New Airstream caravan retreat opens in the UAE’s Hajar Mountains

Our Habitas has officially expanded its footprint in the Middle East with the grand opening of Caravan Hatta, the brand’s fourth regional resort and its first in the United Arab Emirates. Nestled deep within the rugged Hajar Mountains, approximately ninety minutes from Dubai International Airport, the retreat offers a unique blend of luxury and wilderness. The property features 50 bespoke Airstream caravans, each meticulously designed to provide guests with immersive views of the surrounding valley or the iconic Hatta Dam, creating a serene escape from the urban bustle of the nearby metropolis.

Each individual caravan is equipped with a private wooden deck, allowing guests to enjoy the mountain air in total seclusion. Beyond the private quarters, the resort boasts an observatory deck specifically positioned for stargazing, free from the interference of light pollution. Yasmin Huneidi, general manager of Caravan Hatta, emphasized the resort's mission, stating, “Hatta is a destination with a character and rhythm entirely its own. With Caravan Hatta, we want to build on that distinctive spirit and position the destination as a place to reconnect, unwind and explore a different side of the UAE.” The property also features a signature infinity pool that mirrors the dramatic landscape.

This development follows the successful launch of other Our Habitas properties, including two locations in Saudi Arabia’s AlUla—one of which also utilizes the Airstream concept—and a site in Qatar’s Ras Abrouq. The Hatta location is designed to integrate deeply with its environment, offering activities such as sound healing, traditional Arabic coffee rituals, and guided wellness practices. Guests seeking adventure can access nearby biking and hiking trails, or engage in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding on the Hatta Dam, ensuring a balance between high-energy exploration and quiet reflection.

For those prioritizing relaxation, the Thuraya Wellness space serves as a sanctuary, offering a barrel sauna, outdoor cold plunge, and hot tub, alongside curated yoga and meditation sessions. Dining is equally focused on local culture, with the onsite restaurant, Madar—meaning 'orbit' in Arabic—serving Emirati-influenced cuisine prepared via open-fire and underground cooking techniques. These amenities are designed to foster genuine connections among guests, encouraging them to embrace the outdoors and share memorable moments in a setting that feels worlds away from the traditional luxury hotel experience.

Looking ahead, the launch of Caravan Hatta signals a broader trend in the UAE’s tourism sector, which is increasingly pivoting toward experiential, nature-based hospitality. By leveraging the Hajar Mountains' natural topography, Our Habitas is setting a new benchmark for sustainable luxury in the region. Analysts suggest that as travelers continue to seek authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, properties like Caravan Hatta will play a crucial role in diversifying the UAE’s tourism portfolio, attracting both domestic residents and international visitors looking for a deeper connection with the natural world.