Winter is almost here, and Dubai Municipality has a plan for it. The Al Ruwayyah winter camping season returns on 1 November 2026 and runs until 30 April 2027. Registration for the new season is already open, and this year comes with more space, more choices, and more things to do.
600 Camps This Season
The biggest change is the size. Al Ruwayyah can now host 600 winter camps. That is a rise of about 120 percent compared with earlier seasons, so many more families should get a chance to book a spot.
The site also has 10 areas set aside for winter events and gatherings. There are separate zones for family activities, community programmes, seasonal markets, and other fun experiences. So the season is about more than putting up a tent. Families and friends will have plenty to do around the camp too.
Bigger Plots and New Options
Double-sized plots are back this year. They can go up to 800 square metres, and they sit alongside the standard plots, which measure 400 square metres.
There are two brand new options as well. Dubai Municipality has added 50 caravan plots and 10 fully equipped camps. For the first time, these can be rented daily. That is a handy choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the desert without setting up or buying their own camp.
| Camping option | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard plot | 400 sq m |
| Double plot | Up to 800 sq m |
| Caravan plots | 50 plots, separate booking |
| Fully equipped camps | 10 camps, daily rental |
| Event and gathering spaces | 10 designated areas |
Build Your Own Camp
Seasonal permit holders get the freedom to design and equip their camps the way they like. This can happen once the permits are issued and the plot boundaries are marked. So if you enjoy decorating a camp with your own style and comforts, you will have room to do it.
There is good news for business owners too. The season includes investment opportunities for small and medium-sized companies at Al Ruwayyah.
Dubai Municipality says the aim is to give UAE nationals and their families a well-organised and safe place to enjoy the cooler months.
How to Register
Registration is meant for UAE nationals, and it is simple. You can book through the Dubai Now app or on the website wintercamp.dm.gov.ae. Both are official channels of Dubai Municipality.
Seasonal reservations run for three to six months. Caravan plots have their own booking options, so check that section if you plan to bring a caravan.
Since the camps are limited and the interest is usually high, it is smart to register early rather than wait.
Planning Your Trip
A good camping weekend starts with good planning. Think about who is coming, how many days you want to stay, and whether you prefer your own setup or a ready-made camp. A daily rental can work well for a short trip, while a seasonal booking suits families who want to return again and again.
Roads matter too. If you plan to drive across the city during the week, take a look at the Dubai road closures on Emirates Road and the airport tunnel before you head out, so a closed lane does not slow down your plans.
Food is a big part of any trip. Before you leave town, you could enjoy a rich Italian dinner, and this list of restaurants serving the best truffle pasta in Dubai is a good place to start.
Why This Season Looks Special
Camping has always been a favourite winter habit in the UAE. The cool air, the open sky, and a fire with friends make a simple evening feel special. With 600 camps, bigger plots, caravan spaces, and ready camps, Al Ruwayyah now suits more types of campers than before. Whether you want a full seasonal home in the desert or a quick weekend away, there is likely a choice that fits.
If you want to try something different this winter and spend more time with family and friends, this is a good chance. Open the Dubai Now app or visit the website, pick your plot, and register as soon as you can. The season starts on 1 November, and the best spots will not stay open for long.