Hatta is a mountain enclave of Dubai in the Hajar range near the Omani border. Hatta Mountain Reserve covers about 22 km², with 128 bird and 27 mammal species recorded; the Arabian tahr is its flagship species.
- Country
- United Arab Emirates
- Type
- Mountains
- Approx. area
- 22 km²
- Best time
- December to February
- Suggested stay
- 1–2 days
- Main gateway airport
- Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Malaria
- None
Why go to Hatta
- Kayaking on Hatta Dam among the mountains
- Hiking and mountain-bike trails
- Hatta Mountain Reserve, a Ramsar site since 2019
- Hatta Heritage Village
- Terrain from 250 m to 1,060 m within the reserve
Best time to visit Hatta
Based on average weather and wildlife seasons, the best period to visit Hatta is December to February.
Main season for hiking, mountain biking and kayaking; weekends are busiest.
Highs can pass 40°C; early mornings are best for any activity.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 12–24 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | peak season |
| February | 14–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| March | 17–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| April | 21–36 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| May | 26–41 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| June | 28–43 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| July | 30–43 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| August | 30–43 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| September | 27–41 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| October | 23–36 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| November | 18–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| December | 14–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | peak season |
What you can see
Wildlife you may see in Hatta includes foxes and birdlife.
Things to do
Getting there
Hatta sits in the Hajar Mountains about 134 km east of Dubai city, roughly 1.5–2 hours by road. Kayaks can be rented at the dam; swimming in the dam is not allowed.
Trips to Hatta
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Plan by travel style
- Hatta for families
- Hatta for a honeymoon
- Hatta for photographers
- Hatta for a first safari
- Hatta on a budget
- Hatta for luxury travel
Compare with
- Hatta vs Mleiha
- Hatta vs Ras Al Khaimah Desert
- Hatta vs Al Marmoom
- Hatta vs Dubai Desert
- Hatta vs Liwa
- Hatta vs Sir Bani Yas Island
Travelling to Hatta from
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Hatta?
Generally December to February. Main season for hiking, mountain biking and kayaking; weekends are busiest.
How many days do I need in Hatta?
Most visitors spend 1 to 2 days there, not counting travel days.
How do I get to Hatta?
Hatta sits in the Hajar Mountains about 134 km east of Dubai city, roughly 1.5–2 hours by road. Kayaks can be rented at the dam; swimming in the dam is not allowed.
Sources: Visit Dubai – Hatta Dam · Dubai Municipality – Dubai protected areas · Climate-Data.org – Hatta · Weather Spark – Al Ain climate (inland UAE reference)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.