As part of the community activities of Hatta Festival 2025, Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, organised a unique camping experience in the Hatta Mountains that combined exploration, education, and cultural engagement.
The initiative aimed to strengthen social interaction across age groups, promote environmental awareness, and highlight Dubai’s diverse natural and tourism offerings.
The experience brought together more than 50 participants near Suhaila Lakes, where the programme began with a guided hiking session led by environmental researcher Sultan Al Balushi. Participants explored the mountainous terrain while learning about local wildlife, geological formations, and sustainability concepts. The session focused on building a deeper understanding of Hatta’s natural ecosystem and encouraging responsible interaction with the environment.
As evening approached, participants returned to Suhaila Lakes to set up their tents and prepare for an immersive night in nature. The evening programme featured an interactive astronomy lecture supported by visual presentations, followed by a friendly competition where participants identified stars and learned about their visibility throughout the month.
A live stargazing experience followed, led by professional Emirati photographer Yousef Al Qasimi. The session explored how ancestors relied on stars for navigation and travel, offering participants a meaningful connection between heritage, science, and storytelling under Hatta’s clear night sky.
Photography enthusiasts also took part in a specialised wildlife documentation workshop led by Emirati photographer Abdulla Alhattawi. Participants were introduced to native bird and animal species and learned professional techniques for capturing wildlife and nature. The workshop enabled participants to document Hatta’s natural beauty while gaining practical photography skills.
The camping experience forms part of the broader Hatta Festival 2025 programme under the #DubaiDestinations campaign. Through innovative community-driven activities, the initiative encourages residents and visitors to explore local landscapes, embrace eco-tourism, and appreciate Dubai’s rich natural and cultural heritage, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a leading destination for sustainable and experiential tourism.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
