7 Best Camping Places in UAE for an Unforgettable Outing

Camping can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially if you do it in the best places in UAE. If you want an unforgettable outing, consider camping at one of these seven amazing locations! Each spot offers unique attractions and challenges, so choose the one that best suits your interests and abilities. With multiple activities to keep you busy and some of the best views in Dubai, these camping spots will surely leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

List of the Best Camping Places in UAE 2023

We’ve got you covered whether you’re looking for a spot by the beach or in the desert. So get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

1. Al Qudra Lakes

Al Qudra Lakes has quickly become one of the best spots for camping in Dubai, especially for those travelling with children. The banks of the lake are perfect for setting up a tent, and there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained, from swimming and fishing to birdwatching.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly and eco-friendly spot, the Al Qudra Lakes may be your perfect destination. The lakes are home to 360 different bird species (158 of which migrate) and 26 types of reptiles, including 20 Monitor lizards! And it doesn’t stop there: fishing enthusiasts will love this place because they’ve discovered more than 800 recorded catches, including various fish such as paddlefish or gar alewife.; paddling through one of our many pristine, quiet sections is an unforgettable experience.

The lakes are a photographer’s paradise, offering picturesque scenery from dawn to dusk. They’re also safe to camp at, with friendly police patrols and plenty of other campers year-round. So if you’re looking for a solo camping adventure, this is the perfect spot!

Location: R9QG+2QM – Dubai

Best Time to Camp: December to March

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2. Banan Beach

The Banan beach is a hidden gem in the city, perfect for a daytime camping trip. With excellent facilities, staff, and reasonable pricing, it’s no wonder this spot is becoming increasingly popular among tourists. Currently, the resort offers 47 camping tents, five chalets and 12 water sports – so there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Price: AED 350/ tent for one night

Best Time: Summers for overnight camping

Location: Jebel Ali, Dubai

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3. Acacia Forest

It is a great camping spot in UAE, surrounded by mountains. However, finding the forest using only maps can be challenging, so it’s highly recommended that you visit with a group of other campers. This way, you can convey to the destination and keep track of the route so you don’t get lost. Once you arrive, you’ll be treated to a beautiful view of Jabal al Harim. The forest is usually very calm, especially at night. However, there is a potential risk as there is a military firing range in the area – be sure to watch out for restriction signboards.

Best Time: Throughout the year

Location: The forests are 10 kilometres from Khor Najid in the mountains of Musandam. One can reach them through Ras Al Khaimah, which will bring you 5 Kms into this deep forest with an amazing view!

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4. Liwa

Liwa is known as the “Empty Quarter” due to its remote location in the deserts of Abu Dhabi. You can only reach it by an off-road vehicle like an SUV, and you’ll need a compass, shovel, and plenty of water and petrol. However, once you arrive, you’ll quickly see that Liwa is one of the most beautiful deserts in the world, full of wildlife. So to have an adventure and a chance to see some fantastic scenery, Liwa is the place for you.

Best Time to Camp: Throughout the year

Location: 49XX+674 – Abu Qrayn – Abu Dhabi

5. Hatta

If you’re looking for a fantastic camping spot with breathtaking views, Hatta is the perfect place. Nestled in the stunning Hatta Nature Reserve, this serene location is ideal for a relaxing getaway with friends or family. With plenty of campsites to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and enjoy the great outdoors. 

Location: Q5P4+XV7 – Dubai

6. Jebel Al Jais

Jebel Al Jais is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dubai. The tallest mountain in UAE is Ras Al Khaimah, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It is known as the “Grand Canyon of Oman” because of its similarity to the American landmark. This is an excellent place to hike up to incredible views. The hiking track is easy to climb due to its flat base, making it one of the easiest to hike. 

Campers can also find a few campsites at Jebel Al Jais. The area also has several restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to spend a day or two. So if you’re looking for an exciting Dubai experience, Jebel Al Jais is the place for you!

Location: P4W6+W4Q – Jebel Al Jais, Ras al Khaimah

7. On the Wild Side at Lahbab

The Lahbab Desert is a stunning place to go camping, with its red sands and impressive rocks and dunes. The Pink Rock provides dramatic views of the desert landscape, while the Big Red dune is perfect for adrenaline rush adventure seekers. You can rent quad-bikes or sandboards to explore the area and then cross over to Hatta for more camping opportunities. The Lahbab Desert is a fantastic option for campers who want to explore the desert and stargaze at night.

