Surrounded by the Hajar Mountains, Hatta is covered in undulating peaks and troughs perfect for hiking. You can trek along the winding wadis at the foothills of the mountains, near the border with Oman. Here you’ll see the varied terrain, from sandy patches to sharp rocks.
A popular spot is behind the much-visited Hatta Dam, one of the largest water bodies in Hatta. Behind this you’ll come across rough rock, with stunning vantage points to take in the picturesque landscape, and some wildlife sightings. If you’re lucky you might even spot the elusive Arabian sand cat.
Hiking experiences can also be booked at the Hatta Wadi Hub, located close to the popular stay options by Meraas – Hatta Damani Lodges and Hatta Sedr Trailers.
Visitors to Hatta can try something a bit different – kayaking through the vast Hatta lake. Tourists and residents can rent kayaks or paddle boats from a kiosk at the reservoir for a relaxing ride across the clear waters of the turquoise-hued lake, where they’ll encounter natural inhabitants including fish and birds. You can venture into unseen areas through curved passageways hidden behind the mountains and not visible from the reservoir viewpoint.
Meanwhile, Hatta Wadi Hub is the town’s home of action and adventure. Open in winter, there are plenty of exciting free and paid activities on offer. Try your hand at archery and axe throwing, or get your heart pumping with downhill carting, adventure rope courses and freefall jumps. Make time to go twin ziplining with a friend, whizzing past the dramatic mountain scenery together.
Hop onto a mountain bike
There’s possibly no better way to experience the meandering pathways of hills, wadis and farmland in Hatta than from the back of a mountain bike. Multiple trails for beginner to advanced-level riders have been set up by the Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre, spanning across 52kms. The trails are free to ride and are self-guided with clear markers.
Longtime Dubai resident and mountain-biking enthusiast, Andy Whitaker, visits Hatta almost every weekend for his riding fix. He recommends starting from Dubai before dawn to get the most out of the experience. “I would head to Hatta from Dubai at 5am, to aim to be riding by 6-6:30am. Ride for three hours, then take a dip in one of the pools along the Green trails,” he says.
Brave visitors can choose to tackle the trails on their own or join the many hobby groups, some of which meet for weekly rides. Give yourself two-three hours for a riding session, with stops to enjoy the lush surroundings.
The Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre remains closed over summer but the trails itself stay open for adventurers all through the year – just remember to carry all your essential supplies and plenty of water.
