Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

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Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Hatta Dam

Dubai is a buzzing city with full of luxury restaurants, hotels, water promenades, beaches, shopping malls, and glittering skyline.  But if you need some short break from busy city life then there are many day trips from Dubai which are the best weekend getaway options in the United Arab Emirates(UAE).  So in this article, I will be listing some best places to visit for a short break or weekend trips from Dubai.  Let’s check some adventurous, fun-filling, culturally rich, beautiful natural places near Dubai and some Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE. 

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Fjords at Khasab / Musandam
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Planner for long Weekend Getaways from Dubai by Road | Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Read this article with list of best road trips from Dubai with full of nature, adventure and fun. Can be done as day trip or long weekend staycation at luxury nature resorts in UAE.

CHECK MY VIDEO ON STAYCATION AT FAIRMONT AJMAN 

CLICK HERE FOR SOME OF THE GLAMPING AND CAMPING SPOTS IN UAE

ABU DHABI – Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Best Things To Do In Abu Dhabi City Tour  |  Abu Dhabi Itinerary
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The capital city of UAE, located on an island has a beautiful blend of modern architecture and cultural heritage. This city is known for its wonderful mosque, modern architecture, pristine beaches with crystal clear blue waters and modern infrastructure. A peaceful city with lots of happiness and wonderful things to do.

DISTANCE OF ABU DHABI FROM DUBAI

140 KM (Through fastest route with Toll Gates)

HOW TO REACH ABU DHABI FROM DUBAI

It takes approximately 1 hour 50 minutes by road to reach Abu Dhabi. Though Abu Dhabi also has an international airport, you can directly reach here or can travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. There are various means of transport from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and vice versa.

By Public Transport – Dubai’s RTA buses run from Dubai to Abu Dhabi every 15 minutes. These air-conditioned buses are the best way to commute if you are not driving your own. It takes around 25AED one-way journey. The buses are extremely safe and run on time.

By Car – You can drive on your own through Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan E10 National Highway which superfast Express highway. You can find food stops and Gas stops in between.

By Taxi – You can also hire Uber, Careem or Dubai Taxi to drop you at Abu Dhabi. It will charge around 200AED one way.

By Guided Tours – Many tour operators take you to 1 or 2 days tours from Dubai to Abu Dhabi while showing you many sightseeing places in Abu Dhabi.

WHAT TO DO IN ABU DHABI

Sheikh Zayed Mosque, AD Corniche, Emirates Palace, Ferrari World & Yas Waterworld, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Warner Brothers, and many more things. Read in detail about Abu Dhabi.

GUIDED TOUR OPTIONS FROM DUBAI TO ABU DHABI

WHERE TO STAY AT ABU DHABI

WHY ABU DHABI

Capital of UAE, for modern and unique architecture, cultural and heritage of UAE, unique theme parks

ABU DHABI IS FOR

  • Art & Culture Lovers.
  • Architecture Lovers.
  • Adventure & Theme Park lovers.
  • Luxury travelers.

Click here to know about some unique places to visit in UAE –  hidden gems of UAE.

HATTA – Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Hatta Dam

Mountainous village amidst rough mountains of Hajjar range with a small water body in between. It is like oasis in between the desert and a beautiful nature away from the city. A perfect place to relax in nature and admire the stunning sunsets in the mountains.

DISTANCE OF HATTA FROM DUBAI

135 KM (Through fastest route with Toll Gates)

HOW TO REACH HATTA FROM DUBAI

It takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by Sharjah Kalba Road (E102) road & E 611 Emirates road to reach Hatta. The drive is scenic through deserts and stunning Hajjar mountain range.

By Public Transport – You have to take the bus for Hatta from Sabkha Bus Station to reach Hatta which has 35 stops in between and takes around 3 hours to reach.

By Car – You can drive on your own by Sharjah Kalba Road (E102) road & E 611 Emirates road to reach Hatta. Google works perfectly fine.

By Taxi – You can also hire Uber, Careem or Dubai Taxi to drop you at Hatta Dam.

By Guided Tours – Many tour operators take you to 1 or 2 days tours from Dubai to Hatta while showing you many sightseeing places.

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Road to Hatta

WHAT TO DO IN HATTA

Hatta Dam, Hike Hajjar mountains, Mountain camping or hiking, Water sports. Read more details about Hatta.

GUIDED TOUR OPTIONS FROM DUBAI TO HATTA

WHERE TO STAY AT HATTA

WHY HATTA

Hatta is the perfect nature getaway with rugged mountains and oasis away from busy city life. Rugged rocky mountains with an oasis of emerald waters make a perfect place for nature lovers. There are many plush resorts amidst the mountains with full of greenery and peace.

