Strike off 5 outdoor destinations from your bucket list this summer!

If you have not yet scaled the UAE mountains or ventured into the desert for that long-pending overnight camping trip, then the time to do it is now. Before the mercury rises any further, you must explore some of the most beautiful, hidden gems spread across the UAE. Here are our top picks that may be on your bucket list too.

FOR THE DESERT SAFARI JUNKIES IN DUBAI:

There are several desert safari companies that will give you a ride of a lifetime. You can experience  a Dubai desert adventure without worrying about renting a car or planning for it. Join your guide in a 4x4 vehicle to head out into the desert where you'll experience an adrenaline pumping  dune bashing ride, camel rides and sandboarding, which will culminate with a sumptuous dinner at a desert campsite. Sit around the campfire and experience traditional desert pastimes, such as henna tattoos, belly dancing and tanoura folk dancing. Begin your desert adventure with convenient pickup at your OYO Hotel in Dubai.

ZIPPING THROUGH THE MOUNTAINS IN RAS AL KHAIMAH:

As the popular song goes, do you believe you can fly? If yes, then you must ride the world’s longest zipline in Ras Al Khaimah. A fantastic location to spend a day out, whether you are with family, friends or your beloved. To get started, book your stay at OYO 141 Ras Al Khaimah and head to Jebel Jais. This is the place to enjoy spectacular views from the tallest mountain in the UAE. Enjoy the region’s most exciting mountain adventure at the UAE’s highest peak.

AWAKEN THE ARCHAEOLOGIST IN YOU IN SHARJAH:

Have you ever dreamt of watching the night sky in the middle of a desert? That’s possible in Sharjah. The overnight expedition begins with a tour of the Mleiha Archaeological Centre to familiarize you with the area. You can opt to stay at OYO 168 Al Raha Hotel Apartments and, from there, travel to the Mleiha Archaeological Centre. You can take a guided tour of the Archaeological Museum to understand the history of the Mleiha Region that dates back to the Mesozoic era when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. A freshly prepared BBQ dinner is served, which is followed by a stargazing experience with telescopes and expert astronomer introduce you to the world to stars.

VISIT THE HISTORIC FORTRESSES AND THE MAJESTIC HAJJAR MOUNTAINS AJMAN:

Manama is the capital of Bahrain, however, we are referring to another town called Manama, which was, at the turn of the 20th century, a village of 7-8 houses of the Sharqiyin tribe. Manama was also the source of two particularly fine varieties of wild honey with sidr and simr trees providing two seasonal flows of honey from the wild Asiatic honeybees. Located in the plains at the foothills of the Hajar Mountains to the east of Ajman, Manama is about an hour's drive from the city centre. You can also visit three historic fortresses here. From OYO 150 Al Usra Furnished Apartments, proceed to Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Street and continue on Emirates Road (E611), then follow the E88 to Manama and explore these amazing destinations.

GO SCUBA DIVING IN FUJAIRAH:

Have you ever wanted to go scuba diving? PADI Diving Centers, operating in Fujairah for about two decades now, offer a great great club-like atmosphere that’s enjoyable for people of all age groups. There are several diving schools to choose from. These centres are located a few minutes away from the OYO 137 Clifton International Hotel, and are a great choice for expats and tourists who want to dive or learn scuba diving on the East Coast of the UAE. Scuba diving is an enjoyable and relaxing sport and it is good for your mind, body and soul.  Whether you are a beginner, recreational diver who is interested in seeing the beautiful coral reefs of the sea, or an experienced deep sea diver who travels to the depths visited only by experts, scuba diving in Fujairah can provide numerous benefits. Are you ready to take the plunge?