No Travel Plans? Plan The Perfect Escape to these Jaw Dropping Trekking Spots near Dubai
If you thought Dubai was all about luxury shopping, fine dining, fancy building and picturesque stays, You’re probably wrong. Care to ask why? Dubai is an explorer’s delight, it is more than what meets the eye. To get a taste of authentic Dubai, a tourist has to go beyond the usual Burj Khalifa or Dubai Mall.
Dare we say you should avoid it? You definitely shouldn’t. But the fact is that the real Dubai lies beyond its skyscrapers, luxury lifestyle, and hotels.
If Dubai has luxury on the outside then it has got hell lot of adventure on the inside. Yes, you heard it. Dubai offers extreme adventures to travelers in the form of hiking trails, sand boarding, dune bashing, sky-diving, go-karting, flyboarding, shark diving, and much more than you can think of.
Since we’re in the mood for some adventure, we will take you through best trekking places in Dubai that are sure to push your limits, test your endurance, and pump that adrenaline you’ve been looking for during this pandemic.
Smell the breath of fresh air, explore the terrains and witness Dubai’s mountainous beauty as it unfolds in this journey of the best trekking places in Dubai.
Hatta
A half an hour drive from the city will give you a glimpse of Dubai you’ve never seen before. Surrounded by Hajar Mountains, your Hatta hike will be filled with undulating peaks, dams, blue lagoons, and heritage sites. There are a total of 5 routes available for hikers to choose from based on their fitness level and hiking experience. Make sure to unwind yourself in the wide-open Hatta skies with paragliding, Kayaking, mountain biking, and horse riding. Get your gear and behold Dubai’s largest national park in all its glory. Hatta is a hike for everyone.
Distance: From 1km to 7.5km
Time: 2.5 hrs to 4 hrs
Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain
80kms away awaits another beautiful mountain range Jebel Hafeet. At 1240m, Jebel Hafeet is recognized as the 3rd highest range in UAE, and pose unexpected challenges for the hikers. The summit usually averages around 4 hours from the base camp and offers the best views of Al-Ain and open desert during sunrise and sunset. Lace up your trekking boots and stock up on stamina before attempting this hike this weekend.
Distance: 8.4km
Time: 3-4 hrs
Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
Did I just say the highest peak of UAE? Nevertheless, now you know what you’re up against. Jebel Jais, on the border of UAE and Oman is the most beautiful trek you’ll witness but requires extreme effort and control. Standing at an elevation of 1934m, Jebel Jais welcomes you to adore its enchanting peaks, thrilling trails, adventure camping and take back a truck-load of memories. The hike is split between upper and lower segments ranging from 1km to 6 kms and can even take two days to complete.
Total Distance: 16km
Time: 2-3 hrs
Did you know?- It has the world’s longest Zipline
Hajar Hiking Trail, Fujairah
Hajar Hiking trail in Dibba connecting Ras Al Khaimah and Oman is a back-breaking affair for the hikers. Peaking at 1910m, the mountain top offers eye pleasing outlook of the valley and is a must-do picnic spot for the climbers. Spend a day camping at the top and rejuvenate at the lake at the bottom of the valley. Thank us later!
Distance: 5km
Time: 3-4 hrs
Showka Dam Loop
Another day, another reason to go to the mountains. This popular hiking trail around wadi shawka and Shawka Dam is for beginners as well as advance hikers. The hike starts from staircase and passes through mountain ridge, rocky paths, different wadis, and pools. Make sure to switch trails to explore the area and head back before its dark. Sort your weekend worries with best views of this amazing 10km loop.
Distance: 10.5km
Time: 3 hrs Nov-Mar
Leopard Canyon
Feeling an adventure rush? Head to Wadi Al Nimr where the Wild Face of UAE awaits you for an exciting 5 hours of leg training. Leopard Canyon starts with a walk from Wadi Al Nimr (near Sal village) to hanging gardens followed by canyon hike to the vertical wall and shortcut hike up to the top of mountains and back down via donkey trail. Do not miss to take pictures with the beautiful sunset, canyon top, and hanging garden balcony.
Distance: 8.5km
Time: 5 hrs
Jebel Qihwi
Jebel Qihwi is a unique outdoor adventure for hikers because of its elevation of 1792m and steep terrains. It takes you on a surreal journey starting from basic goat tracks of UAE to deep wadis of the Oman. Being a tough summit and the highest mountain in Musandam, the views from Jebel Qiwhi are one you’ll savor all your life. Carry the documents if you want to finish the trek.
Distance: 6km
Time: 7 hrs return trip
Wadi Tiwi
Wadi Tiwi located in the Al Sharqiyah region and adjacent to Wadi Shab is a wonderful canyoning experience. The trek is a home to pristine emerald pools, heritage villages, lush green plateaus and majestic waterfalls. What are you waiting for? Book your weekend spot, explore the caves and dive into the divine emerald pools.
Distance: 5-6km
Time: 4-5hrs
Advice- You might need passports as it is located in Muscat.
Al Qudra Lakes
Fan of wildlife and beautiful sunsets? This might be the best weekend spot for you. Al Qudra lakes, one of the most beautiful and sophisticated places for tourists to unwind offers long desert walks, stunning view of Dubai’s skyline, quaint lakes, barbeque camping spots, and track for cycling enthusiasts. Pitch your tents, spend the night and come back refreshed on a Monday morning.
Distance: 8-10km
Time: 3-4 hrs
Wadi Munay
Climbing and boulder hopping? Come to Wadi Munay. This hiking spot located in Ras Al Khaimah is a popsicle loop that involves climbing some steep cliffs passing through boulder filled wadi and finally crossing the ridge for a breathtaking view of the Hajar Mountains. Ideal for trekkers, as well as kids.
Distance: 6km
Time: 3 hrs
Trek Advice-
Since Dubai is a region of extreme heat and sandstorms, the best time to visit these trekking spots is between early October to late March. Also, it is important to stay hydrated, so carry enough water and wear proper gear while attempting any of these treks.
