15 Outdoor Activities You Must Try in the UAE to Fuel Your Adventurous Spirit

Kick your outdoor game up a notch and ditch those indoor blues…

If you’re tired of being cooped up indoors and itching to dive into some outdoor fun, the UAE has got your back! It’s not all desert and skyscrapers – there’s a whole world of outdoor activities that’ll make you never want to go back inside. Seriously, it’s like Mother Nature herself is rolling out the red carpet just for you.

These 15 thrilling sports, which range from hiking up rocky hills to kayaking through mangroves, are definitely worth adding to your bucket list:

Dubai Adventures:

1. Surfing at Sunset Beach

First, starting off with Dubai. Catch some waves at Sunset Beach and enjoy the rush of surfing beneath the famous Burj Al Arab. The Surf House Dubai provides rentals and lessons for all ability levels, regardless of experience level.

2. Ride a bicycle around Al Qudra Lakes

Only a short drive from Dubai, Al Qudra Lakes offers stunning scenery for cycling. Enjoy the scenic lakes and sand dunes over the 85km cycle track and watch animals as you ride.

3. Kayak at Hatta Dam

Take to the peaceful waters of Hatta Dam for a leisurely kayak adventure surrounded by majestic mountains. Whether you opt for a single or double kayak, you’re in for a serene experience amidst nature’s splendor.

4. Adventure at Hatta Wadi Hub

Escape to Hatta for a day of adrenaline-fueled fun at Wadi Hub. From ropes courses and zip lines to paragliding and off-roading, there’s something for every adventure seeker in this scenic mountainous region.

5. Hike in Hatta’s Hajar Mountains

Lace up your hiking boots and explore the rugged beauty of Hatta’s Hajar Mountains. With trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks, you can lose yourself in nature and soak in breathtaking views along the way.

6. Mountain Biking in Hatta

Hit the trails at Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre and experience the thrill of mountain biking amidst stunning desert landscapes. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the trails cater to riders of all levels, with bike rentals available on-site.

Abu Dhabi Adventures

7. Kayak around the Abu Dhabi Mangroves 

Ever wanted to glide through mangroves like a stealthy ninja? Now’s your chance to kayak at Jubail Mangrove Park. Take a peaceful paddle among the mangroves’ rich vegetation. If you’re someone who enjoys kayaking during the day or prefers paddling under glow-in-the-dark action, this spot has everything you need.

8. Louvre Abu Dhabi Kayaking 

How about getting a whole new perspective on the iconic Louvre? You can kayak around it and soak in its beauty from the water. Choose from cool tours like sunrise kayaking or full moon kayaking for a cultural experience like no other.

9. Abu Dhabi Yellow Boat Trip

Take an exciting Yellow Boat trip across Abu Dhabi’s beautiful waterways. For a truly remarkable experience, select from routes like the Corniche, Yas Island, or the entire Yas Island Experience.

10. Excitations at Mar Vista Hudayriyat

Hudayriyat Mar Vista offers a variety of outdoor activities to get your heart racing. Plenty of exciting activities are here, from sports grounds and cycling tracks to climbing walls and high ropes trials.

11. Saadiyat Island Dolphin Spotting 

Off the coast of Saadiyat Island, see the gracefulness of dolphins in their natural habitat. Take a dolphin-spotting trip or just watch the spectacle through binoculars from a beachside hotel.

12. Conquer Jebel Hafeet 

The tallest peak in Abu Dhabi, Jebel Hafeet awaits those seeking the ultimate hiking adventure. As you get to the top, get ready for challenging terrain and amazing vistas. And don’t forget to pack plenty of water and strong boots.

Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah Adventures

13. Jebel Jais Adventures

Experience thrills at Jebel Jais Adventure Park, which has the longest zipline in the world and other heart-pounding attractions. Jebel Jais provides an amazing experience, with activities ranging from sky tours and sledding to breathtaking flights and dining at 1484 by Puro.

14. Explore Wadi Showka

Experience the wild splendor of Wadi Showka, Ras Al Khaimah’s natural amusement park. There are plenty of outdoor activities to be had in this beautiful environment, whether you enjoy mountain climbing, hiking, trekking, or climbing.

15. Sink into Fun at Al Boom Diving in Fujairah

Discover the thrill of scuba diving with Al Boom Diving in Fujairah and explore the stunning underwater world hassle-free. Encounter Shark Island, Dibba Rocks, and Snoopy Island (subject to weather conditions, of course!). Night packages also available for coral reef adventures.