Abu Dhabi Desert Guide by Visit Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI DESERT GUIDE

VisitAbuDhabi.ae

TABLE OF CONTENTS GETTING READY FOR THE TRIP BUILDING A FIVE-STAR CAMPING EXPERIENCE FOOD FOR CAMPING OFF-ROAD ROUTES HIDDEN GEMS PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDES

WORLD’S COOLEST WINTER 2

GETTING READY FOR THE TRIP

" GETTING READY FOR YOUR TRIP!

THE JOURNEY MATTERS MORE THAN THE - Oliver Goldsmith

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: the difference between an amazing off roading experience and one that could potentially prove disappointing (or worse) lies in the planning. Read on for our top tips and suggestions for ensuring you’re well prepared.

VEHICLE CHECKS It goes without saying that you’ll need a 4x4 to head into desert and that the vehicle should be given a comprehensive once-over well in advance of setting out. At a minimum that means inspecting the condition of the tyres (spare included) and checking that they’re properly inflated as both over and under inflation could spell disaster out on the sand. Next up, make sure fluid levels are at optimum: check the oil, brake, transmission and radiator fluids, as well as the air conditioning coolant. Do also test your headlights and battery and while it might sound obvious a full tank of petrol, and a jerry can in reserve, is of course a must.

USEFUL TOOLS AND GEAR FOR THE ROAD: AN ESSENTIAL CHECKLIST Run through this list a couple of times before you leave and you might just thank us later. • Pack plenty of drinking water • Take a vehicle recovery kit. • Make sure your mobile phone is charged and that you pack an in-car charger. • Take printed maps and a compass just in case. • Check your car insurance and coverage • Pack your driver’s license and vehicle registration information as well. • Let a couple of friends know your plans in case you run into trouble. Give them a rough itinerary, highlight where you’re likely to be at certain points during the trip and when you expect to return. • Check the weather forecast both in advance of the trip and during it and be prepared to act accordingly.

CLOTHING There’s a fine line between travelling light and feeling underprepared. The items that follow all fall into our must-pack list and should be considered additions to the obvious (underwear, pajamas and the like).

Sunglasses, sunhats and plenty of sunscreen

Casual clothes

Trainers or covered shoes

Jumpers for the cold night

CAMPING & CAMPFIRE COOKING KIT At a minimum we’d advise that you load up your car with the following

A tent (or tents)

A decent mallet, extra rope and sand pegs are all essential

Sleeping bags

Some form of self-created shade such as a gazebo or large umbrella.

Firewood

Solar powered flashlights

Disposable bags for rubbish

Medical kit

Take tissues, wet wipes, toilet and kitchen roll

Cooler / ice box(es)

Foldable table and chairs

Chopping board and sharp knife

Serving platters plates/ bowls (ideally recyclable paper/ card versions)

Cutlery and crockery

Tongs

Scissors

Bottle opener

Tea towels/ napkins/ kitchen roll

Wet wipes

Heavy-duty foil

BBQ grill plate

Airtight containers for storing food

Heavy-based saucepan and frying pan

Cleaning products and equipment

Favourite condiments

Tea and coffee

WHERE TO BUY YOUR CAMPING GEAR There are so many options for purchasing camping gears, for those new to camping you can find all essentials at the nearest store:

Carrefour

Lulu Hypermarket

Abu Dhabi COOP

For more specialist requirements and well-known brands you can find them in:

Ace Hardware

Adventure HQ

Located in Yas Island 800 275 223

Located in Dalma Mall 800 23847

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS AND USEFUL INFORMATION

Useful information For reporting minor accidents in Abu Dhabi 800 SAAED (800 72233). For getting out of a tricky situation: This company’s ‘Desert Pull Out Service’ is specifically designed to help those with vehicles stuck in the sand and they claim they’ll do so 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. ABCT Towing Transport Jot down their number (0508066285) it could come in very handy indeed. For keeping up to date with the weather: @officialuaeweather

