From October to April, Emirati families head to the desert for the winter camping season, a beloved tradition that offers a slower pace of life and connection with nature. These winter camps provide an ideal setting for family gatherings, where food, laughter, and stories flow late into the night. For many, these camps are more than temporary shelters—they're places to celebrate special events like UAE National Day and New Year's under the vast, starry skies.
Popular Camping Sites and Setup Options
Designated camping areas in Dubai’s Al Aweer and Ras Al Khaimah’s Almazrae have already opened their gates, welcoming families and individuals alike. These campsites offer a secure, well-equipped environment that makes escaping city life easier and safer. The standard rental options include single camps of 400 square meters (20m x 20m) and double camps of 800 square meters (20m x 40m), with amenities tailored to comfort and accessibility.
For added convenience, special front-row spots are reserved for people of determination and seniors. Store owners can also set up temporary shops within the campsite, catering to the needs of campers. UAE nationals who register can customize their camping areas with temporary fences and arrange them to suit family preferences.
A Communal Escape for Friends and Families
For many UAE residents, winter camping provides a communal experience that extends beyond immediate family. Sharjah resident Adel Salem Al Blooshi, 33, returns each year to his winter camp at Al Awir, where he and about 40 friends share the seasonal rental. The group splits the Dh2,300 rental fee for three months and pays a Dh2,500 refundable insurance fee. "We go there daily to meet friends, and on weekends, we stay up late, enjoying lively activities like card games, sports, and cooking,” Al Blooshi shares.
Camps offer a much-needed break from daily stresses, creating a vibrant, communal atmosphere where friends and families bond, often enjoying group meals and showcasing culinary skills. With the cool desert air, campers can relax and feel rejuvenated in the serene environment.
Government-Sponsored Camps for Employees
Dubai government departments also set up designated winter camps for employees, providing spaces for relaxation and team-building. Maitha Ali, 35, from Dubai, reserves a camp each winter through her brother, who works at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). These camps come fully equipped, even including glass tents for rainy days, creating an ideal environment for family and friends to gather and celebrate.
Maitha recalls celebrating 'Hag Al Laila' with her family last year at the camp, where they enjoyed games, competitions, and a shared barbecue with neighboring campers. “When we forgot to bring salt, our neighbors gladly helped us out. Everyone in the camp is friendly and cooperative,” she noted.
The Vibrant Almazrae Camps in Ras Al Khaimah
For Ras Al Khaimah resident Hassan Al-Shehhi, the Almazrae camps bring together a close-knit community of young people every winter. “During winter, we all gather in one place—the desert. Each person spends specific days of the week with their family at the camp,” he explains. Organized camping in the area has improved over recent years, with municipalities now providing daily cleaning services, trash bins, and secure permits for tenants.
The overall cost of winter camping can vary but typically amounts to Dh15,000 or less, especially for those who bring their own equipment. Friends often share expenses, making it a more affordable experience. Though the official camping season lasts five months, most campers avoid extending into summer due to the intense desert heat.
Winter Camping: A Growing Tradition with Potential for Expansion
The demand for winter camping in the UAE has steadily grown, with both Emiratis and residents enjoying this seasonal tradition. As interest increases, many hope to see this trend extend into other months of the year, allowing for more people to experience the UAE’s desert landscapes. For now, the winter camping season offers a cherished opportunity to unwind, connect, and embrace the beauty of the UAE’s natural surroundings.
