Thinking about a road trip in the UAE? It’s a great idea, especially if you plan to rent a car Dubai. A taxi or public transportation find hidden treasures and really get under the skin of all that the UAE has to offer. It’s so much better than only taking you can see the country. You can drive around some very smooth roads, and tranquil coastlines. Forget about merely hanging around one city; with a car rental The country has a number of great roads and amazing places to visit, including towering mountains
Key Takeaways
- UAE’s varied terrain. • Hire a car in Dubai to travel at your own pace and explore the country.
- The U.A.E. is a road tripper’s dream: There’s a combination of mountains, coastline and desert to explore, right in one
- Whether it’s visiting historical sites or stopping off for modern entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on a UAE road trip.
- Ras Al Khaimah
kilometers from Dubai, and 300 kilometers from Abu Dhabi, and presents a landscape that shifts from dune after dune to, surprisingly, green. filled to the brim with beautifully rugged mountains and loads of things to do, particularly if you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie. It is about 113 Al Khaimah is a great spot for a road trip! It’s the emirate furthest to the north, and it’s Ras
zip-line: the Jebel Jais Flight so you can fly on the mountains! is in this emirate. The best thing about it’s the fact that it hosts the world’s longest its hiking destinations. The UAE’s highest peak, Jebel Jais, the Arabian deserts with some very cool, authentic camps with amazing dinners. Ras Al Khaimah is also renowned for But you can also get out and see
- Fujairah
it is getting easier. focus on sustainability, and it’s pretty inspiring. And the local government has poured money into better roads though, so established, and attention is being paid to protecting the flawless environment of the coast and the mountains. There’s been a trickle of new resorts that have opened, with a 2025. A burgeoning eco-tourism industry has been Fujairah has really raised its game in
If you’re into water activities, this is your spot.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Diving and Snorkeling: The coral reefs are supposed to be amazing. I didn’t get a chance to dive deep, but the snorkeling was great. Saw tons of colorful fish.
- Beach Resorts: Plenty of options to chill out, soak up the sun, and enjoy the ocean breeze. Some resorts offer activity packages, so you can try a bit of everything.
- Hiking: Wadi Waruyah, often called the Grand Canyon of the UAE, is a must-visit for hikers. It’s in the Hajar Mountains and offers some incredible views. I’m planning a trip back just to tackle some of those trails.
- Al Ain
Al Ain, often called the ‘Garden City,’ is a fantastic road trip destination. It’s known for its greenery, natural springs, and a stunning mountain backdrop. If you’re into UAE history, Al Ain is a must-visit. Plus, the roads leading there offer some seriously beautiful views. I took this trip last month and it was amazing!
Here’s a quick look at some of the key attractions and their estimated visit times:
| Attraction | Estimated Visit Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Al Ain Zoo | 4-6 hours | Plan for a full day if doing the safari |
| Wadi Adventure | 3-5 hours | Consider booking in advance |
| Heritage Sites | 2-4 hours | Guided tours recommended |
- Umm Al Quwain
Umm Al Quwain? Yeah, it’s one of the smaller emirates, but don’t let that fool you. It’s got a chill vibe that’s perfect for a relaxed road trip. Think peaceful drives and beautiful scenery. Honestly, sometimes you just need a break from the Dubai madness, and Umm Al Quwain delivers. Word on the street is that they’re working on some new eco-tourism projects for 2025, so expect even more nature-focused activities soon.
- Hatta
Honestly, Hatta is a great escape. It’s got a bit of everything – nature, adventure, and a touch of history. Just remember to pack some snacks and drinks, especially if you’re planning on spending the whole day there. The drive is scenic, but the food options can be a bit limited once you’re out there.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Hatta Dam: Kayaking, paddle boating, and stunning views.
- Hatta Heritage Village: Explore traditional Emirati life.
- Wadi Hub: Mountain biking, ziplining, and other adventure sports.
- Hatta Honey Bee Garden: Learn about bees and sample local honey (new as of this year!).
- Ajman
I will say one thing I’ve noticed is that Ajman is making some efforts to pull in more tourists. I noticed a few new resorts under construction along the coast, and the Corniche looks pretty spiffy. They are definitely pushing to give it a bit more of a modern feel, but they are also not going to lose the cool and laid-back vibe.
Here are a handful of things you might consider:
- Go to the beach: Ajman’s beaches tend to be quieter than those in Dubai or Sharjah. It’s a nice place to chill, lie in sun and possibly take a dip in the Gulf.
- Visit the Ajman Museum: Set in an old fort, it offers a look into the history of the emirate. It’s not giant or anything, but it’s definitely worth seeing if you like that kind of stuff.
- Wander the Ajman Dhow Yard: This is where they still construct the traditional wooden vessels. It’s really amazing to see the craftsmanship that goes into these things. You’re able to watch the workers, and you get an idea of how these boats are made.
- Dubai to Abu Dhabi
So, the drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi? It’s kind of, the very most classic UAE road trip there is. Get on the E11 and it’s basically a beeline between two of the Gulf’s largest uber-cities. It’s not exactly off the beaten path, but it’s a must-do, particularly for those new to the area. And it’s very easy to do if you rent a car Dubai as well.
The drive is relatively easy, but the portends? Here’s where it gets interesting.
The five must-see stops to add to your travel list:
- Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque: No, really, I HAVE to break and go here. It’s beautiful, especially at sunset. You’ll just want to dress appropriately.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi: While you may not be a big art person, the building itself is worth visiting. It is as if an awesome dome were floating.
- Corniche: A pleasant spot to take a stroll, get something to eat and drink and watch the world pass. It’s really great during the cold months.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Requirements to Rent a Car in the UAE?
To rent a car in the UAE, you will need a valid passport, an international driver’s license, and a credit card.
How old do you have to be to rent a car?
Yes, there’s an age limit. You are typically required to be at least 21 to rent a car. With some of the fancier cars, the age limit is 25.
Can I rent a car with no deposit?
Yes, there are a few rental places that will allow you to rent without qualifying for a deposit.
