Road Trip Itineraries from Dubai: Where to Go

Dubai is not just a city of architectural wonders, luxury shopping, and desert adventures—it’s also the perfect starting point for road trips across the UAE and beyond. With world-class highways, scenic routes, and exciting destinations within a few hours’ drive, planning a road trip from Dubai can be the ultimate way to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of the region. If you’re looking to break away from the urban jungle, one of the best ways to do it is to Rent a Car in Dubai and hit the road at your own pace. Whether you’re in search of mountain views, beachside serenity, or historical treasures, there’s something for every kind of traveler.

Let’s dive into some of the top road trip itineraries from Dubai that are worth your fuel and time.

1. Dubai to Hatta – Mountain Escape

Distance: 130 km
Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

If you’re in the mood for fresh air, rugged mountains, and outdoor adventures, Hatta is your go-to getaway. Nestled in the Hajar Mountains, this exclave of Dubai offers kayaking in the Hatta Dam, mountain biking trails, hiking paths, and heritage sites.

Highlights:

• Hatta Dam (perfect for paddleboarding or kayaking)
  
• Hatta Heritage Village
  
• Hatta Wadi Hub for ziplining and wall climbing
  

Best Car for the Trip: SUV or 4×4 (especially if you plan to explore off-road trails)

2. Dubai to Abu Dhabi – Culture Meets Luxury

Distance: 140 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is a must-visit if you haven’t explored its unique charm yet. With world-class museums, opulent mosques, and cultural landmarks, it’s a trip worth making—especially if you Rent a Car in Dubai, as the road to Abu Dhabi is a straight and scenic drive.

Highlights:

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
  
• Louvre Abu Dhabi
  
• Qasr Al Watan (Presidential Palace)
  
• Yas Island (Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World)
  

Best Car for the Trip: Sedan or luxury car for comfort

3. Dubai to Fujairah – East Coast Beach Vibes

Distance: 170 km
Travel Time: 2 hours

Swap skyscrapers for sandy shores on a drive to Fujairah, located on the Gulf of Oman. Unlike Dubai’s urban beaches, Fujairah’s coastline is quieter, surrounded by dramatic mountain backdrops and charming villages.

Highlights:

• Snoopy Island (great for snorkeling and diving)
  
• Fujairah Fort
  
• Al-Bidyah Mosque (oldest mosque in the UAE)
  

Best Car for the Trip: Any reliable vehicle, though an SUV is great for comfort

4. Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah – Mountains & Beaches

Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is gaining popularity as a laid-back alternative to the busier emirates. It offers natural beauty, stunning beaches, and mountain adventure.

Highlights:

• Jebel Jais (UAE’s highest mountain)
  
• Jebel Jais Flight (world’s longest zipline)
  
• Dhayah Fort
  

Best Car for the Trip: SUV for mountain driving

5. Dubai to Al Ain – The Garden City

Distance: 150 km
Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

For a blend of greenery and heritage, head to Al Ain, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This city stands out with its lush oases, date farms, and cultural gems.

Highlights:

• Al Ain Oasis
  
• Al Ain Zoo
  
• Jebel Hafeet (winding mountain road with spectacular views)
  

Best Car for the Trip: Sedan or SUV for the mountain climb

6. Dubai to Musandam (Oman) – Fjords and Boat Cruises

Distance: 200 km
Travel Time: 2.5 to 3 hours (with border crossing)

While not technically in the UAE, Musandam is a short road trip away from Dubai and offers a completely different landscape. Known as the “Norway of Arabia,” Musandam is famous for its dramatic cliffs and fjord-like inlets.

Highlights:

• Dhow cruise in Khasab
  
• Dolphin watching
  
• Snorkeling and diving
  

Note: You’ll need a valid Oman visa and the rental company’s permission to take the car across the border.

Best Car for the Trip: SUV or 4×4

7. Dubai to Liwa Oasis – Desert Expedition

Distance: 340 km
Travel Time: 3.5 to 4 hours

Looking for a real desert adventure? The Liwa Oasis, located on the edge of the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter), offers dramatic dunes and authentic Bedouin culture.

Highlights:

• Moreeb Dune (one of the world’s tallest sand dunes)
  
• Desert camping and stargazing
  
• Liwa Date Festival (seasonal)
  

Best Car for the Trip: 4×4 or desert-ready SUV

8. Dubai to Kalba and Khor Fakkan – Nature and Tranquility

Distance: 150 km
Travel Time: 2 hours

Located on the UAE’s eastern coast, Kalba and Khor Fakkan offer lush mangroves, secluded beaches, and peaceful getaways.

Highlights:

• Kalba Mangrove Reserve
  
• Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre
  
• Sandy Beach and Coral Reefs
  

Best Car for the Trip: Sedan or crossover

Tips for Planning a Road Trip from Dubai

1. Rent the Right Vehicle:
If you’re planning long drives or off-road adventures, don’t skimp on the type of vehicle. SUV rentals are usually the most versatile. Make sure to mention your destination while booking so the company can advise you accordingly.

2. Book in Advance:
Especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, it’s wise to Rent a Car in Dubai a few days early to get better rates and availability.

3. Carry Essentials:
Pack snacks, water, a GPS device or mobile charger, and first-aid supplies. Even though the UAE has excellent roads, some areas may have limited amenities.

4. Understand Road Rules:
Speed limits vary, and speed cameras are everywhere. Ensure you’re familiar with basic UAE road rules, including Salik (toll) systems, to avoid fines.

5. Stay Connected:
While mobile coverage is good in most areas, downloading offline maps and keeping emergency numbers handy is a good idea, especially for longer routes.

Cost of a Road Trip from Dubai

Road trips are budget-friendly, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family. Here’s a rough breakdown of typical costs:

• Rental Car (Per Day): AED 100–300 for sedans, AED 300–600 for SUVs
  
• Fuel: AED 2.80–3.20/liter (as of current rates)
  
• Salik Toll: AED 4 per gate crossed
  
• Meals: AED 30–80 per person per meal
  
• Hotel Stay (Optional): AED 150–500 per night depending on the location
  

Planning and budgeting ahead helps keep your journey stress-free.

Conclusion

Road trips from Dubai offer an exciting way to discover the hidden gems and natural wonders of the UAE and nearby Oman. Whether it’s the cool mountain air of Hatta, the tranquil beaches of Fujairah, or the historical charm of Al Ain, there’s a perfect road trip for everyone.

When you Rent a Car in Dubai, you give yourself the freedom to travel on your own terms—stopping for photos, grabbing local bites, and discovering off-the-map attractions. With smooth highways and scenic routes, your journey can be just as rewarding as the destination.

So, pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready to experience the UAE like never before. Your next adventure is just a road trip away!