Whether you’re a first time camper or experienced explorer, there are plenty of places in the emirate for a spot of camping

There’s something quite authentic about camping in Abu Dhabi: Cascading sand dunes take you back to a time before the bright lights of the city, so you can experience the country’s Bedouin heritage.

But where exactly should you go and what do you need to take? Before you venture into the desert, find out what to pack and take a look at some of the UAE’s best camping locations.

Ideal for trekkers

Hajar Mountain range, Masafi

Even though the majority of the Hajar Mountain range lies in Oman, the area in Masafi is in the UAE.

It has plenty of valleys that are ideal for camping and hiking. Steep, rugged terrain provides a great landscape for those looking to test their fitness; views from the top of the valleys are stunning. Experienced mountain bikers may fancy this spot too.

There are also camping spots at Wadi Koo between Masafi and the foot of the mountain range, which are accessible in a standard car. But anything past that into the mountain range has tougher terrain, so you should use a 4×4.

It gets cold at night so make sure you take plenty of warm clothes.

This spot is about two hours and 30 minutes’ drive from Abu Dhabi.

Directions: Take the E10 Dubai highway to the E 77/D 57 in Dubai. Follow signs to the Emirates Bypass Road E 611 and exit there before merging onto the E 88 after 950m. Follow the E 88 to Masafi and then you’ll see signs for Hajar and Wadi Koo.

GPS Coordinates: 25.337191, 56.164989

Perfect for first time campers

Al Shwaib 

First time camping? Then pitch your tent in Al Shwaib. Just under two hours’ drive from Abu Dhabi, Al Shwaib is great for that ‘nothing but sand dunes’ style of camping.

Blankets for the evenings are a must. Wrap up in them when the mercury drops or lay one on the dunes and lie flat on your back for a breathtaking view if you fancy star gazing without straining your neck.

Take a Frisbee or American football to toss around or portable speakers to listen to your favourite tunes while unwinding by the campfire.

Directions: Take the Abu Dhabi – Sweihan – Al Hayer Road towards Al Hayer. Once in Al Hayer, join the E 66 towards Al Faqwa before turning right onto the E 60 after seven minutes. Drive for a further eight minutes to Al Shwaib – from there you’ll be able to come off the main road and choose your desired dune.

GPS Coordinates: 24.716029, 55.769388 

Great for large groups

Liwa Desert 

One of the most popular camping destinations in the UAE, Liwa Desert, is around 200km south west of the capital. You’ll be surrounded by nothing but sand and sky. Be sure to take a 4×4 because the dramatic dune gradients make driving challenging.

If you drive for about 15 minutes off the main road (E 45) you’ll be sure to find a secluded spot.

Directions: Take the Abu Dhabi – Tarif Road/Dubai Ghweifat International Highway/ E 11 and after 76km take the E 45 exit. You can then pick your spot anywhere along the E 45 road.

GPS Coordinates: 23.335028, 53.727862

Tips from the top

Yubery Yap from Al Badeyah Eyes Tourism offers her advice on desert camping…

What are the biggest mistakes people make when camping in the desert?

The biggest mistake is the clothing worn. Often we see people arrive in high heels and luxurious clothing, which aren’t suitable for desert camping. Their skin is often unprotected too, so after an hour or two they become uncomfortable.

We advise taking SPF 100 lotion, comfortable trainers and extra clothing you can move freely in.

Where in the UAE would you recommend camping?

Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain is popular with those who want to climb over 1,200m to the summit. We also offer packages for those looking to experience an oasis-like camp.

What do you like most about being in the desert? 

It gives me chance to relax and spend quiet time with my friends and family. I love watching the sunset, camel rides and quad bike rides. But when I stay overnight I get to star gaze, which is a wonderful experience.

 Get the gear

AED 85. Four person tent. Carrefour, Airport Road. Contact: 02 449 4300 www.carrefouruae.com

AED 100. Coleman sleeping bag. Carrefour, Airport Road. Contact: 02 449 4300 www.carrefouruae.com 

AED 219. Picnico compact folding table. Géant Online. Contact: 800 434 7238 www.geantonline.ae 

AED 125. ULVÖN picnic blanket. IKEA Yas Island. Contact: 02 493 5888 www.ikeauae.com

AED 85. Coleman Ice Box, 26.4 litres. Carrefour, Airport Road. Contact: 02 449 4300 www.carrefouruae.com 

AED 195. Jack Wolfskin Thermo bottle grip 0.9. Jack Wolfskin, Al Wahda Mall. Contact: 02 443 7802 www.jack-wolfskin.com 

 Jack Dignum