Camping under the starry night, feeling the calmness of the desserts and the tranquility of the waters while snuggling around the campfire is a memorable experience.

The UAE is a land of luxurious spots and gorgeous hotels with intimidating facilities, but this is not just it. How about camping under the open sky roof near a beach or hiking around the mountains while enjoying the beautiful surroundings? The UAE is the epitome of beauty, serenity, and above that, the unlimited options for tourists to relish their time. For those who want to spend their vacation close to mother nature, away from the fancy shenanigans, the UAE offers a number of camping spots.

After having a stressful day, all you need is to cut off all distractions and indulge in the serenity of nature. In the UAE, you will find many spots where tourists can enjoy a sound day, listening to the birds chirping while losing in the calmness of the surroundings. Desert camping is also an exceptional way to explore UAE’s wilderness, marine life, and adventurous activities in an alluring environment.

There are a lot of things to do in Dubai at night, and out of these, camping is the favorite activity of the majority of tourists. Camping is not just a way to relax but an adventurous expedition that bonds you tighter with your loved ones. The camping spots in UAE are enchanting and intriguing and trigger the desire to adventure in every tourist.  If you’re visiting the UAE and looking for an exceptional camping spot, this blog post will greatly help.

Rules of Camping in the UAE

• Although there is no prior permission required for camping in the desserts, however, if you want to stay for longer, you need to acquire permission.
• It is not allowed to light the fire more than necessary and when you leave the camp, make sure to extinguish the fire. No ovens or barbecues are allowed inside the tent. No lighters and candles should be burned inside.
• A tent should be installed at a considerable distance from the other tent. The light sources should be placed 50 cm away from the tent cloth.
• Not large gatherings are allowed inside the tent.

What is the best time to go camping in the UAE?

The UAE is the land of blazing hot sun and humid & dry weather. The weather remains hot and humid for most of the year, and if you’re planning a tour to the UAE to enjoy camping, the suitable months would be from October to April.

Most ex-pats or locals plan their camping on weekends so it is obvious that Friday to Sunday would be the busiest days for camping. If you want to stay away from the bustle, you may plan your camping session during the weekdays.

Essentials to Carry When Going Camping in UAE

If you’re planning a camping getaway with your family and friends in UAE, you need to make a checklist of essentials to ensure that you’re not missing out on any necessary gadgets.

Here is a list of essentials you should never forget to take out with you while camping.

• A good GPS and maps. Carrying both online and offline maps is recommended.
• Tent along with poles and stakes.
• Tent footprint for the base.
• Firewood, grills, matchbox, charcoal, torch
• Fire extinguisher
• Extra warm clothes
• First aid kit, tissues, and wipes
• Insect repellent, antiseptic sprays
• Plenty of water and food especially canned food
• Rake and garbage bags
• Umbrella, a sunblock
• Power bank, extra batteries

Don’t forget to double-check your list of essentials before heading towards the camping spot because any missing stuff spoils the fun.

Estimated Budget for Camping in UAE

There are various camping packages that you can avail yourself of according to your budget and camping spot. Various hotels are affiliated with camping facilitators, so they provide you with the pick and drop facility. However, you have to ask your hotel management if they facilitate the service or not.

In the UAE, the camping cost ranges from AED 700 to AED 800 per person. Within this package, you can usually spend 2 days and one night in the camp.

Safety measures when Camping

• Regarding tents

When choosing the tent for camping, make sure it is made of non-absorbent and non-flammable materials and has proper holes for adequate ventilation.

The tents should be fastened tightly with ropes and should be kept at a length that is safe for the people inside. Also, keep in mind that tents should be pitched in an area that is far away from the level of water tides.

• Regarding heating operations

The firewood must be kept at least 15 feet away from the tent. The burner stove should be placed outside the camp so that in case of wind flow, the stove can be protected by the barrier. If you burn coal, do not leave it to burn at night as it can cause serious fire hazards. Ensure that there is an extinguisher nearby in case of a fire.

• Do not throw the trash away as it can attract insects and other parasites to the camping site.
• If you want to enjoy a camping expedition to the fullest, make sure to abide by the camping rules and safety measures.

Best spots for camping in the UAE

In the UAE, you will find a plethora of camping spots where you will be mesmerized by the beauty and serenity of the surroundings.

Here, we have covered the best camping spots across the seven states of the UAE, each place will give you a soothing and unforgettable experience.

Camping spots in Dubai

Banan Beach

Banan Beach is a small yet cozy place to cater to your desire for daytime camping. You will be entertained by ample sunlight that will make your body feel warm and relaxed. To let you enjoy the beach vibes, the beach staff provides tents, pillows, and chairs so you can have a delightful time under the open blue sky.

