Remember when I said I wanted to start fishing in Dubai? Well, forget all that. Now It’s all about camping, guys.

I’m heading into the mountains with a small group of friends in a few weeks, and I can’t get enough desert camping content right now. I’m buying all the things for camping season, and I’ll be sharing my tips with you as I go.

Also, if you purchased our ‘Dubai like a Local’ guide last week, thank you! I hope you’re using it to discover some of Dubai’s best spots for food, coffee, kids' entertainment, and relaxing outdoors.

If you missed it, grab it now, and I’ll give you lifetime access to the latest version of the guide.

Anyways, here are your weekend plans:

Kiyomi, International City

Listen, hitting up Dragon Mart does not count as visiting International City, which is an underrated part of Dubai, in my opinion, especially for food. Kiyomi is a classy Korean joint with just six seats, offering affordable prices.

🔗 Google Maps

Daughter and Dad Cafe, Warsan

Okay, I’m going to be real for a second. Literally just a second. Okay, you missed it, nice.

The coffee here will not blow your mind, but it’s worth visiting anyway due to the location. You’re literally inside horse stables, with regular horse riding lessons going on. Take a seat outside, sip your coffee, and watch some beautiful horses doing horse-like things.

🔗 Google Maps

Buhais Geology Park, Sharjah’s Desert

This place doubles as a road trip destination, as it sits at the bottom of a small mountain in Sharjah’s desert. It’s not too far from Dubai, and you can stop at Bird Cafe for a specialty coffee en route. The museum is small but well-executed, and the surroundings are stunning.

It’s 10.50AED for entry, with kids going free.

🔗 Google Maps

Al Mankhool Library, Al Mankhool

There’s a dedicated children’s library here, with children’s washrooms. Plus, it’s an excellent place to work. Free entry, complimentary water, excellent natural lighting, and private meeting rooms available for reservation. I hear they hand out free Arabic Coffee from time to time, too!

🔗 Google Maps

Wondering where everyone gets their winter camping and desert majlis gear from? Al Kabayel and Al Fan Emirates are where it’s all at.