While the city center offers endless entertainment, shopping, and skyscrapers, getting out on the open road reveals a completely different side of the country. The UAE features an incredible network of smooth, high-speed highways that cut through massive desert dunes, rugged mountain ranges, and peaceful coastal towns. If you are ready to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, packing your bags for a weekend drive is the perfect plan. All you need is a reliable vehicle and a sense of adventure to experience these beautiful landscapes.
Conquer the winding roads of Jebel Jais
Located in the northern emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, Jebel Jais is the highest mountain peak in the country. The drive from the city center takes about two hours, and the landscape shifts dramatically from flat desert plains to massive limestone cliffs.
The real highlight for driving enthusiasts is the mountain road itself. It features multiple lanes, perfectly smooth asphalt, and sweeping hairpin turns that climb up to nearly 2,000 meters above sea level. There are plenty of viewing points along the way where you can pull over safely to take photos of the deep canyons below.
At the summit, the air is noticeably cooler than down on the coast, making it a favorite escape during the warmer months. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, the mountain is home to the world's longest zipline. For a more relaxed trip, you can simply enjoy a sunset picnic at the top while watching the rocky peaks turn shades of orange and pink.
Explore the mountain enclave of Hatta
If you want a mix of history, outdoor activities, and unique nature, heading south toward Hatta is an excellent choice. This mountain enclave sits tucked away in the Hajar range, roughly 90 minutes away from the main city highways.
The route to Hatta is visually stunning, with the sand dunes slowly turning from golden yellow to a deep, dark red as you approach the rocky foothills. One of the main spots to visit is the Hatta Dam. The contrast of the bright turquoise water against the stark, dry brown mountains is unforgettable. You can park your car and rent a kayak or a paddleboat to explore the calm waters.
For those who appreciate heritage, the restored Hatta Heritage Village offers a glimpse into traditional mountain life from centuries ago. If you plan to tackle this terrain, choosing a spacious SUV car rental in Dubai provides the extra clearance and comfort needed to pack hiking gear, mountain bikes, or picnic supplies for the family.
Journey into the cinematic dunes of Liwa Oasis
For the ultimate desert driving experience, you must head deep into the Abu Dhabi emirate toward the Liwa Oasis. This trip takes about three and a half hours, leading you to the edge of the Rub' al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, which is the largest continuous sand desert in the world.
This drive feels like entering a movie set. The highways are bordered by massive, towering sand dunes that stretch out as far as the eye can see. The scale of the landscape is humbling, and the silence of the deep desert is a welcome break from the buzz of the city.
A must-visit landmark in the area is the Moreeb Dune, one of the tallest sand structures in the region, rising over 300 meters high. Every winter, motorsports enthusiasts gather here for hill-climb competitions. Even if you do not drive over the sand yourself, watching the sunset reflect off these massive golden ridges is worth the journey alone. Just make sure to fill up your fuel tank at every opportunity, as petrol stations are spread out in this remote region.
Drive to the coastal beauty of Fujairah
If you prefer sea views and coastal breezes, a road trip across the country to the east coast emirate of Fujairah is highly recommended. The journey takes around 90 minutes, cutting directly through the sharp Hajar mountain passes before opening up to the Gulf of Oman.
Fujairah offers a completely different vibe compared to the Arabian Gulf side of the country. The water here is part of the Indian Ocean, making it clearer and much better for water sports. A popular stop for residents and tourists alike is Snoopy Island, a rocky formation shaped like the famous cartoon character sleeping on his back.
The public beaches near the island are fantastic for snorkeling, scuba diving, and camping under the stars during the cooler winter months. On your way back, you can take the older scenic routes through the mountains to stop at the famous Friday Market near Masafi, where local vendors sell fresh fruits, traditional carpets, and beautiful clay pottery.