Dubai Municipality has opened registration for the upcoming winter camping season at Al Ruwayyah, with the 2026–2027 edition bringing expanded capacity and several new features.
The season runs from November 1, 2026 to April 30, 2027 and will accommodate 600 camps, an increase of around 120% compared with previous seasons.
Plot options include the return of double-sized 800 square metre sites alongside standard 400 square metre plots. New this season are 50 dedicated caravan plots and 10 fully equipped camps available for daily rental, giving visitors who prefer not to set up their own camps an organised route into the desert experience.
Dubai Municipality has also designated 10 spaces for winter events and community gatherings, covering family activities, seasonal markets and recreational programmes. Alongside this, the authority has opened dedicated investment opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises in food and beverage, desert activities and recreational services.
“The 2026–2027 season marks an important step in our approach to developing Al Ruwayyah as an integrated winter destination that responds to the evolving needs of Dubai’s community. By significantly increasing capacity and introducing new camping options, recreational facilities and spaces for community activities, we are expanding opportunities for UAE nationals and their families to enjoy the winter season in a safe, well-organised environment. Our ambition extends beyond the enhancements introduced this season. We are establishing a foundation for the continued development of Al Ruwayyah, with a focus on providing more diverse experiences, strengthening community connections and ensuring that our public destinations continue to contribute to quality of life and wellbeing,” Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality said in a statement.
“An important part of this approach is creating opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises to participate in the destination’s development. By encouraging local businesses to introduce new services and recreational experiences, we aim to support entrepreneurship while expanding the range of activities available to visitors. This reflects our wider commitment to developing public facilities that deliver lasting community and economic value,” he added.
On the SME component, Anwahi said the goal is to “support entrepreneurship while expanding the range of activities available to visitors,” framing it as part of a broader commitment to developing public facilities that deliver “lasting community and economic value.”
Seasonal permit holders can design and equip their camps according to their own requirements, subject to approved regulations that include the installation of temporary fencing and restricting use to family and camping purposes. Seasonal reservations cover periods from three to six months, with separate booking arrangements for caravan plots and daily rental camps.
UAE nationals can register through Dubai Municipality’s official digital channels, including the DubaiNow app.
