Joanna James
Famed for its rich history and sun-kissed dunes, Abu Dhabi boasts a diversity of desert experiences for the curious traveller. Listed below are 8 of the best desert experiences in and around Abu Dhabi.
Taking the shape of a crescent, Liwa Oasis is renowned in Abu Dhabi for its captivating beauty, inviting dunes, breath-taking scenery and plethora of wildlife. Liwa Oasis can be located on the edge of Rub' Al Khali, famously dubbed the 'Empty Quarter. If you are looking for memorable desert adventures offering a mix of excitement and relaxation, then Liwa Oasis should be at the top of your list. Liwa Oasis also caters to the adventurous traveller who desires to try out sandboarding and dune bashing. It is important to take as much water with you as you can before you go.
Sightseeing in Abu Dhabi would not be complete without a visit to Rub' Al Khali, famed as the biggest sand desert in the world. Many hotels and resorts in Abu Dhabi the likes of Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara offer guided walking tours to this renowned desert, which boasts a rich history and various fauna, flora and natural resources.
Why not change up the experience and visit a desert that meets the ocean? Al Dhafra Beach is an ideal camping location for desert and beach lovers alike.
Yet another desert-meets-ocean experience is Shuweihat Island. Located west of Abu Dhabi, Shuweihat Island is a desert experience like no other. You have the terrain and environment of a typical desert but surrounded by the ocean. Walk along the beach or gaze at the intriguing orange-brown rock formations bordering the island. Shuweihat Island is an ideal camping spot making it a good weekend getaway or overnight excursion.
Located in Al Ain, approximately 1-2 hours away from Abu Dhabi, Jebel Hafit Desert Park showcases the rich history of Abu Dhabi's tallest peak, Jebel Hafit. Not to be missed are the 5000-year-old Jebel Hafit tombs, which were excavated in 1959 by the founder of UAE. Visitors to the Jebel Hafit Desert Park can indulge in other activities such as camping in Bedouin-style or even glamping, guided hiking tours, biking and camel riding.
Al Badayer Desert is another famed spot for dune bashing, desert drives and camping. Located approximately 1-2 hours away from Abu Dhabi, the desert is said to boast some of the UAE's spectacular dunes, including the 'Big Red'.
If Rub' Al Khali is the Mount Everest of desert experiences in the UAE, then the stretch of desert on the outskirts of Ajman is at the other end of the spectrum. For those seeking a light, easy-going experience, the desert stretch along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road in Ajman serves as the perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy some barbecue-grilled feasts. It also serves as an ideal short desert excursion as it is conveniently located within the vicinity of larger cities in the UAE.
Another conveniently located desert experience is Ras Al Khaimah Desert. Located approximately 2-3 hours away from Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah Desert is home to various plants such as hyacinths, desert ephemerals, banyan trees, palms, and wildlife. It is an ideal camping spot, and explorers can learn about the history of the Bedouins. For a more exciting activity, consider exploring the desert on a camel walk.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