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Sunset at Hajar Mountains

HATTA IS FOR

  • Nature lovers.
  • Adventure lovers.
  • Staycation Resort lovers.

AL AIN – Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Explore Al Ain Attractions
Adventurous drive along Jebel Hafeet

Al Ain – The Garden city of UAE. This city is the greenest city and also known as an oasis of UAE. It consists of many palm trees, natural water resources, forts, and many bronze age remains. Lies on the eastern side of UAE bordering with Oman. Know more about Al Ain.

DISTANCE OF AL AIN FROM DUBAI

145 KM  (Through fastest route with Toll Gates)

HOW TO REACH AL AIN FROM DUBAI

It takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes from Dubai to Al Ain by road. The drive is scenic going through deserts on both sides.

By Public Transport – You have to take the bus E 201 with a frequency at every 30 minutes for Al Ain from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Dubai to reach Al Ain.

By Car – You can drive on your own by E66 road – Al Ain road. Google works perfectly fine.

By Taxi – You can also hire Uber, Careem or Dubai Taxi to drop you at Al Ain.

By Guided Tours – Many tour operators take you to 1 or 2 days tours from Dubai to Al Ain while showing you many sightseeing places.

WHAT TO DO IN AL AIN

Al Ain Oasis, Al Ain zoo, Al Jahili Fort, Jebel Hafeet mountainous drive. Read in detail about Al Ain.

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Al Ain Oasis

GUIDED TOUR OPTIONS FROM DUBAI TO AL AIN

WHERE TO STAY AT AL AIN

Reviews of Al Ain Rotana – One of the Best staycation in UAE
Nature Staycation at Al Ain Rotana

WHY AL AIN

If you love green spaces and mountainous curvy drives then Al Ain is the place for you. Known as the garden city, therefore many picturesque gardens, zoos with exotics animals and palm oasis in this region.

AL AIN IS FOR

  • Nature lovers.
  • Animal lovers.
  • Those who love to drive or Car Racers
  • Culture & Heritage lovers.

FUJAIRAH Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Beach Resort in Fujairah

Fujairah lies on the eastern side of UAE is a beautiful emirate with rugged mountain ranges and clear beaches. You will find beauty of mountains and sea simultaneously, which makes a perfect place for nature lovers.

DISTANCE OF FUJAIRAH FROM DUBAI

120 KM  (Through fastest route with Toll Gates)

HOW TO REACH FUJAIRAH FROM DUBAI

It takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes from Dubai to Fujairah by road. The drive is worth and truly scenic through rugged mountains.

By Public Transport – The E700 bus (Direction: Fujairah) has 15 stops departing from Union Square Bus Station – 01 and ending in Fujairah – 01.

By Car – You can drive on your own through Sharjah Kalba and Dubai Fujairah Road. Google works perfectly fine.

By Taxi – You can also hire Uber, Careem or Dubai Taxi to drop you at Fujairah.

By Guided Tours – Many tour operators take you to 1 or 2 days tours from Dubai to Fujairah while showing you many sightseeing places.

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Drive to Fujairah

WHAT TO DO IN FUJAIRAH

Khorfakkan Beach, Snoppy island and Fujairah Castle, Staycation at Beach resorts.

GUIDED TOUR OPTIONS FROM DUBAI TO FUJAIRAH

WHERE TO STAY AT FUJAIRAH

WHY FUJAIRAH

If you love peaceful beaches, rugged mountains with seas then Fujairah will really enchant you.

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Fujairah Beach

FUJAIRAH IS FOR

  • Beach lovers.
  • Staycation lovers.
  • Water sports & mountain hikers/camping lovers.

RAS AL KHAIMAH (RAK)Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Beach Resorts at Ras Al Khaimah (RAK)

The northernmost emirate of UAE will surprise you with the longest zipline of the world or with its pristine clear beaches. This emirate has wonderful beaches with white sands and rugged mountains on the other side. There are many luxury beach resorts with a view of water or mountains for a perfect peaceful staycation or getaways in UAE.

Visit 1484, highest restaurant in RAK to enjoy the superb views of Jabal Jais Hajar mountain range. 

The Highest Restaurant in the UAE

Please note:

  • Reservation is required prior to visit.
  • Please make your reservation online: Please choose your date, time and number of people.
  • Tables will be held maximum of 15 minute after booking time.
  • Minimum spend applies on Friday and Saturdays: AED60 Adults, AED40 kid (under 12 yrs).
  • Please note that due to the remote location, we are not able to provide WI-FI service.

