Winter in Dubai transforms the city’s deserts into bustling pop-up oases, drawing locals and tourists to an array of alfresco dining and entertainment venues under starry skies. Here’s your guide to the most Instagram-worthy winter desert pop-ups, each offering a unique experience for a memorable outing.
1. Sonara Camp
- Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Area; also available at The Ritz-Carlton, Ras Al Khaimah
- Highlights: Fine dining, camel rides, falconry, live fire shows, and live music.
- Packages: Sunset experience at AED 300 for adults, AED 120 for kids; dinner package at AED 690 for adults, AED 280 for kids.
- Timings: Daily from 4 p.m.
- Ideal for: Visitors seeking a luxury desert experience with gourmet food and entertainment.
Sonara Camp combines the rustic charm of the desert with a luxurious ambiance, perfect for capturing beautiful desert moments and indulging in exclusive dining options.
2. One Degree Café
- Location: Near Margham, 45 minutes from central Dubai
- Highlights: Traditional Arabian setting, camel rides, Bedouin-style seating, fire shows, live oud performances.
- Offerings: Specialty coffee, shakes, burgers, and desserts.
- Timings: Open daily from 4 p.m. to midnight.
- Ideal for: Families and friends seeking a culturally immersive night out.
One Degree Café offers an authentic Bedouin vibe with traditional seating and Arabian delicacies, all set against the striking desert landscape. It’s a picturesque spot for families to enjoy a cozy night with captivating fire shows.
3. Klock Café
- Location: On the road to Lahbab
- Highlights: Signature clock centerpiece, swings, marshmallow-topped hot chocolates, karak tea, resident falcons.
- Timings: 4 p.m. to midnight daily.
- Ideal for: Families and social media enthusiasts.
Known for its beautiful installations and delicious winter treats, Klock Café combines Instagrammable decor with family-friendly activities, making it perfect for visitors of all ages.
4. Not A Space
- Location: Al Faya desert, Sharjah
- Highlights: Art and fitness classes, desert-themed decor, mirrors, comfortable seating, open 24 hours.
- Ideal for: Art enthusiasts and fitness lovers looking for a unique outdoor experience.
Not A Space invites visitors to unwind in a creative desert setting, featuring art workshops and fitness classes against a backdrop of golden dunes. Its artfully placed mirrors and moon-inspired decor offer a dreamlike experience.
5. Caia Bamboo
- Location: Near Al Qudra camping area
- Highlights: Boho-inspired setup with billowing canopies, water fountain, and serene lakeside views.
- Timings: 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. daily.
- Ideal for: Couples and groups seeking a relaxing evening in nature.
With cozy seating and serene water features, Caia Bamboo is a boho-lovers’ paradise. It’s an ideal setting for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
6. Link by Mara
- Location: Aljada, Sharjah
- Highlights: Plush seating, street food menu, nightly fire shows, live oud music.
- Timings: 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. (3 a.m. on weekends).
- Ideal for: Food lovers and night owls.
Link by Mara brings the flavors of a street food market to the desert, with a range of fusion dishes and nightly entertainment. It’s a spot to savor delicious bites while enjoying live performances.
7. My Space Coffee
- Location: Al Madam Desert, Sharjah
- Highlights: Open-air seating, swings, specialty coffee, and sweet treats.
- Timings: 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. daily.
- Ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts and stargazers.
A perfect setting for coffee lovers, My Space Coffee offers an open-air experience where guests can enjoy the desert scenery while sipping on expertly brewed coffee.
8. Hidden Café
- Location: Off-the-grid desert spot, exact location varies
- Highlights: Boho decor, rope deck chairs, campfires, mirrored installations.
- Ideal for: Social media influencers and those looking for a quiet escape.
Hidden Café is a picturesque escape featuring mirrored installations and boho vibes, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It’s a popular choice for those looking to unplug and soak in the desert tranquility.
Also read:
Explore the Best Things to Do in Dubai This Weekend
Looking for exciting plans? Discover the best things to do in Dubai this weekend with Social Kandura. Dubai is a city that thrives on diversity, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, we’ve got you covered.
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