8 unbeatable getaways for a day of leisure in the United Arab Emirates

Let yourself be carried away by the brightness of winter in these easily accessible places before the season passes.

Al Qudra Lake: a desert oasis at your fingertips

Discover the wonder of Al Qudra Lake in the sprawling Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, just a short drive from the bustling city. Visitors can also explore the nearby Love Lake Dubai and enjoy the waterfront views of the desert sunset. Feast on the adjacent food trucks or pack a picnic for an outdoor adventure. Al Qudra offers more than just lakes; Take a leisurely stroll along the cycle track and spot Dubai’s native animals in their natural habitat, from desert foxes to oryx and more than 170 species of birds.

Hatta Dam: tranquility among turquoise waters

Escape the urban hustle and bustle with a 90-minute drive from Dubai to Hatta Dam, where turquoise waters provide a serene escape. Surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Hajar Range, this location near Hatta Fort Hotel offers a stark contrast to the desert landscape. Drive along the water’s edge, walk between photo or canoe stops and more from Hatta Kayak starting in 60 dirhams. Enjoy a leisurely picnic or use the dedicated BBQ facilities and explore the variety of restaurants, cafes and food trucks in the Hatta area.

Snoopy Island: Adventure and Scenic Beauty in Fujairah

Experience the picturesque Snoopy Island in Fujairah, a rocky island off the coast of Al Aqah. Combine leisure with an adventure through diving, snorkeling, banana boat rides, kayaking, rowing and parasailing. For a relaxing day, take a slow swim along Snoopy Island or set up a picnic along the Al Aqah shoreline, which offers the best view of the island against the setting sun.

Saadiyat Island: Kai Beach, a tranquil retreat

Relax on the pristine white sands of Kai Beach on Saadiyat Island, a public beach with eco-friendly water sports activities and a fresh menu. Open daily from 7am to sunset, admission prices range from 85 dirhams to 105 dirhams for adults on weekdays and weekends, respectively, with reduced rates for juniors.

Al Ain Oasis: Green oasis in the middle of the desert

Take a stroll through the lush greenery of Al Ain Oasis, a tranquil 1,200-hectare retreat just a 90-minute drive from Abu Dhabi. Forget that you are in a desert as you appreciate 147,000 date palms, varied vegetation and relics of the past, including the ancient falaj irrigation system. Al Ain Oasis is a UNESCO cultural site and offers free entry.

Wadi Shawka: Outdoor Adventures on a Seasonal Riverbed

Explore Wadi Shawka, a seasonal riverbed famous for its dam and outdoor activities such as; cycling, hiking and running. Located in the Jebel Jais Mountains, this destination features rain-soaked wadis, ancient ruins, curious goats, remote campsites and endless mountain trails for hiking.

Jubail Mangroves: serenity amidst avian and marine life

Retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city to Jubail Mangrove Park, a paradise for bird and marine species just 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi. Stroll along extensive boardwalks among lush mangroves and glimpse turtles, herons and gazelles. The spectacular landscape separates the sea and the coast, creating a whole new world for bird watchers, nature lovers and photographers.

Sir Baniyas Island: a discovery in nature

Embark on a wild adventure on Sir Bani Yas Island, one of the eight desert islands of Al Dhafra. Home to stunning wildlife, family-friendly activities, five-star hotels, luxury villas, stables and historic sites, the Arabian Wildlife Park spans more than half of the island. Explore the region’s largest wildlife reserve, home to more than 17,000 free-ranging animals, including Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas and cheetahs.

News Source: Khaleej Times