Some places in the UAE do not look like tourist attractions at all — and that is exactly what makes them memorable.
A hidden mountain setting
The Bat Tunnels are old rock passages beside the mountain section of the Dubai–Khor Fakkan Road. They are not a developed attraction with ticket counters, lighting or a marked visitor trail. Their appeal comes from the contrast between the engineered highway and the rough Hajar landscape around it: steep cliffs, exposed stone and quiet recesses in the mountains. The tunnels are best understood as a brief nature stop on a scenic drive, not as a destination where visitors should expect services or guaranteed wildlife sightings.
The drive through the Hajar Mountains
Reaching the area is part of the experience. The route toward Khor Fakkan crosses dramatic mountain terrain with deep valleys, rock faces and major road tunnels. From Dubai, allow time for a proper drive rather than treating the stop as a quick detour. The views change constantly as the road climbs and descends, and a clear day makes the scale of the range easier to appreciate. Plan fuel, water and navigation before leaving the city because facilities are not concentrated around the old passages.
Finding the correct side access
Do not confuse the old passages with the active vehicle tunnels on the main highway. Never stop on the carriageway, walk beside moving traffic or enter a road tunnel on foot. The approach described for this place uses a side exit and a parking point before the main tunnel in the direction of Khor Fakkan. Access has changed: the direct track was later reported as dug up, leaving an approximately 10–15 minute walk from the parking area. Treat that distance as changeable and obey every barrier, sign and construction restriction.
Bats and responsible observation
The name refers to bats that have been observed using the dark rocky shelters. A sighting is never guaranteed, and wildlife should remain the reason to be quiet rather than a reason to enter deeper. Do not touch, catch or feed a bat, and never disturb a roost for a photograph. If a flashlight is needed for safe footing, point it at the ground and use it briefly. Keep children close, avoid loud music and leave the area exactly as you found it.
What to bring and what to expect
Wear closed shoes with dependable grip: the ground may be uneven, loose or dusty. Carry enough drinking water, a charged phone and a small flashlight, with a power bank for a longer mountain day. There are no dependable cafés, toilets, shade structures or visitor desks at the passages. A light jacket can be useful in a shaded rock recess, while sun protection matters during the walk from the vehicle. Download or check navigation before arrival because reception and road conditions can vary.
Planning a safe mountain stop
Early morning or late afternoon is generally more comfortable than the hottest part of the day, but weather and light can change quickly in the mountains. Check the route and access situation immediately before departure, especially after rain or roadworks. Leave enough daylight for the return walk and do not continue if the approach is closed or feels unsafe. The surrounding highway makes this a poor choice for an improvised roadside stop; use only a legal, clearly safe place to park.
The surrounding mountains also deserve attention: the Hajar range is a living landscape shaped by heat, wind and occasional rain. Take photographs from a secure position, never place yourself in a traffic lane and keep the volume low near the rock shelters. This stop works best for travellers who enjoy unusual geology and a little uncertainty. If a barrier, earthworks or parked vehicles suggest that the familiar approach has changed, turn around and choose a safer viewpoint on the wider Khor Fakkan route.
Leave no food or waste near the shelters; the animals and the mountain environment should not become dependent on visitors.
LOCATION
Bat Tunnels Dubai–Khor Fakkan Road, Sharjah / Hajar Mountains, United Arab Emirates
Frequently asked questions
Where are the Bat Tunnels?
They are located near the Dubai–Khor Fakkan Road in the mountain section of the route toward Khor Fakkan.
Why are they called Bat Tunnels?
Bats have been observed using the old mountain passages as dark rocky shelters.
Is this an official tourist attraction?
No. It is not a developed tourist attraction with dedicated visitor infrastructure.
Can you drive directly to the tunnels?
Access has changed. Earlier information described vehicle access, but later updates reported that the road had been dug up and visitors had to walk approximately 10–15 minutes from the parking area.
Do you need a 4WD?
You should not assume that a vehicle can currently reach the tunnels directly. Access conditions change, so check the latest situation before travelling.
Can you enter the tunnels?
Access conditions may change. Do not enter closed or unsafe areas and do not approach bat colonies.
Can you see bats?
Yes, bats have been observed in the passages, but sightings are never guaranteed.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning or late afternoon is generally more comfortable for a mountain drive. Bat activity may increase later in the day, but wildlife behaviour is unpredictable.
Are there other places to see nearby?
Yes. The Dubai–Khor Fakkan Road crosses the Hajar Mountains and offers dramatic mountain landscapes, valleys and major road tunnels.
Is there visitor infrastructure at the tunnels?
Do not expect cafés, toilets, lighting, signs or developed walking paths directly at the old tunnels.