Perfect Weekend Getaway: Winter Hidden Spot Near Dubai

by Dara Morgan

Perfect Weekend Getaway: Winter Hidden Spot Near Dubai

13 Dec 2024

Sometimes, there is no need to travel far to recharge. Just one night under the stars can leave you full of impressions. That was precisely the case during my first trip to the desert in Dubai. My short stay came with a non-negotiable requirement: the perfect Instagram-worthy spot — think soft sands, velvet dunes, and a mesmerising sunset — must be within an hour’s drive. That is how I found myself at Hidden. And here is why you should go too.

Hidden is an open-air café perched beside The Fort — Lisaili, a popular destination for desert adventures. Surrounded by striking dunes (which, to my surprise, turned out to be much harder to climb than I anticipated), Hidden offers a spacious retreat where you can unwind after snapping an embarrassing number of photos in the sand (I even tried dancing, which was also not that simple as one can imagine).

Instagram: @hidden_dubai

Hidden is a pop-up, gracing us with its presence only during the winter season — and honestly, there is no better time to visit. After an hour of wandering through the sands, and enjoying the sunset (we were a bit late, so had to hurry), you can sink into a seat, order a steaming cup of coffee, and treat yourself to a dessert. I savoured a Brownie with kunafa and a pistachio éclair (a combination I did not know I needed). Unfortunately, there is no food on offer, but those with a sweet tooth will find themselves thoroughly appeased.

As it is getting darker, the true magic begins. Ask your waiter for a log, light a fire, and toast marshmallows while sipping on another round of coffee or tea under the stars. There is some music in the background, and you might even catch a fire show. However, for me, the real charm lies in the serenity of nature and the long, unhurried conversations that seem inevitable in a place like this.

Hidden’s opening hours:

Sunday–Thursday: 4 pm to 12 am
Friday–Saturday: 4 pm to 1 am

Note: Do not forget to bring something warm. Even with the fire crackling, the night air can be surprisingly cool. But trust me, it is all part of the charm.

by Dara Morgan