Umm Al Quwain Winter Camping Permits Open October 19: The New Rules
Umm Al Quwain opens winter camping permit applications on October 19 for Al Aqran and Al Thaniya. Here is who can apply, the deadline and the rules campers must follow.
By Vadim Kouznetsov, published
Umm Al Quwain Municipality will start accepting applications for temporary winter camping permits on October 19, ahead of a camping season that begins on November 1, Gulf News reported. Applications close on October 30 for campsites in Al Aqran and Al Thaniya, and permits will be valid for between three and six months.
The rules for the 2026 to 2027 season are strict on who can apply and how the plots can be used, so read them before you start packing the tent.
Who can apply for an Umm Al Quwain camping permit
Under the municipality's regulations for this season, applications are limited to holders of passports issued by the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain. That means most UAE residents, including expats, will not be eligible for these particular plots.
Each campsite must be used only for private, temporary purposes by the person who holds the permit.
Key dates and payment deadline
- October 19: applications open
- October 30: applications close
- November 1: the winter camping season begins
- Permit length: three to six months
- Locations: Al Aqran and Al Thaniya
Once an application is approved, the fees and a security deposit must be paid within three days. Miss that window and the application is cancelled. Gulf News did not report the fee or deposit amounts, so check them with the municipality when you apply.
What campers can and cannot do
The municipality has set out clear limits on how the plots are used. Permit holders cannot:
- Rent out their allocated plot to anyone else
- Run any commercial activity from the site
- Use the site for anything other than what the permit allows
- Drive recklessly in the camping areas
- Use floodlights, loudspeakers or drones that could disturb other campers
Campers must also stay inside the boundaries of their own plot, keep the area clean and follow Civil Defence fire prevention and safety requirements for the whole of their stay. Permit holders are expected to respect the laws, customs and traditions of Umm Al Quwain and the UAE.
What happens if you break the rules
The municipality warned that violations could lead to the permit being cancelled, penalties and the security deposit being confiscated.
If you are not eligible for these plots, our UAE Camping Permits Guide: Where & When You Need One in 2024 explains the basics, and Exploring the Dubai Desert: Ultimate Guide to Safaris & Adventures covers desert outings closer to Dubai.
Key takeaway
Umm Al Quwain's winter camping permit window runs from October 19 to October 30, for a season starting November 1 in Al Aqran and Al Thaniya. Only holders of passports issued by the emirate can apply, fees and deposit are due within three days of approval, and breaking the rules can cost you the permit and the deposit.
FAQ
When can I apply for a winter camping permit in Umm Al Quwain?
Applications open on October 19 and close on October 30, according to Gulf News. The camping season itself starts on November 1.
Can expats apply for Umm Al Quwain camping permits?
For the 2026 to 2027 season, applications are restricted to holders of passports issued by the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain, so most expats will not qualify.
Where are the Umm Al Quwain winter campsites?
The permits cover campsites in Al Aqran and Al Thaniya. Campers must stay inside the boundaries of the plot they are given.
Can I use a drone at a camp in Umm Al Quwain?
No. The rules ban drones, floodlights and loudspeakers that could disturb others, as well as reckless driving in the camping areas.
What happens if I break the camping rules?
The municipality can cancel your permit, impose penalties and confiscate your security deposit.
Further reading
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