For further enquiries,  call Puro at +971 563173985.

DISTANCE OF RAS AL KHAIMAH (RAK)  FROM DUBAI

110 KM  (Through fastest route with Toll Gates)

HOW TO REACH RAK FROM DUBAI

It takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah by road. The drive is worth and truly scenic through rugged mountains.

By Public Transport – Take Al Hamra bus departs from the Union Bus Station, Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah. The fare costs AED 25 (one-way), and the trip takes about two hours. The frequency of the bus is within 1 and a half hours.

By Car – You can drive on your own through Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road – E311. Google works perfectly fine.

By Taxi – You can also hire Uber, Careem or Dubai Taxi to drop you at RAK.

By Guided Tours – Many tour operators take you to 1 or 2 days tours from Dubai to RAK while showing you many sightseeing places.

WHAT TO DO IN RAK

Pristine beaches of Marjan Island, luxury beach resorts stay,  World’s longest Zipline across Jebel Jais mountain, Dahyah fort, Paragliding, and many water sports

GUIDED TOUR OPTIONS FROM DUBAI TO RAK

WHERE TO STAY AT RAK

WHY RAK

If you love peaceful beaches, adventure activities like paragliding, ziplining across the world’s longest zipline.

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

RAK IS FOR

  • Beach lovers.
  • Staycation lovers.
  • Adventure sports lovers.
  • Longest Zipline

MLEIHA – Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Explore Mleiha  A Trip to Ancient Ages
Explore Mleiha  … A Trip to Ancient Ages

Mleiha a place full of ancient historical sites with many fossils depicting how life was thousands of years ago. Discover the interesting past of the Middle East at this site.  You can have a look at bronze age findings with some pre-Islamic fossils here. Not only this is fossils sites but the desert is full of fun. Explore the beautiful desert of Mleiha from Dubai which is a perfect weekend trip from Dubai.

DISTANCE OF RAS AL MLEIHA (RAK)  FROM DUBAI

75 KM  (Through fastest route with Toll Gates)

HOW TO REACH MLEIHA FROM DUBAI

It takes approximately 55 minutes from Dubai to Mleiha by road. The drive is worth and truly scenic through virgin deserts.

By Public Transport – Mleiha is located in Sharjah another emirate of UAE. So from Dubai, you have to reach Sharjah and then take taxi from there. Or it is better to ask for pick up the van from Mleiha Archaeological Center.

By Car – You can drive on your own through D83 and Sharjah Kalba Road – E102. Or take Emirates Road E11 and then take Sharjah Kalba Road E102.  Google works perfectly fine.

By Taxi – You can also hire Uber, Careem or Dubai Taxi to drop you at Mleiha.

By Guided Tours – Many tour operators take you to 1 or 2 days tours from Dubai to Mleiha while showing you many sightseeing places.

WHAT TO DO IN MLEIHA

Archaeological sites, Fossils from the Bronze age, Desert 4WD adventure, Desert cycling, dune buggy rides, trek to Fossil rocks, Dinner under the stars, camping in the desert, stargazing while camping in the dunes.

Explore Mleiha  ... A Trip to Ancient Ages
Mleiha region in Sharjah Emirates

GUIDED TOUR OPTIONS FROM DUBAI TO MLEIHA

All guided tours are run by Mleiha Archaeological center and even on request they send pick up van on extra charges. They arrange desert safari and desert camping. 

WHERE TO STAY AT MLEIHA

WHY MLEIHA

If you love fossils, discovering ancient past through archaeological sites in beautiful deserts.

Photos of Oman – Oman photography Tour
Desert tour

MLEIHA IS FOR

  • Archaeological & History lovers.
  • Nature lovers.
  • Desert Bikers
  • Fun in Desert

SHARJAH CITY – Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Sharjah Light festival Highlights
Mosque of Sharjah during Sharjah Light Festival

Sharjah is the cultural capital of the UAE and is considered as the beautiful traditional and heritage city with many Islamic architectural wonders. To know the authentic Emirati way of living Sharjah is the best place to feel the authentic UAE.

DISTANCE OF SHARJAH  FROM DUBAI

50 KM  (Through fastest route with Toll Gates)

HOW TO REACH SHARJAH FROM DUBAI

It takes approximately 45 minutes from Dubai to Sharjah by road. The drive is through Old Dubai city and can be many times logged with lots of traffic. Sharjah is an important emirate of UAE and being very close to Dubai, the roads are full of traffic and many people commute daily from Dubai to Sharjah and vice versa.

