THE LAST TIME I VISITED DUBAI WAS TO IL see the iconic Expo 2020 Dubai where the world displayed its technological prowess under one roof. I found myself under futuristic domes, in the company of robots and massive exhibits. A year later, I'm back in the emirate. This time, I find myself amidst mountains and oases, trailers and caravans, and an array of adventurous offerings. I land up in Hatta, a village located nearly 130 kilometres southeast of central Dubai, high in the Hajar Mountains.
The 90-minute-long drive from Dubai International Airport to Hatta serves as the apt initiation to this mystical land. The skyscrapers that are emblematic of metropolis disappear from sight and give way to a rocky terrain as we move closer to the destination. The whoosh of cars is replaced by the chirping of birds and crickets. When we arrive for our cover shoot, it is quiet, almost like the destination is lying in wait for team Travel + Leisure India & South Asia and actor Siddhant Chaturvedi. And just like that, under the blazing sun, we discover Hatta-an eco-tourism destination packed with fun and adventure.
The region's iconic symbol, the Hatta Sign, keeps watch as we navigate the terrain. Reminiscent of the 'Hollywood' signage in Los Angeles, this Middle-Eastern variation stands tall at 60 metres, jutting out of the ranges. We skip the 30-minute-long hike from Wadi Hub at Hatta Resorts to this Instagrammable photo-op spot. Instead, we venture ahead to another iconic landmark of the city: Hatta Dam.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Retro: Timeless & Trending
As AI dominates the tech world, Nikhil Chawla introduces devices and apps that evoke nostalgia with their retro charm and timeless appeal.
Celebrating Timeless Austin
Austin is a melting pot of culture and style, and a personification of the great American lifestyle,
A Legacy of Art and Activism
Mallika Sarabhai reflects on her rich heritage as she discusses her unique approach to blending tradition with modernity, the power of arts in activism and her commitment to bringing about social change, in this conversation with Dipali Patwa.
Second Course
Noma chef René Redezpi found fame with ingredient-focused fine dining. His new TV show goes even further.
The Safari Sanctuary
Aamaghati Wildlife Resort, Ranthambore’s latest opening, offers the finest facilities and accommodation in the district and has the park embedded deep inside its soul.
THE ETERNAL FLAVOURS of our TIMELESS CLASSICS
India's most-loved restaurants have all stood the test of time, especially in an era when food ventures open with vast market research and modern aesthetics but fail to make a lasting impression. This is what makes our favourites timeless.
LATE CHECK OUT WITH Ayushmann Churrana
A film with a social message, a deeply inspiring couplet, a music tour that lets him explore his alter ego of sorts—what makes Ayushmann Khurrana the right fit in everything he chooses to do?
Luxury Legacy
Meet Tikka Shatrujit Singh, the visionary who paved the way for luxury brands to thrive in India. One of the most iconic figures in India's fashion and luxury industry, the former head representative of LVMH in Asia tells Samreen Tungekar about his journey, what today's consumer wants, and how Indian tourism can turn the world on its head.
Global Glamour
Attention shopaholics, we've got you covered! From Copenhagen to Cape Town, Marrakech to Melbourne, here are 20 cities across the world where you can indulge in retail therapy. Follow our guide to get your hands on traditional, bespoke, sustainable, slow fashion, and innovative, kitschy must-haves.
ARTISTIC INGENUITY MEETS ARCHITECTURAL SPLENDOUR
Architect Simran Boparai's skilled designs blend modernity with heritage, while striving for spatial excellence.