It’s the best time of the year to be outdoors and with the New Year incoming, it’s also a great opportunity to explore new horizons. Here are six things to try in 2024 across the emirates from snorkelling to hiking to glamping and more
Ride the ziplines in RAK
Best for: adrenaline junkies
The Jais Sky Tour, a route of six ziplines ranging from 337 metres to well over 1km in distance, offers a complex route to navigate and a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the Hajar Mountains. This exhilarating two-hour experience will see you travel at an average speed of 60kmph with the highest platform, the sky bridge, floating at a whopping 1,250 metres above sea level and 300 metres above ground.
Explore the UAE’s largest organic farm in Al Ain
Best for: a family day out
Just a 45-minute drive from Downtown Dubai, Emirates Biofarm specialises in fresh organic produce and is currently open seven days a week to visitors. Spend a few hours strolling the fields full of plants and crops (look out for the sunflowers at this time of year) before browsing the farm shop and visiting the experience centre. Learn all about sustainable farming before tucking into a delicious farm-to-table dish at the on-site restaurant.
Try hiking in Khorfakkan
Best for: novice hikers and families
Start your adventure at Al Rabi Tower, a historical monument built in 1915 to defend the city, then hike the trail that zigzags up the mountain for 1,600 metres but is designed to be suitable for beginners, children and dogs. With panoramic views of the ancient city of Khorfakkan and the Gulf of Oman, the summit is at 395 metres and worth every step.
Go camping in Abu Dhabi
Best for: an adults-only glamping trip
Located in a protected area near the Jubail Mangrove Park on Jubail Island, Pura Eco Retreat is an eco-friendly hideaway that prioritises rest, relaxation, a connection with nature and five-star dining. This is glamping at its finest with chic eco-domes or native tents with comfortable beds, bathrooms, outdoor seating and fire pits. Try kayaking through the mangroves, fat-biking along the beach or birdwatching as well as wellness sessions and time by the pool.
Attempt kitesurfing in Umm Al Quwain
Best for: an energetic day out
Head to Kite Beach Center for an escape from city life and the chance to try your hand at kitesurfing at the fully certified surf school. With expert instructors to guide you on the basics through to more advanced techniques, you’ll want to keep coming back for more once you’ve enjoyed a session out in the waves. Bring the family along (including your dog) to enjoy swimming, sunbathing and dining on this naturally beautiful sandy beach and head out into the mangroves to spot all kinds of wildlife.
Dive into snorkelling in Fujairah
Best for: an underwater adventure
Snoopy Island is a small, rocky island off the coast of Fujairah, named after the famous cartoon dog. Offering some of the best snorkelling and diving in the GCC, discover the coral reefs and spot colourful fish including reef sharks, mackerel, stingrays and more. Gear can be rented on the spot, and with the Sandy Beach Hotel located nearby, it’s easy to make a weekend of it and explore what else Fujairah has to offer.