By Public Transport – There are many buses running from Dubai to Sharjah at many points. You can check the RTA timetable for going to Sharjah by bus. The duration of the trip is approximately 45 to 50  minutes,  tickets cost 10 AED.

By Car – You can drive on your own through E 11. Google works perfectly fine. Check the traffic congestion before you start so that you can divert your route. The roads to Sharjah can be congested at peak intervals of the day.

By Taxi – You can also hire Uber, Careem or Dubai Taxi to drop you at Sharjah.

By Guided Tours – Many tour operators take you to 1 or 2 days tours from Dubai to Sharjah while showing you many sightseeing places.

WHAT TO DO IN SHARJAH

Sharjah Mosque, Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, famous Sharjah Arts Museum, Al Mamzar Park, Sharjah Souk and many heritage buildings

GUIDED TOUR OPTIONS FROM DUBAI TO SHARJAH

WHERE TO STAY AT SHARJAH

WHY SHARJAH

If you love culture and heritage then you would truly love this emirate. Sharjah has some greatest art and heritage collections in their museums. Also, science lovers can head to the famous planetarium of UAE in Sharjah.

SHARJAH IS FOR

  • Art lovers.
  • Culture & Heritage lovers.
  • Islamic Art & Architecture lovers.

AL QUDRA LAKE – Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Series of Man-made lakes in deserts of Dubai is a perfect way to relax away from hustle and bustle of Dubai’s busy city life. A great place where 200 species of birds in which some of them are very rare flock here during winter months from nearby cold countries. The desert sunsets with beautiful birds are the most admirable thing to do here.

DISTANCE OF AL QUDRA  FROM DUBAI

60 KM  (Through fastest route with Toll Gates)

HOW TO REACH AL QUDRA FROM DUBAI

It takes approximately 55 minutes to 1 hour from Dubai to Al Qudra Lake picnic spot by road. The drive is through Emirates Rd. E 611 and Al Qudra Road D63.

By Public Transport – There is no public transport to this place. You have to self-drive or take a taxi.

By Car – The way to Al Qudra lake is confusing even on Google Maps as there are many lakes nearby that area. To see the biggest lake with many birds, follow the D63 out of Dubai towards the Dubai Cycling Track and then you see the Last Exit food stop from where you have to see signs for the lakes.

By Taxi – You can also hire Uber, Careem or Dubai Taxi to drop you at Sharjah.

By Guided Tours – There are no guided tours to this place as it is the very non-touristic type of lake with birds flocking from nearby cold countries.

WHAT TO DO IN AL QUDRA

Spot 100 species of birds and many rare plants at the man-made lake in between desert. Cycling at Al Qudra Cycling Track.

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

GUIDED TOUR OPTIONS FROM DUBAI TO QUDRA

There are no such options. You have to self- plan and do your own trip without any guide.

WHERE TO STAY AT QUDRA

As such, there is not any place to stay in this area, but nearby there is a luxury desert resort where you have the fun of desert and desert sunset – BAB AL SHAMS RESORT.

WHY QUDRA

If you birds, desert flora and fauna, then Al Qudra lake is the must-visit place. Cycling is also another great feature at Al Qudra Lake as they have a very big cycling track in this region.

QUDRA IS FOR

  • Wildlife lovers.
  • Nature lovers.
  • Bike lovers.

KHASAB / MUSANDAM (OMAN) – Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Dhow cruise in Khasab

Khasab located on Oman’s Musandam peninsula and due to its strategic location, this place is blessed with beautiful fjords. Enjoy the beauty of nature offering stunning coastal views, sighting dolphins while cruising in Strait of Hormuz.

DISTANCE OF MUSANDAM / KHASAB  FROM DUBAI

200 KM  (Through fastest route with Toll Gates)

HOW TO REACH MUSANDAM / KHASAB FROM DUBAI

It takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes from Dubai to Khasab / Musandam by road. The drive from the Oman border onwards is really stunning. Don’t miss the beauty of this drive. The view is mostly on the left-hand side with many curves of mountainous fjords across the blue waters

By Public Transport – There is no public transport but to the nearby border in RAK you can by bus from Dubai to RAK.

By Car – Through Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed E311 road towards Oman. Take a passport as Khasab or Musandam lies in another country. For people living in UAE or locals of UAE, you can get visa stamping at border of Oman while driving. Or else you can take eVisa before to avoid the queue.  People coming from other countries have to take Oman visa or multi-entry visa of UAE to return back again.

By Taxi – You can also hire long term taxi to reach here.

