Camping Season in the UAE: Your Ultimate Guide
With camping season in full swing and the weather just right, it’s the perfect time to grab your tent and venture into the great outdoors. Whether you prefer a back-to-basics experience or a touch of luxury, camping can be a magical adventure for all ages. For those who may not be ready to commit to traditional camping, there are also air-conditioned options and even indoor experiences available—talk about a dream getaway!
With a bit of planning, camping in the UAE can be one of the most enchanting experiences. From stunning desert resorts to local natural wonders, here’s a curated list of the best places to camp in the UAE.
Jump to:
- Glamping in the UAE
- Luxury desert escapes in the UAE
Indoor Camping in the UAE
The Green Planet
(Credit: Supplied) For a truly unique experience, consider spending the night inside the rainforest at The Green Planet. On select dates, guests can enjoy a buffet dinner, take guided tours of the biodomes, participate in evening games, and savor a full breakfast the following morning. Keep an eye out for special festive overnight stays, and we’ll notify you as soon as the dates are confirmed.
The Green Planet, City Walk, thegreenplanetdubai.com (800 7699).
Outdoor Camping in the UAE
Ajman Desert
The Ajman Desert is an excellent choice for novice campers, as it’s conveniently located near the city. Family-friendly and popular among like-minded campers, this stretch of desert is perfect for barbecuing and enjoying a cozy campfire. Be prepared for cooler temperatures at night, so don’t forget to pack some extra layers!
Free. Open daily 24/7. Off Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Ajman.
Al Dhafra Beach
Covering two-thirds of the desert in Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra offers hundreds of kilometers of breathtaking beaches for camping. Here, “the desert meets the sea,” making it a stunning location for setting up camp. Head towards the Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort on the E11; there are signs along the way to guide you. Enjoy a night under the stars with the soothing sound of waves nearby. Just be sure to check the tide forecast at tide-forecast.com to avoid any soggy sleeping bags!
Free. Open daily 24/7. Between Shuweihat Power Complex and Al Hamra Airport, Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi.
Al Qudra Lakes
If you’re new to camping, Al Qudra Lakes is an ideal destination for those in Dubai looking to reconnect with nature without straying too far from the city. Located just 48km from Dubai, this picturesque retreat can get busy at sunset, but that communal atmosphere adds to the charm. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting around 130 species of birds, or you can simply enjoy grilling delicious food while sharing campfire stories. Don’t forget to bring your bikes to explore the 86km Al Qudra bike track!
Free. Open daily 24/7. Al Qudra Road, Dubai.
Jebel Ali Beach
Prefer a caravan over a tent? You’re in luck! Dubai Municipality now permits camping with caravans at Jebel Ali Beach, elevating your camping experience. Just make sure to obtain a free permit beforehand by providing a valid copy of your caravan ownership and your Emirates ID on the Dubai Municipality website. The beach has a Makani number of 0001864652.
Jebel Ali.
Umm Al Quwain Coast
This tranquil emirate boasts beautiful coastal camping sites where you can enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. Popular with families, it’s a wonderful spot to catch the sunset and drift off to sleep with the calming sounds of the Gulf. Although beach camping is favored, there are secluded spots available just off the E11 main road. Beachgoers can set up camp on the beach north and south of Al Rafaah.
Free. Open daily 24/7. Off the E11, Al Rafaah, Umm Al Quwain (no number).
Glamping in the UAE
Hatta Damani Lodges
If you’re a fan of glamping, the Hatta Damani Lodges offer an ideal setting. Overlooking Hatta Dam, these lodges are nestled on three different mountain levels, each featuring a private terrace and modern amenities, including large TVs. Prices start at around Dhs700, or you can opt to camp at Hatta Wadi Hub.
Prices vary. Hatta, Dubai, visithatta.com/en.
Longbeach Campground
Located in Ras Al Khaimah, Longbeach Campground is perfect for those seeking a top-notch glamping getaway. With various accommodation options, including traditionally styled and luxury tents, there’s something for everyone. Activities such as Tabata workouts, water sports, beach yoga, archery, and tennis ensure you won’t be bored during your stay.