Emergency contact numbers

UAE POLICE: 999

UAE AMBULANCE: 998

UAE FIRE DEPARTMENT (CIVIL DEFENSE): 6 997

OFF ROADING RULES Do bear in mind that when the road disappears, it doesn’t mean that the driving rule book should go the same way. Following the practices and protocols outlined below is important for ensuring your safety, the safety of those around you and for protecting the environment. • Don’t venture into the desert alone. A convoy of at least three cars is advisable, with the most experienced driver leading the pack along a pre-agreed route that’s suitable for all • Keep a good distance between the cars and if one vehicle lags behind, allow it to catch up before continuing. The rules of moving in convoy decree that each driver is responsible for the driver behind and that the speed is determined by the slowest car. • If you can see a pre-existing trail in the sand, stick to it. Not only does this suggest a certain degree of safety in the route, but forging a new path will have an unnecessary and potentially lasting impact on the environment and wildlife. • It might be rarity but when you do come across another vehicle, use common sense. Slow your speed, assess the situation and act accordingly. As a rule of thumb, if you meet oncoming traffic on a narrow, steep or particularly perilous stretch then the vehicle travelling uphill has the right of way (based on the idea that it’s easier for the downhill driver to reverse back up the slope). • Allow yourself plenty of time to reach your final destination, whether that means your camp for the night or a return to proper roads. Avoid driving in the dark whenever possible.

APPS TO HELP YOU ON YOUR WAY From star spotting to survival tips as well as music must-haves, these apps are all well worth downloading.

Google Keep

Google Play

SAS Survival Guide

Sky Guide

is reliably good, simple to use and free and will allow you to easily make lists, label notes, sort photos and share information with others.

The added bonus of Google Play in this situation is that it works offline so however far off the grid you go, you’ll still be accompanied by your favorite tunes.

This nifty app provides world-class survival skills and tips and is packed with information that might just come in handy. From tackling snake bites to an inbuilt compass.

Thanks to AR technology you can just hold your phone up to the sky and easily locate stars, comets, planets, satellites and more.

Who is your favourite family member?

If anyone in your family could win an award for being the most annoying, who would it be? What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you in front of a crowd?

If you were granted three wishes, what would they be?

If animals could talk, which one would you have a conversation with?

Randomly call a person from your phone and sing them a song.

Call up a pizza place and order Chinese food.

Put as many pieces of marshmallow puffs in your mouth at one time as you can.

Allow a random player to tickle you for 30 seconds.

Take a picture of yourself pulling a funny face and set it as your Snapchat story for the rest of the day and night.

Do as many push-ups as you can in one minute.

Eat a spoonful of a spicy sauce.

BUILDING A FIVE-STAR CAMPING EXPERIENCE

BUILDING A FIVE-STAR CAMPING EXPERIENCE FROM CAMPING TO GLAMPING: THE GEAR THAT WILL TAKE YOUR TRIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL Once you’ve equipped yourself with the basics, you may well want to treat yourself to a few home comforts and bits of kit that will make your camp feel a touch more luxe. Here are the items that get our vote:

A generously sized, well-insulated air bed with an in-built pump

Purchase a portable shower. From relatively small easy-to-carry options to more heavy duty numbers.

A privacy tent and a camping toilet is a non-negotiable.

The highly compact, lightweight Aerobie – AeroPress Go boasts a clever brewing element that means you can enjoy a smooth, rich coffee in a matter of minutes.

A portable projector screen will take your evening under the stars to the next level.

DESTINATION INSIGHT This well-established company operates across Abu Dhabi providing ‘Glamorous Camping’ experiences that demand nothing of the participants in terms of planning. For more information visit the Destination Insight website.