By Guided Tours – Many tour operators take you to 1 or 2 days tours from Dubai to Musandam / Khasab while showing you many sightseeing places.

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Scenic Drive to Khasab – Musandam

WHAT TO DO IN MUSANDAM/KHASAB

Dolphin sighting, fjords tour, Dhow cruise in the blue waters of Oman, Beach and mountain camping & mountain 4WD drive.

GUIDED TOUR OPTIONS FROM DUBAI TO MUSANDAM/KHASAB

WHERE TO STAY AT MUSANDAM/KHASAB

WHY MUSANDAM/KHASAB

Khasab is known as Norway of the Middle East due to stunning fjords. If you love nature then don’t miss this trip from Dubai.

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Fjords at Khasab / Musandam

MUSANDAM / KHASAB IS FOR

  • Nature lovers.
  • Nature Photography.
  • Dhow cruising & spotting Dolphins.
  • Scuba Divers & Snorkelers 

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

LIWA DESERT – Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Liwa Desert

Liwa Desert is a part of Rub al Khali desert which is the world’s largest uninterrupted sand mass. It is the most adventurous and virgin desert of UAE. Enjoy the desert life by living here for a few days.

DISTANCE OF LIWA FROM DUBAI

330 KM  (Through fastest route with Toll Gates)

HOW TO REACH LIWA FROM DUBAI

It takes approximately  3 hours 25 minutes from Dubai to Liwa by road. You can also drive to Liwa desert via Abu Dhabi.

By Public Transport – There is no direct public transport to Liwa. You can go to Abu Dhabi from Dubai by bus and then take another bus to Mezaira E 90 which is the nearby spot in Liwa.

By Car – Take E11 and then Liwa Road E65.

By Taxi – You can also hire long term taxi to reach here.

By Guided Tours – Many tour operators take you to 1 or 2 days tours from Dubai to Liwa while showing you many sightseeing places.

WHAT TO DO IN LIWA

Enjoying desert life, camel farms visit, desert sunset and stargazing.

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Roam with camels in Liwa Desert

GUIDED TOUR OPTIONS FROM DUBAI TO LIWA

There are no guided tours from Abu Dhabi or Dubai. You get all the activities from the 2 desert resorts located here. Check with your reception desk for tours in desert. 

WHERE TO STAY AT LIWA

These are the only two famous desert resorts here in Liwa as it is the virgin desert with no building or hotels nearby.  These hotels also arrange pick-up on request on extra charges from Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Liwa Desert Resort

WHY LIWA

Liwa is having beautiful virgin deserts and so you can truly live and feel authentic desert life in UAE.

LIWA IS FOR

  • Nature lovers.
  • Desert lovers.
  • Desert Adventure and Desert Sunset.
  • Sand dune bashing, camel rides, and Camel farm visit.

TIPS FOR ROAD TRIPS FROM DUBAI | Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE

Weekend Road Trips From Dubai – Best Weekend Getaways In UAE
Road trips from Dubai
  • All the listed activities in this article are outdoor and adventurous. Being UAE a hot country, all road trips are worth doable in winter. 
  • Roads are extremely safe to drive and Google Maps works perfectly fine.
  • Sometimes you don’t find petrol bunks very close to one another, so it is better to take the proper fuel when you start. 
  • Take lots of fresh foods and water with you as you will find some food stops in between but not many.
  • Take proper shoes, swimwear and hiking gear as some of the activities are adventurous.
  • If you are staying in these locations for a night or two, then book your stay in advance as these luxury stays are very popular and beautiful so it can be expensive or full during the peak times of winter.
  • If you are crossing the UAE border to visit nearby Omani destinations then check your visa status and carry passport for stamping.
  • Though many locations are lonely and not people are seen but they are extremely safe for solo travelers and even for females too.
  • All staycation in the above listed places are very luxurious and have many activities for adventure lovers and family friendly too.
  • Some staycation resorts also have live entertainment but it depends on the timings like special events, festival days or weekends. Check their facebook page before booking your staycation resort.

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110 Comments

  1. Wow. I must say that you make visiting UAE much more appealing every-time I read something on your site. Initially I would think of only visiting Abu Dhabi but there is much more on offer really. I have heard a fair bit about Al Ain and Fujairah and it seems to be quite popular with locals as well. Its one I would want to visit on my next trip for sure. A camel farm with the kids would be another outing and one which would give you a view of traditional life on the Emirates away from the skyscrapers. There is so much to see and visit after reading this post and thanks for sharing the wider destination away from the more popular Dubai which is always great .

