Best Places to Go from Dubai for Day Trips and Weekend

When we talk about UAE, Dubai tourism often gets the most attention. However, the other emirates are often overlooked. 

Well, there are numerous places you can travel to from Dubai. So, whether you are looking for perfect spots for a day trip or want to have a weekend getaway, this blog is your guide! 

Let’s discuss some famous destinations and hidden gems across the UAE that often go unnoticed beyond Dubai. 

Most of the locations are easily reachable with our luxury car rentals in Dubai, offering both comfort and style. 

Let’s get started. 

Top Places to Visit from Dubai by Car 

Tourists who visit Dubai choose to spend their days exploring: 

• Abu Dhabi for its cultural sites and museums 
• Hatta for its natural landscapes and outdoor activities 
• Dubai desert for its exciting safaris. 
• Ras Al Khaimah for its beach and mountain scenery 

DAY TRIPS 

Abu Dhabi 

The capital city, Abu Dhabi, showcases both traditional and contemporary architecture through its impressive infrastructure, cultural sites and modern attractions. 

These are the most common tourist attractions that you can travel to by car from Dubai: 

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: The mosque stands out because of its luxurious golden accents and intricate architectural details. 
• Ferrari World: The Formula Rossa at Ferrari World lets you experience the world's fastest roller coaster while enjoying additional Ferrari-themed entertainment. 
• Qasr Al Watan: The presidential palace allows visitors to explore its impressive halls, artistic ceilings and elegant library. 
• The Emirates Palace: It offers visitors a chance to witness the peak of luxury. 
• Corniche Beach: Tourists can take a relaxing stroll at Corniche Beach while taking in the scenic ocean views. 
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: The museum presents international art and artifacts beneath its distinctive dome structure. 
• BAPS Hindu Temple: Visit this newly-build temple which features intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere. 

Read more: Best Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi by Car 

Fujairah 

Fujairah makes an excellent day trip for visitors traveling from Dubai. 

This coastal town on the east coast of the Indian Ocean provides visitors with numerous fascinating attractions, including a mosque that few people know about, attractive forts and stunning dams to explore. 

The Grand Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Fujairah stands as the main attraction for visitors to this location. 

The mosque features Turkish-inspired architecture with domed prayer hall and four minarets on all sides. 

The journey further north leads to Khor Fakkan where you can explore Al Rafisah Dam and hike along the famous Al Rabi Hiking Trail. 

Hatta 

The city offers natural scenery and outdoor activities including kayaking and the Hatta Dam for tourists to explore. 

Hatta is often a preferred day-trip destination from Dubai because this mountainous area near the UAE-Oman border offers tourists a chance to escape Dubai's modernity by experiencing desert mountains, traditional villages and rugged peaks. 

At the Hatta Heritage Village, you will be able to spend time exploring local life, history, and survival methods during times of scarcity. 

The North and South Tower of Hatta offer hiking trails which lead to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. 

Ajman 

Although Ajman is the smallest emirate in the UAE, this doesn’t make it less exciting to travel by car. 

The emirate offers tourists a complete experience through its beautiful landscapes, active nightlife, popular sites, beachfront properties and traditional cafes. 

The main activities in Ajman include exploring nightlife spots and exploring attractions while relaxing at a resort. 

The distance between Dubai and Ajman is about 30-35 kilometers by car. 

Sharjah 

Sharjah, the cultural heart of UAE, is known for its numerous museums and art galleries. The emirate is easily accessible from Dubai by premium rental car services, thanks to its short driving distance. 

The United Arab Emirates maintains its cultural heritage through traditional practices which Sharjah protects as its main cultural center. 

Driving around Sharjah, you will have the opportunity to discover historical sites and artistic attractions and traditional marketplaces. 

You can stop by at: 

• The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: It displays thousands of historical artifacts including ancient manuscripts and attractive pottery pieces. 
• Souq Al Arsah: This heritage marketplace allows visitors to discover Persian rugs, pearls and jewelry among its unique shopping items. 
• Al Majaz Waterfront: This area in Sharjah offers tourists a peaceful walkway with fountains, cafes and waterfront views. 

