UAE Outdoor Recreation: Discover Thrilling Outdoor Adventures in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

UAE Outdoor Recreation invites you to explore the exhilarating landscapes and vibrant experiences that await in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities like dune bashing in the Red Dunes or tranquil moments amidst the stunning desert scenery, the UAE offers something for every adventurer. From thrilling outdoor adventures to unique cultural experiences, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Emirates and discover why outdoor recreation here is truly unforgettable. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

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UAE Outdoor Recreation

Over the years, the UAE has evolved from a small, lesser-known fishing village on the Arabian Gulf into a prominent cosmopolitan hub. Today, it stands as the capital of one of the world’s most significant cities and a favored tourist destination. This vibrant city offers a wealth of experiences, including luxurious hotels, high-end shopping malls, stunning architectural wonders, and a diverse range of outdoor activities.

Whether you’re interested in shopping, indulging in gourmet cuisine, enjoying top-notch entertainment, or immersing yourself in Emirati culture, the UAE has it all. While the country is famous for its world-class shopping, exquisite dining, and lavish accommodations, outdoor activities are typically off-limits during the sweltering summer months.

Fortunately, the cooler seasons are approaching, allowing visitors to enjoy the pleasant weather instead of the oppressive humidity. If you’re looking for fresh air and adventure, here are the top 11 outdoor recreation activities in the UAE to consider.

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Top 11 UAE Outdoor Recreation and Activities List

The UAE is not only a haven for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts but also home to numerous shopping centers and skyscrapers. Our list highlights the best locations for outdoor activities in the UAE. Together, we can plan an adventure that suits your thrill level!

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Moreeb Dune in Abu Dhabi

Moreeb Dune undoubtedly deserves its place at the top of the list. It’s impossible to visit the UAE without exploring its vast natural landscapes. This location offers ample opportunities for creative activities. Standing at 300 meters high, it is recognized as the tallest dune in the world. The Abu Dhabi desert is one of the premier outdoor recreation areas. Location: Liwa, Empty Quarter Desert, Abu Dhabi, UAE.

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The Hafeet Mountains

If hiking is on your agenda for the coming year, you won’t need to look far. Al Ain, a hidden gem in the UAE, boasts numerous fantastic hiking trails. Jebel Hafeet, located near the UAE-Oman border in the Tawam region, is a peak that is perfect for beginners. The hike takes about four hours, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic views at the summit. Location: Tawam region, Al Ain, UAE.

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The Wadi Experience

For those who enjoy water sports or relaxing in the desert, Wadi Adventure is the place to be. It is one of the region’s premier spots for white-water rafting and the only facility of its kind for adventure sports in the Middle East. With its artificial river, Wadi Adventure offers endless fun and is also a fantastic outdoor destination for families. Location: Base of Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain, UAE.

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Dubai Fountain

No discussion of Dubai’s main attractions would be complete without mentioning the world-famous Dubai Fountain Show. Located in Downtown Dubai, this spectacular water and light show is renowned globally. With water jets soaring up to 150 meters high, it is the tallest performing fountain in the world. The fountain features two large arcs and five circles of varying widths, launching over 22,000 gallons of water into the air with its powerful nozzles. Location: Downtown Dubai.

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Hatta

Hatta is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts in the UAE. This heritage town offers a variety of activities and some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country. Its rugged terrain makes it an ideal getaway for those who love the outdoors. Location: Hajar Mountains, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

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Global Village

Global Village in Dubai is one of the largest shopping, entertainment, and tourism complexes in the world. Here, you can experience the incredible diversity of cultures. This vast, culturally rich theme park serves as a fully integrated entertainment destination, featuring numerous cultural events, funfair rides, street food vendors, and more. Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, E 311 Road.

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Legoland Dubai

If you’re visiting Dubai with your family, Legoland Dubai is a must-see attraction. This family-oriented theme park, inspired by the popular LEGO building blocks, is part of the larger Dubai Parks and Resorts complex. It features two main sections: a traditional theme park and a water park.

