When most people think of camping in the UAE, their minds go straight to the desert - golden dunes, glowing sunsets, and silence under the stars. But for many residents and visitors, the allure of beach camping is just as powerful. There’s something special about drifting off to the sound of the waves and waking up with the sunrise over the ocean.

UAE beach camping offers a completely different energy compared to desert or wadi camping: cooler breezes, softer temperatures, and the soothing rhythm of the sea. And every winter season from late September to April - more and more people head toward the coastline to set up tents and enjoy a night by the water.

While Nomadic primarily focuses on desert, wadi, and mountain setups (because those locations offer the privacy, stillness, and natural immersion we’re known for), beach camping is still something people ask about - and it can be a great experience if you understand the options and limitations.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about beach camping in the UAE, including the most popular public spots, what to expect, and how Nomadic handles beach setups on a case-by-case basis.

Why Beach Camping Is Popular in the UAE

For many campers, especially families and weekend explorers - the idea of waking up beside the ocean feels magical. Beach camping creates an atmosphere that desert camping simply can’t replicate:

• The calming sound of waves
  
  

• Fresh sea air
  
  

• Cooler temperatures
  
  

• The ability to swim, snorkel, or kayak
  
  

• Early morning sunrises over the water
  
  

• A more “vacation-like” feel
  
  

It’s also incredibly accessible. Many beach spots allow for walk-in or drive-up access without needing a 4x4 or deep navigation into unknown areas.

But like every type of camping in the UAE, beach camping comes with its pros and cons. And unlike the desert - where finding secluded, private spots is easy, beach camping often means sharing the space with other groups, especially on weekends.

Before we dive into the limitations, let’s explore the best places to go.

Best Beach Camping Spots in the UAE (Public & Popular)

Here are the most commonly known, accessible, and widely used camping destinations across the UAE. These are places where people regularly camp, and where beach camping is known to be tolerated.

1. Al Aqah Beach – Fujairah

Probably the most famous beach camping location in the country.

Located beneath the dramatic Hajar Mountains, Al Aqah offers clear waters, soft sand, and great sunrise views.

Why people love it:

• Beautiful scenery
  
  

• Perfect for snorkeling and swimming
  
  

• Popular with families and groups
  
  

What to expect:

• Crowded on weekends
  
  

• Limited privacy
  
  

• More of a social atmosphere than a secluded one
  
  

2. Sharm Beach – Dibba (Fujairah)

A quieter alternative to Al Aqah 0 still on the East Coast, still stunning, but generally less congested.

Why people love it:

• More space to find a quiet area
  
  

• Sheltered coves and cleaner-than-average waters
  
  

• Great for early risers and sunrise photography
  
  

What to expect:

• Still busy on holidays
  
  

• Some areas require you to walk gear to the shoreline
  
  

3. Fujairah Beach (Fujairah City)

Easily accessible, long stretch of coastline, and beginner-friendly.

Why people love it:

• No need for a 4x4
  
  

• Direct access and plenty of room
  
  

• Ideal for casual, last-minute trips
  
  

What to expect:

• Not as scenic as Dibba/Al Aqah
  
  

• Can get busy with local families
  
  

4. Khorfakkan Beach

A developed beach area with clear water and mountain backdrops.

Why people love it:

• Great amenities in the nearby town
  
  

• Excellent for water sports
  
  

• A blend of nature and convenience
  
  

What to expect:

• Not fully “remote”
  
  

• Some sections are not suitable for overnight camping
  
  

5. Umm Al Quwain Beaches

UAQ offers a mix of wild coastline and calm waters, plus it’s closer to Dubai than Fujairah.

Why people love it:

• Large open areas
  
  

• Quiet during the week
  
  

• Accessible by any vehicle
  
  

What to expect:

• Can feel exposed (little natural shade)
  
  

• Weekends attract large groups and barbecues
  
  

A Realistic Look at Beach Camping in the UAE - Pros & Cons

Beach camping is incredible - but it’s important to understand what it’s really like so you can choose the experience that fits you.

Pros

• Cooler coastal temperatures
  
  

• Relaxing sound of the ocean
  
  

• Swimming/snorkeling options
  
  

• Romantic sunrises
  
  

• Family-friendly
  
  

• Easy access (no 4x4 needed for most spots)
  
  

Cons

• Crowds - especially in Fujairah & UAQ
  
  

• Noise - groups tend to gather in open spaces
  
  

• Limited privacy - few truly remote coastal locations
  
  

• Wind exposure - stronger winds can affect camping setups
  
  

• Farther drive - especially from Dubai/Abu Dhabi
  
  

This is why, for a lot of people, desert camping ends up offering a more intimate and peaceful experience.

