What Are the Best Ways to Explore the Liwa Oasis? Adventuring Away from the City
There are many ways to explore Abu Dhabi, the most common being exploring the city and its modern and traditional marvels. However, there’s plenty to discover away from the city’s wonders and out on the desert plains. In particular, the Liwa Oasis, located on the north border of the Empty Quarter, is one of the most exciting places to visit in Abu Dhabi with plenty of unique activities and experiences to enjoy. Here’s how you can explore this magnificent region for an unforgettable adventure away from the city.
Image via Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Explore the Liwa Oasis
There’s plenty to explore in the Liwa Oasis, the region that the Bani Yas Tribe occupied. The region also leads the way in cultivating dates in the UAE and is the Emirate’s biggest palm tree oasis due to its freshwater underground resources. The Liwa Oasis also features massive dunes that you can explore through dune rides, sandboarding and dune bashing. If you’re lucky you might also witness herds of Liwa’s black camels, the region’s unique camel breed that originated in Saudi Arabia.
Visit the Dhafeer Fort
The oasis also features several forts built across the region to protect it from invading tribes. One of the most popular of these is the Dhafeer Fort known for its sandcastle-like appearance. The structure stands as a clear example of mud-brick architecture that was popular in the 19th century. One of the main highlights of visiting the fort is the opportunity to climb the stairs leading up to the terrace which rewards you with a heightened view of the sprawling sand dunes and desert landscape of the oasis that extend to the horizon.
Explore Rub Al Khali
When you’re out in the desert, there’s no better experience than ascending some of the tallest sand dunes. The dunes of Rub Al Khali are certainly worth tackling in a sturdy 4x4, an adrenaline-pumping adventure that treats you to endless views of the oasis landscapes. However, if you prefer a more subdued, calming experience you can enjoy peaceful desert walk tours, especially if you are staying at a resort like the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Guided walking tours are the perfect way to learn about the region’s history, heritage and natural wonders and you stroll along the desert either at sunrise, sunset or even at night.
Witness Falcons and Salukis
Falcons and Salukis have long been a part of ancient Bedouin culture in the UAE, with both species being national symbols and the source of inspiration for several Arabic poems. The two are often known are ideal hunting partners with the falcon’s sharp sight and agility in the air complementing the Saluki’s stamina and speed on the ground. Witnessing a Falcon and Saluki show will allow you to witness these amazing hunters in action in the desert.
Enjoy a Desert Dinner Experience
If you happen to be staying at an Abu Dhabi resort, you’ll likely have the option of enjoying an exclusive private desert dinner, which makes for a dining experience like no other. You’ll be served by a professional chef and a private butler according to a menu of your choosing. You’ll have several options to choose from including the traditional Arabian meals and delights, a Mediterranean-inspired menu, international cuisine or a healthy menu. Whichever you end up choosing, enjoying a desert dinner is one of the best ways to spend some quality time in the desert with your significant other.
Embark on a Camel Trekking Adventure
Camels are one of the desert’s oldest residents and have been a prime mode of transport for the Bedouin communities. Not only does a camel trek treat you to a significant aspect of Bedouin culture but it also makes for a peaceful and tranquil way of exploring the desert as an alternative to heart-pumping dune bashing and sandboarding activities.