Camping in the UAE is a special mix of desert silence, star-filled nights, beach sunrises, and mountain views. You can sleep under vast skies at Al Qudra, watch flamingos, or pitch a tent beside a quiet beach. This guide by Hertz UAE lists nine handpicked camping places in the UAE, explains what to expect at each camping site, and gives practical tips for a safe, comfortable overnight camping or longer camping trip. Read on to discover the best camping destinations and plan your next outdoor escape.
1. Al Qudra Lakes
Al Qudra is one of the best camping spots near Dubai. The scenery includes sandy tracks, a desert lake, and lots of birdlife. Families and bird-watchers come to watch flamingos, see other waterbirds, and enjoy a quiet outdoor experience away from the city hustle.
Al Qudra offers simple picnic tables, nearby public toilets, and plenty of open space for setting up tents and barbeques. The best time to visit is during the winter months when the nights are cool and perfect for sleeping under the stars. Be sure to bring a sleeping bag, a sturdy tent, and some cooking equipment if you plan to enjoy a barbecue. It’s the ideal spot for a peaceful weekend escape.
2. Liwa Desert
Liwa is located in the middle of Rub’ al Khali and offers true solitude and vast, undulating dunes. The Empty Quarter is one of the largest sand deserts in the world, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers. Getting there needs a reliable route plan and a capable vehicle. For a successful Liwa camping trip, bring an SUV or 4×4, lots of water, extra petrol, and a spare tyre. The dunes are famous for dune bashing and breathtaking sunrise views. Liwa is the place to disconnect and watch the stars with minimal light pollution.
3. Fossil Rock, Sharjah
Fossil Rock is known for the breathtaking views surrounded by rocky terrain and fossil-strewn slopes. The landscape suits hikers and photographers. Camping here is best in cooler months. The site offers a rugged, adventurous vibe and is great for people who want a short hike, a dramatic sunset, and a night by a warm fire. Bring sturdy boots, a first aid kit, and lighting. Fossil Rock pairs well with a day trip to nearby mountain villages.
4. Bedouin Camping, Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah has authentic Bedouin-style camps where you can enjoy cultural experiences, such as traditional food, storytelling, and music. These camps often include basic amenities and are family-friendly. They offer a comfortable way to taste local culture while spending time in traditional tents. They are good for groups who want an immersive, safe camping experience with guided activities.
5. Arabian Dreams Desert Camp
Arabian Dreams offers organized desert camps with structured activities like camel rides and evening entertainment. These camps are designed for families and tourists who want a reliable, family-friendly experience without the logistics of self-camping. Expect breakfast and lunch meals, a tent setup, and options for kids. It’s a great option if you prefer comfort and organized additional activities.
6. Banan Beach
Banan Beach is a coastal camping spot with water sports, tent rental options, and places to swim. It suits campers who are searching for both sand and sea. Bring your beach gear, secure a shade tent, and check tide times. The beach gives you morning swims and evenings around a small barbecue. It’s a good balance of relaxation and activity for families and groups.
7. Umm Al Quwain Beach
Umm Al Quwain Beach is quieter than the big tourist beaches and offers kayaking, fishing villages, and the chance to spot coastal wildlife. Nearby attractions include Dreamland Aqua Park for a day of fun. Bird-watchers can enjoy seasonal sightings, and anglers will find calm waters. Plan your route and take essentials for a relaxed beach camping spot.
8. Fujairah Beach
Fujairah’s beaches face the Gulf of Oman and bring a different coastal feel. The mountains are close, so you can combine beach time with hiking. Weekdays are best to avoid crowds. Nearby luxury resorts offer facilities if you want a mix of camping and comfort. Fujairah is also a good base for snorkelling and exploring coastal nature before returning to your tent.
9. Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest, most heroic peak, offers a brilliant blend of scenic serenity and adrenaline-packed activities. Set up cozy camp in designated, desert-friendly areas and wake up to panoramic, peaceful mountain views. The area is well-known for its cool climate and winding, well-paved roads. Whether you’re planning a relaxed retreat or an adrenaline-filled adventure, with the world’s longest, lightning-fast zipline nearby, make sure to pack warm wearables, sufficient supplies, and detailed, dependable maps for a safe and satisfying experience.
Essential Tips for Camping in the UAE
Plan carefully and pack essentials for a safe, enjoyable trip:
- Water: carry far more than you think you’ll need.
- Shelter: a sturdy tent and a warm sleeping bag for desert nights.
- Cooking equipment and fuel for barbecues and meals.
- A first aid kit, torch/lighting, and power banks for devices.
- Spare tyre, basic tools, and a repair kit for remote routes.
- Know the best season: avoid the hot summer; winter months (October–April) are ideal.
- Check local rules: some sites require permits or have regulations from Dubai Municipality or local authorities about fires and camping allowed areas.
- Respect wildlife and leave no trace: pack out all rubbish, avoid disturbing nesting areas, and keep noise low at night.
- For dune areas like Al Madam or Liwa, check the weather and bring equipment for sand conditions.
These essentials keep families, kids, and groups safe while they enjoy the stars, dunes, and beaches. To make route planning easier, especially for desert or multi-emirate drives, check out the best apps to use for a UAE road trip.
Choosing the Right Car for Your UAE Camping Trip
Your vehicle matters. For desert routes and rocky tracks, choose an SUV or 4×4 with good ground clearance and a reliable engine compartment. If you’re unsure which vehicle suits your trip, this guide explains different car body types to help you choose better.
For beach or lake campsites, a spacious vehicle with roof storage or a trailer works well. If you plan a longer period away from services, select a vehicle with ample cargo space and a roomy passenger compartment for comfort.
Renting from a trusted provider like Hertz UAE simplifies logistics. If your camping plans include travelling across emirates, here’s a helpful guide on whether you can rent a car in Dubai and drop it off in Abu Dhabi or another emirate.
Hertz offers SUVs and spacious vehicles built for long drives and rough routes. Renting with Hertz gives you peace of mind, roadside assistance, and clear rental terms.
Explore Cars on Hertz UAE for Your Next Camping Adventure
Before you set off, browse Hertz UAE to find the right car for your camping trip. Look for SUV rentals or vehicles with plenty of luggage space, and check for seasonal car offers. Renting with Hertz lets you choose the right vehicle for sand dunes, rocky tracks, or long highway routes across emirates like Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah. Consider booking early for weekend trips and peak season.
If you’re still deciding whether renting makes sense for your trip, this guide explains whether renting a car in Dubai is worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is camping allowed in the UAE?
Camping is allowed in many public desert and beach areas, but rules vary. Always check local municipal guidelines (for example, Dubai Municipality) and confirm whether camping is allowed in your chosen spot.
Where is the best place to camp in Dubai?
Al Qudra Lakes and the nearby deserts are top choices for overnight camping and weekend trips from Dubai.
Where to go camping in Abu Dhabi?
Desert areas and remote islands near Abu Dhabi offer quiet camps; check official guidance and permits before you set up.
Do I need a 4×4 for camping trips?
A 4×4 or high-clearance SUV is recommended for dune runs, Liwa, and off-road routes. For beach and city camps, regular SUVs or spacious vehicles suffice.
What’s the best season for camping in the UAE?
The winter months are best; cooler days and crisp nights make camping pleasant.
Can you camp for free in the UAE?
Yes, many spots are free, but some organized camps and private sites charge fees. Always confirm with local authorities or landowners.