Reader’s Digest

As this favourite season of the year is coming into an end, summer heat is fast approaching. If you are living in the middle east perhaps you may know what I am talking about. The summer season is longer than winter, so when its really breezing cold my family and group of friends were having a pleasure hopping from different places to emirates in the UAE.

1. Wadi Shawka, Ras Al Khaimah

Many visitors are drawn to Wadi Shawka for its tranquility and the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It's a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy outdoor adventures.

Wadi Shawka is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers. It's a place where you can appreciate the beauty of the UAE's natural landscapes while indulging in thrilling outdoor activities. Great place to hang out overnight with family and friends.

Wadi Shawka is situated in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, near the town of Shawka in Ras Al Khaimah. It's easily accessible by car from major cities like Dubai and Sharjah, with well-marked roads leading to the wadi.It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including rugged mountains, rocky terrain, and lush greenery. The wadi is characterised by its narrow pathways, and occasional waterfalls, especially during the rainy season.

2. Wadi Zikt (Zikt Dam), Fujairah
This beautiful nature haven in Fujairah is considered as hidden gem, when it rains the water brings abundant beauty surrounding the area. It was a favourable spot if you wish to star gaze. The mesmerising dark skies covering by tall mountains were giving standout view for the stars to shine so bright.

A quick tip prior to star gazing, switch off all the lights possible to immense well with the tranquility of the skies and feel it as you have never looking anywhere else but above.
Wadi Zikt is perfect location for camping in Fujairah with family and kids, travel during light hours is a must as when dark approaches strong wind could be a hazard to put up tents.

3. Al Sadah , Madha Oman
Al Sadah is a popular recreational spot located in the enclave of Madha, (boundary of Oman, from Fujairah side) which is a part of Oman but completely surrounded by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Madha is an exclave of Oman, situated within the eastern region of the UAE.

The area offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscapes, rocky mountains, and wadis, providing ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts. It's a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a chance to unwind and connect with nature.
While Al Sadah Picnic Point may not be as well-known as some other tourist destinations in the region, it's appreciated by locals and tourists alike for its simplicity and natural charm.

4. Jebel Jais Mountains, Ras Al Khaimah
Jebel Jais is the highest mountain peak in the United Arab Emirates, located in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. The mountain is part of the Hajar Mountain range, which extends through the eastern part of the UAE and into Oman.

The weather in the highest part of Jebel Jais mountain approximately -6 degrees celcius during winter season. There were packed of campers specially during this time of the year. You may want to find the nicest place to put your tent up underway to the mountains. To maximise your space as people are tend to get coupled on places nearby the viewing decks.

I personally prefer to camp with my kids not too close by roads as Jebel Jais is quite not ideal for family with kids, this is based on the space you will get settled in. Although its is still very doable to camp over night. Just be mindful that Jebel Jais mountain is closer next by the road where as quite challenging if you have kids running around the area.

5. Love Lake, Al Qudra Dubai

Love Lake is aptly named due to its heart-shaped layout, which is visible from above. The lake is surrounded by walking tracks and shaded seating areas, creating a tranquil environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.Its is situated within the Al Qudra Lakes area, making it easily accessible by car. It's a popular spot for residents and tourists looking to escape the city and spend time in nature.

Love Lake is a family-friendly destination, with facilities such as children's playgrounds, picnic areas, and food kiosks available nearby. It's a great place for families to spend quality time together outdoors and enjoy a day of relaxation and recreation. In addition to leisurely walks around the lake, visitors can engage in activities such as cycling, birdwatching, and paddle boating. The serene environment of Love Lake provides a peaceful setting for various outdoor pursuits.

6. Flamingo Lake, Al Qudra, Dubai
Flamingo Lake is indeed a prominent feature within the Al Qudra Lakes area in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Flamingo Lake is home to a significant population of flamingos, especially during the winter months when migratory birds visit the region. The lake's shallow waters and surrounding wetlands provide an ideal habitat for these elegant birds.

Apart from the flamingos, Flamingo Lake offers picturesque views of the surrounding desert landscape. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the lakeside pathways and observe other bird species and wildlife in the area.
Flamingo Lake is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, photography, and picnicking and ofcourse camping. Visitors can bring their binoculars and cameras to capture the beauty of the flamingos and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

7. Maleha Desert, Sharjah

Maleha camping site is located in the eastern region of the Emirate of Sharjah, near the town of Maleha. It's easily accessible by car from Dubai and other neighboring Emirates, with well-marked roads leading to the camping area.The camping site offers stunning views of the desert plains and surrounding mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop for camping under the starry night sky. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the desert environment and experience the beauty of the natural landscape.

It's important to note that camping at Maleha camping site may require obtaining permits from the relevant authorities in Sharjah. Additionally, visitors are expected to adhere to camping regulations, such as respecting the natural environment, disposing of waste properly, and avoiding disturbances to wildlife and other campers.

8. Al Qudra Desert , Dubai
Al Qudra is a popular destination for desert camping experiences, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the desert and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Al Qudra is located in the desert outskirts of Dubai. It's easily accessible by car, with well-marked roads leading to various camping spots in the area.

The desert landscapes of Al Qudra are characterized by vast sand dunes, rolling hills, and stunning vistas, providing a picturesque backdrop for camping under the stars. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunsets and sunrises amidst the tranquil desert environment.While camping in the Al Qudra desert, visitors can choose from a range of camping options, including traditional tent camping, RV camping, and glamping (luxury camping) experiences. Some camping sites may offer basic facilities such as fire pits, portable toilets, and designated camping areas.

9. Wadi Hatta, UAE
Here is my take in Wadi Hatta camping site, it is extremely suitable for sports enthusiasts so whilst camping with your family and friends you may want to consider mountain biking too, in the first morning we had a fresh walk on the greenery landscapes and hiked at the same time.

Though Wadi Hatta is not for free for campers you may need to also book a space in advance. There were different kinds of camping levels here. Both glamping and DIY options. My favorite part is the facilities. While camping in Wadi Hatta, visitors can choose from various camping spots along the wadi, offering different levels of facilities and amenities. Some camping areas may provide basic facilities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and portable toilets, while others may be more secluded and rustic.

10. Moon Retreat, Sharjah

And soooo for my last but definitely not the least on my ticks, Moon Retreat in Sharjah is a must to visit. This place is very close to my heart. To be really really honest Sharjah is stepping up specially in terms of recreational activities you may find in the whole UAE. So if you have been so tiring of packing and moving your camping things left and right, glamping in Moon Retreat is on top of my list. This place is simply unforgettable, very family friendly, very secure the place is so serene and not to mention the plunge pool in private chalet is a cherry on top.

Moon retreat has a lot to offer, discovering this little gem in Sharjah is an absolute experience for the whole fam. Hiking on the mountains surrounded by the resort, sunrise, cold weather specially in winter, star gazing at night! you will find a great spot under the cosy mat and a hot chocolate whilst movie time is on. I definitely would recommend spending a day or two perhaps perfect treat for family gatherings, retreat or even just to escape the city for the weekend of tranquil and beautiful quite sceneries.

Things to remember: Off road, 4x4 wheels is a must, specially if going further to narrow areas. Mosquito repellants as well as garbage bags are a must!