Area guide
The desert & Hatta
Dunes, wildlife and mountains beyond the city
Dune resorts, wildlife reserves and the Hajar mountains at Hatta: Dubai beyond the city.
Most of Dubai emirate is desert. The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve protects dunes and wildlife such as Arabian oryx, while the Al Qudra and Al Marmoom area to the south has lakes, cycle tracks and resorts. Further east, the Hatta enclave sits in the Hajar mountains, with a dam, kayaking and hiking trails.
Why stay here
A night or two in the desert is the best way to see the dunes at sunrise and sunset, with stars you cannot see from the city.
What to know
You will need a car or a hotel transfer. Desert resorts are most comfortable from October to April; summer days are extremely hot.
Guide last reviewed
Landmarks
Don’t miss in The desert & Hatta
- Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
- Al Qudra lakes
- Hatta Dam and mountain trails
Where to stay
Stays in The desert & Hatta
Combine one or two desert nights with a city or beach stay.
Beach resorts · The desert & Hatta
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa
Private-pool suites in a desert conservation reserve
- Luxury
Good for: Couples
Beach resorts · The desert & Hatta
Bab Al Shams, A Rare Finds Desert Resort
Fort-style desert resort near Al Qudra
- Premium
Good for: Couples, Families
Things to do
Experiences in The desert & Hatta
Beaches & parks · The desert & Hatta
Al Qudra Lakes
Desert lakes for sunset picnics
- Value
- Half a day
Keep exploring
Other neighbourhoods