Does Nomadic Offer Beach Camping Setups?

Yes - but selectively.

Beach camping is not our standard offering because our core focus has always been creating quiet, private, immersive camps that feel far removed from crowds.

Most beach locations in the UAE simply don’t provide that experience.

However, we do offer beach setups under the right conditions, and it’s important to understand how it works:

Minimum Requirement: 3 Tents

Setting up on sand, dealing with wind, transporting equipment long distances, and ensuring safety all require more logistical support than desert setups.

Because of this, Nomadic only offers beach camping for groups booking a minimum of 3 tents, sleeping up to 4 people per tent. 

Read here: How to Rent a Tend in Dubai

Subject to Location Approval

If a guest already has a location in mind, they can share the GPS pin with us.

We will then:

• Assess accessibility
  
  

• Check weather/wind conditions
  
  

• Make sure the area is legally permissible
  
  

• Evaluate whether the spot meets Nomadic’s safety & quality standards
  
  

Some beaches simply aren’t suitable for premium setups due to crowds, tides, or environmental restrictions.

Why We’re Selective

Nomadic’s signature experience is built on:

• Privacy
  
  

• Peace
  
  

• Immersion
  
  

• Comfort
  
  

• A sense of being “out there,” not around 20 other groups
  
  

Beach camping - especially in Fujairah and UAQ can be busy. And if we set up a beautiful tent 15 meters from a group playing loud music, it doesn’t reflect the Nomadic experience our brand is built on.

That said, for guests who are comfortable with busier beaches, beach camping can still be a fantastic adventure.

When Beach Camping Does Make Sense

Beach camping is perfect for:

• Groups of friends
  
  

• Adventurous families
  
  

• Sunrise lovers
  
  

• People who want both camping + ocean activities
  
  

• Those who don’t mind a social environment
  
  

It’s also a great option for people traveling from Dubai who want something different than dune camping  especially if they plan to spend the day swimming or exploring the East Coast.

What a Nomadic Beach Setup Includes

If a beach location is approved and the booking meets requirements, guests will enjoy the full Nomadic experience:

• Nomadic canvas glamping tents
  
  

• Air beds and soft bedding
  
  

• Lighting & tent carpet
  
  

• Camping table and chairs
  
  

• Butane gas stove & BBQ equipment
  
  

• Cooler box for food and drinks
  
  

• Raised firepit & fire lanterns
  
  

• Portable Toilet Setup (Available as Add On)
  
  

• Firewood & Charcoal (Available as Add On) 

The only difference is the environment - the experience, comfort, and attention to detail remain exactly the same.

Choosing Between Desert, Wadi & Beach Camping

Here’s a simple way to decide:

Choose Beach Camping if you want:

• Proximity to water
  
  

• Cooler temperatures
  
  

• Sunrise views
  
  

• Swimming/snorkeling
  
  

• A more social or lively atmosphere
  
  

Choose Nomadic’s standard locations (Desert/Wadi) if you want:

• Privacy
  
  

• Quiet surroundings
  
  

• Seclusion
  
  

• A more immersive “disconnect-from-the-world” experience
  
  

• Minimal people around you
  
  

• Iconic UAE landscapes
  
  

This is why the majority of Nomadic guests choose the desert or wadi as they offer something rare in the modern world: silence, space, and tranquility.

Also read here: how to go camping in the UAE

Final Thoughts: Beach Camping in the UAE Can Be Beautiful With the Right Expectations

Beach camping can be an incredible experience - peaceful when done midweek, vibrant on weekends, and always scenic. Whether you’re watching the sunrise over the East Coast or relaxing by the water with friends, it’s a refreshing alternative to traditional camping.

While it’s not the core of what Nomadic offers, we’re always happy to help groups looking for a premium, comfortable beach setup - as long as the location is suitable and meets our safety and privacy standards.

And for those who want an authentic, serene, and unforgettable camping journey, our desert, wadi, and mountain setups remain the best way to experience the UAE’s natural beauty at its fullest.

Rent your Nomadic tent setup today and discover the UAE like never before