Visitors mostly arrive in Dubai, check out the Burj Khalifa and the malls, and never stray beyond Dubai boundaries. Sadly, some of the UAE’s most memorable scenery begins just a couple of hours’ drive away.

For two or three hours in almost any direction, the skyline is replaced by mountain wadis, oasis gardens bathed in palm trees, snoring fishing villages, and fjords you’d find in Scandinavia before Arabia. Whether you’re just making the best out of a spare Friday or you have a spare weekend to play with, this guide takes you through the best places to visit near Dubai, including driving times, things to do, and tips on planning without too much of a headache.

The best way to get to most of these locations on your own schedule is to rent a car in Dubai before departure; public transportation does not go to the mountains or the coast, and if you have your own car, you can stop for photos, detour to a viewpoint,t or change your plans halfway through the day.

Why Take a Day Trip From Dubai

Dubai is located in a central position within the UAE and is just a few hours from nearly all emirates. This makes day trips an option even without an overnight stay.

Within a short driving distance, you can trade the skyscrapers for red dunes or a wadi in the mountains or an old fort dating back 500 years. It’s this which makes UAE travel more interesting than most visitors would imagine.

Rent a car that has a strong air conditioner and fill the tank with gas before leaving Dubai. As you get to the mountains or coastal roads, the fuel stations get further apart.

Top Destinations for a Weekend Getaway from Dubai

These are the best day trips and weekend getaways to make, both for mountain and coastal drives.

Hatta: Mountains and Adventure

Hatta is located approximately 115 km southeast of Dubai, and is only about a 90-minute drive through the Hajar Mountains. It is no wonder that it is one of the most visited weekend destinations from Dubai.

The Hatta Dam is the main attraction, and there are trails for mountain biking and kayaking around it. Hatta Heritage Village is a snapshot of the Emirati mountain way of life, featuring restored watchtowers and mudbrick houses.

Top things to do in Hatta:

• Kayak or paddleboard on Hatta Dam
• Ride the network of Hatta Trails on a mountain bike.
• Hatta Heritage Village is a lovely village that is well worth a visit.
• Overnight stay at Hatta Damani Lodges to catch a glimpse of the stars.

Best for: Nature lovers, cyclists, those seeking cooler mountain air from the city heat.

Abu Dhabi: Culture and Grand Architecture

The UAE capital is located around 90 minutes from Dubai and is still the most popular day trip destination in the UAE. It combines Islamic architecture and world-class museums.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is its focal point, featuring the largest hand-knotted carpet in the world, as well as white marble domes. Art from all civilizations from around the world is housed under the imposing dome and light roof of Louvre Abu Dhabi nearby.

Top things to do in Abu Dhabi:

• Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (modest and entrance is free).
• In fact, explore Louvre Abu Dhabi’s rotating exhibitions.
• Ferri World on Yas Island offers roller coasters for fun.
• Take a stroll along the Corniche at sunset.

Sharjah: Heritage and Museums

Sharjah is the closest neighbor of Dubai, which could be reached in half an hour or an hour depending on traffic. It officially has the status of the UAE’s cultural capital and houses a larger number of museums than any other part of the country.

The Sharjah Heritage Area is home to the Al Hisn Fort, old souks and courtyard houses. It’s just a short stroll from the Museum of Islamic Civilization in Sharjah, which spans art, science and faith over the centuries.

Top Things to Do in Sharjah

• Visit the Sharjah Heritage Area and authentic souks
• Go to the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
• Purchase gold, perfumes and textiles at the Blue Souk.
• Soak up the sun at Al Noor Island, the butterfly house.

For: A short cultural excursion, which can be done in a couple of hours from Dubai.

Al Ain: The Garden City

Al Ain is approximately 90 minutes from Dubai, close to the border of Oman, and is referred to as the ‘Garden City’ of the UAE. It is known for its greenery, historic forts, and natural springs and provides a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Al Ain Oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with thousands of date palms and the traditional system of old watering ditches or falajs, which are still in use today. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive with breathtaking panoramic views of nearby Jebel Hafeet, the UAE’s second-highest mountain.

Top Things to Do in Al Ain

• Stroll through the tranquil Al Ain Oasis
• Head uphill to the top of Jebel Hafeet.
• Visit Al Jahili Fort & Al Ain National Museum
• Visit Al Ain Zoo or Wadi Adventure, spending some time at either location.

