What comes to mind when you think of Dubai or the United Arab Emirates? Pretty much the obvious architectural wonders, such as the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab, skydiving over the iconic Palm Jumeirah, and of course the cultural capital of Sharjah; from an endless list of many attractions that millions of people troop in to see.
But the UAE is more than what meets the eye. It’s home to many exciting sites and hidden gems for those who know where to look. Together, let’s explore some of the hidden places in Dubai and the UAE that are worth visiting for a unique experience.
The United Arab Emirates, UAE is a federation of seven emirates - Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah. Over the years, the country has earned itself a reputation like no other, becoming the most visited location in the Middle East, especially its emirate Dubai.
Tourism in the UAE offers an extraordinary blend of modern extravagance, excitement and traditional allure. Thinking about a desert safari? How about a hike in the mountains, scuba diving and skydiving? Also can’t get enough of seeing architectural masterpieces? The UAE is where you find them all.
If an exciting adventure in Dubai and other emirates is what you seek, Beno luxury car rental in Dubai have got the right buggies, yachts, and cars for all your desert, sea, and road adventures. But beyond the obvious attractions, the many other captivating places you can visit here and in the and other emirates include:
1. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary - Bird Watching at its Finest
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary hasn’t gained much popularity since its establishment in 1985, but for nature and wildlife lovers, this location is one of Dubai’s hidden gems. In love with bird watching? Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect destination for you.
The wildlife sanctuary is home to over 200 species of birds, and various migratory birds also come to the sanctuary with changing seasons. The diversity of birds with their colorful appearance always leaves visitors in awe. For those visiting Dubai in the winter, a must-not-miss spectacle is the captivating sight of the pink flamingos.
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a serene haven and paradise for mammals, migratory birds, and fishes, offering nature and wildlife lovers a spectacle and photography-worthy scenery. Its diverse landscapes, ranging from intertidal mudflats and lagoons to salt flats and mangroves, provide the perfect environment for animals to thrive.
2. Al Montazah Parks - A must-visit for water sports adventures
Another top destination, The Al Montazah Parks, is situated on the beautiful emerald island of Khalid Lagoon in Sharjah. Being a long-time favorite since 1979, the park has attracted thousands of tourists and locals. It was previously known as Al Jazeera Park and has remained one of the hidden gems of the Emirates. Al Montazah Parks are easily accessible from the nearby emirates of Dubai, Ajman, and others.
For lovers of watersport adventures, storytelling, and history, Al Montazah Parks is a must-visit destination. The park is mainly divided into two fun sections: Pearls Kingdom and Island of Legends. Every aspect of the park has been crafted to give an awesome experience.
If you enjoy water sports, you’re surely in for the treat of a lifetime. Also, for the lovers of storytelling and history, prepare to be amazed as different themes have been created to take you on a journey of historical experience dating as far back as the 18th century.
3. Al Qudra Lakes - The Love Lake
Al Qudra Lakes is an artificial oasis in the heart of the Dubai desert, where tourists and locals can go to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. It’s also a popular destination for birdwatching, nature walks and wildlife photography. When you visit Dubai, instead of going to only busy locations like the Dubai Mall, Dubai Frame, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Marina, Al Qudra Lakes is a perfect escape from the busy city life and one of the hidden gems in Dubai.
Al Qudra Lakes, also known as the Love Lake, derives its popularity from its two massive interconnected parts that form a heart. It’s home to an array of photography-worthy species of plants, flowers, and fauna. The ‘Love Lake’ is a popular family destination and an ideal location for a romantic getaway.
This remarkable spot is nestled between Dubai Creek and the Bur Dubai District and became immensely popular after the announcement by Dubai’s Crown Prince - Sheik Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2018.
4. Wadi Shawka - Natural Pools Between Terrains
Wadi Shawka located on the outskirts of Ras Al Khaimah in the Hazar Mountains is most loved for its natural pools between the terrains. Apart from the adventurous hiking trails and pools, Wadi Shawka also has some protected heritage sites.
Wadi Shawka pools are unique for being formed naturally by rainfall, unlike other pools in the UAE. The hiking trails start from the Wadi Shawka Dam, and staircases have been built to make mountain climbing easier.
Lovers of mountaineering and hikers consider Wadi Shawka as a hidden gem attraction site. The adventures are endless and beyond hiking and camping, thrill-seekers try to conquer rugged trails on mountain bikes and also embark on off-road driving escapades. Beno, a rental marketplace in Dubai, provides a variety of vehicles to choose from for all your off-road adventures.
5. Dubai Miracle Garden - a flower heaven
Dubai Miracle Garden is a floral wonderland with about 50 million flowers. Renowned for being the largest natural garden in the Middle East and the world, it’s the UAE’s botanical paradise.
It covers 18 acres of land and proudly displays hundreds of flowers. Who wouldn’t want to spend time in this floral heaven?
A stroll through the flower-filled park is sure to bring you calm. Visitors can stroll through the heart-shaped flower aisle, explore the unique flower castles and villas, and also see the Emirates A380 which displays the world’s largest flowers.
It’s also a place to enjoy a variety of culinary cuisines with over 30 stalls present. There’s a beautiful butterfly garden hidden deep in Ziah Park that houses countless butterflies, and the sight is a lovely spectacle. The Dubai Miracle Garden is one of many unique places to visit in Dubai and tourists should consider it as a top-tier attraction.
Other hidden places in the UAE you should consider visiting include the Dubai Coffee Museum, Snoopy Island in Fujairah, Fossil Dunes Al Wathba, and Delma Island.
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