Longbeach Campground, Ras Al Khaimah, bmhotelsresorts.com (0600 566 600).
Sand Sherpa
For a unique blend of glamping and camping, Sand Sherpa offers weekend camps from September to June in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Guided by experienced “sherpas,” each camping group enjoys a fully equipped trailer with essentials, including Sherpa Tents, utensils, camping gear, and a fire pit grill for delightful barbecues. Guests can also embark on wildlife walks to explore the scenic beauty of the area.
Prices vary. Open from Sept to June, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, sandsherpa.com. (058 560 6926).
Sonara Camp
For a chic glamping experience, Sonara Camp is a must-visit. This eco-friendly desert getaway features an Overnight Adventure experience, complete with an al fresco dining setting under the stars. Enjoy activities like camel rides, sunset views, and a delectable menu featuring dishes such as steaks and mezze. Set within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, it’s an unforgettable way to experience nature.
Prices vary. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Ain Road, nara.ae (050 336 7909).
The Nest
The Nest is a new addition to Sonara Camp, offering an exclusive and eco-friendly overnight experience. Each “nest” provides a luxurious bedroom area, a private en-suite bathroom, and an outdoor majlis. A dedicated Mudeef will ensure your stay is memorable, with gourmet dining options like wood-oven pizzas and wagyu beef sliders.
Prices vary. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. nara.ae/nara-escape/.
Luxury Desert Escapes in the UAE
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
Considered one of the most luxurious resorts, Al Maha is only an hour’s drive from Dubai Marina but feels like a world away. The resort is home to Bedouin Suites with private plunge pools, offering a perfect view for spotting leaping gazelles or, if you’re lucky, an Arabian oryx.
Prices vary. Dubai, marriott.com (04 832 9900).
Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Abu Dhabi
Just a short drive from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Al Wathba resembles a historic desert village. With 103 rooms and villas adorned in Arabesque design, guests can enjoy the spa, which features treatment rooms, a crystal salt sauna, Turkish hammam, yoga pavilion, and more.
Prices vary, Abu Dhabi, marriott.com (02 204 4444).
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort
If you’re looking to connect with nature both above and below sea level, Sir Bani Yas Island is perfect for you. Luxury villas surrounded by lush savannah provide private pools, ideal for gazelle or peacock watching.
Prices vary. Abu Dhabi, anantara.com (02 801 4300).
Mysk Al Badayer Retreat
This beautiful retreat, designed to resemble a roadside inn for weary travelers, features ten luxurious tents equipped with top-notch amenities, including 55-inch smart TVs and free Wi-Fi.
Prices vary. Al Badayer, Sharjah, sharjahcollection.ae (06 801 2000).
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
As a visual representation of an oasis in the desert, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort boasts 154 rooms and 52 villas, adorned with rich colors and rustic Arabian designs. Select pool villas include plunge pools with stunning desert views.
Prices vary. Abu Dhabi, anantara.com (02 886 2088).
Telal Resort
Located in Al Ain, Telal Resort is a stunning getaway offering various accommodations, from Heritage Deluxe Rooms to luxurious pool villas. With diverse packages available, you can choose from romantic desert escapes to adventure getaways, including special UAE resident rates.
Prices Vary. Al Ain, telalresorts.ae (03 702 0000).
Terra Solis
Created by the masterminds behind Tomorrowland, Terra Solis offers a desert oasis with pool days, brunches, and live DJ performances. For extended stays, guests can book Polaris tents or Perseid lodges, while luxury seekers can choose Orion Pool Lodges featuring private pools and expansive terraces.
Prices vary. Lehbab Road, Jebel Ali, terrasolisdubai.com.
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert
This popular desert retreat features private pools, stunning backdrops of rolling dunes, and delightful wildlife. Families can take advantage of The Ritz Kids Rangers deal, which includes a three-hour kids’ program along with breakfast and kids’ lunch.
Prices vary. Wadi Khadeja, Ras Al Khaimah, ritzcarlton.com (07 206 7777).
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