Selena JonesThink Dubai is just full of skyscrapers and shopping malls? Think again. Dubai is a city that oozes sophistication, where luxury becomes standard and where amazing memories are waiting to be made. This urban metropolis is home to stunning natural scenery and offers plenty of opportunities to be at one with nature. Here are our top five reasons why Dubai is a nature lover’s dream.
The picture-perfect Hatta Dam
Just a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Hatta Dam is the perfect scenic spot to relax and unwind. From its turquoise blue waters to its rugged mountainscapes, this place is worth a visit for the photo opportunity alone. It also happens to be the only refuge in Dubai for endangered mountain wildlife and boasts a ton of historical significance too. You can relax and take it all in with a gentle drive or take to the water and try out some water sports. Have we sold you yet?
You can sleep amid the mountains
The mountainous resort of Hatta is home to lots of chalet-style accommodation. Amid the surrounding nature, it’s the perfect spot to spend a quiet weekend with family or friends. You can meander through the gardens and walking tracks or spend some time soaking up the amazing views from your private balcony. With views of the gorgeous Hajar Mountain ranges surrounding you, you’ll want to have your camera at the ready.
The stunning Al Qudra Lakes
Just a stone’s throw away from the city, you’ll find the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve and a whole lot of gorgeous natural scenery too. Take in the views with a stroll around the lake or make a day of it and bring a picnic. This desert reserve is also one of the few places you’ll see wildlife in its natural habitat in the whole of Dubai. If you stick around long enough, you’ll witness one of the most beautiful sunsets the world has to offer – lucky you.
You can see the stars
Ok, we got you – this isn’t technically nature. But a trip to one of the UAE’s largest public observatories is sure to be a hit with any visitor. The 2696sqm centre is run by the Dubai Astronomy Group and boasts a high-tech planetarium. Little ones can marvel at the universe thanks to the immersive 360-degree experience. Visit the informative galleries and thrilling exhibits or why not visit the ‘Astro Cinema’ that screens daily documentaries and films?
The next-level alfresco dining
Do you know that age-old spelling question; is it desert or dessert? Well in Dubai, you can have dessert in the desert when you dine in the dunes. Fancy enjoying a five-star meal under the stars? Desert dining opportunities offer you an idyllic setting with traditional majlis-style seating and authentic fire lamps. Treat yourself to a decadent meal under the stars and take in the unforgettable Dubai landscape.
From mountains and lakes to star-soaked deserts, Dubai has something for everyone. If all this and more doesn’t tempt you to visit Dubai, we don’t know what will.
