sand vibes.
Sun-Thu 10am-midnight, Fri-Sat 10am-2am. Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah (04 572 3444).
Nikki Beach Dubai
It’s the sleekest, shiniest, whitest and beachiest of beach clubs in Dubai. With locations from Miami to Saint Tropez, you know you’re in good hands when it comes to poolside partying. Partially submerged sunlounger? Oh, go on then – but without using further rhetorical questions this club does throw a heaving bash on a regular basis, including the global brand’s famous White Party. So whether you’re chilling at the beach, in the pool or sashaying along the sands of Pearl Jumeira, there’s nowhere better to spend the day than partying in the sun. That’s why it’s Time Out Dubai’s Beach Club of the Year.
Sunbeds range from Dhs150-Dhs2000. Nikki Beach Dubai Resort & Spa, Pearl Jumeira (43766162). Nikki Beach Dubai Resort & Spa, Pearl Jumeira (04 376 6162).
Playa
Peruvian and Japanese fare is on the menu at this space. Expect bold and eclectic décor inside and a relaxing vibe outside. The beach area provides the perfect backdrop to relax and unwind with a separate menu filled with nibbles and light dishes inspired by Nikkei cuisine.
Daily 10am-2pm, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeriah.
SĀN
SĀN’s cool interiors welcome guests for a day-to-night experience. Named after Africa’s first indigenous tribe, there is a stunning beach complete with loungers as well as a large infinity pool, submerged pool bar and an indoor restaurant with an open kitchen.
Mon-Thu, 9am-midnight, Fri-Sun 9am-1am. Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeriah (04 458 0499).
SAL
Picking up the title of best outdoor restaurant for the second year in a row, this restaurant and beach club can be found at the exclusive Burj Al Arab Jumeirah – making it pure bucket list dining. A more casual, and affordable, option than other restaurants in the hotel, there’s even imported sand to give a beach club feel – even though you’re actually set out to sea on the famous hotel’s terrace. Look up to see the iconic sail-shaped building, and outwards to take in the views of the city and vast expanse of ocean before you. Meaning ‘salt’ in Portuguese, the menu here has a Mediterranean-seafood leaning, with the lobster pasta and prawns in tomato sauce top orders.
Daily 12.30pm-5.30pm and 7pm-10.30pm. Licensed. Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, @sal_burjalarab (800 323 232).
Soul Beach
This out-of-town spot is well-known for its live events and beach parties, drawing in top DJs for events on the sand. Being located at Jebel Ali, it’s a top beach club for a day out, with holiday vibes and a lively feel. Décor is vibrant, the pool is refreshing and the live events are more than enough to bring out the crowds come the weekend.
Tue-Thu and Sun 10am-8pm . Fri-Sat 10am-10pm. JA The Resort, Jebel Ali, soulbeachdxb.com (04 814 5126).
Tapasake
Located across the top of The Link, One&Only Zabeel, Tapasake offers both a pool club and a restaurant experience at the world’s longest infinity pool. Here, you’ll get a resident DJ, refreshing drinks, and a tapas-style menu of Japanese-Latin American bites as well as swim-up bars, sunken pods and a chance to level up your Instagram feed.
Open daily from 10am-7pm. The Link, One&Only Zabeel, thelinkdubai.com/tapasake (04 666 1777).
Terra Solis
Nestled deep in Dubai’s desert, Terra Solis is the first hotel from massive music festival organisers Tomorrowland. But not only is it a hotel, it’s one of the best pool clubs in Dubai, boasting a gigantic swimming pool and Insta-worthy views. Coming from Tomorrowland you can also expect sets from big name DJs and top entertainment, making this a must-visit for partygoers in the city.
Daily 10am-7pm. Dubai Heritage Vision Exit, terrasolisdubai.com (04 456 1956).
Twiggy by La Cantine
This super-cool beach club and restaurant from the team behind La Cantine du Faubourg is a top spot to check out. Named after the 1960s icon and model, Twiggy opened at the start of the year at Park Hyatt Dubai, serving up tasty Mediterranean dishes with a chic vibe. By day, you can chill out by the lagoon pool with a special beach club menu. By night, the restaurant is an elegant spot for a date.
Daily 9am-2am. Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira (46021105).Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira (04 602 1105).
Zero Gravity
If you’re looking to hit the beach by day, or party by night, then Zero Gravity should be on your must-list – whether you’re chilling out in the temperature-controlled infinity pool or down by the sea. You’ve got everything you need – it’s a top place to head to if you’re in the Marina.
Thu-Tue 9am-9pm. Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina (04 399 0009).
Outdoor activities in the UAE: Time for a road trip
Ready to sleep under the stars or explore some of the other Emirates? Explore the UAE on a road trip.
Ajman Desert
Join the happy hordes of families taking a break from urban life with the kids enjoying a convivial kickabout at this popular spot that offers cooler temperatures than most of the UAE’s other desert destinations.
Off Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Ajman.
Fossil Rock
This archaeological wonder is abundant with wildlife, both alive and fossilised. An hour’s drive from Sharjah you’ll spot oryx, gazelle and mountain deer here, so make sure you put a padlock on the cool box just in case they fancy a freebie. The sunsets here are sublime.
Near Mleiha, Sharjah.
Hajar Mountains Foothills
The extremities of Sharjah are wonderfully wild and as you settle in for the night gazing up at the impressive slabs of rock on the horizon you’ll feel a hugely warming glow. We’ll put that down to smugness, or the chilli kebab you’ve just scoffed from the barbecue.
Near Masafi, Sharjah.
Umm Al Quwain coast
The least conspicuous Emirate offers some cracking coastal camping sites where you can really feel the sea breeze whistling through your hair. Popular with families, come here for sunset and later drift off to sleep with the Gulf’s soothing sounds as your lullaby.
Off the E11, Al Rafaah, Umm Al Quwain.
Outdoor activities in the UAE: Go glamping
Al Badayer Oasis
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Al Badayer Retreat by Sharjah Collection (@albadayer.retreat)
Built to resemble a roadside inn (or caravanserai) for weary travellers, this gorgeous-to-look-at spot houses ten of the best kitted-out tents you’re likely to find. That said, you didn’t get 55-inch smart TVs and free Wi-Fi on the Silk Road, huh?
Al Badayer, Sharjah (06 556 0777).
The Starlight Camp UAE
For a romantic retreat with that personalised touch, it’s hard to beat this pop-up glamping experience. A crystal-topped tent and fantastic facilities await the most swooning of stargazers.
Near Dubai (050 345 5358).
The Longbeach Campground
With five levels of luxury to choose from, you can really ramp up the glamping at this seasonal, two-days-a-week beach camp. The panoramic dome suite tent comes with its own hot tub, but even if you go for the more basic version, you’ll still have a great sea view.
King Faisal Street, Ras Al Khaimah (800 5700).
Things to look forward to:
13 brilliant things to do in Dubai after sunset
It’s a late-night city, so make the most of it
White Festival returns to Dubai next month
Tickets are now on sale
26 brilliant pool day deals you’ll want to share with your mates
Where to get beach and pool access in Dubai
