Founder of Recreative Global
I take travelers into the real Emirates: solitary camps among the Liwa dunes, dark-sky astronomy, and cultural routes that never see a tour bus.
About
Tourism specialist based in Abu Dhabi
Hey, I’m Hijaaz Jalaldeen. I live in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, and was born in Sri Lanka, a country rich in culture and celebrated for its food. My background sparked a lasting curiosity about the traditions, flavors, and everyday life that make each destination unique.
Today, I explore the many layers of Abu Dhabi and share what I learn in ways that help visitors connect with the city. I want to offer more than a script or checklist. My goal is to give people a fresh perspective, and my favorite part of being a guide is helping someone see a familiar place in a new way.
I founded Recreative Global around one idea: a tour should leave you with a story, not just a photo. Whether you’re dune bashing at golden hour or stargazing beneath a clear night sky, each experience is personal and grounded in local culture, thoughtful safety, and respect for the people and places behind it.
Through Recreative Global, I offer desert, cultural, and stargazing experiences across the Emirates. I build every route around real places and genuine experiences, not staged attractions.
Destinations
I see the UAE as more than its skyline. Across its cities, oases, coast, and desert, these are four places that reveal different sides of the country’s culture and landscape.
I know the capital as a place that moves between monumental architecture, mangroves, beaches, and open desert. From Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Corniche to the dunes beyond the city, I always find another side to discover.
Explore Abu DhabiI see Dubai as more than bold architecture and ambitious city life. Its historic neighbourhoods, beaches, galleries, and food from around the world are equally worth exploring, especially during the cooler months.
What draws me to Liwa is the scale and stillness of its landscape. On the northern edge of the Rub’ al Khali, its oases and communities sit among immense dunes that feel entirely different after the light fades.
Explore LiwaI value Al Ain for its quieter, deeply rooted character. Known as the Garden City, it grew around springs and palm-shaded oases, while its forts, markets, and Jebel Hafeet offer a different perspective on the UAE.
Field note
For me, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital offers a remarkable window into falconry, a tradition with deep roots in Bedouin and Emirati culture. Reading about it is one thing; seeing it up close is another. Falconry is the practice of training falcons to hunt, and the hospital was the first of its kind in the region.
A guided tour brings the experience to life. You can watch a falcon receive a pedicure, learn about the history and physiology of these birds, and see them fly in the open-flight aviary. The tour also includes the tools room, where guides explain the equipment used in falconry. The hospital even issues falcon passports.
My favorite moment is getting to hold a falcon and see its quiet majesty up close. It is the kind of experience that stays with you for years.
First of its kindin the region
Almost 20 yearsof operation
6,000+ birdstreated each year
Insights
I am based in the UAE, and I built Recreative Global around first-hand knowledge of the country. Before I confirm a trip, I talk through the route, timing, inclusions, and practical details so you know exactly what to expect.
I am based in Abu Dhabi and build routes around places I know, with local context that goes beyond a standard sightseeing list.
I look beyond the standard sightseeing list, from city landmarks and local food to desert camps and dark skies.
I shape the route, pace, and level of support around your interests instead of forcing every guest into the same program.
I review pickup, timing, activities, restrictions, and safety considerations before I confirm the experience.
I answer your questions with practical destination knowledge, whether you are comparing ideas or preparing for the day.
A request is not a reservation. I confirm availability, itinerary, inclusions, price, and meeting details with you in writing first.
In their words
“Hijaaz’s team gave us one of our most unforgettable desert experiences in the UAE. Everything was smooth, exciting, and thoughtfully personalized.”
“Hijaaz’s genuine passion and attention to detail set him apart. It’s clear that he truly cares about every guest.”
Say hello
Tell me what you’re after and I’ll build the route around it.