MAGIC CAMPS If immersing yourself in nature the boho chic way appeals, a visit to one of Magic Camps bespoke setups is an absolute must. Located deep in the desert, these small-scale camps feature eco-friendly luxury tents complete with stunning Arabian interiors and all manner of amenities, including a private bathroom. For more information, prices and booking details visit the Magic Camps website or email camps@magic-arabia.com.

LEAVE THE PLANNING TO THE PROFESSIONALS If you’d prefer to keep things stress-free and let someone else organise your trip for you then fear not, this is the UAE and life can be simplified at the click of button.

GLAMPING LOCATIONS IN THE UAE JEBEL HAFEET DESERT PARK Not only is there plenty to do, see and experience at Jebel Hafeet Desert Park during the day, it’s also a fabulous place to spend a night or two. Intrepid explorers keen to go it alone can pitch their tents at a designated site that offers access to communal toilets and a fire pit, while those who prefer a little assistance can have an authentic Bedouin-style tent pitched for them. Visitors more inclined to the glamping end of the camping spectrum will love the spacious air-conditioned Luxury Dome tent option and the bathroom, telescope, private terrace and firepit that comes with it. For the ultimate in desert ‘camping’ splendor, the park’s Bubble Glamping tents set the bar high, with amazing, exclusive views, a private bathroom, outdoor terrace and fire pit. Jebel Hafeet Desert Park is located at the foot of Jebel Hafeet. Click here for location coordinates. For more information or to make a booking visit the park website.

GLAMPING LOCATIONS IN THE UAE ARABIAN NIGHTS VILLAGE Located just beyond the Al Wathba region. This place is something of a hybrid camping-hotel resort and is very much focused on offering visitors the opportunity to embrace Emirati history and the timeless beauty of the desert. With four different types of accommodation available, ranging from Bedouin tents to palm and desert houses and a rather grand Fort Tower, there’s something for every taste. Visitor will also find plenty to keep them occupied, including desert safaris, desert cycling, quad biking, camel trekking and a lovely on-site pool. Traditional meals are served in the resort’s themed restaurant and as darkness falls the evening entertainment begins. For more information and to make a booking visit the Arabian Nights Village website.

FOR OUT-AND-OUT LUXURY ACCOMMODATION IN THE DESERT QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA This five-star resort is simply the epitome of Arabian opulence. Nestled deep in the Liwa desert, it offers breathtaking views, an array of stunning villas and spacious rooms and all the amenities you could hope for (and more). When it comes to entertainment, take your pick: go camel or horse trekking across the dunes, try your hand at archery, take in a falconry show, cool down and do a few laps of the pool or indulge yourself at the spa. Qasr al Sarab sets out to stay true to an Arabian heritage while offering faultless service and fantastic attention to detail and succeeds on all levels. For more information visit the resort website Email: infoqas@anantara.com or call 02 886 2088

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FOR OUT-AND-OUT LUXURY ACCOMMODATION IN THE DESERT AL WATHBA, A LUXURY COLLECTION DESERT RESORT & SPA The perfect place to escape the frantic pace of everyday life, relax and recuperate. Located well into the desert, the five-star Al Wathba resort is a boutique spot with a classic, timeless feel that celebrates Arabic design in both the interiors and exteriors. The spacious outdoor pool is stunning, there are several different restaurants on site and plenty of activates to keep guests entertained. Perhaps most notable of all is the seriously impressive spa with its numerous treatment rooms including a Turkish hammam, plunge pools, steam rooms, salt saunas and more. For more information visit the resort website or call 02 204 4444

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FOR OUT-AND-OUT LUXURY ACCOMMODATION IN THE DESERT TELAL RESORT AL AIN Located in the heart of the Remah Desert, this luxurious five-star resort has long been a favourite among families in the UAE, thanks to its camp-like setting paired with all the comforts of a top hotel. The resort is home to Khattar Restaurant, serving traditional Middle Eastern and Emirati dishes, as well as the Desertology Spa for a place to truly unwind and relax. For more information visit telalresort.ae or call 03 702 0000

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FOOD FOR CAMPING

FOOD FOR CAMPING Read on for all you need to know to make your trip a delicious success, from essential cooking kit to must-bring snacks.

