Dubai hypnotizes travelers and locals alike with its boundless and infectious energy. Massive skyscrapers, eternally-buzzing shopping malls, and an overall jet-setting lifestyle seem to keep everyone in the megalopolis on their toes. But at times, you do crave for some peace and quiet – far from the madding crowds! You can plan such a blissful day quite easily. Mountains, deserts, beaches – they are all there, welcoming you with their serenity & calm. Read on to know more about how to plan a relaxing day away from Dubai’s city crowds.
Select Your Destination Carefully
- Hatta – majestic mountains, turquoise lakes, and lots of lung-purifying air – that’s what the Hatta mountain tour offer. Indulge in some kayaking & paddle boating in the clear waters of the Hatta Dam. Relax for a while at the Hatta Hill Park & enjoy the views from there. Explore the Hatta Heritage Village with its restored dwellings that will transport you to an era bygone. And you can choose the JA Hatta Fort Hotel for a quiet & filling lunch with ample natural scenery for company.
- Al Quadra – beautiful desert dunes surround serene lakes here. The Love Lakes – heart-shaped – are as scenic as they are calm, offering wonderful opportunities for walking by its sides while enjoying the sunset views at dusk. Satisfy your hunger pangs with a simple but delightful lunch at the Last Exit Al Quadra – before checking in on the gazelles & oryx at the protected Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve.
- Jebel Jais – the perfect spot to enjoy insanely beautiful scenic views amidst a calm ambience. From the Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park, you would be rewarded with magnificent sights of the surrounding mountains and the lands far beyond. Grab a wholesome lunch at 1484 by Puro, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass windows providing spectacular views.
- Umm Al Quwain Mangroves – head for this underrated – but tremendously beautiful – locale in the adjoining emirate of Umm Al Quwain. The stunning Khor Al Beidah Mangrove Area offers relaxing opportunities for some gentle kayaking, accompanied by the chirping of the avian beauties. Spend some quiet time at the emptier UAQ Kite Beach, which is also less crowded than Dubai’s forever-crowded beaches.
- Musandam Dibba – in neighboring Oman is located one of the most beautiful landscapes in the region. Surrounded by grand mountains and the Gulf’s crystal-clear waters, Musandam Dibba is heaven for those seeking solitude amidst natural bliss. Experience its beauty aboard a dhow cruise. Explore the vibrant underwater coral reefs on a snorkeling trip. Or just relax by camping on the beach.
- Mleiha Desert, Sharjah – a most rewarding experience that combines the thrill of desert exploring with the intellectually stimulating sighting of historical & prehistoric discoveries. The Mleiha Archaeological Center is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts. Visit the stunning desert formations in Fossil Rock & Camel Rock. And be mesmerized by the stargazing in the quiet of the night.
Make an Early Start to the Day
Leave the megalopolis just after sunrise. You wouldn’t have to negotiate rush-hour traffic. The weather is also much more congenial. And the soft light of the morning creates the perfect photo opportunities for your Insta page.
Let the Morning Progress Slowly
Don’t rush into things. It’s not your regular workday! Enjoy the morning coffee leisurely and pick up some light breakfast from a quiet roadside café. Play some soft & relaxing music on the car stereo and mentally disconnect yourself from the hustle & bustle of Dubai.
Embrace the Digital Detox
Mobiles, tabs, and laptops – they are devices around which our lives revolve nowadays. But this is the perfect day to release yourself from their grips – as much as possible. Make use of the “Do Not Disturb” option in your mobile. The social media updates & answering the emails can wait till the next day. Let nature and only nature grab your attention today!
Unwind Post Lunch
No matter which destination you might have chosen, spend the afternoon in an unhurried manner. Choose a hammock for resting while admiring mountain views. Take a walk in the scenic desert. Relax on the beach under an umbrella. Or enjoy an invigorating cup of tea at a scenic viewpoint.
To conclude, you don’t need to dig deep into your pockets to plan an escape from the concrete jungle of Dubai. With an array of natural beauties in close vicinity, you can easily choose an unwinding place that will fully refresh you to face the hectic week ahead!
