Hunt for fossils
For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to Mleiha for fossil hunting. This archaeological wonder in Sharjah offers guided tours where you can discover fossils and learn about the region’s ancient history. It’s a fascinating day trip that combines education and outdoor fun, perfect for curious minds, young and old.
Snorkelling around Snoopy Island
Snoopy Island in Fujairah is a winter dream for water enthusiasts. The cooler months bring perfect snorkelling conditions, with crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Spend the day swimming alongside turtles and colourful fish and finish off with a beachside barbecue. It’s an idyllic UAE getaway.
Hiking in Wadi Showka
This is the ideal time to explore the UAE’s wild side. For nature lovers, Wadi Showka offers the perfect morning out. Just an hour from Dubai, this spot is great for hiking with its scenic trails and rocky terrain. Sheck out Wikilocs for routes, pack plenty of water and get ready for incredible views.
Get into park life
Dubai is full of parks to add some greenery to your weekend. Zabeel Park is a top spot for families looking to enjoy the winter weather. Pack a picnic and let the kids run wild in the park’s expansive green spaces – and for extra silliness, rent one of the go-karts and zoom around. Or head to Mushrif Park for hiking and biking trails, and even ziplining at Aventura.
Head to Hatta
Escape to the mountains for a weekend of glamping in luxury lodges or tents, surrounded by the Hajar mountains. Don’t miss Hatta Wadi Hub, an adventure lover’s paradise with ziplining, mountain biking, water slides and even axe-throwing (for the grownups). After an action-packed day, unwind by the campfire under a blanket of stars, then get up early and hike to the record-breaking Hatta sign.
Mooch at the market
The Ripe Market in Academy Park is a staple for shopping, snacks and family-friendly activities. Now with weekly outdoor cinema screenings for kids, you can grab dinner, watch a movie under the stars with your headphones on, and pick up some Christmas presents. Perfect for lazy winter weekends.
Seeing Santa at Ski Dubai
Nothing says festive fun quite like a visit to Ski Dubai during the holiday season. It may be warm outside, but inside, it’s a winter wonderland. The little ones will love meeting the big man in red, followed by a hot chocolate and some sledging, or take it to the next level with a ski or snowboard session. It’s Christmas in the desert, UAE-style.
Dinner (or breakfast) among the dunes
Pack up your grill and head into the dunes for a magical desert cookout. There’s something so calming about the silence of the desert at sunset, with the smell of barbecue in the air. If you’re an early bird, breakfast in the dunes while watching the sunrise is equally unforgettable.
Bike ride and burgers
Cycling along the beach is one of my favourite ways to spend a winter afternoon. The bike track at Kite Beach is the perfect spot, and once you’ve worked up an appetite, stop at Salt for
a slider. It’s a simple pleasure, but one that feels so much better when the weather is cool.
Explore Alserkal Avenue
When the heat subsides, Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz is the must-do destination to explore Dubai’s artistic heart. Check out cutting-edge galleries, enjoy a late breakfast at Mexican eatery Lila Molina, and pop into Kave for unique shopping. It’s a creative escape right in the city, and there are frequent pop-ups and events.
DON’T MISS
Listen out for Farmer’s Kitchen on Dubai Eye103.8FM in collaboration with Spinneys. It airs from 2-5pm on Fridays.
