Hatta is part of the Dubai emirate, but it is not located within the city’s main boundaries. Instead, it lies some 130 kilometres South-East of the city, high in the Hajaar Mountains. Formerly part of Oman, the town was given to Dubai around 1850 when the Omanis realized that they were no longer able to defend against Buraimi tribes. These days, it is a popular spot for Dubai-based families to escape to in summer thanks to its cooler temperatures. Even today, the town retains much of its Omani laid-back pack of life. Plan a trip to Hatta with these exciting features.
Discover a wealth of amazing sights and experience desert traditions and culture when you embark on a half-day or full-day trip from Dubai to Hatta. During your adventure between the largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates and the mountainous inland enclave, you will pass through and by awesome, rugged scenery, gleaming bodies of water, intriguing wildlife and ancient structures.
If you are travelling for a day, it is not possible to cover them all in a day; still we have mentioned top things you must do in Hatta, Dubai.
Visit the Hatta Heritage Village
Stroll through Dubai’s oldest village and learn about its anicient tales. Witness the age-old watchtowers, mosque and forts that stand tall even today. Restored in 2001, the Hatta Heritage Village today displays a number of artefacts such as weapons, furnishing as well as instruments that will give you an insight into its glorious past.
Barbeque with a view at the Hatta Hill Park
Take a short ride away from the village into the Hatta Hill Park, which was developed by the Dubai municipality for recreational and environmental reasons. Relish delicious barbecue with panoramic views of the glorious mountains and Hatta Village from the top. It is ideal for a romantic evening as well as a family dinner, Hatta Hill Park will truly make up to be the highlight of your trip.
A mountain Safari Through Hatta
Experience the rugged ranges of Hatta first hand with a challenging mountain safari that takes you through various scenic pitstops. The unique adventure starts from the Wadi trails as you traverse the rocky range on your 4 wheel drive with a skilled driver. Driving along the Hatta mountain dried river beds guiding to the freshwater pools in simply refreshing and a one of a kind experience.
Go kayaking in Hatta Dam
Challenge the thrill-seeker in you with an adventurous kayak ride down the Hatta Dam. Rent a kayak from a kiosk around the town and set sail on an exciting ride across the Hatta Lake. Experience nature at its finest as you made by some spectacular species of birds as well as fishes that inhibit the vicinity. Opt for paadleboat, if you are someone who prefers a peaceful ride!
Hike through the Wadis of Hatta
The ancient village of Hatta is home to numerous picturesque wadis that exist today after years mountain bed erosion. Today, these beautiful wadis are home to impressive gorge pools that attracts visitors from all around the world.
Take a dip in the Green Hatta rock pools
The mesmerizing rock pools of Hatta located amongst the valleys are a popular destination for swimmers and water-babies who desire a quick dip every now and then. The emerald waters of these pools invite attention from around the world and are also buzzing picnic spots for both local and International visitors.
Camp overnight at the Hatta Mountain Bike trail Center
Make the most of Hatta’s climate by camping under the stars of a night. Pick a mountain bike to reach your destination and make the most of the landscaping desert views while you’re at it. Sit alongside a bonfire and create memories that will last you a lifetime.
Go Glamping in Hatta
Hatta is now home to the region’s first “trailer hotel”, where you can camp along the bank of Hatta Dam in luxuriously Hatta Sedr Trailers. If you ‘d rather stay in a lodge, you can book a mountain lodge at the Hatta Damani Lodges featuring cosy purpose-built cabins closeby. An uber luxurious boutique hotel called Riad Hatta with private plunge pools, spas and a hamam is set to open by the end of 2019, and will showcase the local culture and heritage.
Indulge in Spills and thrills at the Hatta Drop-in
Close to the Hatta Wadi Hub, there’s another exciting addition which will get you wet. The Hatta Drop-in is a “water jump walk” with crazy slides and intriguing “drop-in donuts”. Also, if you’re into zorbing, there is an all new zorbing center where you can roll down a hill in a giant transparent orb.
Enjoy an Emirati meal at Tanor Lahm Restaurant
Relish an authentic meal at Tanor Lahm Restaurant in Hatta. Treat yourself after a long day of excursion at Hatta and dig into your choice of chicken, lamb or camel varieties amongst its many-a-famous savory dishes. Ideal for a causal dine out, don’t forget to try their full sheep meal that is fit for a king!
Indulge in soothing spa at the JA Hatta Fort Hotel
A long, exhausting day of excursion deserves nothing less than a royal pampering. Rejuvenate your body and mind with a soothing spa experience at the luxurious JA Hatta Fort Hotel. Treat yourself to some of its exciting offers and make the most of your holiday by indulging in a therapeutic massage.
Tips to Visit Hatta in Dubai
- We will advise to pack warm clothes, as Hatta experiences cooler weather than Dubai.
- Avoid swimming in the Hatta rock pools during bad weather, as the water level tends to fluctuate sometimes.
- If you’re going kayaking, brace yourself for a 20 minutes minimum queue.
- Make sure you have a seasoned driver on board while driving through Hatta’s mountainous terrains.
- Keep your important documents such as passport, driver’s license close in case you are crossing the border to enter Hatta.
- The best time to choose adventure sports is during the early mornings when there aren’t a many people crowding around.
Plan your trip to Dubai very easily and then get your Dubai visa in three simple steps. During your travel don’t forget to add a day trip to Hatta.