Desert Camping in Abu Dhabi

1. Empty Quarter

This is one of the top choices when you are looking for a spot for desert camping in Abu Dhabi. Located near UAE’s borders with Saudi Arabia, it is believed to be one of the largest sand deserts in the world with a host of opportunities to camp, quad bike, or dune bash.

Tel Moreeb, which translates as Terrifying Mountain, is the world’s tallest sand dune and can be viewed up and close here. It is over 300 m high with a 50-degree incline and is a dream site for adventure enthusiasts.

The Moreeb Hill Climb event is also a much sought-after event during the annual Liwa International Festival that takes place every winter.

Location: Rub’ Al Khali Desert

2. Arabian Nights Desert Camp

Nestled cozily amidst imposing sand dunes is this lush palm oasis, a great site for a desert camp near Abu Dhabi. If you are looking for an authentic desert experience with an insight into the way desert dwellers lived in the olden days, this magical village is where you should be headed.

It has been recreated keeping in mind the traditional style of architecture, local Emirati houses, and dwellings as well as offering some of the best in Emirati cuisine.
From exciting desert safari to shisha by the fire, and from gazing at stars to swimming in a pool beneath a palm tree, experience the highest standards of hospitality here.

Location: Arabian Nights Village Rd, Mushrif, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

3. Al Dhafra Desert


Go camping by the Al Dhafra beaches and enjoy the beautiful scenery this site offers of the long stretched seashore. It is a sprawling area completely open for camping in the true style if you are looking at doing it the rough and rugged way.

Go prepared with camping essentials and equipment including a tent, packaged food, and water, a torch, mat, folded chair, etc. check the tide forecast before setting up your camp and you are good to go.

Make the most of this retreat, a great desert camp near Abu Dhabi, where the desert meets the sea along kilometers of white sandy beaches.

Location: Western Region on E11 Road, Abu Dhabi

4. Jebel Hafeet Desert Park

One of the best locales for desert camping in Abu Dhabi, the Jebel Hafeet Desert Park is an ideal getaway from the bustle of city life amid serene dunes and under clear starry skies. Spanning across an area of almost 9 kilometers at the foot of Abu Dhabi’s tallest peak, Jebel Hafit mountain, the park offers opportunities for several desert adventures.

Hike amidst the natural surroundings on mountain bikes, camels, or horses and delve deep into the archaeological remains of the ancient habitation and the fascinating tales they tell.
You can opt for either basic camping, where you bring all your equipment and essentials, a fully serviced camping in a camp akin to Bedouin tents, or a furnished five-star bubble glamping tent complete with air-conditioning.

Location: Jebel Hafeet, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

5. Al Mabeet Desert Camp

Located amid the gorgeous interiors of the Al Wathba resort in the deserts of Abu Dhabi, The Al Mabeet resort brings out the best in staple Bedouin culture, architecture, and traditions. The camps have been set up in a way that they not only replicate the authentic ways of life of the ancient dwellers but also take care of every comfort for the guests here. Experience the true style of desert life along with sumptuous Emirati cuisines that are served at Al Mabeet, quite arguably, the best desert camp in Abu Dhabi.

Location: Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The best time for desert camping in Abu Dhabi is from the months of October through March when scorching summer heat fades into the cooler winter months. This is the time when not only the locals, but visitors from across the globe descend here to make the most of the deserts of Abu Dhabi.

Some of the most important things to carry while going desert camping in Abu Dhabi include tents with sand pegs, blankets, sleeping bags, folding chairs, and tables, torches, boxed food, a first aid kit, garbage bags, toothbrush, disposable plates, cutlery, and change of clothes.

- Read about local laws, permit requirements, and entry points before choosing a camping destination.
- Try to be amidst experienced campers as opposed to venturing out alone.
- Carry a charged mobile phone and power banks.
- Ensure your vehicle is in ship shape and the fuel tank full.
- Carry a map along or any form of an offline navigation system.
- Ensure you have more food and water on you than you think you will need.
- If you are planning on BBQ, bonfires, etc. make sure they are at some distance from the tents.
- Stay safe from desert creatures by keeping the tent doors closed at all times.