Best for: Families, history lovers, and travelers looking for a relaxing day surrounded by nature.

Fujairah: Beaches and Marine Adventures

Fujairah is located on the eastern coast of the UAE, by the Sea of Oman and about two hours from Dubai. Fujairah has crystal clear waters, rugged mountains, and great diving conditions as opposed to Dubai’s coastline.

A popular snorkeling and diving spot in the country, Snoopy Island is also surrounded by the picturesque Hajar Mountains.

Top Things to Do in Fujairah

• Go Snorkelling or scuba diving around Snoopy Island
• Visit the UAE’s oldest mosque, Al Bidyah Mosque.
• Visit Fujairah Fort and Heritage Village.
• Enjoy calm beaches with views of the Gulf of Oman.

Great for: Beachgoers, divers, and those looking for a more relaxed beach getaway.

Ras Al Khaimah: The Adventure Emirate

The UAE’s best outdoor adventure spot is just 45-60 minutes north of Dubai: Ras Al Khaimah (RAK). It is the place of Jebel Jais, which is the country’s highest mountain, and is popular among thrill-seekers from all over the world.

The Jais Flight zipline is one of the longest – spanning almost 3 kilometers. There are also hiking trails, mountain drives, and beach resorts for the visitor to enjoy.

Top Things to Do in Ras Al Khaimah

• Take a trip on Jais Flight zipline.
• Hike on scenic trails on Jebel Jais.
• Head to the ancient Dhayah Fort.
• Enjoy a rest at the beaches of Al Marjan Island

Ideal for: Adventurers, hikers, and weekend road trips.

Musandam, Oman: Fjords and Dolphin Cruises

Known as the “Norway of Arabia” because of its magnificent cliffs and fjords, Musandam is in northern Oman, about two hours from Dubai.

The traditional dhow cruise through Khor Sham is a beautiful sight, and dolphins are frequently seen. There are also historic forts to visit, snorkeling areas, and mountain villages to explore.

Top Things to Do in Musandam

• Sail the traditional dhow in the Khor Sham Fjord
• Snorkel at Telegraph Island
• Visit historic Khasab Fort.
• 4×4 safari through the Hajar Mountains to see the most!

Travel Tip: UAE residents and tourists should ensure they understand the visa/border requirements for Musandam before travelling as it is part of Oman.

Suggested age: 12+ years.Best for: Nature lovers, photographers and travellers seeking an international day trip from Dubai.

Comparison Table of the Best Weekend Trips from Dubai

Planning Tips for Weekend Trips from Dubai

It’s a great way to make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable, particularly in the summer. Car rentals allow flexibility in travel itinerary, letting you discover several locations to your liking, and at your own speed.

Useful Travel Tips

• Consider leaving early to stay clear of traffic.
• Bring lots of water to drink.
• Use a sun tan lotion and light clothing.
• Book adventure activities in the winter well ahead of time.
• Offline maps of the mountains with Google Maps.
• Research the best car rental rates and insurance before making a reservation.
• Always carry your Emirates ID or passport when travelling.
• Fill up your fuel tank before heading into remote areas.

A weekend rental is often more budget-friendly than a day rental, as many travelers opt for a combination of Day 1 in Ras Al Khaimah and Day 2 in Fujairah, which they can do as a road trip.

Key Takeaways

• The nearest place to catch a breath of culture is Sharjah.
• Abu Dhabi is home to iconic landmarks and world-class museums.
• Hatta and Ras Al Khaimah are ideal for mountain adventures.
• Al Ain offers serene gardens, history and family fun.
• Beaches, snorkeling and diving are perfect activities in Fujairah.
• Musandam offers spectacular fjords and unmissable dhow cruises.
• The best time for road trips in the UAE is from November to March.

Conclusion

While Dubai is an amazing place to visit, the UAE’s best experiences are in its outskirts. Each corner of Hatta features a different adventure, whether it’s the rugged peaks of the mountains or the lush oases of Al Ain, the beaches of Fujairah or the beautiful fjords of Musandam.

Select the tour according to your interests, enjoy the cooler months for the best experience, and take your time exploring each destination. These weekend getaways can be a highlight of your UAE trip if you plan well and have proper transportation.

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