CAMPFIRE COOKING MADE EASY: PRE-ASSEMBLED KITS, READY-MADE GRAZING PLATES AND MORE

The best of the burgers: BBQ Box @bbqbox.ae

For the finest seafood around: Fresh Express @fresh_express_online

For the Taco Fiesta: Tacobox.ae @tacobox.ae

For great meat: Al Huda Butchery Shahama @alhudabutchery_ shahama

For breakfast: Addicted Restaurant @addicted.ae

TOP CAMPING SNACKS

Homemade trail mix

Campfire popcorn

Chips and dips

Proper hot chocolate

THREE SIMPLE BUT EVER-SO-TASTY RECIPES THAT ARE PERFECT FOR THE CAMPFIRE

CAMPFIRE CORN WITH BAHARAT SPICE Series 4 Prepare 5 minutes plus soaking Cook 25 minutes 4 ears of corn, in their husks 4 tbsp baharat spice 4 tbsp olive oil

1. At home, soak the corn in cold water for 10-15 minutes. Drain well and dry. 2. Mix the baharat with the olive oil. Carefully pull the husks back to reveal the corn. Brush all over with the oil and spice mixture, then cover once again with the husks. 3. When you’re ready to cook, either wrap the corn cobs individually in foil and sit directly in the barbecue coals or place on the campfire grill. Cook for 20-25 minutes, turning often. 4. Remove the corn from the heat and leave to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

CHICKEN MACHBOOS Serves 4 1kg chicken (cut in 2 or 4 pieces) 1kg basmati rice 2 onions (finely chopped) 1 tbsp garlic and ginger paste 1 tbsp green peppers (diced) 2 dried lemons 2 tomatoes (cut into quarters) 2 tbsp chopped coriander 2 cinnamon sticks 4 cloves 4 black peppercorns ½ tsp cumin seeds 3 cardamom pods 4 curry leaves 1 tbsp Emirati spices 1 tsp turmeric ½ tsp cumin powder 1 green chilli 4 tbsp oil 2 tbsp rose water Few threads of saffron Salt to taste 100g Achar with yoghurt 40g ghee

1. In a pot add the oil, whole spices and roast them, add the curry leaves. 2. Add the onion, and stir until golden brown 3. Add the garlic and ginger paste. 4. Add the chicken, and mix. 5. Add the salt and powder spices, with a little bit of water (to prevent the spices burning), and stir for five minutes. 6. Add the tomato, and the green pepper. 7. Add water to cover all ingredients, and submerge the chicken by 1cm. 8. Leave on the fire to simmer, until the chicken is cooked through. 9. Remove the chicken, brush it with ghee, grill over thefire until brown. 10. Put the rice in the pot, and close the lid until all the water has been absorbed. 11. To serve, scoop the rice onto a plate, add the chicken on top, and garnish with coriander.

QUICK AND EASY UMM ALI Serves 4 6 stale butter croissants 1 small tin of condensed milk 200ml whole milk 2 tbsp sugar 2 tbsp shredded coconut 2 tbsp raisins 2 tbsp pistachios, roughly chopped

1. Cut the croissants in half, horizontally, and toast in a pan until lightly golden 2. Remove the croissants and set to the side 3. Add the milk, condensed milk and sugar to the pan, stir until sugar is dissolved and liquid is close to boiling 4. Place the croissants in the pan, cook for 2-4 minutes, until croissants have softened 5. Sprinkle over coconut, raisins and pistachios, and serve

OFF-ROAD ROUTES

First up, remember that not all routes are created equal. If you’re new to desert driving than do the sensible thing and pick a trek that reflects that. After all, there’s plenty of time for traversing challenging terrain and navigating sheer drops once you’ve got a bit of dune bashing experience under your belt. The suggestions that follow all have our seal of approval and offer fabulous vistas, plenty of interest points and opportunities for flexing your desert driving muscles. Of course, it’s entirely up to you if you plan these trips alone or seek out the help of an expert team to assist (see here for more details).

