Hatta Dam

Hatta Dam is a turquoise-water reservoir in the Hajar Mountains and the most photographed spot in the Hatta enclave — administratively part of Dubai, though roughly 130km from the city itself. Built in the late 1990s for water supply, it's now the main kayaking and paddleboarding destination against a mountain backdrop.

Kayak and SUP rentals operate on the lakeshore as part of the Hatta Wadi Hub complex. Check prices and schedules right before your trip — outdoor activities in Hatta are often paused during the hottest summer months.

The dam is only reachable by car; the drive from Dubai takes about 90 minutes.