In recent years, roof top tents have gained significant popularity across the globe, particularly in the UAE, where adventure enthusiasts and travelers are increasingly looking for unique ways to explore the vast landscapes and desert dunes. A roof top tent offers a blend of outdoor adventure, convenience, and comfort, allowing travelers to sleep above the ground, offering protection from the elements, insects, and animals. This blog explores what roof top tents are, their benefits, and how they have become an ideal solution for those looking to embark on off-road journeys in the UAE.

What is a Roof Top Tent?

A roof top tent (RTT) is a type of camping tent that is mounted on the roof of a vehicle, usually a 4x4 or SUV. Unlike traditional tents, which are set up on the ground, a roof top tent elevates the sleeping area, providing an added layer of protection from the environment. Roof top tents are typically foldable or pop-up, making them quick and easy to set up and pack away, offering an unparalleled level of convenience for outdoor adventurers. These tents often come equipped with a built-in mattress, mosquito nets, and ample ventilation for comfort.

Why Are Roof Top Tents Popular in the UAE?

The UAE’s diverse landscape, which includes vast deserts, rugged mountains, and picturesque coastlines, has become a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Traditional camping in the desert or along remote trails often means dealing with harsh weather conditions, rough terrains, and a lack of amenities. Roof top tents have become popular in the UAE for several reasons:

1. Protection from the Elements

The UAE is known for its scorching summer heat and sandstorms, which can make traditional camping uncomfortable and even dangerous. Roof top tents offer protection from extreme temperatures, allowing travelers to sleep above the hot desert ground. Additionally, the elevated position helps to shield campers from sandstorms, making it a more reliable and comfortable option for desert adventures.

2. Increased Safety

Camping in remote locations can sometimes raise concerns about safety. Whether it's avoiding encounters with wild animals or preventing insects from entering the tent, a roof top tent provides an added layer of security. Being off the ground keeps campers safe from creatures like snakes and scorpions that are more common in desert and mountain areas of the UAE.

3. Ease of Access

In a country like the UAE, where road trips through desert dunes or rocky terrains are common, having a roof top tent allows adventurers to set up camp at any remote location without the hassle of finding a suitable flat ground to pitch a traditional tent. The roof top tent's ability to be mounted on a vehicle means that travelers can easily access even the most challenging spots, including off-road locations that would otherwise be difficult to reach.

4. Compact and Portable

Roof top tents are designed to be compact when not in use. They are mounted on the roof of a vehicle, which maximizes available space inside the car for other equipment, luggage, or passengers. In a place like the UAE, where space can be limited in urban areas and on road trips, roof top tents offer the perfect solution for maximizing available space while maintaining the ability to quickly and easily set up camp.

5. Versatility for Different Terrain

The UAE's terrain varies from sandy deserts to rocky mountain landscapes, and roof top tents are versatile enough to accommodate different environments. Whether travelers are looking to camp in the dunes of the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) or in the Hajar Mountains, roof top tents provide a stable and secure shelter, no matter the terrain. Many roof top tents are designed to withstand the rigors of off-roading, making them perfect for those who seek adventure and exploration.

Key Features of Roof Top Tents

Roof top tents come with several key features that make them ideal for camping in the UAE's unique environment. Here are some of the most common features to consider:

1. Durability

Roof top tents are built to endure harsh weather conditions, from extreme heat to sudden rainstorms. The materials used for the tent fabric are often weather-resistant, helping to keep the inside cool during the hot summer months and warm during colder nights. Additionally, the sturdy frame is designed to withstand winds and occasional sandstorms.

2. Quick Setup and Pack Down

One of the key benefits of roof top tents is the quick setup time. Unlike traditional tents that require stakes, guy ropes, and careful positioning, roof top tents often feature a pop-up design or a fold-out mechanism that allows users to set up camp within minutes. This is particularly useful for those who want to enjoy a spontaneous trip without spending too much time setting up camp.

3. Built-In Mattress

Most roof top tents come equipped with an integrated mattress that offers a higher level of comfort than traditional camping beds. These mattresses are typically designed to provide a good night's sleep, even on rough terrain, ensuring that travelers wake up refreshed and ready for the next day’s adventure.

4. Ventilation

Proper airflow is essential in the UAE's hot and humid climate. Roof top tents are often equipped with multiple ventilation points, including mesh windows and roof vents, to promote air circulation and reduce condensation. This ensures a comfortable, breathable environment inside the tent, especially during warm weather.

5. Weather Resistance

Roof top tents are built to withstand the unique weather conditions of the UAE. Whether it's the blistering sun or a sudden rainstorm, these tents are made from durable, weather-resistant materials to provide shelter in any condition. Some tents also include rain covers or awnings to further protect against precipitation.

Where to Take Your Roof Top Tent in the UAE?

The UAE’s diverse landscape offers numerous exciting locations to explore with a roof top tent. Some popular destinations for roof top tent camping include:

1. Desert Adventures in the Rub' al Khali

The Empty Quarter, or Rub' al Khali, is one of the largest sand deserts in the world. With its vast dunes and remote locations, it offers a truly unique camping experience. A roof top tent provides the perfect solution for camping here, as it allows travelers to sleep above the hot, sandy ground, where temperatures can soar during the day and drop significantly at night.

2. Hajar Mountains

The Hajar Mountains, stretching along the eastern coast of the UAE, offer rugged terrain and stunning views. Roof top tents are perfect for camping in this area, as they provide a stable shelter for overnight stays in areas where traditional tents may struggle to set up on the rocky ground.

3. Coastal Camping in Fujairah

For those who prefer a more relaxed camping experience, Fujairah’s coastline offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Roof top tents allow campers to enjoy the peaceful surroundings while staying away from the sand and insects commonly found in ground-level camping.

Conclusion

Roof top tents have become a popular choice for adventurers in the UAE looking for a comfortable, convenient, and versatile camping solution. Offering protection from the harsh desert environment, ease of access to remote locations, and the ability to quickly set up and pack down, roof top tents are perfect for exploring the UAE’s diverse landscapes. Whether it’s the towering dunes of the Rub' al Khali or the rocky terrain of the Hajar Mountains, a roof top tent provides the perfect shelter for those looking to embrace the outdoors and experience the beauty of the UAE.