    1. UAE has many nature escapes and they were worth visiting too. Camel farms in virgin deserts are my favorites too.

  2. These are some really good weekend trip options from Dubai. I have done a quite a few of them. Just like you suggested, I took the Dubai’s RTA bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. Wsa pretty comfortable and costed just 25AED one-way. Will try Liwa and Khasab in my next visit to UAE.

  3. Awesome blog! This blog has an amazing information about the destination. The post is very unique and capture are very impressive photos. Thank you so much for sharing the details.

  4. OMG I definitely would love to visit one of the camel farms in Liwa. I am planning on spending two days next year in Dubai on a long layover. Sadly, I wont have time to enjoy any of these. Next time I will have to make the destination Dubai and not just the layover.

  5. We love Dubai. We were able to visit a couple of times and we see to it make some side trips if we have the chance. so far, we have enjoyed Abu Dhabi since we have some family there too.

    We’re planning to visit Al Ain during our next trip. Thank you for sharing the hotel recommendations. Will definitely keep them in mind.

  6. Nice and simple guide for people planning to visit Dubai! I saw the city while watching live cricket match in Dubai. The city is very beautiful! I would love to go there!

  7. We stayed in Dubai and only did a day trip for a safari adventure. But we should still like to visit Mleiha and stay in the desert. A few of your day trips we did as cruise stop day trips. We certainly loved our stops in Fujairah and Abu Dhabi. Although I now wish we tried snorkelling in Fujairah. So glad to know there are so many spots you can travel to on a day trip. And good to know public transit is an option for many day trips. With so much desert, I am sure it would be great to escape to an oasis like Hajjar and find water. Looks like it is time to head back to Dubai. I will PIN this for future reference.

    1. It is glad you have been to some spots and loved many of them. You would really love Hajjar mountain ranges with natural water and also snorkelling at UAE’s pristine beaches.

  8. I was in Dubai so many times, but had no idea there is so many excursion opportunities! Great, in deep article with all the required details and nice photos. Good work!

  9. So many amazing day trips to choose from! I didnt realize there was so much variety. This is such an incredibly helpful guide. Your photos are gorgeous too.

  10. I’m saving this post for my next visit! I had the chance to visit Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Mleiha last time I was in UAE. I’d add Zaya Nurai island for a luxury getaway from Dubai too! It was one of the highlights of my trip.

  11. I didn’t realize that there were so many great destinations this close to Dubai. Definitely makes it easier when planning a trip as there are so many amazing options! Mleiha looks very interesting. Thanks for sharing.

  12. It is quite fascinating how there are so many places to visit around Dubai on a weekend. Some of the places such as Hatta are really beautiful and the landscapes are stunning. This is a very useful and detailed guide about the places around Dubai. This can be used as a perfect resource while planning weekend trips out of Dubai

  13. This is a very elaborate and great article because it showcases that Dubai is not just about architecture and buildings. I like the Emirate because I have also seen all these places and there is actually lots to do around the main city. Hatta and Al ain are nice getaways. Your pictures do full justice to them.

  14. It’s amazing what the money could do, from dust to ultra modernization. This city houses luxury and amazing destination travel. I need to save up more for this kind of trip.

  15. Somehow I always think that UAE only has man-made cities and attractions, and I was wrong. Musandam is so beautiful with its fjord and Hatta is just amazing as Musandam. As a fossil lover, a visit to Mleiha is a must, in my opinion. The light shows at Sharjah’s mosque is stunning. It reminded me of a light show at a church in San Antonio, Texas. And what I like above them all, you can reach every one of the places by public transportation. That’s really great!

  16. I just shared your post to my best friend who’s now based in Dubai. She’s relatively new in the area and was mentioning about exploring the area and nearby locations. since she’s the outdoor type, I think she’ll enjoy a quick trip to Hatta.

  17. I’ve passed through Dubai airport so many times for connecting flights, but have never actually left the building! It’s so good to read about these day trips, I must say I wasn’t expecting to find such great options. Of all of them, I’m most drawn to Ras Al Khaima, I never say no to a beach trip!

    1. You would love Ras Al Khaimah as its beaches are not very crowded and beautiful too with backdrop of rocky mountain ranges.

  18. Many of my friends says how gorgeous Dubai is, that it looks like a paradise, a perfect destination. Maybe someday we will visit this for honeymoon perhaps. You making us jealous!

  19. Didn’t know there were so many places to visit in Dubai. Mleiha looks quite adventurous to me as I like to know about history and archaeological sites. I would love take a ride in Sand dunes in 4 wheel drive and do camping grabbing the opportunity to do stargazing in night. Never been to Desert before so all this looks quite exciting.

