If you haven’t planned a vacation yet for the long Eid Al Fitr holidays, worry not because we’ve some suggestions for you. What’s more you can enjoy guilt-free because your dogs can also join you. From Dubai to Umm Al Quwain (UAQ), here’s our list of 5 dog-friendly places to explore in the UAE that you could still explore. And yes, these come recommended by our top dog Ollie. It is getting hotter in the UAE, but you could still choose an early morning or late evening window to enjoy some outdoor chill time with your dogs.

Also read: 10 dog friendly cafés in Dubai

Al Qudra, Dubai

Ollie insisted that we start with Al Qudra Desert. After all, we are desert people so obviously we love the sand, he says. Ollie loves to take a long walk with his human at Al Qudra. When they are in a more adventurous mood, they also do their own version of dune bashing.

Kite Beach Centre, UAQ

The Kite Beach Centre in UAQ is one of Ollie’s favourite beach day out spots. Dogs are allowed at the beach, in the shop and the café. It’s, however, not a free-to-enter venue. The entrance fee for dogs is AED75. If you’re lucky, you can even catch a fish, he adds so its worth the money.

Musseili, Dubai

This winter Ollie explored a place called Musseili where he trekked with his humans. It’s a valley close to Dubai but the road to get there makes it feel more remote. Ollie says enroute to Musseili you will meet some camels. The narrow road is lined with palm trees, and you may see some donkeys too.

Saraya Island, RAK

Saraya Island in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is another place that Ollie highly recommends. Away from the city humdrum the island is a perfect getaway. You can also enjoy an unhindered view of the Hajar mountains. However, Oliie adds that the island tends to get noisy over weekend and extended holidays.

Wadi Shawka, RAK

One of the places that Ollie loved was Wadi Shawka in RAK. He was totally satiated with all the sniffing that he could do in the rocky terrain. So, this hiking trail gets a thumbs up from Ollie.

Few things to remember

If you are planning to go to any of these places, Ollie recommends that you remember to take a few things along:

• Enough water, food and treats [even medicines if your dog needs to take them]
• Water and food bowls
• A strong, waterproof harness and a hardy, long leash
• Sun cream
• Phone, camera and chargers