There’s something magical about spending the night under the stars — away from city lights, surrounded by nature, and with only the glow of a campfire. The UAE, often associated with skyscrapers and luxury living, is also home to some of the most breathtaking camping spots in the region. From sweeping desert dunes to refreshing mountain peaks and serene beaches, the country offers unforgettable outdoor experiences.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the 10 best places in UAE for night camping — with detailed highlights, tips, and must-know info before you go.
Top 10 Best Places in UAE for Night Camping
1. Al Qudra Desert (Dubai)
Just 45 minutes from Downtown Dubai, Al Qudra is one of the most accessible camping spots in the UAE. The Al Qudra Lakes attract swans, flamingos, and desert foxes, making it a great choice for nature lovers.
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Best For: Families, beginners, quick getaways
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Activities: Cycling track, BBQs, stargazing
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Good to Know: No permit needed, but bring your own supplies. Evenings can get windy.
2. Fossil Rock, Sharjah
Fossil Rock (Jebel Maleihah) is a hotspot for off-road driving and dune bashing. Named after the marine fossils embedded in its rocks, it’s both adventurous and educational.
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Best For: Off-roaders, geology lovers
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Activities: Fossil spotting, sandboarding, photography
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Good to Know: Requires a 4×4 and some driving experience.
3. Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
The UAE’s highest peak (1,934m) is famous for its cool climate and stunning views. Jebel Jais offers both wild camping and organized campsites.
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Best For: Summer camping, adventure seekers
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Activities: Hiking trails, via ferrata climbing, zipline
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Good to Know: Nights can get very cold, even in warmer months.
👉 visit: Best Mountains in UAE to Visit
4. Liwa Desert, Abu Dhabi
Known as the gateway to the Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali), Liwa has some of the world’s tallest dunes. It’s remote, making it ideal for those who want a true desert escape.
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Best For: Experienced campers, 4×4 enthusiasts
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Activities: Dune bashing, sandboarding, desert photography
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Good to Know: Not beginner-friendly. Carry extra fuel, food, and water.
5. Umm Al Quwain Beach
Camping by the beach has its charm, and Umm Al Quwain offers a calm, less crowded seaside escape. You can pitch your tent right near the shoreline.
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Best For: Families, beach lovers
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Activities: Swimming, fishing, bonfires
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Good to Know: Check tide timings before setting up camp.
6. Hatta (Dubai’s Mountain Escape)
Nestled in the Hajar Mountains, Hatta is a cooler, greener alternative to the desert. Popular spots include Hatta Dam and Hatta Wadi Hub, where you can camp or book glamping experiences.
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Best For: Families, outdoor adventurers
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Activities: Kayaking, mountain biking, hiking
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Good to Know: Organized camping options available if you don’t want to rough it.
7. Mleiha Desert, Sharjah
A UNESCO-recognized site, Mleiha combines archaeology and desert landscapes. It’s one of the best spots if you want guided tours and safe camping.
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Best For: Culture & history lovers, beginners
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Activities: Fossil tours, stargazing, desert safaris
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Good to Know: Great for families thanks to organized setups.
8. Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain
The second-highest mountain in the UAE, Jebel Hafeet towers over Al Ain with incredible views of the desert below. You can camp at the base or drive up the famous winding road.
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Best For: Scenic views, couples, families
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Activities: Hiking, hot springs, sunrise photography
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Good to Know: Nights can be very cold; carry warm clothes.
9. Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
This island is unique — part luxury eco-destination, part wildlife reserve. Here, you can see gazelles, giraffes, and even cheetahs while enjoying eco-camping experiences.
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Best For: Luxury campers, nature enthusiasts
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Activities: Wildlife safaris, kayaking, snorkeling
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Good to Know: Camping usually arranged via eco-lodges or tour providers.
10. Al Dhafra Beach, Abu Dhabi
If you’re after peace and quiet, Al Dhafra offers a remote, untouched stretch of beach with crystal waters. Known for dolphin sightings, it’s perfect for unwinding.
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Best For: Seclusion, marine lovers
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Activities: Fishing, kayaking, swimming
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Good to Know: Facilities are limited — bring everything you need.
Tips for Night Camping in the UAE
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Best Time: October–March for cool weather.
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Essentials: Tent, sleeping bag, food, water, flashlight, warm clothes.
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Vehicles: 4×4 required for most desert/mountain camps.
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Safety: Travel in groups when possible, carry a first aid kit.
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Respect Nature: Leave no trace; clean up your campsite.
FAQs
1. What’s the safest camping spot for beginners?
Al Qudra and Mleiha are beginner-friendly and close to the city.
2. Can I camp in summer?
Only in cooler areas like Jebel Jais or Jebel Hafeet. Desert camping is too hot in summer.
3. Is camping free in the UAE?
Yes, many spots are free (like Al Qudra), but some organized campsites charge a fee.
4. Can I light a campfire?
Yes, but always follow local fire safety rules and avoid leaving fires unattended.
5. Do I need a permit?
Some areas (like Sir Bani Yas) require bookings, but most desert and mountain spots are open access.
Conclusion
Camping in the UAE is an unforgettable way to explore the country beyond its city skylines. From the remote dunes of Liwa to the cool peaks of Jebel Jais and the serene beaches of Umm Al Quwain, the best places in UAE for night camping offer adventure, peace, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a family, a solo traveler, or a group of friends, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.
👉 Looking for more adventures? Check out our full guide to the Best Things to Do in the UAE.