The Banan beach resort offers more than 40 camping tents, 5 chalets, and 12 water sports to channel your tourists’ camping vibes. Although the beach offers exceptional daytime camping, the best time to camp at Banan Beach is at night during summer. The resort is hands down one of the best instagrammable places where the lightning tents give a picturesque view in the evening.

Booking a tent at the Banan Beach Resort costs around AED 30 for 1 night.

Location: Jebel Ail – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Lahbab Sands Camping

Looking at the red sands stretching far away is the most mesmerizing view one can ask for in Dubai. Lahbab Sands is particularly known as a paradise for dune bashers and speed lovers who love to defeat the whirling wind. ‘The Big Red’ is a 300-foot sand dune that is a huge challenge for every high-speed biker and every dune basher who wishes to conquer it.

Not only for the speed-daft bikers, but Lahbab Sands is a popular camping destination among stargazers who wish to enjoy twinkling nights full of stars. A BBQ plater with lots of music around makes camping an unreal experience among the campers.

Location: Lahbab, Dubai, UAE

Al Qudra Lakes

Al Qudra is an artificial oasis famous for the rejuvenating camping experience, surrounded by sand dunes. Away from the city’s hustle and bustle, the camping site at Al Qudra Lakes offers breathtaking views of the stars and the calmness of the surroundings while you enjoy the BBQ set up near the lake. The beautiful swans and flamingos in the water are a beacon of calmness and serenity for the spectators.

Al Qudra is also the land of almost 360 species of migratory birds which produce soothing sounds to the ears in the morning. Interestingly, you don’t need off-road cars to explore the Al Qudra lakes. To satisfy your food cravings, there are many food trucks available at Al Qudra Lakes.

There is no entry fee for Al Qudra Lakes but certain activities such as renting bikes is charged as per the vendor’s agreement.

Location: Saih Al Salam, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Arabian Dreams Desert Camp

Camping in Arabian Dreams Desert Camp is a joyful escape from the bustling city of Dubai. With a touch of a private tour, camping here would be surreal as you can drive through the sand dunes in your private jeep. Enjoying the delectable BBQ while the sunsets behind the sand dunes while the traditional music plays around – this is going to be an amiable experience for a lifetime.

There are various activities which you can enjoy on your camping, such as dune-bashing, camel riding, sandboarding a 180-meter sand slope, and much more. The camping site has seven tents where you can enjoy near the campfire while strengthening your bond with your loved ones.

For a group of 6 persons, the camp reservation at Arabian Dreams Desert Camp costs AED 1817.

Location: At the edge of Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, UAE

Camping spots in Sharjah

Al Badayer Oasis

With a serene amalgam of silence, intimidating surroundings, and a night full of blitzing stars, Al Badayer Oasis is a famous camping spot in Sharjah. With 20 rooms and 10 tents in the middle of sand castles, the camping site is a treat for every camper.

There are various activities that you can enjoy at Al Badayer including dune bashing, quad biking, camel rides, and more.

Location: Located on the higher plateau of Al Madam, Al Badayer is around 65km southeast of Sharjah city.

Al Faya

Al Faya is famous for its mesmerizing ruby sand and sand dunes which are bigger than Al Badayer. The effortless blending of desert surroundings with bedroom lodges in the middle of the oasis makes Al Faya a favorite spot to camp in Sharjah.

The campers who love to stargaze under the calm starry night sky can book a tent of their choice. The camping site of Al Faya is incredibly designed to look traditional and to make people enjoy the typical camping experience at its best.

Location: Musk Al Faya, 28 miles from Sahara Center, Sharjah.

Fossil Rock

Fossil Rock is a prominent camping spot in Sharjah that highlights the information on the rock formation, the early species on the planet, and past civilizations and is a worth-visiting place for those who love to discover history.

The Fossil Rock is also a popular spot from the archeological point of view and the nearby Mleiha Archaeological Centre offers guides that thoroughly make you understand the history of deserts in the UAE. The place has some amazing mountains in the surroundings and between them, it looks surreal to camp here.

If you just want to surround yourself with the mountains above the open starry sky or want to discover its hidden treasures, Fossil Rock is the camping place you should go for.

Location: Located near the Sharjah-Kalba Highway Road.

Camping spots in Abu Dhabi

Al Dhafra Beach

Enjoy beach camping with your loved ones, friends, family, and turtles. Turtles? Turtles!

Al Dhafra Beach is located on the fringes of Abu Dhabi and is widely famous for its vast camping spots where you may accompany the turtles. So if you enjoy spotting sea turtles, Al Dhafra has this company planned for you. One of the calmest and prettiest beach views will be seen here near the crystal-clear waters.

