Once or twice a year, we head to the mountains of Hatta. Hatta is located at the border of United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman.
To get to Hatta from Dubai, you cross the deserts of Sharjah. The sand is red and we have been lucky to see some camels a few times.
Sometimes, just cruising through the deserts feel like the best thing, until you suddenly notice the change in landscapes. Just out of nowhere, the sand looks turns black and the mountains appear. From there on, it is hard to say that you are driving in the Dubai.
The drive is spectacular. We have a spot by the Hatta reservoir, an open camping ground for the public. During the long weekends or holidays, it tends to get very busy.
One of our trip was a rainy day trip to Hatta and the second one where we decided to camp a few days. So, you will see photos of Hatta when it rains and also when it is just very cold and no rain.
There aren't too many options for restaurants, like we are used to in Dubai, but when you are camping, it is fine, I guess. There is a supermarket where you can buy things to cook a meal.
There are many activities that you can do during the day. There is a hiking path, cycling track, kayaking at the Hatta Dam reservoir. We mostly spend some time getting our tents set (yes, our little camp site, we blocked it with the cars, so the tents were shielded from the winds in the night) and head out in the evening. It is quite safe, and we have not had any issue with our belongings at all.
Are you planning to Visit Hatta?
The best time to visit Hatta is during September to April.
Hatta is about an hour’s drive from Dubai. And the easiest way to get there is by car.
If you do not want to book a stay at the resorts or nearby Airbnb, there are public camping grounds. You can carry your own tents and sleeping bags. The nights can get very cold during December and January, but the days can be very warm.
All images are my own and have been photographed by me.