Kayaking on Lake Hatta Dam: Rentals and Experiences

Just 90 minutes from Dubai—and you’re paddling across a turquoise lake surrounded by towering cliffs. We break down prices, rental options, and offer tips on how to plan the perfect trip. Imagine that just an hour and a half away from the glittering Burj Khalifa lies a world where the only skyscraper is the ancient Hajar rock, reflected in turquoise waters. This is Hatta Dam, a man-made lake nestled deep within the mountains, and arguably the most photogenic spot for outdoor adventures in the UAE. In this guide, we’ll take everything apart piece by piece: which vessel to choose, how much it’ll cost, and how to organize a trip that’ll leave a lasting impression.

What is Kayaking in Hatta?

Forget about survival races. Kayaking in Hatta is something entirely different. It’s about gliding slowly across glassy, cool waters, where the only sounds are the rhythmic splash of your paddle and the occasional cry of a mountain bird. You paddle into narrow canyons where the noise of civilization never reaches, witnessing the sun playing across reddish, sun-scorched cliffs. Here, there’s no goal to reach somewhere faster than anyone else. The goal is simply to be here and now, gazing at the mountains’ reflections in the water, and feeling the hustle and bustle of the big city literally evaporate under the Arabian sun.

Practical section: Rentals, prices, and logistics

Before we move on to choosing your boats, keep this key point in mind: Hatta Kayak is far more than just a lone hut on the shore. It’s part of the larger Hatta Wadi Hub amusement park. And that means you’ll find all the conveniences of modern life: a spacious parking lot, clean restrooms, food trucks offering coffee and snacks, and plenty of other activities if kayaking alone isn’t enough for you. The sole operator at the lake is Hatta Kayak. All equipment is conveniently located right by the water on a dedicated pontoon, making the rental process quick and hassle-free. You simply walk up, select your vessel, pay, and set off on your adventure.

Single and double kayaks

The classic choice for those who truly want to explore the lake, venturing into its narrowest gorges and most secluded nooks. These kayaks are highly maneuverable and offer that unique feeling of complete control and harmony with the water.

• Perfect for: A single kayak is ideal for independent explorers and photographers seeking the perfect angle in complete silence. A double kayak is perfect for couples, friends, and families with teenagers who are ready to put their synchronicity to the test.
• Cost (estimated for spring 2024): Approximately 60 AED for a single kayak and 120 AED for a double kayak. Rental time is unlimited.

Pedal boats

Don't feel like paddling, but just want to chill and take selfies? Then a pedal boat is your choice. Essentially, it's a couch on the water: you lazily pedal, sip water, chat, and admire the scenery.

• Perfect for: Families with young children who are afraid of capsizing in a kayak, or for those for whom the main sport today is taking the perfect shot for social media.
• Cost (estimated for spring 2024): Around 150 AED per hour of rental.

Catamarans and electric-motor boats

Maximum comfort with minimal effort. These small boats, equipped with a quiet electric motor, allow for a leisurely cruise and even a small picnic right in the middle of the lake.

• Perfect for: Groups of friends or families who want to socialize and enjoy the views without being distracted by physical exertion.
• Cost (estimated for spring 2024): Approximately 300 AED per hour for boat rental.

Your trip to Hatta: Everything you need to know

Best time to visit

The ideal season for visiting Hatta is from October to April. During this period, the weather is most comfortable for outdoor activities: sunny, but not scorching hot. To avoid crowds and queues, try to plan your visit on a weekday.

How to get to Hatta kayak

The most convenient and fastest way is by car. The drive from downtown Dubai takes about 90 minutes. Simply enter "Hatta Kayak" as your destination in your navigation app (Google Maps or Waze), and it will guide you directly to the large free parking lot.

Trip budget: what to expect

Approximate budget per person (when traveling as a pair):

• Boat rental: 60 AED (half the cost of a double kayak).
• Transportation: 30–40 AED (half the cost of gasoline).
• Food and drinks: 40–50 AED for a snack from a food truck and water.
• Total: Approximately 130–150 AED per person for an unforgettable day.
• Prices are indicative, and subject to change. We recommend checking the current rates on Hatta Kayak's official website before your trip.

Checklist: what to bring

• High-SPF sunscreen
• Headwear (cap, bucket hat)
• Sunglasses
• Sufficient supply of drinking water
• Comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting wet (synthetics dry faster than cotton!)
• Aquashoes (coral-friendly sandals): not mandatory, but much more comfortable for walking on the pontoon and avoiding slips.
• Waterproof case for your phone or camera
• Power bank: if you plan to take lots of photos, the battery drains faster in the sun.
• Towel and a change of clothes just in case

Water safety rules

• Wearing life jackets is mandatory for everyone. They are provided free of charge along with the boat rental.
• Swimming in the lake is strictly prohibited.
• Do not leave any litter behind. Help keep this place clean and beautiful.

Hatta: A reset just a stone's throw from the Metropolis

Hatta is the ultimate "reset" you can imagine, just a stone's throw from the metropolis. It's the day when you trade the roar of Sheikh Zayed Highway for the tranquility of a mountain gorge, and exchange the view from a panoramic window for the reflection of cliffs in the water. It’s not just a sporting pastime—it’s genuine nature therapy. So, when planning your next trip to the UAE, don’t just “set aside a day.” Treat yourself to this day. Paddles, mountains, and turquoise waters are truly waiting for you—and they’re well worth it.