If you’re planning to visit Al Dhafra, don’t forget to pack your camping supplies and a swimsuit as well because there are many sports activities that may excite you at the beach including snorkeling and kayaking. Indulge yourself in the delicacy of BBQ items and fishing while you enjoy camping under the wide sky.

Location: On the western coast of Abu Dhabi, almost 220 kilometers from the city.

Liwa

Located amidst the deserts of Abu Dhabi, Liwa is popular among those campers who love to spend time in solitude. The vast barren land of Liwa is also termed the ‘Empty Quarter’ and to reach here, you really need a good compass.

Flooded with wildlife, Liwa is an incredibly beautiful camping spot in Abu Dhabi and has so much serenity for its visitors. The more you explore it, the more quiescent and alluring it looks. When you’re camping in the middle of the sands, there are high chances of go lost among the wide stretches of desert. It is always recommended to bring a good GPS and travel in 4x4s since here, you may encounter various sand dunes. Near Liwa, there is a motor museum owned by Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan al Nahyan and is a must-visit place for tourists.

You need to bring all the essential camping items with you and extra fuel because there are rare chances of finding any help nearby in case you’re running low on the camping basics.

Location: Follow Dubai – Ghweifat International Highway, Abu Dhabi -Tarif Road/E11 and E45 to Hameem Road

Bab Al Nojoum

The absolutely stunning and luxurious beach at Abu Dhabi’s Hudayirat Island will provide you with an unforgettable camping experience. With the star-studded sky above you and a will to adventure in the most exquisite camping spot in Abu Dhabi, the whole camping experience at Bab Al Nojoum is going to be surreal and enticing.

The tourists who camp here enjoy impeccable solace that makes them disconnect from the crowded city and lets them enjoy the serenity of sky and sand. If you’re planning to camp here, don’t forget to bring your own sleeping mats, pillow, and sleeping bags. However, if you’re willing to spend more, you can rent an air mattress and towels.

The price range of camping at Bab Al Nojoum lies between 214 DHS and 2290 DHS.

Location: Located in Hudayriyat Leisure and Entertainment District, 29 minutes away from Abu Dhabi Airport.

Camping spots in Fujairah

Al Aqah Beach

A true emblem of desirable luxury resorts and scenic settings for camps – Al Aqah Beach is a widely popular camping spot in Fujairah. The camping activities combine with rich traditions and provide an enduring experience to relish for a lifetime.

The camp setting around the intimidating beaches is perfect for every camper to enjoy the time of his own under the wide sky. Since the beach is located near the Le Meridien Al Aqah Resort, you will find a variety of dining options to binge-eat your favorite food while camping. There are various watersports activities such as snorkeling and kayaking that will make you tick your desire for adventure.

Location: G946+PM9 Al Aqah, Fujairah – United Arab Emirates

Snoopy Island

For families who love to camp and looking for exceptional spots in Fujairah to go camping in summer, Snoopy Island is a perfect spot for those families.

Snoopy Island (also known as Jazirat al-Aqqa) took its name from the resemblance of its boulder with the cartoon character ‘snoop’. The island is not massive and has a length of only 100 meters, but its popularity is unbelievable. To get here, you don’t need a 4-wheel drive.

To enjoy sizzling BBQ and water sports with your family, you can set up tents by the beach side and enjoy precious moments with your family. The spot is widely popular for camping in summer among families, and this is why it would be difficult to find an empty spot here.

Location: On the northern coast of the Emirate of Fujairah on the Gulf of Oman

Wadi Sana

Driving between Dibba and Masafi, the route takes you from deserts to crusty mountains all through scenic views. Along with camping in Wadi Sana, you can also enjoy hiking the mountain terrains. The picturesque views from the mountains make one indulge in the deepness and calmness of the mountains.

Since you’re going to camp around the mountains, don’t forget to take blankets and a sleeping bag with you. Wadi Sana is also famous for its mountain-biking trails which excite every adventure lover to dive into this expedition. You will need to take a 4×4 to reach Wadi Sana through the rocky path.

Location: Masafi-Dibba Road

Camping spots in Ras Al Khaima

Bedouin Camps

A true blend of Arab heritage and extravagance can be seen at Bedouin camps. One of the best things about Bedouin camps is that you don’t need to take extra stuff with you because you will be provided with coolers, cushions, a BBQ setup, and hookahs in the camp to add cozy and comfy vibes to your camping experience. Arabic food is another perk that you can enjoy inside your camp, as here you can access lavish Arabic food and buffets.