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AL REMAH Best for: From beginners to advanced off-roaders, this route is suitable for all. Duration: 6-8 hours | Route length: 67km What to expect:

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Stunning views, soaring dunes and plenty of wildlife

Camel Race Track

Deer roaming freely around Telal Nature Reserve

Camping Spot

Plenty of picturesque places on the way

Naqrah Lake

Clusters of desert trees close to Tawi Naqar

Take note: Upon leaving the Camel Race Track make sure you take a left turn off the regular road track (about 300 -500 metres from the track), then select your specific route from there. This is not a circular drive – don’t expect to finish where you started. Route coordinates: here

AL AIN TO WHITE SANDS Best for: Whether you’re a desert driving newbie or a dune bashing pro you’ll find lots to get excited about on this winding trail. Duration: 4-8 hours | Route length: 157km What to expect:

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Gatch Track some Gazelles

Traditional Camel Race Track

Verdant Tree Farms and Towering Dunes

High Dunes

Local Forest

Abu Hiraybah camping spot

Take note: The groundwater table is very close to the surface at several points on this route, so do be wary of natural water pits. Route coordinates: here

LIWA CROSSING Best for: Skilled off roaders and adventurers with not just desert driving experience but desert camping know-how. Duration: 1.5 – 2 days | Route length: 109km What to expect:

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Deep Red Dunes

Qasr Al Sarab Resort

Verdent Forests Near AL Mirayr

Deers Gathering Close to Bateen Liwa

Salt Pools

Camping Spot Salt Pools for an Amazing Night Under the Stars

Take note: The length and technical nature of this rugged route mean that careful planning and preparation are key. It is completely remote so you’ll need to take all the essentials with you (and we mean essentials, think petrol, water, food) and keep in mind that an early exit from the sand is not an option. Route coordinates: here

HAMEEM LOOP ROUTE Best for: Intermediate Due to technical terrain, this route may extend to 70km or even 80km when driven. Taking about four to five hours to complete, you’ll find some particularly tricky terrain in the second half. Duration: 5 hours | Route length: 80km Route includes the following:

----------------Wildlife area

Solar panels

Abandoned car

Plantation

Goat farm

What to look out for: • Expect slipfaces and deep bowls • Can’t be done in reverse • Sights include plenty of gazelle, an abandoned Nissan Patrol and solar power bank, and camel and goat farms Route coordinates: here

UMM AL OUSH ROUTE Best for:

skilled off roaders only. Not recommended for beginners. This challenging route can be accessed from the services area near Al Quo’a. Keep an eye out at the beginning of the route for the camel race track and camel farm. Test your driving skills on some breathtakingly high dunes, reach heights of nearly 250 metres. There is a great area for camping, Don’t forget your camera; the sights are stunning. Duration: 5 hours Route includes the following:

--------------Camel race track

Camel farm

High dunes

Camp site

Take note: • Advanced moves required, like side-sloping and side-cresting • Easier to tackle with a long wheel-based car that has a 2” lift • Can’t be done in reverse Route coordinates: here

AL KHAZNA ROUTE Best for:

skilled off roaders only. Not recommended for beginners. This challenging advanced route can be completed in half a day but if you want to take your time then there is a great spot for camping near Al Fayah and a Desert Safari Camp. Other highlights of this route that shouldn’t be missed include a copse of desert trees and a weird but wonderful selection of old abandoned cars. Duration: 4 hours Route includes the following:

----------------Starfish dunes

Oasis

Camping sight

Camel farm

CG Safari Camp

Take note: • Advanced manoeuvres required, like side-sloping and side-cresting • Easier to tackle with a long wheel-based car that has a 2” lift Route coordinates: here

