Best Road Trips in the UAE: Explore the Country’s Hidden Wonders
Best Road Trips In The UAE: Explore The Country’s Hidden Wonders
Taking the open road in the UAE is indeed something special. Maybe it's the contrast between the modern cities and the golden deserts, or the way the roads seem to go on forever until they reach the skyline. Whatever the case, the Emirates are truly deserving of a road-trip- because you can easily drive around them in one day but still be amazed by the beautiful landscapes that look like a different world.
Whether it is a weekend outing or any other reason to visit, these roads will reveal you to an aspect of the UAE that few people are familiar with.
1. Dubai to Hatta - A Quick Escape to the Mountains
Hatta is the ideal reset button when the city seems to be too loud. The skyline promises way to winding mountain roads and cool air just 90 minutes away in Dubai. Take the tea on the run, then kayak at the dam, sightsee the heritage village or ride a bike on the trails.
Accessibility to the road has also been enhanced and new eco-lodges and glamping sites allow one to transform this fast trip into an easy weekend away.
2. Abu Dhabi to Al Ain – A Journey Through the “Garden City”
The Abu Dhabi to Al Ain journey is one of the journeys that are relaxed all the way. Within nearly two hours, you begin to see the desert gradually turn green and you begin to understand why the city is referred to as the Garden City.
You could spend some time in the Al Ain Oasis wandering, drive up the Jebel Hafeet and get astounding views, or visit the camel market should you wish something that is a little more localized. And when you are in the mood to drive, the Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road is also worth the ride - easy curves, open scenery, a combination of tranquility and adventure that you will never find anywhere.
3. Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah – The Coastal Route to Adventure
Ras Al Khaimah is the most ideal region to satisfy the desires of people who wish to have both the beaches and mountains. The Dubai drive takes an average of 90 minutes and to have a relaxing drive it is better to follow the coastal route via Umm Al Quwain.
After arriving at RAK, you have to decide your adventure - ziplining over Jebel Jais, with relaxing at Al Marjan Island, or sightseeing the ancient Dhayah Fort. RAK is also spending a lot of money on outdoor tourism since the beginning of 2025 and you will see new hiking paths and new road signs on the mountain trails.
If you choose to stay overnight, one of the mountain lodges that have come up around Jebel Jais may be your destination. They are very basic, a bit loud, and surrounded by views that will make you forget you are in the UAE.
4. Sharjah to Kalba – The Route Less Traveled
This is a neglected one and yet the Kalba to Sharjah is surely the most scenic of drives in the country. The Sharjah- Kalba Road goes directly through the mountains, going through tunnels which lead to bursts of light and desert.
In just a bit over an hour, the small maritime port of Kalba close to the Oman border will be your next stop. The place is not crowded with tourists; it is just the fishermen, the mangroves, and the birds. Go for the Kalba Mangrove Reserve or take a kayak out on the lagoon at sunset.
Since 2024, the UAE government has been enhancing the coastal routes, and the drive has never been smoother and safer. This is best to anyone who prefers a meditative drive.
5. Fujairah Loop – Mountains, Beaches, and Winding Roads
Road-trippers do not give Fujairah enough love. The Emirate has an entirely different feel - rough coasts, black rock mountain ranges and small villages that are placed between valleys.
The drive is approximately two hours from Dubai and you can pass through Masafi, Dibba and Khor Fakkan on the way back. Every destination has its rhythm: Friday Market in Masafi with local fruits and pottery, local beaches in Dibba to swim in, and the picnic destination in Al Rafisah Dam in Khor Fakkan.
The Fujairah-Khor Fakkan highway is one of the most picturesque roads in the country - a smooth tarmac, tunnels that have been drilled through cliffs, and ample areas to stop and take pictures.
6. Dubai to Liwa – Into the Heart of the Desert
To go on a real desert adventure, you should drive to Liwa which is located in the Empty Quarter of Abu Dhabi. It is approximately a four hour drive out of Dubai, surrounded by endless dunes and striking silence. Stop at Moreeb Dune or visit during the Liwa Date Festival to catch a glimpse of local life.
Fuel stops are limited, so pack water, check your tires, and be ready - this road feels like the edge of the world in the best way possible.
7. The Northern Emirates Circuit – For the True Explorer
When you are fed up with the common drives, then go to the Northern Emirates circuit - a road that passes through the Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, Ajman, and Fujairah in a huge loop.
You will have all that: desert dunes, small fishing towns, mountain passes and quiet beaches. It is ideal during long weekends, when you just want to drive and find out where the day will lead you.
A lot of people living in the UAE have begun to consider visiting this loop more, as it is not that difficult to do without staying in hotels - fill up the fuel, pack your snacks, and start drive.
A Little Note From ezee Visa
We are not just a travel agency; we are part of a lot of travel stories. Whether your journey is a road trip over a relatively short distance in the Emirates or a longer trip outside the country, we will take care of the visa bit so that you can concentrate on the other aspect of the adventure the fun.
We stay on top of all visa updates, visas requirements, and immigration developments all over the world - making sure that your travel plans do not get interrupted. In case you are planning to visit friends or family during these UAE drives, our team can assist in sorting out their visit visas within a relatively short time and without any form of stress.
It's time to pack bags, set up your playlist and turn the engine on, the UAE roads are ready to welcome you.
