Winter is the season of the kashta in the UAE. From the dunes of Al Qudra and Liwa to the plains around Al Dhaid and the Sharjah desert, families and friends head out for a night or a weekend under the stars. A good trip starts at home with a clear list. Use this checklist before every desert camping trip.
Desert nights in winter can be much colder than the day. Pack sleeping bags or camping beds, plus blankets and a warm layer for everyone.
No kashta is complete without gahwa and tea. Bring a dallah, a tea kettle, thermoses and finjans.
Carry more drinking water than you think you need, a cooler box with ice for food and drinks, and water jugs for washing and cooking.
Hang camping lights or lanterns around the camp and give everyone a flashlight or headlamp. Spare batteries or a power bank are essential.
Before driving on sand, many drivers lower their tyre pressure and re-inflate before returning to the road. Carry a tyre deflator and air pump from tyre tools, a shovel and tow rope from recovery gear, and a jump starter. Never go deep into the desert with a single car.
You can find all of these essentials at Al Ghafa – online with delivery across the UAE, or at our branches in Muleihah (Friday Market), Al Dhaid and the Filly Heritage Market in Sharjah. Have a question? Check our FAQ or contact us on WhatsApp.
