Last May my husband and I decided to enjoy one more outdoor escape before the summer heat could totally come across Dubai. We had been to Hatta a couple of times before, visiting its tourist spots and enjoying the change of view from the lively city, but this time was different. After hearing from one of his officemates about the camping spots in Hatta, he did his own search and came across Suhaila Lakes. He chose Suhaila Lake 2 out of curiosity and excitement and that’s where our slight adventure began.
We leave the house early in the morning, carrying bags loaded with camping gear, food and a notion of thrill. The sky began to brighten with the golden color of sunrise as we jaunted to Hatta. It was a two-hour drive. the farther we go the more mountainous the landscape becomes. We ascend into the rocky hills, I couldn’t help but ponder to myself. How could there possibly be a lake in the middle of this dry, stony desert? But I kept the thought to myself, prying to see what awaited us.
When we finally reached Suhaila Lake 2, the weather greeted us with cloudy skies and cool winds. There it was, the lake. It was smaller than I assumed and man-made, but it was awesome in its own way. The contrast between the calm water and the stony mountains around it was simply awe. It was cool, a hidden pocket of stillness in the middle of rugged terrain. A few campers were already there and I felt excited to join the experience. My husband found a spot to set up our tent. I wanted to grab photos but my husband called me to help him set up the tent.
When we started putting up our tent. We faced a little difficulty because of the stones scattered on the ground. It took us some extra time to get everything in place. We wandered a little to scout for a better location and finally found the ideal spot right beside the lake. The sun was shining as we finished. It was so windy, the clouds began to vanish easily leaving just a few scattered patches across the blue sky. It felt like a friendly and perfect welcome to our escapade.
We went on a short walk around the area after we fixed everything. The ground was uneven and stony. Flecked with a few trees that added little green to the brown, rocky mountains. It wasn’t the lavish, postcard like view you might imagine for a camping spot. It had a rocky, natural charm of its own. Along the way, we paused to strike a few poses. We captured moments of fun and the raw beauty around us. It was just a short walk. We headed back to our tent to prepare brunch. We intended to continue wandering later in the afternoon. Leaving plenty of time to chill and enjoy the peaceful surroundings in the meantime.
My husband took charge of cooking our brunch. He kept it simple but satisfying, we just had eggs and a hotdog. Even with such a basic meal, it felt cozy and comforting, especially enjoying it right there by our tent. After finishing our simple brunch. My husband took a nap. I simply enjoyed the silence of the environs, tuned in to some of my favorite love songs. It was a perfect pause that made the day feel even more special.
When my husband woke up, we strolled around the area again. He really wanted to take a picture at the top of the hill. I seized him with his hands raised in the air with full of excitement. As we continued our walk, we saw some beautiful flowers. We even came across a goat near the hilltop. We made our way back and we were stunned to see a red off-road jeep parked on the side of the cliff, facing the rocky mountains, right where my husband had posed earlier. It was such an unexpected sight!
As night began to descend, the stars became visible, and the atmosphere shifted. Campers around us lit up their spaces with lights, played music. Some even set up small televisions for movies. The ambiance was lively but still peaceful. We enjoyed the tender hum of activity while staying in our own little corner. The moon shone radiantly, making the view feel mystical. A family of four quietly hurled their tent beside ours. It makes the campsite feel like a fine, cozy community under the night sky.
We slept greatly, enfolded in both comfort and tranquility, that night. The sun began to rise when we woke up. A mellow gilt light sweeps over the calm waters of the lake. It creates a serene and mystical view that makes the morning smell crisp and full of promise.
Photos taken using Samsung S25 Ultra
Collage using Canva