As the name implies, Legoland Dubai is constructed entirely from large LEGO bricks, showcasing impressive creations like a massive LEGO replica of the iconic Burj Khalifa and the stunning Dubai skyline. The park boasts over forty exciting rides, imaginative play areas designed for children, and numerous other spectacular attractions. In short, Legoland Dubai is an ideal destination for family fun. Location: Dubai Parks.

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Hudayriat Mar Vista

Hudayriat Mar Vista is an excellent place to get active and elevate your heart rate. The area includes a bike park, a cycling track, and a sports village featuring fields, pitches, and courts for tennis and basketball. Circuit X offers a BMX park, skate park, splash park, and high ropes park. Additionally, the OCR Park features various obstacles to test your endurance, strength, and stamina. Location: OCR Park.

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Saadiyat Island Resort

For those interested in observing dolphins, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort is the prime spot in the capital. A survey by the Environment Agency — Abu Dhabi (EAD) indicates that over 700 humpback dolphins inhabit the waters off Abu Dhabi’s coast, making it the largest known population in the world.

To find the best dolphin-watching spots in Abu Dhabi, grab a pair of binoculars and head to one of the many hotels along the coast, such as Jumeirah at Saadiyat or Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island. You can also consult the concierge at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort for recommendations. Location: Jumeirah.

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Al Boom Diving, Fujairah

Al Boom Diving in Fujairah offers a range of scuba diving experiences starting at Dhs225. The price includes all necessary equipment, so you won’t need to bring your oxygen tank. Weather permitting, you can explore breathtaking sites like Shark Island, Dibba Rocks, Snoopy Island, and more. They even offer overnight trips to discover the region’s coral reefs. Location: Foothills of the Hajar Mountains.

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Palm West Beach

This stylish beachfront promenade is set to be a popular winter destination. Known as “the ultimate sunset destination,” it features a variety of restaurants, bars, entertainment options, and watersports along the shore—perfect for planning your outing. The 1.6 km promenade is lined with 300 palm trees, is pet-friendly, and is beautifully illuminated at night.

Some standout dining options include the Mexican restaurant Señor Pico, the trendy beach club and restaurant Lucky Fish, and Koko Bay, a beach bar and restaurant with a Balinese theme. Don’t forget to grab your camera for those sunset cocktails! Location: Palm Jumeirah, Palm West Beach.

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Top 15 Adventurous UAE Outdoor Recreation Activities

We cherish the great outdoors! While summer outdoor activities in the UAE are typically off the table due to the heat, the season is changing, and soon we can shift our conversations from “It’s so humid” to “Wow, it’s so pleasant.” If you’re eager to enjoy some fresh air and embark on an adventure, here are some of the best outdoor recreation options in the UAE.

Dubai

Cycle Around Al Qudra Lakes

Located just a 30-minute drive from Dubai, Al Qudra Lakes has become a popular spot for cyclists in the UAE. As you navigate the 85 km Al Qudra Cycle Course through the dunes, keep an eye out for wild oryx and camels. If you don’t have your bike, you can rent one from the Trek Bicycle Store at Seih Al Salam, conveniently located near the Al Qudra Course.

Catch Some Waves in Dubai

Surfing might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Dubai, but during the cooler months, savvy surfers flock to Sunset Beach. Rent a surfboard or stand-up paddleboard from the Surf House and enjoy paddling with the iconic Burj Al Arab in the background. If you’re a beginner, the friendly staff offers lessons as well. 

Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at Hatta Wadi Hub

No list of outdoor adventures in the UAE would be complete without mentioning Hatta. Just a 90-minute drive from Dubai, Hatta has quickly become a top adventure destination. Now in its fifth season, the hub offers a variety of outdoor activities, including a ropes course, archery, zip lining, axe throwing, paragliding, horse riding, and off-roading on electric scooters.

