The deserts and waters of the United Arab Emirates are ripe for exploring and have something to offer everyone, from serene kayaking through a mangrove forest to full-throated adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining at 160km/h over the landscape. Many activities, like high ropes and hikes, are suitable for children, while some are strictly adults only. You can also find plenty of free or less-expensive activities, so a day or weekend in the country’s great outdoors doesn’t have to break the bank. These are the very best in outdoor activities in the UAE.
1. Go on a desert hike
One of the best (potentially) free outdoor activities in the UAE is hiking – particularly hiking in the desert, where the striking landscape makes for a beautiful day trip. There are numerous trails in the emirate, with varying degrees of difficulty. For a hike with kids, try Hatta Wadi Hub, where many trails are easy and short, and there are also other activities in the area including archery.
For more experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Stairways to Heaven hike in Wadi Ghalilah, which is around 18km and will take a full day. The challenge of trekking the ruddy and steep terrain brings with it the reward of stunning scenery and views from the top of the 1,700ft hike. Pack food, plenty of water and consider hiring a guide or going on a hiking tour if you don’t have previous experience.
2. Have a picnic at Al Qudra
Pack your picnic basket and drive down to Al Qudra Lakes, around 45 minutes from Downtown Dubai. The series of artificial lakes in the desert are a beautiful place to spot animals including oryx and desert foxes, as well as more than 170 species of birds, which dip into and around the lake as a water source.
Sit and enjoy a dinner picnic here and watch the sunset, or take a bike ride around the nearby cycling track. This is an activity best for the cooler or shoulder seasons, as the desert can get unbearably hot in the summer. Make sure you pack food and water, as there isn’t an abundance of shops nearby! If you want to extend your stay, the luxurious Bab Al Shams desert resort is close by or you could book a tour of the area and see Al Qudra and the nearby Love Lakes on the same day.
3. Take to the skies in Ras Al-Khaimah
One for the adrenaline lovers! There's plenty of outdoor adventure to be had in Ras Al-Khaimah – here you can fly through the air at speeds of up to 160km/h on the world’s longest zipline, Jais Flight, which takes you on a breathtaking journey through the clouds above the emirate. Make sure you book ahead online as spots can fill up fast. In Jebel Jais, you can also zoom down the mountains on the Jais Sledder, which takes you down the slopes at 40km/h.
Also in the area is the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp, where you can try out survival courses designed by the expert himself, including a high-ropes course that’s fun for kids. When the sun goes down, you can BBQ in the area and sleep under the stars for the ultimate end to a day of outdoorsy fun.
4. Go on a desert safari in Dubai
Buckle in and get ready for a hair-raising adventure, with a dune-bashing experience in the desert near Dubai. There are numerous tour operators to choose from, but to make the most of the experience, choose a whole-day tour that also includes activities such as sandboarding, dune buggies, hiking or horse riding – particularly if you’re travelling with children who get bored easily! Book well in advance as some tours leave early in the morning and get full fast. Many also offer an evening meal under the stars and a visit to the workshops of artisans (if your tour does extend to the evening, pack warm clothes – the desert can be chilly at night).
5. Jump in the water in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is a haven for watersports. Here, you can do everything from paddleboarding to freediving. Grab your wetsuit and hit the cable park of Al Forsan International Sports Resort, where you can try wakeboarding (and watch local experts flaunt their skills), kneeboarding, and waterskiing (you can often get tickets on the day but it’s worth booking in advance to avoid a wasted journey).
If you’re looking for a slower pace on the water, head out on a kayak through Abu Dhabi’s mangrove forest, where a guide will take you through the waterways and tell you about the local flora and fauna. If you just can’t get enough of aqua adventures, book onto a freediving course in Abu Dhabi, where you will learn about the country’s history of pearl diving, as well as learn how to dive without equipment.
6. Spot animals at Sir Bani Yas Island
Visit the Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island, where you can spot cheetahs, giraffes, gazelle and Arabian oryx, as well as numerous species of birds. On the island you can jump in a 4x4 for a nature-watching safari alongside an expert guide, who will talk through the conservation activities and habitat of these beautiful creatures (the giraffes are a big win with smaller safari guests). Make a weekend of it and stay in one of the luxury hotels on the island, where you can have a bonfire and watch the sunset over the reserve – there’s also some decent stargazing once the sun has gone down.
