It's a shame not to take advantage of the glorious weather, to be at home amid nature when she's at her pleasantest. And what better way of doing so than by following the age-old Bedouin tradition of camping? GN Focus shortlists some great campsite options across the UAE.
Hatta
One of the most accessible campsites out of Dubai, Hatta, in the Hajjar Mountains, is great for the rookie explorer.
Take a dip in the Hatta Pools, which are natural water holes in the valley (they have been cleaned up recently, according to reports); take your 4x4 up Big Red, a 100-metre-high dune of legendary renown; or explore the usually quiet Heritage Village area nearby.
First-time campers may want to try the official Wadi Al Qahfi campsite. It is ideal for barbecues and to catch the sunset.
Plot it: 24°49'21"N 56°6'15"E
Fossil Valley
This rather quaintly named site — named Jebel Huwayah — is reportedly one of the easiest camping venues to access.
Situated around 15km north-east of Al Ain on the road to Mahdah in Oman, the area was covered with water aeons ago and innumerable fossils of shells and starfish remained from the Cretaceous Period (around 70 million years ago). However, the area's popularity with UAE campers means these souvenirs are not as easy to find as they once were.
Plot it: 24°18'20"N 55°50'41"E
Liwa Oasis
Campers can't agree on the best place to pitch one's tent in the UAE, but the majority favour Liwa Oasis. Located on the edge of the once-notorious Rub Al Khali or Empty Quarter, there is no noise or light pollution here and the area is far enough away from major cities to give one the feeling of getting away from it all. Its 300-metre dunes are among the highest in the world, but should be attempted only if one is an expert dune basher.
GPS technology allows avid campers to venture far into the desert, but even experienced veterans advise bedding down for the night around the oasis, so you don't get lost. With many ancient forts around the area and a fantastic motor museum en route, there are also many sightseeing options around Liwa.
Plot it: 23°8'0"N 53°46'0"E
Khor Kalba
In the opposite direction, towards Fujairah on the east coast of the UAE, lies Khor Kalba, just south of the town of Kalba. This exquisitely beautiful area is one of the best places for a different kind of nature experience. The swamp's mangroves are well known. The more adventurous recommend canoe tours for quality birdwatching and turtle-spotting. The area's mudflats can be easily accessed on foot at low tide. Wake up early for the sunrise — veteran campers describe it as a magical experience.
Plot it: 25°04'27"N 56°21'19"E
Jebel Ali-Ghantoot
Close enough to town to dash back in case of an emergency is the beach at Jebel Ali. Beautiful and tranquil, it is one of the most popular locations for Dubai campers, so it isn't really the place to go if you want to get away from it all. You may want to drive a little further up the road to Ghantoot, and break out the tents around the Golden Tulip Al Jazira Hotel and Resort area.
Plot it: 24°53'18"N 54°51'20"E
Umm Al Quwain
This one is really the cheat's choice: Dreamland Aqua Park offers a no-danger version of camping. The park has accommodation in tents or cabins, complete with lunch and dinner barbecues. Sports lovers can indulge in a variety of games, from tennis and basketball to go-karting and table tennis. Night swimming is allowed and there are lifeguards on duty 24 hours.
After you have lived the high life, redeem yourself by spending a night at the Falaj Al Moalla area, which is one of the most picturesque desert camping spots in the emirate.
Plot it: 25°59'11"N 55°56'24"E
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Camp class
1. The first rule for novice campers is to travel with a set of friends in two different 4x4s.
2. Go well equipped with emergency numbers, boards and tow ropes in case your car gets stuck in the desert or in a water hole.
3. Always tell a friend or family member where you are going and when you expect to return.
4. Check the weather before leaving. You don't want to be caught in a flash flood.
5. If you are planning to cook, you will need a gas stove or barbecue, food and lighting as well as water (for drinking, washing and cooking).
6. If you are interested in going camping at one of Dubai's beach locations such as Jebel Ali, you need a permit from Dubai Municipality (800 900).
7. If this is your first time, go with a tour guide. Companies such as Arabian Adventures (04 303 4888) offer many day trips to different locations.
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A spot of truffle hunting
Truffles? In the UAE, you might ask. But it's true. Desert truffles are peculiar to the region — usually small in size, each truffle typically weighs about 30 grams. Desert truffles remain well hidden, and getting a professional truffle hunter to spill the beans on where to spot the elusive fungus is a task. A hint: visit the Al Ain market to pick up some tips from the pros, it's where the best truffles from the region are sold. Those who are forthcoming would suggest sunrise and sunset to be the best times to indulge in the sport.
Truffles usually complement foods that don't overwhelm their delicate flavour. Try sprinkling some shavings atop your scrambled eggsfor breakfast. Yummy!
