The UAE is the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure lovers, attracting people from all over the world. Read More!

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Outdoor activities in UAE

There is a reason why the United Arab Emirates is one of the top tourist destinations. This is due to its picturesque landscapes and a myriad of adventurous outdoor activities such as ocean surfing, cycling, and desert safaris. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a desert safari, which involves dune bashing, sand boarding, quad biking and camel riding. Visitors can also go kayaking and wakeboarding in the crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Gulf or take a dive and explore the underwater world of coral reefs and colourful fish. For those looking for a more relaxed adventure, stroll along the boardwalk of one of the beautiful beaches or take a cruise around the Gulf on a luxury yacht.

The United Arab Emirates is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a fun, quality vacation destination. Here’s a list of all the outdoor activities you can enjoy when visiting the Emirates. Read on!

1. Camping in the Desert

Everyone needs a little digital detox from time to time when the pressures of modern life seem to overwhelm them. The best way to do this is to load up the car, head to the desert, camp out, and soothe your soul in the sand. It is a great way to experience the majestic beauty of the desert. You can also explore the area’s wildlife and take part in activities such as sandboarding, camel riding and stargazing.

With its artificial lagoons and fantastic wildlife, it is hard to believe you are a few miles from the heart of the city, but it is so picturesque and peaceful. It is a must-do outdoor activity in the UAE. In addition, it is dangerous to drive through the desert and camp in a random place.

However, in Al-Qudra, the more people there are, the more room for everyone. Glamping is an option, but if it is the wilderness, why not pitch a tent for two, have a barbecue, and relax with your loved ones as the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle?

Location: Around 10 miles east of al Maktoum Airport, right along the Al Qudra Road(D63)

2. Explore Palm West Beach

One of the best beaches in the UAE to explore is Palm West Beach.

Palm West Beach is a beautiful beachfront promenade and has become one of the most popular attractions in the UAE. It is a beach along the coast of Dubai, with crystal clear waters and a stunning view of palm trees. If you’re an avid ocean-goer, this is the perfect place for activities such as swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding. With restaurants, bars, entertainment, and water sports along the beach, this “sunset destination” will tell you when it is time to party.

In addition, the mile-long boardwalk and beach are pet-friendly and feature 300 palm trees lit at night. Coco Bay is a Bali-themed beach bar and restaurant. Lucky Fish, a hip beach club and restaurant, and Senor Pico, a Mexican restaurant, are all popular, with more opening soon.

For those looking for some peace and quiet, this beach offers a tranquil atmosphere to relax in. Visitors can also explore the beach’s walking tracks, which are dotted with palm trees and scenic views. Grab your camera to take pictures and enjoy beautiful views with your family or friends.

Location: Palm Jumeirah – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

3. Cycling Adventures

Umm Al Quwain is a hidden gem in the UAE that offers an array of activities for the adventurous visitor. One of the best things to do there is to go cycling around the beautiful terrain and explore historical sites in UAE. There are marked trails, scenic routes and places to explore.

The Umm Al Quwain Cycling Club organizes regular events for all cycling enthusiasts, from beginners to experienced riders. From cultural cycling tours to group rides, there is something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a great way to explore the area and its hidden gems. The trails are also varied, some with sand dunes, others with rocky terrain and bridges.

In Abu Dhabi, you can also cycle through miles of blacktop roads and endless desert-like areas. Take a bike to the empty neighbourhood, ride down mountainous dunes, tackle the 4,068-foot summit of Jebel Hafit, or cycle the six-mile Al Fudayyat Island trail to watch the picturesque city.

4. Walk around Liwa Fort

Liwa Fort is a great place to take a walk and explore the UAE’s heritage. Spanning 60 miles of greenery, Liwa Fort offers 360-degree views of the palm plantations of the Liwa Oasis and the dunes beyond. The fort houses the famous Sheikh Zayed Mosque and has several towers to climb and explore.

You can also walk around the fort’s historic streets, admire its architecture, and get a glimpse of the area’s culture. This is a great way to pass the time and discover the history of this region. The fort also has a museum and is a great place to learn more about the UAE’s culture and heritage. The seven mud-brick forts and fortresses that once protected the region’s water supply are a must for courageous travellers and history enthusiasts.Location: 23° 3’45.17″N 54° 4’17.56″E – United Arab Emirates

5. Mangrove Kayaking

Abu Dhabi’s mangrove reserves are close to the city, and a kayaking trip is the perfect stress-relieving activity. A 90-minute kayak tour takes you through the mangroves east of the capital. Kayaking through the winding waterways of this stunning ecosystem is an experience that will stay with you forever. Spot exotic wildlife, including dolphins, as you paddle past some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the UAE. You can also opt for Al Raba’s Mangrove Eco Tour to learn more about this unique ecosystem. There is also a night tour where you can observe the local marine life with the help of LED lights attached to the bottom of the kayak.

5. Wadi Adventure

If you prefer water sports or walking in the desert, this is the place for you. Wadi Adventure is one of the best places for white water rafting. Located in Al Ain, Wadi Adventure is the Middle East’s first man-made whitewater rafting site. It also houses a mountain bike park, rock climbing wall, surf pool, and cable wakeboard park. The waterpark is the perfect place to cool off during the hot summer months and enjoy some thrilling activities. In addition, this adventure sports facility is one of a kind in the Middle East. We love white water rafting on an artificial river, and you should do the same because it is fun and adventurous. Moreover, it is a beautiful outdoor area for families with kids.

Location: Mbazzarah Al Khadra – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates

6. Snoopy Island

Snoopy Island is a place you don’t want to miss. You can spend all day exploring the incredible coral reefs. The waters of this island are crystal clear, and you can feel the tranquillity. Take a break from the bustle of city life and head over to Snoopy Island, located in Ras Al Khaimah. This remarkable island is home to many forms of marine life, including dolphins, turtles and seabirds, making it an ideal getaway for all nature lovers. In addition, Snoopy Island in Fujairah has rocks shaped like the famous cartoon dog lying on his back.

The best way to experience the wonders of this island is to stay at the Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort. There are several other hotels near Snoopy Island, but this one deserves special mention. With Mount Hajar in the background, this hotel overlooks the sea and the Beach of Fujairah Snoopy Island.

Location: On the northern coast of the Emirate of Fujairah (United Arab Emirates) on the Gulf of Oman.

Final words

The endless outdoor fun activities like hiking, cycling, climbing and boat trip in UAE has to offer, will undoubtedly make your stay worthwhile and a lifetime of tremendous experience with your family and friends. Until next time!

FAQs

What are recreational activities in UAE?

Popular leisure and adventure pursuits include skydiving, golfing, desert safaris, dune buggy riding, land sailing, surfing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing, ice skating, and snow skiing.

What is a fun outdoor activity?

Try your hand at “fishing.” Let your child try to catch the items you’ve placed in a wading pool. Engage in a group jog. Take a stroll. Set a timer to find out how far you can walk in 5, 10, 20, or 30 minutes.

Why are outdoor activities the best?

Spending time in nature and the natural light can improve your mood and reduce stress and depression. Engaging in physical activity produces similar benefits and oftentimes relaxes and cheers people up. Your self-esteem will improve.