Dubai Desert 

The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve offers desert day trips that let you experience its endless dunes. 

The heart-pounding dune bashing experience provides an intense adrenaline boost to your desert adventure. 

Moreover, the desert sky transforms into a painting of warm colors at the time of sunset while you watch the breathtaking view. 

Read also: Top Free Places to Visit in Dubai for Tourists & Residents 

WEEKEND GETAWAYS 

Ras Al Khaimah 

Ras Al Khaimah offers tourists the chance to explore its beaches, Hajar Mountains and extensive desert terrain. 

The city is home to the UAE's highest peak, Jebel Jais. This mountain allows visitors to experience thrilling activities and the most intense adventure experience at its summit. 

The 1934-meter elevation of Jebel Jais makes it an excellent day-trip destination from Dubai, which remains accessible during summer months. 

Moreover, the Jebel Jais drive offers one of the UAE's most attractive routes while tourists discover hidden desert peaks and mountains that exist beyond the UAE's known landscape. 

The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah together with Dhayah Fort present valuable attractions for visitors to explore. 

There’s more… 

Al Ain 

The city of Al Ain offers a peaceful settlement which borders with Oman. The city receives its nickname "The Garden City" because it contains numerous green areas and historical sites. 

The tranquil atmosphere of this city makes it an ideal destination for people who are looking to get a break from Dubai’s fast-paced lifestyle. 

You can visit the following spots: 

• Al Ain Oasis allows visitors to walk through its palm tree forest while they learn about the traditional water management systems which sustained the oasis. 
• The tall mountain of Jebel Hafeet allows tourists to drive up for panoramic views of the city and surrounding desert landscape. 
• Al Jahili Fort stands as a longstanding fort that displays historical information about the local region. 
• Al Ain Zoo provides a family-friendly environment where you can interact with giraffes, lions and other animals. 

Read also: Top 10 Luxury Cars in Dubai for Ultimate Prestige and Performance 

Best Time to Visit Each Destination 

3 Key Tips for Planning a Trip from Dubai 

If you are looking for a comfortable and lavish trip from Dubai, follow these key trip planning tips. 

1. Book your flights and accommodation early and plan your activities in advance. 
2. Be flexible to discover places based on your individual travel pace. 
3. Go for luxury car rentals as they provide premium vehicles that offer both comfort and style which enhances your entire travel experience. 

FAQs 

What are the best places to go on a day trip from Dubai? 

The following are the best places to go on a day trip from Dubai: 

• Abu Dhabi 
• Fujairah 
• Hatta 
• Ajman 
• Sharjah 
• Dubai Desert 

How far is Abu Dhabi from Dubai by car? 

The distance from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by car is about 140 kilometers. The duration of your trip depends on the traffic situation and your chosen route to Abu Dhabi. The total driving time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

Can I rent a car in Dubai for trips to other Emirates? 

Yes. You can rent a car in Dubai for day trips to other Emirates. Rent a luxury car at Mirage Rent A Car for premium travel experiences that provide both comfort and style. 

Is it safe to drive from Dubai to Hatta or Ras Al Khaimah? 

Yes. The roads from Dubai to Hatta and Ras Al Khaimah offer safe driving conditions as they have excellent infrastructure, clear signs and stunning views that enhance the driving experience. 

What documents do I need to rent a car for UAE road trips? 

The requirements for UAE road trip car rentals include: 

• A valid driving license 
• Passport copy 
• Visa or entry stamp 
• Emirates ID for residents 

Tourists who want to drive in the UAE must have an International Driving Permit. 

Travel In Style with Our Luxury Cars 

Mirage luxury car rentals offer sleek sedans and powerful SUVs that will turn your day trips and weekend getaways into extraordinary adventures. 

Our luxury vehicles allow you to discover all hidden gems of the UAE with comfort and style. In addition, our rugged SUVs are ideal for coastal trips and mountain exploration. 

Book your exotic car today and get it delivered to your doorstep!