Hatta is an exclave of Dubai in the Hajar Mountains, about an hour and a half from the city, with a turquoise dam you can kayak, a heritage village and Hatta Wadi Hub, which reopened on 28 September 2026 for its ninth season. Go in the cooler months and book weekend stays early.
Why people go
Hatta is where Dubai goes when it wants mountains. The scenery is different from the coast: pale, rocky Hajar peaks, a reservoir the colour of mint and quiet roads. Dams and paddle-boats are the headline, the heritage village is an easy hour, and the hills have walking routes of varying difficulty.
Wadi Hub, domes and what is new
Hatta Resorts and Wadi Hub reopened on 28 September 2026 for its ninth season, adding two restored heritage trailers, the 1958 Coach and Route 1948, and two Premier Lodges with private plunge pools. Caravan Hatta by Our Habitas opens later in the season. Domes and glamping-style stays have been reported from around Dh720 a night; check current rates and book weekends well ahead.
The Dubai Fitness Challenge holds stand-up paddle events at Hatta Dam on 7 and 8 November 2026.
A good day
Drive up in the morning, paddle or walk at the dam, have lunch in the village and leave in the late afternoon before the road back fills. Temperatures are usually a little lower than on the coast. Check the weather: mountain rain can make wadis dangerous, and wadi crossings can flood without warning.
Questions people ask
How far is Hatta from Dubai?+
About 90 minutes by road from Dubai city, depending on traffic.
What is Hatta Wadi Hub?+
An adventure and leisure area in Hatta that reopens each year around September. It reopened on 28 September 2026 for its ninth season.
Can you kayak at Hatta Dam?+
Yes. Kayaks and pedal boats are available on the dam, and the Dubai Fitness Challenge holds stand-up paddle events there in November.
Photo: Robert Haandrikman, CC BY 2.0
