The UAE has a plethora of camping sites that let you pitch a perfect tent. Although this might not be the perfect weather to go camping, it is a good way to travel minus the cost of flights and fancy hotel stays. That said, camping in the desert is impossible in this weather, but you can always bookmark it for the coming suitable seasons. Here are 12 camping sites in the UAE you must visit if you want more than just the golden sands.
1. Al Qudra Lake
If you are looking for the best of both worlds- land and water, Al Qudra Lake is where you must head! A short drive from the Mall of the Emirates takes you to this popular camping site. What sets this aside from other sites is the little oasis, which is home to flamingos and swans. Pitch a tent here, and if you are lucky, you might even spot camels in the morning.
Where:R9R2+2MR القدرة – Dubai
When: November through March
2. Hatta
Situated in the outskirts of Dubai, Hatta is one camping site which has a lot to offer. In fact, you don’t even have to carry your tents along. The camping site has stay options, which will double up as a perfect staycation too. Surrounded by mountains, a dam and a lake, Hatta provides scope for adventure sports and activities. The lake serves as a perfect site for kayaking and paddleboarding, while the mountains excite those who love biking and hiking.
Where: Hajar Mountains
When: September to October and February to March
3 Banan Beach
Located along the Jebel Ali shoreline is a beach with bright colored wooden tents and chalets. The Banan beach is best for all those who love camping under the company of sun, sand and water. The tents are nothing less than a luxury room in a hotel, so you don’t have to lug along sleeping bags or mattresses. As for the activities, you can barbecue on the beach, engage in over 12 different water sports, or simply play a game of beach volleyball. You can also go shopping in the mini market onsite or head to the Jebel Ali Shooting Club if that’s your thing. You can stay overnight, with sleeping tents for two costing from AED350 a night. The chalets start from AED 1,000 for a night.
Where: Nad Al Sili – Ras Al Khaimah
When: October to April
4. Jebel Jais
Fancy camping on a mountain top? Jebel Jais will let you fulfil that wish! Pack your tents and spend the night under a moon-lit sky. In the morning, wake up to a spectacular sunrise and gear up for a day filled with adventurous activities. In case you didn’t know, Jebel Jais is home to the longest zipline. If that’s not your thing, go skating on their brand new ice rink or chill with a warm cup of coffee at their viewing deck. The view is truly breathtaking!
Where: Jebel Jais mountain, Ras Al Khaimah
When: October to April, December to March
5. Liwa Desert, Abu Dhabi
If peace wanted a permanent address, it’d probably pick Liwa. If you want to spot the desert in the map, put Empty Quarter as the address. All left to do is pick a dune, set your camp, and watch the sun set across the sky. Post dawn, let the star just shine bright to light up your night. By day, you can ride the dunes, slide down like a kid, or flip eggs while the breeze goes about its business. Liwa isn’t showing off.
Where: Empty Quarter, Abu Dhabi
When: November to March
6. Moreeb Dune, Near Liwa Oasis
This one’s for adrenaline junkies. Moreeb isn’t just any dune; it’s a 300-metre beast with a slope that screams “try me.” Each December, the Liwa Festival turns it into a rev-head paradise. Bikes, buggies, full throttle fun. Even if you miss the festival, it’s worth standing next to. Feels like Mother Nature flexing. Camp close by and feel the silence hit once the engines stop.
Where: Rub Al Khali, Abu Dhabi
When: Best in December for the Liwa Festival
7. Mleiha, Sharjah
Mleiha takes its time with you. No rush. No hard sell. Just warm guides, old stories, and desert trails that whisper rather than shout. Sip tea on soft cushions. Gaze at stars through a telescope. When morning hits, drive across Fossil Rock and let the views shut you up in the best way. It’s thoughtful, soft, and sneaks into your memory quietly.
Where: Mleiha, Sharjah
When: October to April
8. Al Dhaid Desert, Sharjah Region
This is the “switch off your phone” kind of weekend. No crowds. No frills. Just wide open sand, a clear sky, and the soft crunch of something walking past your tent at dawn. Al Dhaid is pretty close to reach from parts of UAE. Get your flask, a blanket to wrap yourself and watch the stars, and enjoy the breeze playing with your hair.
Where: Al Dhaid, Sharjah
When: November to February
9. Bedouin Oasis Camp, Ras Al Khaimah
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This is how the old-school Bedouins did it, minus the struggle. You sleep in cosy goat-hair tents, chow down on grilled food under the stars, and hear oud melodies drifting through the night. Some nights have fire shows and dance, some just silence and stars. You don’t plan here. You just arrive, breathe deep, and let it all slow down.
Where: Near Digdaga, Ras Al Khaimah
When: October to March
10. Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah
One side is the sea. The other, the Hajar Mountains. This is beach camping with a side of mountain magic. No noise, no nonsense — just waves lulling you to sleep and that golden sunrise that makes you wish you woke up early more often. Honestly, the pics never do it justice. But your eyes will thank you.
Where: Al Aqah, Fujairah
When: October to April
11. Shuweihat Island, Abu Dhabi
Not many places feel untouched. Shuweihat kind of does. Crimson cliffs, clear water, and that wild, don’t-mess-with-me energy. You can’t camp overnight (it’s restricted), but for a proper day trip, it’s a gem. Walk the cliffs, dip your toes, and respect the stillness. Pack snacks and bin bags. It deserves to stay this pristine.
Where: Western Region, Abu Dhabi
When: Day trips only
12. Jazīrat Al Aki‘āb (Heels Island), Umm Al Quwain
If nature had a whisper mode, this is it. Locals call it Heels Island, and it’s the place to be if you want zero fuss and max peace. Just you, the mangroves, and a front-row seat to flamingos doing their morning strut. For nights, you’ll find yourself listening to the rustling wind and waves, no lullaby needed. All you need is to pack your gear and set out to camp.
Where: Umm Al Quwain coast
When: November to April
Also Read: Come Oct 17, Dubai Is Set To Welcome Temporary Winter Camping Season; Here’s All About It
So, whether you’re into roaring dunes, calm beaches or silent forests, the UAE has a camping spot that matches your weekend vibe. You don’t need fancy gear or a 4×4 convoy to enjoy these places. Pack light, pitch early, and please leave it cleaner than you found it.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images
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