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Like a hidden constellation waiting to be discovered, the UAE’s desert camping scene offers more than just endless dunes and starlit skies. You’ll find a remarkable mix of experiences, from vintage camper vans overlooking the Arabian Gulf to eco-retreats nestled in ancient mountain ranges. Whether you’re working with a modest budget or seeking luxury under canvas, these seven distinctive campsites will help you plan your next desert escape—each one promising its own unique blend of adventure and serenity.
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Take Aways
- Moon Retreat offers exclusive luxury domes and tents with private plunge pools in Mleiha Desert, perfect for stargazing experiences.
- Longbeach Campground provides beachfront camping with 60 well-appointed tents and luxury amenities in Ras Al Khaimah.
- Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat combines desert and sea views just minutes from Abu Dhabi, featuring unique vintage camper van accommodations.
- Pura Eco Retreat in Jebel Hafit Desert Park offers luxury tents with modern amenities and adventure activities.
- Liwa Oasis presents diverse camping options across five regions, from basic desert camping to luxury stays at Qasr Al Sarab Resort.
Experience Tranquility at Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat
While seeking a peaceful retreat near Abu Dhabi, you’ll find Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat offers an accessible yet secluded beachfront escape just 2.9 miles from the city center.
You’ll reach this tranquil destination within 17 minutes from Abu Dhabi Corniche or 29 minutes from the airport.
Choose between two villa types, each featuring sea views and private outdoor spaces. Adventure enthusiasts can opt for unique accommodations in vintage camper vans.
You’ll enjoy direct beach access, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary parking.
The on-site La Coccina restaurant serves diverse dining options, perfect for budget-conscious travelers who prefer to stay on-premises.
The property’s contemporary design blends with traditional elements, creating a serene atmosphere through natural materials and calming colors.
Check-in starts at 3:00 PM, and you can explore nearby attractions like Al-Jazira Sports & Cultural Club during your stay.
Discover Eco-Luxury at Pura Eco Retreat
Looking to elevate your desert camping experience? At Pura Eco Retreat, you’ll find luxury tents equipped with soundproofed windows, private bathrooms, and modern amenities like air conditioning and hair dryers. You won’t need to compromise comfort while connecting with nature.
Located in the UNESCO-recognized Jebel Hafit Desert Park, you can explore archaeological sites and take in panoramic views of Abu Dhabi’s highest peak. The retreat offers both adventure and relaxation, with options for nature walks, team-building activities, and customized culinary experiences. Each dining experience features local ingredients and flavors that perfectly capture the essence of the region. RV Camping is an ideal winter activity that you can enjoy at this retreat.
Nestled in Jebel Hafit Desert Park, this UNESCO site combines ancient history with modern adventure, offering spectacular views of Abu Dhabi’s majestic peaks.
You’ll appreciate the practical amenities, including free WiFi in public areas, self-parking, and barbecue facilities. For self-catering, each tent comes with coffee and tea-making equipment.
The retreat’s position near Saadiyat Beach Club guarantees you’re never far from additional dining options and public facilities.
Explore the Mystical Moon Retreat
Ever dreamed of sleeping under desert stars in luxurious comfort? Moon Retreat in Mleiha Desert, Sharjah, offers exactly that, just 68 km from the city center.
You’ll find this exclusive hideaway nestled near Fossil Rock and Al Faya Mountains, featuring 10 luxury domes and 6 tents. The property has earned an impressive 4.4 out of 5 rating from visitors.
Experience the magic with these standout features:
- Private temperature-controlled plunge pools in most accommodations, perfect for year-round desert stays
- Personal barbecue terraces for intimate outdoor dining under the stars
- Prime location for stargazing and outdoor movie screenings, thanks to minimal light pollution
- Easy access to Mleiha Archaeological Centre for cultural exploration
You’ll appreciate the blend of simplicity and luxury, with convenient access from both Sharjah (26.2 miles) and Dubai (31.5 miles) airports.
It’s an ideal escape for couples and families seeking adventure without sacrificing comfort.
Adventure Through Liwa Oasis
Ready to discover the UAE’s most mesmerizing desert escape? Liwa Oasis offers diverse camping experiences across its spectacular landscape, from the towering dunes of Arada to the family-friendly Himeem area.
