The best camping places in the Emirates?
Blazing sand
Known for its stunning red sand, Al Habab is a popular spot at night for campers. Which is also a great place for star gazing. Barbecuing in this weather is the best thing to do while watching Big Red, a 300-foot-tall sand dune. You can also head to the quiet village of Sayidaty before the Hatta border crossing for more camping spots where you might have some wandering camels from the local farms.
Ras Al Khaimah desert
Getting there: Head towards Ras Al Khaimah on Mohammed bin Zayed Road
What to expect: You can either camp near the farms or explore the stunning sand dunes of Ras Al Khaimah. Besides the banyan, palm, and ghaf trees that line the desert, you will have no trouble spotting local animals such as the Arabian oryx. Many wild birds, some of whom migrate from cooler regions at this time of year, flock here. It must be taken into account that most camping places are very far from paved roads, so sufficient food and drink must be taken.
Empty Quarter
What to expect: Part of the larger Arabian Desert, the Empty Quarter is the largest contiguous sand desert in the world, covering some 650,000 square kilometers across parts of Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. The stunning Liwa Oasis is at the heart of it all and many say it is the location that provides the ultimate Sahara desert camping experience. For a first-time desert adventurer, it is recommended to have at least two vehicles and an expert guide
Hajar Mountains
There is Wadi Taiba, near the village of Taiba. Drive to Masafi, famous for its spring water. There is also a Friday market that is open virtually every day. You can camp anywhere on your way to the mountains. The picturesque Wadi Wurayah is located about an hour's drive from Masafi, not far from the foothills of the Hajar Mountains. Approximately 20 km from Khor Fakkan Beach, the area's rocky terrain will take you down winding valleys, leading you to serene waterfalls.
Jebel Jais
A stunning mountain view with naturally jagged rocks will take your breath away as you make your way to Jebel Al Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE. With temperatures as low as -3°C (in January 2009 when the mountain range was covered in snow), it is also among the most picturesque places in the country,.
Umm Al Quwain Beach
The beaches are the perfect gateway even for a day trip or a night-time barbecue. For more fun, you can also visit the old fishing villages along the peninsula at Al Ras where you can spot flamingos and other wild birds. Some adventure seekers even go so far as to explore the mangrove forests along the coast on boats. If the beach is what you want, there are plenty on the east coast of Fujairah too.
Hatta
Outdoor enthusiasts who want to be in tune with nature can explore Hatta's landscape from the comfort of their caravan or tent. Hatta is the perfect place for a unique experience
UAE outdoor explorers can park their vehicles next to their campsite, allowing easy access on and off the grounds. Barbecue areas have been installed in the vicinity, and guests who want to eat without cooking can head to the food trucks located in Hatta Wadi Hub.