Nestled close to the city, this destination is perfect for a scenic road trip from Dubai. Hatta is a town overflowing with history, stunning natural landscapes, and activities suitable for the whole family. It promises an enchanting journey through time with its quaint stone houses, winding streets, and lush date farms. Moreover, abundant natural wonders like wadis, hill parks, and nature reserves are perfect places for exploration, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.
Read more: Scenic Road Trip from DubaiAs a long-time resident of this country, I have never encountered a place as beautiful as Hatta. During a recent road trip, I visited three stunning nature spots that you can explore, and they are all free of charge. So, here’s the list. Grab your pen or take a screenshot and make sure to check them out! It’s definitely worth it.
First Stop: Experience the beautiful scene of Hatta Dam
Experience the wonders of Hatta Dam, a unique attraction in the town. Explore this tourist hotspot for free and capture stunning photos from the parking area or while wandering around its beauty.
This is not my first time visiting the dam, but to make it slightly more exciting, we decided to go sailing on the dam. Opting for an electric donut boat rental at 300 AED per hour, my family and I were treated to sightings of wildlife amidst breathtaking scenery. Trust me, the view from the water is unparalleled. So, give it a try! I can say that we truly enjoyed the ride despite the fact that it started to get sunny at just 9 AM.
Here’s a fact about Hatta Dam. Originally built as a water reservoir, this crystal-clear turquoise dam has transformed into a vibrant sports hub. You can go for a hike or glide through its waters on a boat. You can definitely choose from a variety of rental options provided by Hatta Kayak, including kayaks, donut boats, and pedal boats, starting at just 60 AED.
So, don’t miss out! If water activities aren’t your thing, simply enjoy a memorable photo-op with your loved ones. Also, make sure to visit the tourist information center for guidance on other must-see attractions in the area. It’s located beside Hatta Kayak Customer Service Counter.
Next stop: Hatta Heritage Village and Farms
After our exciting boat ride, we headed to Al Hamarain Restaurant, an authentic Emirati restaurant located in Hatta Heritage Village. It serves local foods as well as international cuisine. I always love the butter chicken there, so I ordered it once again, and oh my, it didn’t disappoint me. There is free parking underneath the lighthouse perched on a rocky hill, so you can also go up there. Believe me, the view is jaw-dropping.
Just a stone’s throw from Hatta Dam lies the enchanting Hatta Heritage Village, a mere 10-minute drive away. Delve into a mesmerizing fusion of history and scenic charm within this carefully preserved outdoor museum. Alternatively, check out the nearby lighthouse adjacent to the restaurant for a breathtaking view of this hilly town.
After lunch, we went for a walk around the farms surrounding the area. We decided to skip the paid tour for a water spring as I thought it would be more interesting to discover the farms, and these are all free. So, we hiked for a bit, and it didn’t disappoint us. We saw banana trees, lemon, and mango trees. My kids loved the sound of the birds, and we paused to listen to the stillness and quietness in the farm.
Last stop: A scenic café and Hatta’s Viewing Point