Whether you want to go camping in Dubai or would prefer to go camping in the UAE or Oman, we’ve sussed out some of the best spots for pitching your tent or just opting for a glamping alternative. From a road trip to Fujairah to a quick trip to Al Qudra lake and desert, here’s some of our favourite ways to enjoy the outdoors…
1. Fujairah Beach Camping
If you’re looking for a cheap, alternative weekend activity, head to Ace Hardware UAE to pick up some camping equipment, then put your tent in the boot and get on the highway to Fujairah Beach. The rocky hills and sandy shoreline make for a perfect camping spot. Set up your tents along Al Aqah Beach, just a short drive away from the Rotana Resort and Spa, and make the most of the spectacular sunrise and sunset.
Price: It’s free to camp on Al Aqah beach!
Location: Fujairah Beach
insydo tip: For those who are new to camping, this spot isn’t too secluded; there’s an accessible toilet in the nearby petrol station
2. Al Qudra Lake & Desert
Often, people think they have to venture out of the Emirate in order to enjoy a fun-filled camping trip in and among the dunes. Little do they know that just 40 minutes East of the main city, you’ll find the secluded Al Qudra camping spot in the desert near to Al Qudra Lake. Disconnect from the digital world, gather your friends and pack the supplies for a night under the stars.
Price: It’s free to camp in the Al Qudra desert
Location: Near to Al Qudra Lake
insydo tip: March, April, October and November are the best months to camp, so plan your trip inline with the season.
3. Hud Hud Travels
Offering luxury camping and outdoor excursions (better known as ‘glamping’), Hud Hud Travels create bespoke experiences for anyone in search of magic under the stars. Transporting guests to some of Oman’s most breathtaking desert landscapes, they offer customisable packages that are perfect for honeymoon escapes, team building trips and more. You’ll sleep in authentic Bedouin tents in the vast Empty Quarter, observe the majesty of the Hajar Mountains or take a dip in the Indian Ocean.
Price: Prices start from around AED 4,000 per person per night… (expensive!)
Location: Oman
insydo tip: The luxury camps are complete with beds and candlelit dinners. You can choose to camp at more than one location during your trip.
4. Sheesa Beach
The rugged coastline of the 70km Musandam Peninsula invites camping enthusiasts to experience its mountainous terrain, dramatic cliff edges and pristine beaches. Always liked the idea of camping but not a fan of the ‘rough and ready’ lifestyle? Head to Sheesa Beach and swap camping for ‘glamping’ with permanent tents, buffet breakfasts and bathroom facilities. Set off on a dhow cruise, learn to fish or snorkel with the sea life amidst the extraordinary scenery.
Price: Camp and Cruise: AED 395 (adult); AED 295 (children between 5 and 12). It’s free for children below 5.
Location: Oman
insydo tip: Seasoned campers will probably resent the convenience of it all! The camp closes from April to September.
5. Fossil Rock
Feast your eyes on millions of years of history at one of the UAE’s most prized archeological sites, Fossil Rock. Known locally as Jebel Maleihah, the rock formation is located about an hour from Dubai off Hatta Road and offers visitors the chance to explore a treasure trove of prehistoric sea life in idyllic surroundings. You’ll be far enough from the glowing skyline of Dubai to catch a glimpse of the star constellations you wouldn’t normally get a chance to see. Bonus: the site is pinned on Google Maps, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost.
Price: A camping trip to Fossil Rock costs nothing (except petrol money!)
Location: Sharjah – Kalba Road in Sharjah
insydo tip: To access the desert and mountain range, you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle. The eastern side of the mountain is incredibly steep, so it’s not advisable to try and drive straight over unless you’re incredibly experienced – there’s a high risk of rolling the car.
6. Jebel Shams
If you’re looking to escape Dubai for a totally different landscape and an awesome road trip, add camping at Jebel Shams to your bucket list. The ‘Grand Canyon of Oman’, the rugged scenery here will impress you. You can hike through the canyon and there’s a campsite for pitching your tent. With a cooler climate, you can pack your jumpers and enjoy the refreshing escape from city life.
Price: Petrol money. Pitching your tent doesn’t cost a thing!
Location: Oman
insydo tip: It will take you a little over 5 hours to get there. Remember to pack your passports!
7. Platinum Heritage
Luxury tour operator Platinum Heritage Dubai offers excursions for those seeking unique high-end experiences. Camping in Dubai doesn’t get much more glamorous than this. You’ll be picked up in your air-conditioned vehicle and provided with the equipment needed at your desert camp. You can expect a wildlife drive, a full dinner and a gourmet breakfast in the desert.
Price: AED 995 for an adult and AED 795 for a child
Location: In the middle of the Dubai desert!
insydo tip: A private car booking is required if booking with children under 5 years old.
Who needs Ace Hardware UAE for equipment when you have a service like that?!