CALL THE PROFESSIONALS If you haven’t been driving in the desert before or simply want some reassurance and practice before venturing out by yourself, then contact one of our trusted partners below who will be more than happy to help: Capital Gate Tourism Contact: Joy Sanchez Mobile: 02 556 5543 or 00 971 56 366 5777 Email: capitalgateta@gmail.com Website: capitalgateta.ae Emirates Tours & Safari LLC WhatsApp: 00 971 50 532 6837 Email: info@eatours.ae Turning Point Tourism LLC Contact: Riddhi Lakhani Mobile: 00 971 50 761 6513 Email: riddhi@turningpointdxb.com Website: www.turningpointdxb.com For more routes please visit:

https://visitabudhabi.ae/en/things-to-do/desert-and-outdooractivities/off-road-desert-driving

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HIDDEN GEMS

HIDDEN GEMS Staggering natural wonders, opportunities for exercising in the open air, impressive wildlife encounters and more; these lesser-known spots deserve to be on everyone’s must-visit list.

AL WATHBA Head out from the capital and drive for around 40-minutes along the Abu Dhabi – Al Ain road and you’ll soon happen upon the Al Wathba region. Once a small village enclosed by the desert, the area now boasts a wealth of attractions that will appeal to all, from young families to nature lovers and adventure seekers.

AL WATHBA CYCLE TRACK As far as cycling experiences go it doesn’t get much more scenic than this. Flanked by miles of desert on either side this well-maintained cycle track has options for all, from a low impact, relatively flat eight-kilometre loop to a rather more intense but seriously rewarding 30km trail through cascading dunes. For a seriously special ride we recommend setting out on the floodlit route at sunset and enjoying the peace and solitude. You can either bring your own bike(s) or hire them from FLS Bikes where prices start at Dhs30 per hour (there’s an option to rent kid’s bikes and trollies too). Restrooms, changing facilities and lockers are also available on site. Location: Al Wathba Cycle Track is around 40-50-minutes drive from Abu Dhabi, close to the Camel Race Track.

AL WATHBA WETLANDS Formerly a salt flat (‘sabkha’), Al Wathba Wetlands were established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in 1998 and have flourished ever since. Declared a Ramsar site (Wetland of International Importance) in 2013 the wetlands features both natural and man-made lakes, salt flats and sand dunes and team with an array of aquatic, plant and bird life (some 250 different species). Perhaps most impressive of all though is the flamingo population which during migration season runs into the thousands. The two self-guided walking tours (1.5 kilometres and 3 kilometres respectively) within the wetlands are well worth a wander and offer fantastic views, plenty of shade and a bird-hide equipped with binoculars. When you feel like escaping the city and embracing nature in all its glory, there are few better places to do so in the region. Location: Al Wathba Wetland Reserve

SHEIKH ZAYED FESTIVAL One of the largest cultural festivals in the UAE, Sheikh Zayed Festival will return to Al Wathba in winter 2021, coinciding with the 50th UAE National Day. Expect recreational activities for adults and kids, exhibitions showcasing Emirati traditions and creations, bazaars, folk performances, fireworks displays and more. There’s also the opportunity to sample local and international dishes from live cooking stations and food trucks.

JEBEL HAFEET Jebel Hafeet Desert Park Situated at the foot of the towering Jebel Hafeet peak, Jebel Hafeet Desert Park offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking culture, adventure or simply a little respite from city life. Depending on your persuasion, you can opt to explore the nearby archeological attractions including Jebel Hafeet Tombs (a UNESCO heritage site in its own right), tackle the rather vertiginous main ascent by foot or explore the park and captivating surrounding area on a guided dune buggy, mountain bike, horseback or camel tour. You can also stay overnight in the park – for more information on doing so, this article has all you need to know. Click here for location coordinates. More information on Jebel Hafeet Desert Park here.