Location: Lahab, Camping Area

Permits Required

Camping is a perfect weekend or even a week to enjoy great outdoor activity. And while it may be tempting to pitch your tent anywhere you please, it’s essential to be aware of the regulations surrounding camping in Dubai. No permit is required if you’re planning on camping for a short period. You have to take a permit from the Dubai Municipality if you want to come for a longer period. In addition, camping is only permitted in certain areas of Dubai, namely Wadi Al Amerdi, Wadi Al Shabak, Al Warqa, and Al Khawaneej. 

Who can Apply: Only Emiratis/Emirates ID Holders can apply. 

Price: AED 2,000 deposit. After which 22 fils are applied for each weak stay at the campsite. 

Documents Required: Car registration, passport and Emirates ID.

FAQs

Can I camp anywhere in UAE?

UAE is known for luxury resorts and towering skyscrapers, but the country also boasts some of the most scenic landscapes in the world. Drive through to Masafi, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a different world. This small town is located in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, and its spring water has made it famous as UAE’s version of Évian-Les-Bains. A Friday market also opens daily, offering a glimpse into traditional Emirati culture. You could camp anywhere en route to the mountains. The picturesque Wadi Wurayah is about an hour’s drive from Masafi and is an excellent spot for hiking, swimming, and picnicking. With its lush vegetation and crystal-clear waterfall, it’s easy to see why this hidden gem is a famous tourist spot in the UAE.

Is overnight camping allowed in Dubai?

To camp in Dubai, a permit is required except for short-term camping within the city. The areas of Wadi Al Amerdi, Wadi Al Shabak, Al Warqa, and Al Khawaneej are the only areas in which long-term camping is permitted. Only Emiratis/Emirates ID Holders can apply for a permit to camp in Dubai.

If you are interested in camping in Dubai, get the proper permits and documents before heading out. This way, you can avoid potential problems or issues during your stay. Then, enjoy your time camping in Dubai!

Is camping safely in UAE?

The majority of the desert in UAE is safe to camp in. However, some areas are off-limits to camping due to their proximity to military bases or other sensitive areas. In addition, camping is only allowed in certain areas within Dubai – specifically Wadi Al Amerdi, Wadi Al Shabak, Al Warqa, and Al Khawaneej.

Where can I camp overnight in UAE?

If you’re looking for the best camping spots in the UAE, you’ll want to check out Wadi Al Amerdi, Wadi Al Shabak, Al Warqa, and Al Khawaneej. These offer a variety of activities and amenities that campers can enjoy.

Is camping allowed in RAK?

The decision was made to preserve the beauty of the beaches and ensure beachgoers’ safety. You must apply for a permit from the RAK Municipality to camp here. The permit will cost AED 200 and will be valid for one month.

Is it allowed to camp in Al Qudra Lake?

Al Qudra is an excellent place to camp because you can be by a man-made lake. You don’t need a permit to camp at Al Qudra, but you will need one if you wish to camp for a longer duration.

Can you sleep in the desert in Dubai?

The overnight desert safari extends the evening desert safari, allowing people to spend the night in a traditional Bedouin camp. This is an excellent opportunity to experience Arabian hospitality and see the stars away from the city lights. Overnight desert safaris are only permitted in certain areas, so check before you book.

Where is camping allowed in Abu Dhabi?

Suppose you want to experience the best desert camping that Abu Dhabi offers. In that case, you’ll want to check out Empty Quarter, Arabian Nights Desert Camp Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra Desert, Al Razeen Desert and Jebel Hafeet. These are some of the most popular desert camping spots in Abu Dhabi and offer a truly unique experience. So whether you’re looking to enjoy the peace of the desert or want to explore all that Abu Dhabi has to offer, these are great places to start your adventure.

Is overnight camping allowed in Love Lake?

While camping is prohibited at Love Lake, plenty of other areas around Al Qudra make for a great adventure. Popular spots include Wadi Al Amerdi, Wadi Al Shabak, Al Warqa and Al Khawaneej.

How do I get a camping permit in Dubai?

When it comes to camping in Dubai, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:

1. You’ll need a no-objection letter from your landlord or hotel if you’re not staying in a camping area.
2. You’ll need to get a permit from Dubai Municipality.
3. Ensure you have a copy of your tour guide’s ID and residency visa.

You’re ready to start planning your adventure with these things in mind. Many reputable companies offer tours and can help you with the paperwork, so research before booking. And remember, have fun and enjoy the experience of camping in one of the unique places in the world. Dubai is an extraordinary place, and there’s no better way to explore it than by spending time under the stars.

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