THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO HIKING NEAR DUBAI
There are many wonderful photo opportunities when you hike in the UAE. The trails, the mountains and the views are all waiting for you / Image: @neom
Hiking isn't the first word that springs to mind when you think of Dubai. However the UAE has some of the most rural and outlandish landscapes within its diverse wilderness. Dubai serves as a fantastic base to center yourself and enjoy the vibrant city but also uncover the wild and rugged hiking trails that lie not far from the main city hub.
It’s no secret that Dubai boasts extravagant shopping malls, the legendary Gold Souk, the Burj Khalifa and the super yachts that float amongst the gorgeous private beaches. However if you are an adventurous spirit and want to see beyond the surface, then you are in for a treat.
Dubai possesses some of the most untamed and extraordinary hiking trails in the world. These trails offer a glimpse into the region's natural beauty and allow you to explore the roads less traveled.
Chase away from the tourists and find out what Dubai’s best kept secret is all about.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
What a view! The UAE offers spectacular hiking that deserves to be explored. / Image: @neom
4 great places to hike near Dubai
Below are four incredible places to hike near Dubai that are accessible to the city.
Fossil Rock
Fossil Rock is a magnificent hike to do from Dubai as it's only 70 km from the city. Brimming with geology, you’ll be sure to uncover many embedded fossils within the rocks whilst you hike.
You’ll be rewarded with views of the endless desert that lies before you. Its average in difficulty and around 8 km to hike round trip.
Hatta Sign Hike
Move over Hollywood, there's a new sign in town that everyone is flocking to. Hatta is located in the Wadi Hub and is around 1.5 hours car drive from Dubai. The sign offers many attractions aside from the picture-perfect photo opportunity. You will be encompassed by the soaring Hajar Mountains with sweeping views of the incredible landscapes that surround you of neighboring Oman. This Dubai hike is around 3 km so perfect for a quick trek.
Wadi Naqab
The Wadi Naqab hike is situated in Ras Al Khaimah which is around 115 km away from Dubai. It's a technical trek but you will be rewarded with sweeping views, thrilling rocky ledges, mountain top villages, small winding pools and twisting wadis. The views at the top are of the Hajar Mountains and breathtaking in every way.
Wadi Ghub
Wadi Ghub, otherwise known as the Rainbow Spectrum Hike offers unique trekking in Dubai. It's called the rainbow spectrum because of the colored rocks that twist and curve with a multicolor swell. Most hikers aim for Rainbow Valley which is the most photographed part of Wadi Ghub but the entire wadi is certainly worth seeing. There are many trails to trek depending on your physical ability and what you feel like doing on the day.
The famous Hatta sign overlooking the Hajar Mountains. Enjoy the 3 km hike to see it in real time / Image: @abedismail
2. Transport options to go trekking in Dubai?
Unfortunately, there is no public transport that allows you to reach most hiking places in Dubai. This is because of their remote and secluded locations situated in the vast wilderness. The best suggestion for you to reach these beautiful regions is to rent a car and drive you or your group to your chosen destination. Relying on taxi services will be particularly expensive as you will not only need a car to drive you there but one that will wait for you whilst you hike and then drive you back thereafter. Renting a car, even for the day - is well worth the investment to adventure these stunning places.
Dressing appropriately in the UAE is appreciated. These hikers are wearing light weight clothing which is breathable and comfortable for hiking near Dubai / Image: @neom
3. What to bring with you on a Dubai hike?
Hiking trips in Dubai need careful planning when you head out into the desert. Dressing appropriately is essential because of two things, the first is because it can get extremely hot and the second reason is that hiking in the UAE means that baring flesh is not appreciated. Keep clothing lightweight and comfortable. Hiking sandals or boots are needed to trek over rough terrain, a sun hat, sunscreen and backpack are all important items to bring with you. Not to mention water, take around 1 liter of water per every two hours to keep extra hydrated. Hiking UAE trails can get extremely hot offering barely any shade so be sure to take extra care. Snacks are also recommended too as there will be nowhere to buy food when you get there.
4. Is Dubai dangerous for hiking?
It is advisable to opt for cooler months to hike in Dubai. We cover what seasons are best to hike in our next question (below).
There are two major factors why hiking near Dubai could be dangerous. The first is the intense heat. Many hiking trails are exposed to piercing sun without shade for an extended period of time. Dehydration can occur quickly if you do not have enough water with you. As we advised before, we recommend always bringing extra water with you. Hiking near Dubai during the summer months is generally cautioned, but not prohibited.
The second reason is to stay on the marked trails. On many Dubai hikes, the trails are barely marked so preparation is key in making sure you can navigate the trails if they are inadequately sign-posted. The rugged and steep terrains on many of the mountains can also cause a threat, as they can be severely dangerous to navigate through with sharp edges and sheer drops. Flash floods can also occur all year round at any time which can be compromising if you are situated in a narrow wadi or gorge.
The good news is not to worry, many people hike near Dubai and the Hajar mountains have generally good cell coverage, however preparation is key when it comes to hiking here. We recommend starting with a relatively short hike as a safe introduction.
Dubai hikes are fun but test your physical ability. Jumping over small pools of water is common on many of the hikes near Dubai / Image: @neom
5. What is the best season for a Dubai hike?
The best seasons for hiking UAE regions are the fall and winter months of the year - anytime between October and March. January to March are the coolest months reaching highs of 21C. Both the fall and winter seasons are milder in temperatures and ideal for hiking.
The summer months are too hot for hiking and should be avoided at all costs.
Lastly, always check the weather forecast the day before or the day of your hike in case of rain. A severely rainy day can cause flash floods and make hiking extremely difficult as well as being dangerous.
6. Is solo hiking safe in Dubai?
If you prefer to go hiking alone in Dubai or the wider UAE region, then be sure to be prepared for every eventuality. Opt for hiking in the cooler months of fall and winter, when there will also be significantly more fellow hikers on the trails, offering assistance if you find yourself in need of help.
Take detailed maps or a reliable navigation system with you, as well as a cell phone with enough battery to last the whole day to stay connected. Trial out a shorter hike first to get your bearings and assess the terrain.
Take into consideration your own fitness levels too. Are you an avid hiker with years of experience or is this your first time hiking? Decipher if you feel physically fit to navigate this hike, scramble over rocks and jump over small pools of water. Dubai hikes aren't always flat easy trails so it's good to be prepared and feel confident to know how to tackle challenging terrain ahead.
Follow the sun on your next hike in Dubai. Solo hiking is safe if you prepare and well worth it to see stunning views like this / Image: @neom
This is how you hike near Dubai!
Hiking near Dubai doesn't have to be challenging or intimidating. The beautiful vast desert landscapes of the UAE deserve to be explored, but preparation is essential. With so many trails to choose from, there is something for everyone.
Now you know how to hike near Dubai, all that is left to do is start planning!
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