UAE: 4 Popular Outdoor Winter Activities To Try

With summer finally out the way, it’s time to ditch the home workouts and make the most of cooler outdoors. As the chill sets in, get ready to dust off those helmets and backpacks, and indulge in a host of fun activities.

Kayaking

🔥 400 kcal/h

Kayaking has often been associated with the intense whitewater. But, if you want to row and soak in your surroundings, we have an alternative for you. Flatwater kayaking – a relaxed form of the sport, has been gaining popularity with new locations cropping up every season. For those looking to give it a row, here are a few spots:

Hatta Kayak

With views of the lofty Hajar Mountains peaks, kayaking in these blue waters is absolute bliss. Located next to the Hatta Dam, simply drive up and row away.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

If you fancy kayaking amidst history, here’s your chance to explore this architectural delight over a weekend. For an out of the box experience, we recommend kayaking during a full moon.

Ras Al Khaimah Mangroves

Located in the heart of the emirate, if exploring the wildlife is more your thing, paddle along the mangroves to discover a variety of birds and marine life. If luck favours you, you might spot a flamingo or two.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding

🔥 330 kcal/h

If you’re looking for a combination of sunbathing, swimming and exercise, give stand up paddle boarding a go. A relatively new sport, stand up paddle boarding gives you a full-body workout, engaging your core while challenging your balance and flexibility. Unlike running which is harder on your body, stand up paddle boarding is easy to grasp and a low impact workout practised in calm waters. Try this form of moving meditation here:

Kite Beach, Dubai

The beautiful flat waters of Kite Beach are best in the morning for newbies looking to develop their technique and confidence.

Eastern Mangroves Marina, Abu Dhabi

Break the monotony of skyscrapers and glide by the mangroves while you keep an eye out for unique birdlife and aquatic life.

Hiking

🔥 350 kcal/h

Go, take a hike! Early morning wake-up calls to chase sunrises, makes hiking totally worth it! It gets your heart pumping, making it a great cardio workout and muscle building exercise. With trails located outside city limits, breathtaking views and fresh air makes hiking perfect for the mind, body and soul.

Wadi Shah

Located right next to the highest point of the UAE, Jebel Jais, this spot offers scenic Insta-worthy views of cliffs, mountains goats, a Bedouin village and cemetery. This hiking trail technical level is moderate to hard and recommended for experienced hikers.

Camel Rock

Located in Mleiha, an archaeological and eco-tourism site, Camel Rock is popular amongst regular hikers and tourists. Along with pre-Islamic history to delve into, this site offers the opportunity to camp under the stars as well.

E-Scooters

🔥 200 kcal/h

The new kid on the block! In Dubai, the RTA recently announced a trial run for e-scooters across 5 areas in the city – Satwa, Al Rigga, Dubai Internet City, JLT and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard in Downtown Dubai. Available to both residents and tourists, if you find exploring on foot boring, then simply grab an e-scooter and whizz around the city.

With just a few months of outdoorsy weather to enjoy, maintain your distance, mask up and sanitize and head out!

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