Made it out of the city...

..although not strictly out of Dubai. We did cross two other Emriates on the way to Hatta though, so in my mind that counts!

Sand Dune Bashing
If you ask anyone what to do in Dubai without doubt they say you must go on a desert safari and sand-dune bashing. Going to a camp in a desert in >40degree heat did not overally appeal but I did succumb to the sand dune bashing, which I must admit was good fun.






Hajar Mountains
After about an hour or so of nothing but sand dunes the landscape changes to mountains..



this area is apparently famed for three things (according to the tourist guide!)

(1) Fresh water rock pools that you can swim in.

...can you see them ?!


...finally found them together with the lovely graffiti and rubbish!



(2) Heritage Village
"Explore the tranquil oasis, the narrow alleyways and discover traditional life in the mud and barasti houses"

..I am not convinced this wasn't built 10years ago like some sort of disney attraction although without the rides..thankfully they had put in air conditioning into the mud houses..




(3) Hatta Fort Hotel
"A perfect secluded mountain retreat"
No pictures of this but think it was modelled on Kellerman's Mountain Resort from Dirty Dancing