  20. this really is the bumper guide to trips near dubai. I have never been to the UAE, but will definitely bookmark this as there are some beautiful places nearby

  21. I rarely think of road trips when thinking of Dubai. I love the range of different sites to see and taking some time to see them on the road. Seeing camels roam freely would be something worth seeing

    1. Yes Chris, many people don’t know about the road trips from Dubai but they all are worth. Camels roaming freely in their farms is really the most exotic thing to do here.

  22. Dubai is such a lovely city, so much to see and do there! Unfortunately I’ve only been there once and haven’t explored anything outside the city center. Will keep this post in mind whenever I decide to go back, the Liwa Desert truly looks amazing!

    1. You would love the outdoor trips from Dubai. Liwa desert is truly amazing with all virgin sands and camels roaming freely.

  23. What a great list of ideas for road tripping outside the busy city of Dubai!
    Of course, if I had time I would do them all but if I have to choose a few I would probably head first to the Hatta dam! Just look at view! Amazing! After Hatta dam I would love to visit Khasab/Musandam because I have always wanted to visit Oman and Khasab/Musandam sound really wonderful as a first stop in Oman!

  24. I don’t know much about this area at all, but I always pictured Dubai as being a sprawling city area. I didn’t know that there were so many beautiful, natural areas so close. I don’t know which one I’d head to first. Possibly Liwa to see the camels because it’s so unique!

  25. Honestly not an area of the world that I would endeavor to visit, but I do have friends with family there and I no there is so much to do in Dubai and now with this post I see that there is a lot to do in the surrounding area – looks like some beautiful spots!

  26. Such amazing destinations near Dubai!! I’d love to visit Abu Dhabi for the architecture alone. And a trip to Liwa would be a chance of a lifetime. It’s so beautiful and I’d love to meet camels. Fujairah would be a great third weekend visit just to enjoy the location and relax at the beaches. Such great choices!

  27. I like this. While Dubai itself is very touristy, its interesting to see the wide variety of places to see & things to do around Dubai, which aren’t as popular.
    I’ve read about the prehistoric sites in Al Ain. So that would be a place I’d love to visit. Hatta is mesmerizing! Staycation at a beach resort in Fujairah sounds so relaxing, even just to read! I need a relaxing vacation.
    The light festival at Sharjah City looks fabulous. When I plan, I’ll make sure to make my trip around those dates.

  28. Wow I’d have to spend weeks in Dubai to check out all of these places. There really are such a wide array of landscapes near Dubai – the mountains, desert, water – UAE has it all. If I had to pick just one place to visit, I’d probably choose the desert. That bright orange sand is just stunning.

  29. very nice recommendation, thanks Yukti for sharing! I had the possibility to spend 24 hours in Dubai as my plane was delayed and I definitely need to go back. I will follow your suggestions. Especially the SHARJAH CITY is on my list now! Happy travels! 🙂

  30. Wow! Just wow! I don’t know a lot about UAE other than my dad was stationed there during Desert Storm. What beautiful sights! The mosques (especially the picture with the light show) is magnificent, and driving that Jebel Hafeet highway would be my #1 thing to do.Thanks for the great suggestions!

    1. The drive to Jebel Hafeet mountain by that curvy highway is really crazy and many car races too are organized here.

  31. Wow, I had no idea that you can visit so many amazingly different landscapes from Dubai! I always pictured the desert but clearly there’s a lot more than that. Khasab looks like a gorgeous place to visit for the weekend and unlike anything I imagined the area to look like.

  32. I love to see so many options of day trips from Dubai. I always thought there is not much to do in Dubai, but your blog has proved me wrong. I would totally love to visit Hatta, Al Ain and Fujeirah. Mleiha also seems to be very interesting. Abu Dhabi is always on my list and it’s cool to know that I can drive down easily from Dubai. That’s a lot to do while I stay in Dubai.

  33. I am currently planning a trip to Dubai. I cannot wait to see and explore Dubai, I have seen so many beautiful photos and it’s great to know that there are also a lot of great places near Dubai perfect for a Weekend trip.

  34. Hatta looks like my cup of tea entirely. Like Qatar, it is amazing (and somewhat disturbing) to see all that Dubai has created by throwing money at anything and everything to create the best, which is why you get amazing roads that so few use. Mountains though, those are all natural and wonderful. I hope they stay that way. I must visit before someone decided to build the worlds largest hotel there. 😉

    1. I must say Michael you must Dubai as when you will come here then you can figure out that money is not thrown anywhere or on everything to create the best. They have best infrastructure to keep their residents happy and peaceful. And for mountains Dubai is highly concerned to preserve its natural places and so don’t worry about destroying them. You have to visit UAE and live for several years then you will get rid of all misconceptions you have.

