At first glance, Abu Dhabi might look as though it is simply five-star hotels, delectable restaurants and refined beach resorts, but scratch the surface just a touch and the UAE’s capital is replete with nature and outdoor activities. Many assume that an activity such as camping would be a no-go thanks to the climate, but once the summer months have passed, the country actually experiences some of the best weather anywhere on earth, perfect for long nights sat around a campfire. This curated list of Abu Dhabi’s best camping spots will give you the lowdown on where to head on your next adventure once the weather cools down.
Al Wathba Lake
Located just under an hour from the city centre, Al Wathba Lake is one of the city’s most popular campsites. The campground is far enough away from the city to feel remote, but not too far to inconvenience those who might have limited time during their weekend.
With a range of facilities on offer, Al Wathba Lake affords a truly unique experience. The facility is located inside a wetland reserve known for its diverse wildlife, including a seasonal flamboyance of Greater Flamingoes around 4,000 strong. With further bird species and a range of marine animals which call the lake home, the site also provides a 1.2 km cycle track, in addition to 24 picnic sites and even food trucks during the cooler months. Of course, many choose to cook for themselves to soak up the full camping experience, but it is comforting to know that the option is there should it be needed.
While most guests choose to camp, the site also offers RV facilities, so it is possible to use the campsite during the warmer months. Al Wathba also boasts a strong environmental conservation focus, so for those who have one eye on eco-friendly activities in Abu Dhabi, there aren’t many better options than this.
Desert Rose Safari Camp
This all-encompassing desert experience, located roughly halfway between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, offers everything you could ever need from your camping trip.
If you plan to stay for the weekend, you can take advantage of thrilling activities such as dune bashing; an adrenaline-fuelled ride in an off-road buggy, made all the more exciting by professional drivers who will take you to the limit. Once you have levelled off from all the excitement, why not have a go at sandboarding? Think snowboarding, but on sand and much less painful if you fall.
For those with young children, the campsite boasts camel riding adventures, allowing kids the chance to channel their inner Ibn Batutta and explore the desert on camel back, while there is also the opportunity to add a little colour to proceedings at the dedicated henna painting station.
As the afternoon unfolds into evening, allow yourself to indulge in a BBQ dinner; the campsite offers a wide range of grilled recipes, in addition to traditional teas or coffee. If you are so inclined, there is also the chance to watch some cultural performances such as a traditional Arabian Belly Dance, in addition to the Tanoura Dance and even a Fire Dance.
Once all the fun has subsided, guests can enjoy a restful night under the stars before sampling a delicious traditional breakfast. A truly unique desert camping experience.
Emirates Tours & Safari Desert Camp
Located in a similar area to Desert Rose Safari Camp (just a touch north of Dihan) sits this tranquil addition to Abu Dhabi’s desert camping scene.
The operator offers pick-up and drop-off options, ideal for those who might not want to drive out into the desert – or for those who do not drive a 4x4. The campsite provides visitors with a 6-hour fun-filled experience, with everything you would expect from a desert camping facility. Dune bashing, sandboarding, and a Bedouin-style bbq dinner come included, while there is also the chance to visit a camel farm to learn more about the iconic animal that was (and still is) so revered in Arabian culture.
The site also offers quad biking for an additional fee, as well as henna painting and dance performances after the sun sets. For those who wish to relax even further, the site offers a range of shisha options – ideal to unwind before climbing into your sleeping bag.
Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat Camp
This serene spot holds a distinct advantage over its competitors thanks to its location within a stone’s throw of the city itself, on Al Hudayriat Island. While not in the desert, it does offer other unique selling points such as its already-erected tents, so you don’t have to worry about putting yours up – or make sure you’ve collected every stake once you’ve packed up.
Accommodation options include the Chalet Tent; a spacious duplex complete with its own plunge pool and decking area. Able to sleep up to six people, this is a fantastic option for groups of friends or families. The site also offers the more traditional Al Najm Tent and Wave Tent options – covered over to shield you from the morning sun. Furthermore, there are the Blazar and Waghi selections, which are basically tents attached to a 4x4 and a mini campervan to give you that elusive on-the-road feel.
Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat also boasts a range of culinary options, with dining outlets sprinkled across the campsite. Of course, if you wish to cook for yourself to further recreate a traditional camping experience, you are more than welcome to do so.
With a dedicated children’s zone including activities such as table football and ping pong, the campsite also offers fitness and wellness classes, an outdoor cinema for movie nights and a range of aquatic activities guided by highly qualified staff. With all this on offer, Bab Al Nojoum easily represents one of the best camp sites in Abu Dhabi.
In today’s fast-paced world, an increasing number of people are seeking leisure activities that offer genuine disconnection, even if only for a short time. The following campsites have been thoughtfully selected to help visitors reconnect with nature, while also offering a wide range of activities to ease the stresses of daily life. This curated list of the best campsites in Abu Dhabi is intended to help you find the ideal spot for your next outdoor escape.
