EXPLORE THE EMIRATE
Head for the dunes, go camping and ride a horse
Go hiking
With over 3,000 members, UAE Trekkers is one of the biggest hiking Meetup groups in the city and do treks throughout the country. They are serious about their mountain trekking (they’ve also done treks to Mt Kilmanjaro, Mt Ararat in Turkey and Mt Elbrus in Russia) and very strict about safety. If you’re not quite in hiking shape just yet, try out their training sessions at events like TrainYas to build up your fitness.
meetup.com/uaetrekkers
Camp in a wildlife reserve
Whether you are staying at one of the three Anantara properties on Sir Bani Yas island or not, you can now go camping in the protected wildlife reserve. The activity starts with a nature and wildlife drive before a barbecue dinner. After roasting marshmallows around the bonfire, you can sleep under the stars in a private tent. The following morning after breakfast, guests will go on a nature walk.
Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Dhs1,200, Dhs700 children. Tel: (02) 8015400. desertislands.anantara.com
Horse riding at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
You can really explore the sand dunes of the emirate’s Empty Quarter on horseback at the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Sessions are hosted from October to May and are open to both experienced and beginner riders aged eight years and above.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Al Gharbia, Abu Dhabi, Dhs395 beginners, Dhs450 intermediate. Tel: (02) 8862088. Taxi: Qasr Al Sarab, Western Region. qasralsarab.anantara.com
33