There are several natural places in UAE that are absolutely mesmerizing and worth visiting. Similarly, to attract tourists and residents, the UAE has numerous parks located across the region that are stunning to say the least. For residents, and travelers flying into the UAE, we have put together an article that will guide you through the best parks and natural places to visit in UAE.
Natural places in UAE that you shouldn’t miss
The United Arab Emirates spans across an area of 83,600 km². This vast expanse of land has some of the most beautiful spots to visit that have naturally formed over a period of time. Following is an elaborate list of the most visited natural places in UAE.
- Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
- Fossil Dunes, Abu Dhabi
- Wadi Shawka, Ras Al Khaimah
- Al Badayer desert, Sharjah
- Jabal Yibir, Fujairah
- Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary, Dubai
- Hatta, Dubai
- Masfout, Ajman
- Heart Beach, Khorfakkan
- Mangrove Beach, Umm Al Quwain
Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
Located north of the UAE is the most beautiful mountain range of Ras Al Khaimah. Jebel Jais is situated 164 km from the city of Dubai. The travel time from the city is roughly around two and a half hours varying based on your speed.
For nature lovers, Jebel Jais is the perfect place to visit. It showcases the geological evolution of the region, with mesmerizing mountain structures and other rock formations. Apart from the spectacular view you can also enjoy a range of activities and dining opportunities at the top.
The most well-known activities that you can experience at the peak of Jebel Jais are zip lining and the Jais Sledder. What’s interesting about the Jebel Jais zipline is that it is the longest in the world. Therefore, if you are looking to spend your weekend with family and friends, you must visit Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah.
Fossil Dunes, Abu Dhabi
Fossil Dunes located at the south of Abu Dhabi, is perhaps another spectacular sight to visit. These rock formations showcase stunning patterns that are unlike any other in the region. As per records, there are more than 1700 Fossil Dunes located in the area.
If you are looking to travel to the Fossil Dunes in Abu Dhabi, you must note that the distance from Dubai is 85 km. The estimated travel time is anywhere between 50 mins to 1 hour.
This particular sight in the UAE is perfect for photography enthusiasts to capture the essence of nature’s true art.
Wadi Shawka, Ras Al Khaimah
Imagine the experience of camping in a valley in the UAE. Now that sounds exciting. Wadi Shawka, is one amongst the best natural places in the UAE, located in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
The distance of Wadi Shawka from the city of Dubai is 93.2 km with a travel time of one and half hours. You can walk by the Shawka dam, to indulge in a serene experience. The sight is perfect for families to visit during the weekend.
Al Badayer desert, Sharjah
One of the things that makes the UAE so desirable are the beautiful sand dunes of the region. Al Badayer is the most well-known desert in the United Arab Emirates.
If you are traveling from Dubai, the distance to Al Badayer is 66.7 km with an estimated travel time of 45 min to 1 hour. There are several desert-based activities like dune buggy riding, desert safari, camel riding etc., that you can enjoy.
Perhaps, the best way to travel to the desert is on a 4X4 vehicle. You can also opt for the desert safari tour services, to assist you with hassle-free travel.
Jabal Yibir, Fujairah
For people who enjoy driving on curvy mountain roads with hairpin curves, Jabal Yibir, Fujairah is the place to visit. The mountain range is located 125 km from the city of Dubai.
To reach the peak of Jabal Yibir, you will have to drive on some of the spectacular roads in the UAE. You will come across several amazing sights as you reach the peak, making it the perfect excursion for travel enthusiasts.
If you are looking for one of the best natural places in UAE to visit, Jabal Yibir is the place to go.
Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary, Dubai
Hey animal lovers, here’s an amazing spot for you to visit in the UAE. Ras Al Khor Wildlife sanctuary is a very well preserved biodiversity, located in Dubai. The location is easily accessible and can be reached within 30 – 40 mins depending on where you are based in the city.
For natural lovers the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary is a must visit. One of the most popular things to witness at this location is the sight of hundreds of flamingos.
Hatta, Dubai
Bordering the region of Oman, Hatta is another spectacular place to visit in Dubai. This extraordinary natural place in UAE is situated 134 km from the main city of Dubai. You can travel to this location on your own vehicle or perhaps, opt for the tour bus service.
There are several Hatta express buses that you can pre-book for a seamless travel experience. The charges to opt for this particular service is AED 25 from Dubai.