EMIRATES NATIONAL AUTO MUSEUM Take note motor enthusiasts: the distinctive looking, pyramid shaped building that you’ll see when driving along the Abu Dhabi-Liwa road is the Emirates National Auto Museum. Home to Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan’s personal collection, it houses over 200 vehicles, including customised one-off cars, classic all-American cruisers, restored military vehicles and what’s believed to be the world’s largest truck. The Emirates National Auto Museum is located on the Abu Dhabi-Liwa road and is open daily from 9am-6pm. Entry is priced at Dhs50 for adults, Dhs10 for kids. For more information, visit their website.

AL SADEEM OBSERVATORY Located in the heart of the rural Al Wathba desert, the UAE’s first space observatory opened in 2016 and has been popular ever since. A must-visit for both avid astronomers and casual sky gazers, a trip here offers a wonderful opportunity for learning more about astronomy, experiencing the night sky at its very finest, attending subject specific lectures, using highly advanced telescopes and exploring the on-site inflatable portable planetarium (a highlight for kids, as you can imagine). Al Sadeem Astronomy and Observatory is located here and is open to the public from Monday -Saturday. Pre-booking is very much encouraged, visit their website for more information and to do so.

AL QUAA Also known as the UAE’s “Milky Way spot”, Al Quaa is one of the darkest spots in the country, which makes it perfectly for revealing what’s really going on in the night sky. Roughly a 90-minute drive from Abu Dhabi city towards Al Ain, you’ll find this desert star-gazing spot located at 23.604633, 54.750256 – keep your eyes peeled for large roundabout, which your destination is directly behind, along a dirt road. Make sure you’ve downloaded a stargazing app (Skyview Lite is a popular pick), and keep your eyes peeled for shooting stars.

LIWA TAL MOREEB FESTIVAL 2021 The 16-day Liwa Tal Moreeb Festival 2021, which takes place once a year, is one of the largest established motoring events in the Middle East and is recognized as a unique gathering for those who are passionate about motor and bike racing, camping, adventures, dune bashing, and other thrills will return to the desert of Liwa “Moreeb Dune” in Abu Dhabi. Festival’s highlight will be the adventurous race to the summit of one of the world’s highest sand hills, the Moreeb Dune which means ‘Terrifying Mountain’. For more information please download the application: Liwa Sport Club - LSC

LOCAL TOUR LOCALGUIDES TOUR GUIDES Abdulrahman Alzaabi

An Emirati tour guide with a passion for sharing his knowledge and appreciation of Abu Dhabi and the surrounding areas from a local perspective. Abdulrahman Alzaabi’s walking tours of the capital are particularly popular. For more information visit his website. @adaywithabdul

Sultan Al Karrani

In his Instagram profile Al Karrani describes himself as an ambassador for Abu Dhabi and his work with the Emirates Tourism Guide (@emirates_tga) reflects this. @sultan.karrani

PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDES

PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDES A guided tour If you feel more comfortable exploring the desert accompanied by a professional tour guide, there are a number of different companies and options to choose from.

CAPITAL GATE TOURISM For more information please contact: Website: https://capitalgateta.ae/ Phone: 0563665777 Email: capitalgatea@gmail.com

ABU DHABI DESERT TOUR

For more information please contact: Website: https://abudhabideserttour.com/ Phone: 0504040234 Email: booking@abudhabideserttour.com

SEA HAWK For more information please contact: Website: http://sea-hawk.ae/ Phone: 026736688 Email: info@sea-hawk.ae

ABU DHABI 4X4 For more information please contact: Website ad4x4.com Phone: 050 443 2700 Email: info@ad4x4.com

THE EMPTY QUARTER ROVERS

For more information please contact: Website: theeqrovers.com Phone: 050 607 7730 Email: info@theeqrovers.com

IF YOU WANT TO JOIN OUR WINTER TRIBE, PLEASE CONTACT US ON: DESERTACTIVATION@DCTABUDHABI.AE