The world thinks that Dubai is a heat bomber but the winters bring out a very different side of the city-totally a paradise for those who are outdoorsy. As the cooler months of the year approach, Dubai becomes the hub for some of the most breathtaking ventures such as mountain trekking and desert safaris, making it perfectly apt for venturing into the great outdoors. Here’s your guide to some of the best outdoor winter activities in Dubai:
1. Trek to the Mountain
Dubai is very modern, but literally within hours of driving distance lie the Hajar Mountains, welcoming people to retreat into nature. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or just a beginner, the mountains offer fantastic treks with a magnificent overview. Popular routes include Wadi Shah, Wadi Naqab, and Jebel Jais, UAE’s tallest mountain. Winter weather would make the steep hikes more bearable, and that would be the best time to find hidden wadis, ancient rock formations, and breathtaking landscapes.
2. Stargazing through Camping
Camping in Dubai during the winter season is a must for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s the desert or mountains, the cool, clear nights will be fine to have some stargazing and begin appreciating the serenity of the wild. If you do not have your own camping gear, do not worry- top supermarkets of Dubai are offering the most fantastic deals this season:
- Carrefour Dubai: Scoop massive discounts on camping gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, and portable stoves, among others, with up to 70% off. It is the best time to prepare for your camping plan and spend as little money as possible.
- Lulu Hypermarket: Products offered are from Lulu’s ‘Great Outdoors‘ catalogue during the period between October 23rd, 2024 to November 15th, 2024. Some products are tents, camping chairs, BBQ grills, amongst others.
- Nesto Hypermarket: Nesto’s ‘Let’s Go Camping’ campaign runs from Nov 1st till Nov 19th, 2023, and camping tents, BBQ grills, outdoor furniture, and many more essentials are available at very attractive prices.
Some of the best camping locations are Al Qudra Lakes, Fossil Rock, and Hatta. For someone looking forward to a quiet night amidst a campfire or for someone wanting an active weekend of hiking and barbecuing, Dubai winter camping has it all.
3. Cycling with Wolfi’s Dubai
To any cycling enthusiast, it is the best season to enjoy long stretches of cycling paths and the scenic routes built in Dubai. It ranges from the dunes of Al Qudra Cycling Track, right down to the Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park, where there are options for everyone. To get high-quality bikes and gear, it’s Wolfi’s Dubai. Known as one of the best cycling shops in the area, Wolfi’s offers road bikes, mountain bikes, and a wide selection of cycling accessories. Wolfi’s is a destination for any road bicycle enthusiast or for exploring the Emirate of Dubai on two wheels.
4. Desert Safari Adventure
A trip to Dubai is incomplete without a desert safari. Cozy weather makes this part of the year ideal for dune bashing, sandboarding, and even riding camels across those dunes. Venture out into the endless desert to drive 4×4 and enjoy an old-fashioned Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. Cultural performances such as belly dancing or henna painting are a part of most safari packages. Be it luxury safaris to budgeting experiences, operators like Platinum Heritage and Arabian Adventures craft your visit as a memory of a lifetime, exposing you to the lifestyle of the desert.
5. Nightlife in Dubai
Winter nights in Dubai are lively, and nightlife is now as vibrant as the city. The place can be all available – from the rooftop bar with skyline views to beach clubs. For all tastes, international DJs, live performances, and all kinds of exclusive events are held at hotspots such as White Dubai, Soho Garden, or Billionaire Mansion during the season.
6. Roadside Cafes
Least explored winter activities in Dubai would probably be time spent in the city’s quaint roadside cafes. In winter, these snug venues promise the perfect setting to have a hot cup of drink and some sweet treats while feeling the cooling temperatures. Famous for laid-back vibes and al fresco seating are The Sum of Us, Last Exit, and Tom&Serg. Whether you’re sipping on a hot cup of coffee or enjoying fresh-baked pastry, these cafes are perfect to sit back at after a full day of adventure. For more of a casual vibe, take a trip down to the Al Khawaneej Walk, where the streetside kiosks and food trucks will serve everything from gourmet burgers to authentic Emirati treats.
Winter in Dubai never fails to offer endless outdoor activities-from trekking mountains to the high life of the city’s nightlife. And with cooler weather and a broad range of options, Dubai becomes an outdoor playground.
