Top 10 Outdoor activities in the UAE

The UAE is a playground for thrill-seekers and nature lovers, as well as a country of shopping centres and skyscrapers. The top locations in the UAE for outdoor activities are included in our list. Together, we can organize an excursion that matches your level of adventure!

Undoubtedly, the well-liked Moreeb Dune deserves to be at the top of the list. It is impossible to be in the United Arab Emirates and not consider exploring its boundless natural scenery. Here, there’s plenty of space for inventive activities. You won’t be dissatisfied—at 300 meters high, it’s known as the tallest dune in the world. The desert in Abu Dhabi is one of the most significant outdoor recreation areas.

Location: Liwa, Empty Quarter Desert, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Hiking is one of your goals for the following year. To make that happen, you don’t need to search far away. Al Ain is a hidden jewel in the United Arab Emirates, offering many fantastic hiking spots. Near the UAE-Oman border in the Tawam region is a peak known as Jebel Hafeet. Since it will take around 4 hours to reach the peak and soak in the breathtaking panoramic vista, the walk is appropriate for beginners.

Location: Tawam region, Al-Ain, UAE.

This is for you if you like water sports or lounging in the desert. One of the most significant locations for white water rafting is Wadi Adventure. That is correct, of course! The Middle East’s only facility of its sort for adventure sports! Its artificial river provides endless opportunities for enjoyment. It’s also a great outdoor spot for families with children.

Location: Base of Jebel Hafeet, Al-Ain, UAE.

One cannot discuss the city’s main attractions without mentioning the globally acclaimed Dubai Fountain Show. Downtown Dubai is home to a fantastic water-based musical instrument and illumination show. With water displays shooting up to 150 meters into the air, this fountain is also the highest-performing fountain in the entire globe. This unique fountain design comprises two huge arcs and five circles with different widths. When the rush is in working order, over 22,000 gallons of water are in the air due to its powerful water nozzles.

Location: Downtown Dubai

In the UAE, Hatta Hatta is a must-have for any outdoor activities. In addition to offering a wide range of activities, the heritage town boasts some of the most breathtaking natural views in the nation. For the outdoor enthusiast, its rugged terrain makes it the perfect getaway. Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Hajar Mountains.

Location:  Hajar Mountains

Global Village in Dubai is one of the world’s most extensive shopping, entertainment, and tourism complexes. This is where you can witness the astounding diversity of the earth. This enormously expansive, ethnically diversified theme park is a unique, wholly integrated entertainment destination. This Dubai tourist destination is worth noticing because of its many cultural events, funfair rides, street food vendors, and more.

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, E 311 Road.

If you are travelling with your family, this theme park is one of the few tourist destinations in Dubai that you shouldn’t miss. The trendy LEGO building blocks inspire this family-friendly theme park within the larger Dubai Parks and Resorts complex. The first section is a theme park, while the second is a water park.

As the name suggests, Legoland Dubai is made entirely of large LEGO pieces, such as an enormous LEGO model of the world-famous Burj Khalifa and the stunning cityscape of Dubai. In addition to more than forty fantastic rides, it has imaginative kid-friendly play areas and other spectacular attractions. To sum up, Legoland Dubai is the best place to go.

Location: Dubai parks

Hudayriyat Mar Vista is a terrific spot to work out or increase your heart rate. There’s a bike park, a cycling track, a sports village with fields, pitches, a tennis and basketball court, and more; Circuit X has a BMX Park, Skate Park, Splash Park, High Ropes Park, and more. There are several obstacles in the OCR Park where you can test your endurance, strength, and stamina.

Location: OCR park

Dolphins are magnificent animals, and Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort is the best place to see them in the capital. According to a survey by the Environment Agency — Abu Dhabi (EAD), there are more than 700 humpback dolphins near Abu Dhabi’s coast, making it the world’s largest known population. The greatest teams in Abu Dhabi for watching dolphins can be found by grabbing a pair of binoculars and heading to one of the many hotels along that shoreline, such as Jumeirah at Saadiyat and Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island. You may also ask the concierge at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort for advice.

Location: Jumeirah

For a starting fee of Dhs225, Al Boom Diving in Fujairah provides various scuba diving opportunities. Luckily, everything is included in the price, so you won’t have to carry your oxygen tank to Fujairah. If the weather permits, you will be able to see a lot of amazing sights, such as Shark Island, Dibba Rocks, Snoopy Island, and much more. Even overnight excursions are offered that allow you to explore coral reefs.

Location: Foothills of Jajr mountains

A stylish walkway beside the shore will be a popular winter destination. It’s referred to as “the ultimate sunset destination” and offers restaurants, bars, entertainment, and water sports along the beach; perhaps that gives you an idea of when to go out. There are 300 palm trees along the 1.6 km promenade and seashore, which is pet-friendly and illuminated at night. Some of the best options are the Mexican restaurant Señor Pico, the chic beach club and restaurant Lucky Fish, and the beach bar and restaurant Koko Bay, which has a Balinese motif. It’s time for sunset cocktails, so grab your camera.

Location: Palm Jumeirah, Palm West Beach

The United Arab Emirates might conjure images of towering skylines and luxurious shopping, but a world of thrilling outdoor adventures lies beneath the shimmering facade. From scaling dunes in a desert safari to exploring ancient wadis and kayaking through turquoise waters, the UAE offers something for every adrenaline junkie and nature enthusiast. So, ditch the mall for a day and discover the UAE’s wild side – your next adventure awaits!

What are some popular outdoor activities in the UAE?

The UAE offers various outdoor activities, including desert safaris, dune bashing, camel riding, mountain hiking, snorkelling, scuba diving, kite surfing, skydiving, hot air ballooning, and dhow cruises.

Can tourists participate in desert safaris and dune bashing?

Absolutely! Desert safaris and dune bashing are popular activities for tourists visiting the UAE. Tour operators offer guided tours, including thrilling dune-bashing experiences in the desert.

What safety precautions should I take for desert activities in the UAE?

When participating in desert activities, staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and dressing appropriately for the hot desert climate is essential. Follow the instructions of your guide and avoid venturing into remote areas alone.

Are there any opportunities for mountain hiking in the UAE? 

The UAE is home to the stunning Hajar Mountains, which offer excellent hiking opportunities. Popular trails include those in Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain, and Wadi Ghalilah in Ras Al Khaimah.

Can I go snorkelling or scuba diving in the UAE?

Absolutely! The UAE is home to beautiful marine life and coral reefs, making it an excellent destination for snorkelling and scuba diving. Popular diving spots include Musandam in Oman and the East Coast of the UAE.

Where can I try kite surfing in the UAE?

Kite surfing enthusiasts can enjoy this thrilling sport at various locations across the UAE, including Kite Beach in Dubai, Yas Beach in Abu Dhabi, and Fujairah Beach on the UAE’s East Coast.