Hike Around Hatta

Put on your sturdy hiking shoes and explore the trails winding through the Hajar Mountains, featuring wadis and rocky outcrops. Make sure to bring water, snacks, and a fully charged phone for the 32.6 km of trails, which range from easy to extreme in difficulty. For more information, you can reach out to [email protected].

Mountain Biking in Hatta

Prefer to pedal instead? The Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre offers a variety of challenging trails suitable for everyone, from beginners to experienced riders. If you don’t have a bike, rentals are available at the Wadi Hub starting at Dhs65 for an hour. Note that participants must be at least 10 years old and 120 cm tall.

Kayaking in Hatta Serene Waters

Just a 15-minute drive from Hatta Wadi Hub, you’ll find Hatta Dam, a stunning reservoir surrounded by mountains. You can rent equipment for Dhs60 per person or Dhs120 for a double kayak, or even try out a fun donut boat. Hatta Dam is easily accessible from the Sedr Trailers Resort. Night rides are also available, though some areas will be off-limits for safety reasons after sunset.

Abu Dhabi

Kayak Through the Abu Dhabi Mangroves

For a refreshing outdoor experience in the capital, head to Jubail Mangrove Park, where various activities await. You can enjoy a stroll on the boardwalk (Dhs 5 to Dhs 15), take a sunset ride on an electric dragon boat (Dhs 110 to Dhs 130), or go kayaking—available in both single and double options (Dhs 100 to 120). If it’s still too warm for you, consider a nighttime kayaking adventure using glowing kayaks when temperatures drop, costing between Dhs 110 to Dhs 140.

Kayak Around the Louvre Abu Dhabi

If you’re captivated by the stunning Louvre Abu Dhabi, don’t miss the chance to experience it from the water. While the interior is impressive, seeing its beautiful exterior from a kayak offers a unique perspective. Glide over the tranquil Arabian Sea and discover fascinating details about the museum with the professional guides at Sea Hawk. Various tours are available, including sunrise and full moon kayaking, as well as sessions designed for younger adventurers. Prices start at Dhs 126.

Hike Up Jebel Hafeet

As the tallest peak in Abu Dhabi at 1,240 meters, Jebel Hafeet presents a rugged challenge. This hike is suited for experienced trekkers who can tackle its steep paths and challenging terrain. To avoid the heat, consider hiking early in the morning or in the evening, and don’t forget to wear sturdy boots and bring hiking poles and refreshments. Depending on your energy level afterward, you can cool off with kayaking, wakeboarding, or a dip in the pool.

Enjoy Hudayriat Mar Vista

Hudayriat Mar Vista is perfect for those looking to exercise or simply get active. The area features a sports village with fields, pitches, and courts for tennis and basketball; a cycling track; a bike park; and Circuit X, home to a BMX park, skate park, splash park, and high ropes park. The OCR Park includes various obstacles to challenge your strength, stamina, and endurance.

Spot Dolphins at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort

If you’re eager to see dolphins, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort is the place to go. A study by the Environment Agency — Abu Dhabi (EAD) reveals that over 700 humpback dolphins inhabit the waters off Abu Dhabi, making it the largest known population globally. Bring binoculars and visit any of the hotels along the coastline, such as Jumeirah at Saadiyat and Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island. For the best dolphin-watching tips, consult the concierge at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort.

Explore the City with the Abu Dhabi Yellow Boats Tour

With over 200 islands making up Abu Dhabi’s archipelago, exploring by water is one of the best ways to see the city. Visit the website to choose from various options, including a Corniche tour, a Yas Island tour, or the Yas Island Experience. Prices start at Dhs 99.

Ras Al Khaimah

Experience Thrills in Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah offers plenty of high-adrenaline activities. Try the Jais Sledder, which opened in February 2022, for an exhilarating experience starting at Dhs 50. Alternatively, take on the Jais Sky Tour—a heart-pounding two-hour journey—or soar above the ground with Jais Flight (Dhs 330). The emirate is also home to the UAE’s highest restaurant, 1484 by Puro.

