With Eid Al Adha just around the corner, we’ve put together a quick guide for ideas to escape the city.
Camp at Al Qudra Lake
Less than an hour’s drive from central Dubai and under 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi, Al Qudra Lake offers the perfect quick escape from the city without leaving the emirate. The site is suitable for camping and bird watching but please be aware the area has no power and no stores. You need to bring all your supplies with you.
TRAVEL TIPS:
There have been some complaints when using Google Maps to navigate but searching for “Al Qudra Flamingo” can help get you to the right place. It is advisable to take a 4×4 vehicle to get through areas with soft sand.
Visit Love Lake Dubai
If you’re in the Al Qudra Lake area, make sure to visit Love Lake Dubai which is not too far. Designed to form two interconnecting hearts, this man-made lake offers ample opportunity for aspiring photographers to take some amazing pictures. Love Lake Dubai is a beautiful spot for a picnic, and entry is free. You must bring everything you need since there are no major facilities nearby. You can also barbecue at Love Lake, but only in designated areas and you must bring your own charcoal barbecue as electrical ones are not allowed.
TRAVEL TIPS:
Love Lake is easy to find using Google Maps, and there are also plenty of signs giving directions. Wear sandals or flip-flops rather than closed shoes for walking on the sand.
Head to Hatta Dam
Another opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Hatta Dam is just over 90 minutes away from Dubai and just under three hours from Abu Dhabi. The road trip itself is beautiful, offering panoramic mountain views. Kayaking is a great family activity and visitors can choose kayaks for one or two people. Kayak rental is for an unlimited time, but it is worth arriving early to take advantage of the best weather. Camp along the banks of the dam if you want to stay longer in the area, otherwise there are a couple of hotels nearby if roughing it is not your style.
TRAVEL TIPS:
Bring your own water and snacks since there is no store nearby, and don’t forget your sunscreen!
Snorkel round Snoopy Island
Our furthest point is Snoopy Island in Dibba, Fujairah, which borders Oman and the UAE. A mere 90 minutes from Dubai and three hours from Abu Dhabi, the area has beautiful coastlines and clear water. Snorkelling is a must — visitors have reported seeing a variety of fish and turtles. Other watersports are also available, and the area is great for scuba diving.
There are accommodation options for every visitor, whether they want to camp nearby, stay in a beach chalet, or book into one of the beachfront hotels with friendly staff and great food. If you’re an early bird, stroll down the beach to watch a spectacular sunrise.
TRAVEL TIPS:
If you choose to stay in a chalet, bring your own grill and utensils for a barbecue because they are not supplied.
