If you live in the UAE and hear Hatta, chances are your first thought is “VISA runs.” Most people waiting for their permanent residency visas tend to go across the border to this city in Oman and come back on a tourist visa. Well, the next time you hear Hatta we want you to think… KAYAKING!

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Regrann from @loge4ka – Everything you want will come, just smile and never give up #smartthoughts #quotes #hatta #uea #kayak#hattakayak #nature in the #middle of desert #nice #weekend – #regrann

A post shared by Hatta Kayak (@hattakayak) on Sep 13, 2018 at 8:39am PDT

How to get there

No need to cross the border this time! Head over to Hatta on the UAE side and get ready to spend a wonderful day outdoors. Recharge your batteries thanks to the peaceful & serene atmosphere on the water, surrounded by mountains. A great break away from the sometimes-hectic urban life in other UAE cities, and some much-needed movement in our sedentary city lifestyle.

Hatta is about 90 minutes away from Dubai. Anyone who has been there will confirm that the drive is an enjoyable trip on its own. The road leading to Hatta, with its smooth transition from desert views to gorgeous mountain sights, is the perfect way to disconnect from the busy city life in preparation for the kayaking experience.

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Regrann from @mignonettemad – Another perfect place to relax. Water + mountain + sky = 📷 – #regrann

A post shared by Hatta Kayak (@hattakayak) on Jun 4, 2018 at 7:05am PDT

First timer?

Never been kayaking before? Don’t you worry, the calm waters of the Hatta lake allow for both beginners and experts to share this experience together. When it comes to the types of equipment you can rent, rental companies there offer a great deal of choice: single kayaks, double kayaks, pedal boats, water bikes, and even doughnut boats.

Ok, so now you are probably thinking “how much?” am I right? Well, it only gets better…renting a single kayak in Hatta for an UNLIMITED time (during business hours: 06.30am to 5.30pm) is only 60 AED!

To finish, here is a little bit of practical information:

• All the roads to Hatta Dam are paved, so no need for a 4×4 ride
• Infants are not allowed on any ride
• Swimming is prohibited by law
• Bringing your own equipment isn’t allowed
• Open 7 days a week and all year long even during really hot months
• Safety jackets are provided
• Lockers to keep your belonging also available

For more information and recent photos, we recommend you check out @hattakayak on Instagram.

Although we love to travel far and wide, we can also find a lot of hidden gems right on our doorstep and this is definitely one of them!