You’ll find prime spots in five distinct regions, each with unique characteristics. The Arada area, 275km from Abu Dhabi, challenges experienced off-roaders with massive dunes, while Madinat Zayed provides easier access for beginners.
For a distinctive experience, head to White Sands Area with its pale, pristine dunes. The highly acclaimed Qasr Al Sarab Resort adds a touch of luxury to your desert adventure with its magical atmosphere and stellar ratings.
Access the oasis via Sheikh Zayed Road (E10), following signs from Abu Dhabi. While some locations require 4×4 expertise, others welcome standard vehicles.
You can choose between basic desert camping or upgrade to glamping at Liwa Nights Bedouin Retreat, where you’ll enjoy traditional hospitality with modern comforts.
Embrace Nature at Longbeach Campground
When you’re seeking a perfect blend of seaside serenity and glamping luxury, Longbeach Campground in Ras Al Khaimah delivers an unforgettable coastal retreat. No-cook recipes can be a great addition to your camping adventure.
You’ll find 60 well-appointed tents along a stunning 300-meter beachfront, each accommodating up to three adults or two adults with two children. The resort also features luxurious Sunset Terrace Suites that offer a premium beachfront experience with private saunas and jacuzzis.
Your glamping experience includes:
- Comfortable tents with queen-size or twin mattresses, plus outdoor seating for starlit evenings
- Access to a year-round infinity pool, spa facilities, and shared bathrooms with complimentary toiletries
- Diverse dining options at the poolside restaurant, featuring live chef stations and grilled specialties
- Water sports activities and entertainment at the floating theatre, perfect for budget-conscious adventurers
Don’t miss nearby attractions like Al Jazirah Al Hamra Fort, just 3.6 miles away, for a touch of local history.
Escape to Hatta Mountain Desert
Moving from coastal tranquility to mountain majesty, Hatta offers an authentic desert camping experience just 1.5 hours from Dubai city.
With 18 camping slots available, the site provides a perfect balance of privacy and community atmosphere. You’ll find yourself nestled among the Hajar Mountains, where traditional camping pitches come equipped with fire pits, BBQ areas, and outdoor seating.
Plan your visit between November and March for ideal weather. Each camping slot accommodates up to five people with one parking space. Fall camping with toddlers can be an enjoyable experience in this tranquil setting.
You can bring your own tent or caravan, or opt for tent rentals if you’re traveling light. For adventure seekers, the area boasts hiking trails, kayaking at Hatta Dam, and activities like archery and zorbing.
If you prefer luxury, check out the Hatta Sedr Trailers Resort or Hatta Mountain Resort.
Book your spot by calling +971 4 820 5555, and don’t forget essentials like sunscreen and proper outdoor gear.
Stargaze in Ras Al Khaimah Desert
Deep in the tranquil Ras Al Khaimah Desert, you’ll discover some of the UAE’s finest stargazing locations, from the remote Bedouin Oasis near Banyan Tree Al Wadi to the elevated Jebel Jais Observation Deck. Camping has been shown to improve mental well-being, which makes these destinations even more appealing.
For an unforgettable night under the stars, consider these accessible spots:
- Bedouin Oasis – Set among red dunes 90 minutes from Sharjah, offering traditional camping with unobstructed views of the night sky. The site features pre-erected tents so you can focus on enjoying the celestial experience without setup hassles.
- Al Wadi Nature Reserve – Join expert-guided astronomy sessions to identify celestial bodies while enjoying desert activities.
- Jebel Jais Observation Deck – The highest peak provides exceptional clarity for viewing stars and planets, with on-site amenities.
- Wadi Shawka – Less than an hour from Dubai, featuring camping spots and barbecue pits perfect for family stargazing trips.
Visit during cooler months and pack warm clothes for ideal viewing conditions.
The Last Word
Whether you’re splurging on Moon Retreat’s private pools or penny-pinching at Bedouin Oasis’s basic tents, you’ll find your perfect slice of desert solitude. Let’s be honest – you’re probably scrolling through these options while sitting in rush-hour traffic, dreaming of escaping Dubai’s concrete jungle. Don’t wait until your bank account’s ready for that luxury glamping experience; sometimes a simple sleeping bag under the stars does the trick.