To make campers aware of the history of the surroundings, the guides at the Bedouin Camps will take you on an educational tour of the desert. The enchanting silence and peaceful calmness away from the city’s bustle will provide you with a soothing experience. The Banyan Tree Al Wadi is located near the Bedouin Camping site where you can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Arabs.

The price per camp in Bedouin Camps starts from AED 190.

Location: Near Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

Awafi

Awafi stands among the most popular camping destinations in the UAE. It is a popular camping site in Ras Al Khaima, especially among those families who love to camp in the wide stretches of sand, away from the city lights.

The camping site is also popular for quad biking, and people love to take part in this adventurous expedition. The site also hosts an annual festival to celebrate the ethnic and cultural heritage of the UAE. Awafi is a favorite camping spot not only among families but also among youngsters who love to camp here with their friends to enjoy quad biking.

Camping spots in Ajman

Bianky Beach Camp

Bianky Beach Camp is a popular site to camp in Ajman where you can enjoy camping at its best even if you have a low budget. Away from civilization, close to the old local flavor, Bianky caters to campers with tents and coastal wooden gazebos and chalets to spend quality time with friends and family.

Bianky Beach Camp is located at Al Zorah Beach, where tranquility meets luxury and spellbound every tourist around. The BBQ area, water sports activities, and various styles of accommodation allow the visitors to enjoy their camp time just as they want. Enjoy your beverages and scrumptious food, listen to the live music, and indulge in the beauty of this incredible beach camp.

Location: Situated on Al Zorah Beach Ajman, almost 27 kilometers away from Sharjah International Airport.

Carvana Alzorah

Take your camping experience at a whole new level with Caravana Alzorah where spacious an dwell-maintained caravans are waiting for you. This is the coolest camping site in Ajman where you can rent out a luxurious caravan that opens up in private beaches where you enjoy your sunbeds and relax.

Cook the meal of your choice, relax in a jacuzzi, play a volleyball match or just sit outside to enjoy the water front, you can make the most of your time at Caravan Alzorah. There are various sizes of Caravans available which are suitable for even families. The pricing of booking a caravan starts from AED 600 per night for 2 to 3 people.

Location: Al Zorah Beach, Ajman

Camping spots in Umm Al Quwain

Al Rafah Beach

If you plan to spend a night camping at Al Rafah Beach, make sure to put your camp away from the seashore to avoid getting drenched. Surrounded by peculiar mangrove trees and coastal vegetation, Al Rafah Beach makes you feel close to mother nature.

From kayaking to fishing, Al Rafaah Beach offers fun time activities to do with your loved ones. If you’re planning to go fishing, don’t forget to take your gear along. You will spot lots of flamingos and other wild birds on your way.

Al Rafah Beach is a favorite place for all adventure lovers who love to do kayaking and also for those souls who do fishing as their favorite pastime.

Location: Take Mohammad Bin Zayed Road north towards Ajman, and take the Dreamland Waterpark exit by following the signboards.

The Umm Al Quwain beach

Umm Al Quwain is a place with beautiful views and attracts tourists to its fun and adventurous activities. Umm Al Quwain Beach is widely popular for all the fun activities which you can enjoy with your loved ones while camping at the beachside.

If you’re planning to camp here, make sure to bring with you your fishing gear, binoculars, BBQ grills, and some extra warm clothes. You can enjoy bird sighting, kayaking, and fishing on the coast of the beach

Umm Al Quwain Beach attracts hundreds of campers all year round to its calm and radiant camping site. Before setting up the tent, don’t forget to take the necessary information about the water tides since the high tides can be dangerous for the tents placed near the beach.

Location: Sheikh Saud Bin Rashid Al Mualla Street, Al Maidan, Umm Al Quwain, United Arab Emirates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is it safe to camp overnight in the UAE?

Yes, it is 100% safe to camp overnight at any camping spot in the UAE.

• What is the best time to go desert camping in UAE?

If you want to enjoy exclusive desert camping in UAE, it is recommended to go between March to September.

• Is travel insurance feasible during camping?

In case of accidents and mishappenings during camping, travel insurance can greatly help cover all the expenses.

• Do I need to take my camping gear with me?

A few camping sites offer camps to rent out where you can access pillows, sheets, throws, and everything you need inside the camp. However, there are various camping sites where you need to take the camping essentials with you. Do research about the camping sites before heading there.

Bottomline

There is a plethora of places to explore in UAE, be it fancy skyscrapers, traditional deserted areas, or delectable dining. The country has everything to make your vacations unforgettable.

If you’re planning to stay in UAE, this list will help you find the best hotel or camping spot in every state of the UAE. Whether you want to stay at a beachside hotel or camp in the desert, we have covered everything for you. Spend your vacations peacefully at any of these options and enjoy the real taste of UAE.