This might be one of our favourite days since moving to Dubai.
It's such a contrast to city life – the highrises, the busy roads, the malls. Within 15 minutes of leaving Dubai, you're surrounded by sand dunes. Within 90 minutes, you're at a dam surrounded by mountains. And by sunset, you're roasting marshmallows in a desert fort.
Here's exactly how to do it.
The Day at a Glance
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Breakfast stop | The Farm at Al Barari |
| Late Morning | Drive to Hatta (1.5 hours) | Desert drive with mountain views |
| Midday-2pm | Hatta Dam activities | Boat trip + dam walk |
| 4pm | Arrive at Hidden Dubai | Desert cafe |
| 4pm-7pm | Sunset, food, marshmallows | Hidden Dubai |
Part 1: Hatta Dam
Getting There
Hatta Dam is about 1.5 hours from central Dubai. The drive itself is part of the experience – within 15 minutes of hitting the road, you're among sand dunes. It reminds you that you're actually in the desert.
We live about 5 minutes inland from the Burj/Downtown area. If I'm honest, this trip made us want to explore more of the UAE beyond Dubai.
Parking & Transport
When you arrive:
- Park in one of three car parks
- Hop on a free RTA bus (big coach) – one stop
- Transfer to shuttle buses up to the dam
Total time from car to dam top: ~15 minutes
You can walk if you prefer:
- From furthest car park: 24-minute walk
- From closest car park: 11-minute walk
What's at the Dam
When you reach the top, there's a fork in the road:
- Left: The dam itself + Hatta Kayak
- Right: Hatta hiking trails
We went left. Next time we're going right to find the Hatta sign (like the Hollywood sign, but desert vibes).
Hatta Kayak: Boat Options
| Boat Type | Cost | Time Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Donut Boat | 300 AED | 1 hour | What we did – fun for families |
| Kayak | Varies | No limit | Go at your own pace |
| Large Boat | Varies | Varies | Up to 25 people, music options |
The 1-hour limit on the donut boat worked perfectly – we went to the very end of the dam and back, arriving just as we were ready for the next adventure.
"I made quite a bold statement while we were on the boat – this could be one of my favourite days so far in Dubai."
The Dam Walk
You can also walk along the dam itself. It's about 250-300 metres – not long at all. Walk to the end, take in the stunning views, get some photos, walk back.
I thought I might get a run in. There is no way to run on that side – it's purely a scenic walk.
Time Budget for Hatta Dam
Allow about 2 hours total:
- 30 mins waiting for boat
- 1 hour on the water
- 30 mins walking, photos, coffee
Then hop on the shuttle back to your car.
Part 2: Hidden Dubai
This was the real highlight. A desert cafe/experience surrounded by sand dunes, with sunset views, fire pits, and camels.
Getting There
From Hatta Dam, it's a drive back toward Dubai. You literally turn down a dirt path – you'll see a little fort and the word "Hidden." You know you're there.
The Most Important Tip
Get there by 4pm.
This is crucial. The difference between arriving at 4pm and 4:30pm could mean waiting hours in a queue.
We managed to get in and grab a table. By the time we'd sat down and I'd spotted the first important thing (a superer bar!), the queue was already back into the car park.
The Vibe
When you arrive at 4pm, you're watching the sun start to paint the sand dunes golden. As darkness falls, traditional lights illuminate the desert setting. The real magic happens at sunset.
We climbed the sand dunes first (naturally, the boys wanted to play), then made our way in as Sara spotted the car park filling up.
Food Options
Option 1: Table Service
- Burgers, chicken burgers
- Sweet stuff – Nutella brownies, pistachio brownies
- The pistachio brownie is fantastic – definitely try it
Option 2: BBQ Experience (by the bar side)
| Who | Cost |
|---|---|
| Adults | 110 AED |
| Children | 55-70 AED |
The BBQ includes:
- Full barbecue meal
- Camel ride
- Access to seating area (or VIP elevated seating for extra)
Marshmallow Roasting
We stayed at our table because the boys wanted to roast marshmallows:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Fire pit lighting | 65 AED |
| Marshmallows (8-10 pack) | 15 AED |
We got two rounds of marshmallows. The boys loved it.
Our Total Spend
Whole family, 2.5 hours:
- Food for 4 (Philly cheesesteaks for us, kids meals for boys)
- Fire pit
- Two rounds of marshmallows
- Hot drinks
- Brownies
Total: 347 AED (~£75 / ~$95)
That's exceptional value for a unique experience.
Why This Day Was Special
It's such a contrast to normal Dubai life. Behind me right now are highrises, tall buildings, busy roads. But 90 minutes away is this completely different world – mountains, desert, peace.
If we have people visiting, yes, we'll do the tourist bits – the malls, Marina, JBR, Bluewaters. But we're also taking everyone on this trip. It's the experience we want to share because it shows a completely different side of the UAE.
"This trip put a fire under us to explore more. What else is in all the other Emirates? Next year is about adventuring as a family outside of everything behind me right now."
Essential Tips
What to Bring
- Cool box (Yeti-style) – Ours kept everything ice cold for 4+ hours on the beach. Works brilliantly in this heat.
- Camera – Incredible photo opportunities at both locations
- Light layers – Can get cooler in the evening, especially in winter months
Timing Tips
- Leave Dubai mid-morning for a relaxed pace
- Allow 2 hours at Hatta Dam
- Arrive at Hidden Dubai by 4pm – this is non-negotiable
- Watch for camels on the motorway (yes, really)
Weather Consideration
We went in December – perfect weather. If it had been any hotter, maybe not as enjoyable. The winter months (November-February) are ideal for this trip.
What's Next: Hatta Hiking
We turned left at the fork toward the dam. Next time, we're turning right toward the hiking trails. The boys were dying to climb a mountain, and we want to find the Hatta sign.
When we do that trip, I'll add it to the blog.
Quick Cost Summary
| Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Drive to Hatta | Free (fuel only) |
| RTA Bus to Dam | Free |
| Donut Boat (1 hour) | 300 AED |
| Hidden Dubai (family of 4, full experience) | 347 AED |
| Total Day Out | ~650 AED (~£140 / ~$175) |
For one of your best days in Dubai? Worth every dirham.
The Most Dubai Thing Ever
On the drive, if there's anything to remind you that you're in the middle of the desert...
It's a camel walking into oncoming traffic on the motorway.
Yes, we saw that. Yes, I got video. Welcome to the UAE.
Planning More Adventures?
- Dubai to Oman Road Trip – Another great day trip option
- Explore Neighbourhoods – Find where to live for easy access to adventures
- Relocation Package – Help with your Dubai move
If you have any questions about day trips or life in Dubai, drop them in the comments. Stay well! 🏜️