If you are traveling to Hatta, Dubai, make sure to indulge yourself in the numerous activities present at the sight. Some of the things you shouldn’t miss are the Hatta Dam, Hatta park and the Hatta Kayak.
Masfout, Ajman
Moving on to the next natural place in UAE that you must visit, we have Masfout, Ajman. Located 131 km from the city of Dubai, the time required to travel is roughly around one and a half hours. This is another mountain sight with a spectacular lake that allows you to enjoy a peaceful time.
While there are not too many activities to enjoy at Masfout, Ajman, you can certainly camp and spend pleasant nights at the location.
Heart Beach, Khorfakkan
Of all the places that we have mentioned on the list, Heart Beach, Khorfakkan, is perhaps the most well preserved treasure of the UAE. It is considered by many as the hidden paradise of the United Arab Emirates.
Located 136 km from the city of Dubai, the time required to travel to this location is one and half to 2 hours depending on your speed of travel. The beach showcases clear waters which are rare in the region.
Therefore, if you are looking to imbibe the feel of vacation in the Maldives, visit Heart Beach, Khorfakkan.
Mangrove Beach, Umm Al Quwain
Last on the list of natural places to visit in the UAE, we have the Mangrove Beach in Umm Al Quwain. This particular beach is located 65 km from the city of Dubai and would take anywhere from 50 min to 1 hour. There are a range of different activities you can do at the beach, including back water kayaking.
Best parks in UAE that you must visit
Now that you are aware of all the natural places to visit in UAE, here are some of the best parks in UAE that you can visit. What is interesting is that the list contains a large number of parks which are located in the city of Dubai.
- Zabeel Park, Dubai
- Burj Park, Dubai
- Dubai Hills Park, Dubai
- Al Mamzar Beach Park, Dubai
- Safa Park, Dubai
Zabeel Park, Dubai
Considered as one of the most beautiful parks in the UAE, Zabeel Park Dubai has an extraordinary layout and several attractions to see. One of the major highlights of the park is the Dubai Frame which you can see from any part of the park.
There are also other activities that you can enjoy at the park which include, boating at the lake, a jog at park, and other fitness routines.
Burj Park, Dubai
One of the most well known parks in the UAE is the Burj Park. Located beside the world’s tallest building the Burj Khalifa, the view from this park is certainly spectacular.
While you can most definitely capture the best photos from the park, you can also enjoy a relaxing time there. Another extraordinary aspect of the park is the Dubai fountain show that you can witness from your own comfort.
Dubai Hills Park, Dubai
Located within the Dubai Hills estate, the Dubai Hills Parks has several family friendly amenities and sports courts to enjoy. Some of the notable attractions in the park include the following:
- Dragon Play area
- Ice rink
- Skate park
- Wave pool
- Sandy park
- Splash park
Therefore, these are some of the most popular activities you can indulge in at the Dubai Hills Park. One of the things that you must note is that the entry to the park is paid.
Al Mamzar Beach Park, Dubai
Located by the beach of Mamzar, the Al Mamzar Park is a vast area, with an amphitheater and other attractions to enjoy. What’s amazing about this park is it’s easy access to the beach. For families looking to host a barbecue evening, the Al Mamzar park provides facilities to make that possible.
During special occasions there are various programs hosted at the amphitheater. Therefore, if you are looking to visit one of the best parks in UAE, Al Mamzar park is a great place to go.
Safa Park, Dubai
Lastly, we have the Safa Park in Dubai. This is located a short drive away from the Burj Khalifa. In fact, you can witness the spectacular sight of the Dubai skyline from the park. You can easily reach the park using the Dubai Metro services. Here are a few things about the Park that you must know about:
- Over 200 different species of birds are at the Safa Park
- Vintage train ride at the park
- Ample kids play area
- Access to Dubai Canal
Other parks in UAE
Apart from the best parks in UAE that we have mentioned above, here are some of other parks in the region you must know.
- Reem Central Park, Abu Dhabi
- Kalba Corniche Park, Fujairah
- Creek Park, Dubai
- Town Square Park, Dubai
- Umm Al Emarat Park, Dubai
Natural places and parks to visit in UAE
Whether you are a resident of the UAE or a tourist visiting, you are now well-versed with all the top natural places and best parks in the UAE. The intention of this article was for us to provide you an in depth guide around these top locations. Happy traveling.
