Basic Trail Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

Trekking in the UAE offers incredible experiences—from the rugged Hajar Mountains to stunning desert trails. But our unique landscape and climate come with specific challenges. Whether you're hiking in Ras Al Khaimah's mountains or exploring Wadi Shawka, these essential safety tips will keep you safe on UAE trails.

Tell Someone Your Plan

This is the golden rule of trail safety anywhere, but especially important in the UAE's remote areas. Always tell someone where you're going, which trail you're taking, and when you expect to be back. Share specific details: the wadi name, your planned route, and a realistic return time.

Many UAE trails have limited mobile coverage, so if you don't show up when expected, someone needs to know where to look for you.

Beat the Heat: Start Very Early

In the UAE, timing is everything. During cooler months (October to March), start at sunrise to avoid midday heat. In summer months, consider only very early morning treks and always finish by 9 AM.

The desert sun is intense, and temperatures can soar quickly. What feels comfortable at 7 AM can become dangerous by 10 AM.

Know Your Limits (Heat Makes Everything Harder)

Be extra honest about your fitness level in UAE conditions. The heat, humidity, and rocky terrain make every trek more challenging than it looks. If you're used to hiking in cooler climates, expect trails here to feel much harder.

Watch for heat exhaustion signs: excessive sweating, nausea, dizziness, or feeling faint. If you experience any of these, find shade immediately and drink water slowly.

Stay on Marked Trails (And Watch for Flash Floods)

UAE trails often follow wadis (dried riverbeds) that can flood quickly during rare rainfall. Even if it's sunny where you are, rain in the mountains can cause sudden water flow. Never camp or rest in the lowest part of a wadi.

Stick to established trails and follow any local guidance about seasonal closures or weather warnings.

Water is Life: Carry Much More Than You Think

In UAE conditions, carry at least 3-4 litres of water per person for a full day trek, even in winter. In summer, this should be much higher. Dehydration happens fast in our climate.

Pro tip: Freeze half your water bottles the night before—they'll melt during your trek and give you cold water longer.

Dress for Desert Conditions

• Light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts protect from sun and scratchy vegetation

• Lightweight pants protect your legs from thorny plants and rocks

• A wide-brimmed hat is essential (caps aren't enough)

• Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable

• Good hiking boots protect against sharp rocks and potential snake encounters

Essential UAE Trekking Kit

Beyond the basics, UAE trekking requires:

• Extra water (seriously, more than you think)

• Electrolyte tablets or sports drinks

• High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm

• A wide hat and extra head covering

• First aid supplies including blister treatment

• A whistle for emergencies

• Charged power bank (heat drains phone batteries faster)

• Emergency shelter or space blanket

Watch for Local Wildlife

UAE trails are home to various wildlife. Most animals avoid humans, but be aware of:

• Snakes (more active in warmer months)

• Scorpions (check shoes before putting them on)

• Wild camels (give them plenty of space)

• Stinging insects

Make noise while walking and never reach into dark spaces without looking first.

Know the Season

October to March: Best trekking weather, but nights can be surprisingly cold in mountains.

April to September: Extremely hot. Only very experienced trekkers should attempt early morning treks, and only on easier, shorter routes.

Ramadan: Some trails may have restricted access or different operating hours. Check ahead.

Mobile Coverage and Navigation

Many UAE trails have spotty mobile coverage. Download offline maps before you start and carry a GPS device or smartphone with offline navigation. Popular apps like AllTrails work well offline.

Tell someone your exact route because "we're going to Hatta" isn't specific enough for rescue teams.

Emergency Contacts

Save these numbers in your phone:

• UAE Emergency Services: 999

• Dubai Police: 901

• Local mountain rescue services (varies by emirate)

Trust Your Instincts

If the weather looks questionable, the trail seems too difficult, or you're not feeling well, turn back. UAE conditions can change your trek from enjoyable to dangerous very quickly.

Remember: experienced UAE trekkers often turn back from trails. It's not giving up—it's respecting the environment and staying safe.

The Bottom Line is:

UAE trekking offers some of the most unique and beautiful experiences in the region. But our desert climate and rocky terrain demand extra preparation and respect. Plan well, start early, carry plenty of water, and always prioritize safety over completing any particular route.

The mountains and wadis will be there tomorrow, but you need to get home safely today.