Planning a trip to Hatta? This mountain area is located around 130 km south-east of central Dubai. Once famous for its small desert farms and historic fort, Hatta has also started attracting people interested in mountain biking and other outdoor escapades.
Hatta has been used as a summer home by many people in Dubai to escape the heat and hustle and bustle of the city. This place has an amazing and undisturbed scenery – perfect for leisure, entertainment and Instagram.
Hatta tourist guide: Getting there
Hatta is located in the east side of Dubai. It takes approximately 90 minutes to reach the mountain paradise from Dubai International Airport (DXB) on road. The route is easy to navigate and has beautiful sceneries of the Sharjah desert and Hatta mountains.
1. By public transportation
In around 1 hour and 30 minutes, the RTA Hatta Express Bus (H02) transports passengers from Dubai Mall to the Hatta Main Bus Station. You can use nol Card to pay the Dh25 fare.
From the main bus station in Hatta, take the H204 ‘Hop On and Hop Off’ RTA bus. This bus stops at each of the popular tourist attractions in Hatta.
2. By car
It takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Hatta from Dubai on road. The picturesque Sharjah-Kalba route along E102 usually takes the quickest.
Top things to do in Hatta in 2025
1. Mountain biking in Hatta
Dubai is no stranger to thrills. Tourists can try out dune bashing, zip-lining, hiking and mountain biking, among other options. But mountain biking in Hatta is nothing less than special. There are different trails to choose from depending on your ability.
The mountainous area of Hatta is home to multiple cross-country cycle routes, suitable for beginners and experienced riders, too. But before you set off on the adrenaline-pumping journey, there are some things to remember.
– Inform a friend or family member about your location and trail
– Carry a trail map
– Carry the right equipment
– Keep your mobile phone fully charged
– Put on the right clothing and safety gear
– Pay attention to the official signage and directions
– Be polite and courteous
– Keep the trails clean
– Use the designated toilet and other facilities
– Put trash in the designated areas only
– Expect the unexpected
2. Paddle around Hatta Dam
Hatta Dam carries some of the best scenery in the area. This place needs no filter if uploaded on social media. One of the top things to do in Hatta is paddling around the dam. The experience costs Dh120. Kayaking at Hatta Kayak could come around Dh60.
Hatta Kayak is a unique tourist destination in Dubai and the UAE. This lake, formed by Hatta Dam and its surrounding mountains, is becoming increasingly popular among those seeking relaxation in a natural place.
Opening hours: Daily, 7 am to 9 pm
3. Dip toes in Hatta’s rock pools
Situated across the border in Oman, Hatta’s rock pools are nothing but stunning. The best time to explore these pools is during the early morning or late afternoon. Don’t forget to bring the phone to capture pictures of fish among your tootsies.
There are a couple of things to remember before exploring Hatta’s rock pools. First of all, be careful of an unexpected dip as the pools can become quite deep quite soon. You need an Emirates ID or passport for non-residents to explore this place.
4. Hatta Heritage Village
Hatta Heritage Village is a pretty cool thing to do in this mountain area. This tourist attraction in Hatta offers a generous glimpse into the life of people in the Hajar Mountains and the UAE before the economic oil boom of the 1960s.
Get a break from modern skyscrapers. Hatta Heritage Village features a good collection of restored houses and forts and exhibits on traditional Emirati crafts and customs. You can also engage in hiking and kayaking, in addition to sampling traditional Emirati cuisine.
Opening hours:
Saturday to Thursday: 7:30 am to 8:30 pm
Friday: 2:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Price: Free entry
5. Hatta Wadi Hub
If there is a title for the best thing to do in Hatta, Hatta Wadi Hub is likely to be at the top of the list. Explore the heart and soul of Emirati heritage here. Hatta Wadi Hub could become the reason for you returning to Hatta each year.
This enchanting village transports its visitors back in time. Traditional architecture, crafts and customs take the centrestage. Explore traditional crafts and try out authentic Emirati cuisine add the different traditional restaurants in Hatta Wadi Hub.
Hatta Wadi Hub also has recreated Bedouin camps, offering people an opportunity to experience the nomadic lifestyle. Plus, thrillseekers can engage in zorbing, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, horse riding, mountain carting and paragliding, among others.
Opening hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 8 am to 6 pm
Friday to Saturday: 8 am to 8 pm
Price: Fluctuates
6. Hiking in Hatta
Surrounded by Hajar Mountains, Hatta is perfect for hiking. You can trek along the valleys at the foothills of the mountains, near the UAE-Oman border. There are different trail types, colour-coded by difficulty. Black routes are the most challenging and green are for beginners.
One of the popular hiking spots in Hatta is behind the Hatta Dam. Hiking experiences can also be booked at Hatta Wadi Hub, located close to numerous popular stay options. If one is lucky, he or she could also spot the Arabian sand cat at the time of hiking in Hatta.
7. Hatta Honey
Experience the life of bees and the magic of honey. Hatta Honey ranks as one of the biggest honey producers in the region. It has more than 25 years of experience, modern collection of beekeeping equipment, state-of-the-art technology and best bee breeds.
Opening hours: Daily, 9 am to 5 pm
8. Hatta Sign
Located strategically on the summit of the majestic Hajar Mountains, the remarkable Hatta Sign stands as a testament to the region’s beauty and cultural heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike up to the Hatta Sign for a truly unforgettable experience.
Opening hours: 24/7
9. Hatta Hill Park
Built in 2004, Hatta Hill Park is located on a mountain and is a popular spot for picnics and barbecues. This place has a children’s playing field, sports fields and running tracks. You can climb up the mountain for a beautiful vantage point of the Hajar Mountain Range.
Opening hours: 24/7
Hatta tourist guide: Frequently asked questions
1. Is there a process to book accommodation at Hatta?
Hatta has a number of accommodation options. You can experience luxury lodging, unparalleled comfort and natural beauty at Damani Lodges Resort in Hatta. This eco-friendly accommodation has been designed for a minimal carbon footprint.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the serene landscapes of Hatta at Hatta Camping Grounds. This is the perfect spot to get a unique take on the surrounding national park and the splendour of Dubai’s landscapes.
2. Is there an international number for bookings and enquiries?
For all Hatta tourism-related enquiries, please call +971 48522200.
3. Is it permissible to bring dogs to Hatta Kayak?
You can bring your dog to Hatta Kayak as long as you have full control of your pet animal. The dog must put on a life vest and remain inside the kayak at all times.
4. Is it okay to bring our pets to the accommodation?
Unfortunately, pets are not permitted in Hatta resorts.
5. Can I buy or hire equipment for hiking, biking and BBQ?
Mountain biking equipment is accessible and can be rented from the Hatta Wadi Hub. Hiking equipment is not accessible on site. You can purchase barbecue equipment from the local supermarket in Hatta Village. BBQ huts can be rented at Hatta Wadi Hub.
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