  35. Hatta dam looks really interesting, the colours are really beautiful. It’s amazing that you have such good roads with hardly anyone using them… I have yet to visit Dubai, other than passing through the airport, I’ll have to make time to get out of town!

  36. Thank you for such a comprehensive guide to weekend trips from Dubai. I had no idea there were so many beautiful destinations within a relatively short drive–it would be hard to pick where to begin! I especially love the rugged terrain and rich waters of Hatta Dam, and the scene shown in Mleiha reminds me of a lion’s head! But I think the beauty of mountain and sea at Fujairah strikes the perfect balance for me. To be honest, I’d like to try each of these weekend trips out, one after the other.

  37. I never really think of Dubai being a spot for day trips, we generally spend a couple of hours at the airport on the way somewhere else! This is a great list of alternative things to do in the UAE that I hadn’t really thought of before. I think I’d love Hatta, those sunsets sound amazing. And, I’m sure the historical sites at Mleiha would be very interesting.

  38. I haven’t been to Dubai but it sure looks really different than the rest of the Middle east cities, I have never known that Dubai has a coastline it was so refreshing to see you standing on a beach in Dubai. I was always been a fan of Mleiha, but I never knew that it was an archaeological site.

    1. You would truly love the nature trips from Dubai as they have so many exciting and interesting things to know and see.

  39. I loved reading your recommendations! We typically try to explore outside of the main cities when we travel, so it is nice to learn about some nice places near Dubai. Hatta Dam looks very beautiful. I think we wound enjoy a weekend there! Al Barari Atmosphere Farm is a great recommendation too! We travel as a family, and it looks like a great option for us.

  40. This was so interesting! When I went to Dubai 15 years ago, I didn’t even think you could do a road trip from there. I guess the whole city (and country) has both grown and changed a lot, and travelers have started to expand their trips out from Dubai. I especially regret that I didn’t see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, it was not ready yet when I was there. I hope to visit Dubai soon again.

  41. So first of all those resorts in AL AIN & Fujairah are crazy cool looking. I guess I had no idea what to expect but they look like great fun little playgrounds for a fun weekend getaway trip from Dubai. But in reality, I know my personality, I think I would love to explore Mleiha and the fossils and other neat desert type expeditions around that area the most. Perhaps it is because it seems more active and educational to me.

  42. This is such an exhaustive list of road trip options from Dubai. All I ever knew and thought about visiting were Dubai and Abu Dhabi. And here, you have given me so many more choices. I would love to explore the Mleiha Archaeological Area. Hatta also looks promising. The scenery is beautiful. Plus, Ras Al Khaimah looks great with those pristine white sands and luxury beach resorts.

    1. There are 7 Emirates in UAE and so apart from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, remaining 5 are also worth visiting in terms of nature and culture trips. You would love all of them.

  43. This is great. We’ve only done a few days in the city itself and to be honest we weren’t overly keen on it as a whole. There we’re areas we liked like the creek area but it just wasn’t us. But saying that we also wished we had more time to visit the UAE outside of Dubai and to take in more of the landscape and culture that the city is lacking.

  44. I was not prepared to see “mountain camping or hiking” on this list. I guess I have to visit Hatta or Fujairah now! I also didn’t know that RAK was home of the world’s longest zip line, which seems like an awesome bucket list item. The Mosque of Sharjah would be absolutely incredible to see in person during the Sharjah Light Festival. Is it just me, or are these types of attractions becoming more and more abundant lately?

    1. You would love all types of adventures here around Dubai and too all are related to some form of nature. Though nature was present here but yes activities are increasing nowadays more which is good for adventure travelers

  45. I always forget that the UAE has a coastline! Fujairah sounds like where I’d like to get a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. I do love a good beach. Checking out the fjords at Khasab / Musandam also sounds like a great break from the city. But to be honest, I love a good road trip and even just cutting the engine loose in a fast sports car along the desert highways would do it for me, for sure!

    1. Fast sports car along the desert highways are the most popular thing to do here though it is a luxury option but worth doing it along these beautiful road.

  46. It is amazing how beautiful the U.A.E. is away from the cities and the nature of the place. I think I would prefer to visit these areas than the cities itself, but I still need to visit the cities so I want to check out everything. So much to do in one lifetime! 😀 Love your photos. 🙂

    1. Thanks Danik for loving the photos and yes there is many nature trips to do here in UAE apart from its vibrant cities.

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