Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Fujairah are known for their rich culture and unique experiences. Dubai is home to modern architecture, skyscrapers, beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels, man-made islands, and more. Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is noted for its diverse cultural attractions, leisure activities, and marvels of nature. Fujairah, located on the eastern coast of the UAE is famous for its rugged desert mountain, rich underwater world, and stunning scenery. Visitors from different parts of the world visit these dazzling locations for unique and memorable adventures. Here are some of the UAE’s off-the-beaten paths worth exploring on your next visit.
Dive sites in Dubai
Scuba diving is an experience you wouldn’t want to miss when you’re in Dubai. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are many dive sites ideal for different skill levels. If you have no prior experience, you can sign up for discovery scuba diving. For advanced divers, you can engage in wreck scuba diving Dubai and explore sites such as Mariam Express, Sheikh Mohammad’s Barge, and Car Barge.
Mariam Express sank on May 3, 2006, due to rough seas. The wreck has a depth range of 18m to 25m. Some of its cargo and construction vehicles lie at 21m. Mariam Express is frequented by eagle rays, torpedo rays, and yellowtail barracuda. You may also see small creatures like nudibranchs and flatworms.
Sheikh Mohammad’s Barge was purposely sunk on July 20, 1984, to establish an artificial underwater habitat. The wreck has a minimum depth of 18m and a maximum depth of 23m. You can explore its main barge and towing vessel. The wreck also has penetration areas that are best suited for divers with wreck dive training and experience.
Car Barge is a small wreck nestled near the breakwater of World Island. It was also purposely sunk to create an article reef. The wreck is noted for sponges, feather stars, flatworms, and nudibranchs.
Al Qudra Cycle Path in Dubai
Enjoy a fun and exciting ride on the Al Qudra Cycle Path. The 86 km track gives cyclists an unobstructed view of a sea of mountain dunes. The long track is smooth and well-maintained to ensure a safe ride. You can spot local wildlife along the way such as antelopes and Arabian oryx. It is also possible to see various birds and flamingoes near Qudra lake.
Inchcape dive sites in Fujairah
Scuba diving in Fujairah allows you to discover its rich marine world including the wrecks that serve as homes for a wide range of marine life. For advanced divers, the Inchcape dive sites are worth adding to your bucket list.
Inchcape 1, originally named Gray Swift 2 was used to transport crew and supplies in Dubai and Fujairah. The boat was decommissioned in 2001 and was purposely sunk to create an artificial reef. The wreck lies 30m on a sandy bottom. You can come across pufferfish, soldierfish, pennant fish, and boxfish. The wreck is also visited by schools of jack or trevally. Moray eels may also be found in the tires of the shop. Smaller marine life like nudibranchs and sea horses are often seen at the stern which are favorite subjects of macro underwater photographers.
Inchcape 2 is another decommissioned vessel that was transformed into an artificial reef. The wreck is enveloped in pink, purple, and yellow corals. Common marine life sightings are pufferfish, scorpionfish, little boxfish, and moray eels. It is also teeming with colorful nudibranchs.
Dalma Island in Abu Dhabi
Dalma Island is perfect for a camping adventure. You can pitch your tent by the beach and enjoy the quiet and serene atmosphere. One of the wonderful things about camping by the beach is watching the glorious sunset.
You can also go swimming, snorkeling, or try something more exciting like kiteboarding. If you love fishing, you can book an inshore or offshore fishing trip. Get a chance to catch a grouper, jack, trevally, pompano, and other types of fish.
The Mangroves in Abu Dhabi
The Mangrove National Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a serene place away from busy cities. Just imagine trees reaching as high as 15 feet. Visitors can enjoy exploring the park via the water. You choose from kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or cruising on a private boat tour.
Enjoy visiting the UAE’s hidden gems
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Fujairah are some of the beautiful places that you can visit in the UAE. There are so many fun and exciting things to do like scuba diving and cycling in Dubai. You can also go wreck diving in Fujairah. In Abu Dhabi, you can enjoy nature camping and exploring the mangroves.