Hidden gems: The top 5 desert pop-ups you need to check out!
Living in Dubai has its perks and that’s that.
It’s a unique blessing where both the beach and desert are right at our fingertips, yet for each we have days at our finger where we can truly make the most of both with the weather being pleasant.
While the summer indulges us in pool days and waterpark adventures, winter calls for bundling up and venturing into the desert for some wholesome bonfire nights with marshmallows in hand.
And we aren’t the only ones with this thought, as lately, the desert has seen a surge in the pop ups of trendy cafes and restaurants, turning the landscape into a space of delightful experiences.
So, If you fancy spending an evening beneath the star-lit sky, sipping coffee and sharing laughter with friends, here are five desert pop-ups in the UAE waiting to be discovered.
My Space Coffee, Sharjah
If you’re looking to cosy up by the warm bonfire under the starlit sky then My Space Cafe in Sharjah's Al Madam area is a must-visit! You can choose to lounge in the sofa seating across the desert or cosy up in the mirrored boxes while ordering up on their sweet treats like homemade cheesecake, fresh Cinnabon, and molten hot chocolate.
Location: Al Madam area, Sharjah
Timing: 3 pm to 1 am daily
Sonara Camp, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah
Searching for luxury?
Sonara Camp’s the place to be at, with a luxurious desert experience, from fine-dining set menus to camel riding, falconry, live music, and fire shows, this camp has a packaged desert adventure. The sunset experience starts at AED300 for adults and AED120 for children, while dinner is priced at AED690 for adults and AED280 for children.
Locations: Dubai Desert Conservation (Dubai) and The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert (Ras Al Khaimah)
Timing: Daily from 4 pm
One Degree Cafe, Al Ain
For a more traditional Arabian experience, the One Degree Cafe Winter pop-up in Margham is the perfect place for a magical evening. Featuring camels, Bedouin tents, traditional music, tanoura, fire shows, and family-friendly activities, this desert pop-up is the most instagrammable place to be at!
Location: Margham, Dubai
Timing: Daily 5 pm to 1 am
Caia Bamboo
Nestled on the edge of Flamingo Lake near the Al Qudra camping ground, Caia Bamboo is a boho-chic pop-up right by a secret garden. Get ready for lakeside lounge seating, desert-side tables, and a raised deck adorned with fairy lights.
Location: Flamingo Lake, Dubai
Timing: Daily 4 pm to 1 am
Hidden
Location: Al Marmoon Heritage Village
Timing: Sun to Thurs, 4 pm to 1 am; Fri and Sat, 4 pm to 2 am
Hidden as it’s name suggests is an off-the-grid desert pop-up located in Al Marmoon Heritage Village. It’s surrounded by boho vibes and picturesque views. Rope deck chairs, campfires, earthy woven bean bags, and rattan sofas create a cosy atmosphere surrounded by palm trees. The star feature—a mirrored installation—which adds a touch of magic to the Insta-worthy desert experience.
This winter, catch a vibe at each of these pop-ups, which promises a unique blend of serenity, luxury, and Instagrammable moments!
We know where we’ll be going!
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