travel

Uncover the Natural Gems of Dubai

dubai-beauty-roamilicious

Dubai is a city of wonders, but it is also home to hidden gems for nature lovers. Situated both among and away from the skyscrapers, you’ll find the desert, the Arabian waters, animal sanctuaries, and mountain ranges. Read on to find out more about these natural beauties worth seeing during your trip to Dubai. 

Head to the desert in Dubai

A day trip or overnight stay in the desert is one of the top bucket-list items for nature lovers visiting Dubai. There are a multitude of ways to roam the sand dunes, one of which is a desert safari trip. Sitting comfortably in a 4X4 or on top of a camel, you’ll be privy to views of the natural desert landscape, with glimpses of wildlife dotted along the way. If you’d like a more adventurous experience, you can go dune bashing or quad biking. When you take a moment to slow down, you can experience Arabian culture and Bedouin traditions with a cup of tea as you soak up the moment. 

Take a camel ride in Dubai

Ride along the waterways in Dubai

Dubai is home to the modern Burj Khalifa Lake, though its more historical counterpart is the Dubai Creek. It is here where Dubai’s history of trade began, with traditional abra boats used to transport people to and fro. For a longer trip, you can book a dinner cruise on a dhow boat, where you’ll be treated to a Middle Eastern meal. Visitors can explore the heritage of the areas surrounding the Dubai Creek before the trip, and watch a beautiful sunset along the dock. 

Book a stay at one of Rove Hotels’ 9 locations in the city and start planning your Dubai holiday.

Visit the beach in Dubai

Dubai’s coastlines are sprinkled with white sandy beaches met by calm waters. Visitors can roam along the waters aboard a boat or yacht, seeing the artificial islands and beaches along the way. If you’d prefer to dive into the sea waters, you can pull up a lounging chair at La Mer, and if you’re keen to get on a surfboard, Kite Beach is ready and waiting. 

See the mountain ranges in Dubai

A day trip to Hatta offers a cooler climate for tourists and locals alike. The mountain range provides nature lovers a sight to behold. You can spend the day mountain biking in the area, hiking along the trails and even camping, if you wish. Visitors will also find Hatta Dam located here, with the option of kayaking on the waters. 

Explore The Green Planet in Dubai

instagram-worthy-dubai-roamilicious
There are a ton of instagram worthy spots for photos in Dubai!

There is nature in the city of Dubai itself, too. The Green Planet is a tropical indoor rainforest. It is home to more than 3,000 animal and plant species housed in glass. Visitors can see animals from around the world (like piranhas) and even snorkel with them! Be sure to visit the biodome to experience a tropical ‘thunderstorm’ during your visit.

Discover Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary in Dubai

Calling all bird lovers! Flamingos are the stars in winter at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, where birds are free to roam in their natural habitat. Other birds you can expect to see include reef herons, sandpipers, and a flock of other exotic species. You’ll also see fish, plants and animals in lagoons, mangroves, salt flats, and hides. 

Dubai is home to the desert on one side, and the Arabian coast on the other. Visitors looking for nature will undoubtedly enjoy their stay in this Middle Eastern city. The natural gems mentioned above are just the tip of the iceberg – there are awe-inspiring aquariums and man-made natural landscapes to name but a few of the other places to visit. 

About the author

Malika Bowling

Malika is the author of several books including Culinary Atlanta: Guide to the Best Restaurants, Markets, Breweries and More! and the founder of Roamilicious. She is also a Digital Marketing and Social Media Consultant. Follow us @Roamilicious on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for the content not shared on the blog. And don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter (subscribe box below) and never miss a contest, giveaway or the latest must visit restaurant!