Discover Wadi Showka

The rugged terrain of Wadi Showka is ideal for various outdoor adventures. Activities such as mountain climbing, hiking, trekking, and abseiling are all available. For more details, reach out to the team at [email protected].

Fujairah

Scuba Diving in the Deep Blue

Al Boom Diving in Fujairah provides an array of scuba diving opportunities starting at Dhs 225. This price includes all necessary equipment, so you won’t need to bring your oxygen tank. You’ll have the chance to explore sites like Shark Island, Dibba Rocks, Snoopy Island, and more (weather permitting). Night packages are also offered for those looking to discover the beauty of coral reefs after dark.

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Top 9 Ultimate UAE Outdoor Recreation Adventures for Winter

As winter settles in the UAE, it’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in outdoor activities that promote health and wellness. Spending time outside not only helps us create lasting memories with friends and family but also allows us to explore exhilarating adventures that broaden our horizons.

Stepping into the unknown can reveal your true potential. With that in mind, we’re excited to share our adventure list, which has helped us connect with nature and ourselves. Here’s an exclusive selection of the top outdoor adventures in the UAE.

Cycling

Cycling is an excellent weekend activity, if not a daily one. While there are several good cycling tracks around the city, the Al Qudra cycle path and Nad Al Sheba cycle park are among the best. You can also enjoy cycling in public parks such as Mushrif Park, Al Barsha Pond Park, or along the Jumeirah cycling track.

If you don’t own a bike, renting one is easy, especially in popular areas like Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, JBR, and Jumeirah. You can hire a sports bike or a more leisurely bike cart from BYKY station, which is great for taking kids along. When our children were younger, we preferred the latter option.

Remember to stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle, and if you’re renting a bike, it’s wise to have your Emirates ID on hand. We often like to combine our cycling outings with a picnic, making for a wonderful family day.

Horse Riding

Living in the Arabian Peninsula offers a unique chance to spend time with world-renowned Arabian horses. We have a passion for horses and seize every opportunity to go horseback riding, whether in Dubai or during our travels, such as in Iceland. You can even celebrate special occasions, like your child’s first birthday, with a farm-themed party featuring real horses at Al Dhabi Dubai City Stable.

With excellent horse racing facilities available, finding riding lessons for yourself or your children is quite easy. In Dubai, you can visit places like City Stable, Emirates Equestrian Center, or Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club. In Abu Dhabi, options include the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and Dhabian Equestrian Club.

Mangrove Kayaking

The UAE’s coastline is rich with mangroves and marshes, making kayaking through these ecosystems one of the best activities to experience. While you may not notice much from a distance, mangroves are incredibly biodiverse and serve as crucial breeding grounds for wildlife. We were fortunate enough to participate in a mangrove planting experience, which provided us with valuable insights about these vital ecosystems.

This activity leans more towards tranquility than adventure, allowing you to kayak in locations like Abu Dhabi Mangrove National Park, Kalba Mangroves on the east coast, and the mangroves of Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah.

Aventura Park

If cycling, horseback riding, and kayaking don’t provide enough excitement, consider rope climbing, tree surfing, and zip-lining at Aventura Park, located within Mushrif Park and surrounded by Ghaf forests. It’s an ideal family outing, offering circuits for all ages, with varying levels of difficulty, including kid-friendly options. You don’t even need to pack a picnic, as Chris Cafe is conveniently located inside Aventura.

Camping

If you haven’t yet experienced camping in the UAE’s stunning outdoors, you’re missing out on something truly special. There are numerous excellent camping spots across all Emirates, allowing you to choose from diverse ecosystems, including desert dunes, beaches, mountains, and wadis. For an overnight camping trip, proper preparation is essential. Bring tents, sleeping bags, barbecue equipment, ready-to-eat meals, plenty of drinking and cleaning water, and insect repellent.

For beginners, we recommend starting with beach camping, as it’s simpler and provides a fun environment for kids to play in the water or on the sand. Desert camping requires a 4×4 vehicle and experience driving on dunes. The vastness of the desert, particularly the Empty Quarter, necessitates a good level of knowledge and expertise, so it’s best to go with a group.

Before any camping trip, checking the weather is crucial to avoid any potential issues and ensure your safety. Mountains, wadis, dry rivers, or streams can become hazardous during rain and sudden flash floods. Popular camping spots include Al Qudra Lakes, beaches in Dibba, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and the beautiful dunes of Liwa in Abu Dhabi.

Mountains and Wadis

In the UAE, many people are accustomed to the flat plains where roads stretch endlessly without any natural inclines. As a result, it’s easy to forget that the UAE is home to mountains as well. Winter is the perfect season to explore the stunning mountains and wadis, primarily located along the east coast.

You can choose to hike through the mountains and wadis or take your 4×4 for an exploration and picnic. Just be cautious, as the rocks in these mountainous areas can be loose. A visit to Jebel Jais, the highest peak in the UAE located in Ras Al Khaimah, is a must, along with exploring various wadis in Fujairah. Don’t forget to stop by the Masafi Friday Market on your way!

Hiking Trails

The Al Hajar mountain range on the UAE’s east coast features excellent hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. The most popular emirates for hiking are Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and parts of Sharjah, including Khor fakkan and Kalba. You can either join hiking groups or tours or venture out with your family.

Here are some notable hikes: Wadi Showka in Ras Al Khaimah is a favorite, offering water activities and canyoning, covering about 3 km over three hours. Wadi Helo in Sharjah has been nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status and provides breathtaking views.

For easier hikes suitable for families and children, consider Wadi Munay in Ras Al Khaimah, Al Rabi Tower in Khor fakkan, or even the Hatta Hike and Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain. One of the most picturesque trails is Wadi Ghalilah leading to Jebel Jais, known for being one of the tallest peaks in the UAE.

Jebel Jais Flight: The World’s Longest Zip Line

As we continue our list of outdoor adventures in the UAE, let’s talk about some thrilling activities. How about soaring from the edge of a mountain at speeds of 150 kilometers per hour on the world’s longest zip line, spanning nearly 3 km and suspended 1,680 meters above sea level? Toro Verde’s Jebel Jais Flight zip line in Ras Al Khaimah holds the Guinness World Record for this incredible feat.

Skydive Dubai

Admittedly, skydiving is not the most environmentally friendly adventure, and ideally, we wouldn’t recommend it from a sustainability perspective. However, it remains one of the most exhilarating experiences we’ve ever had. If you enjoy heights and speed, skydiving is likely to be right up your alley.

Jumping from a plane does come with a cost in terms of fuel consumption and carbon emissions, primarily for the sake of enjoyment. It is indeed a sport that contributes to pollution. Nevertheless, you can leap 13,000 feet at the stunning Palm Drop Zone, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The views of the Earth from above and the exhilarating sensation of free-fall are truly unique and unforgettable.

If you’re seeking weekend getaways and adventures near the UAE, we highly recommend a trip to neighboring Oman. Just a few hours’ drive away, you can hike on Jebel Shams and camp there or visit Musandam for a beach camping experience.

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Conclusion

UAE Outdoor Recreation offers an incredible array of impactful outdoor adventures that cater to every thrill-seeker. From the exhilarating rides on the Dubai Red Dunes ATV to the breathtaking experiences of a desert safari, there’s no shortage of thrilling outdoor activities in this stunning region. Whether exploring the iconic dunes of Abu Dhabi or immersing yourself in Dubai’s vibrant outdoor scene, the United Arab Emirates provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories.

With its diverse landscapes and unique experiences, UAE outdoor recreation invites you to step outside, embrace adventure, and connect with the breathtaking beauty of the great outdoors. Don’t miss the chance to explore everything this remarkable destination offers!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)