The United Arab Emirates, a gem in the Arabian Peninsula, is a place where modern life dances with tradition, and every road has a story to tell. For the adventurous souls out there, a road trip through the UAE promises an exciting ride. The highways, especially in Dubai, are famously smooth. While there are plenty of wide, straight roads and complex junctions, hidden away in the corners of the UAE are roads that will definitely get your heart racing.
If you’ve just had your car serviced at ARMotors (ARM®), it’s time to hit the road! All you need is your vehicle, some great tunes, and maybe a fun companion to explore the UAE’s most scenic routes. We’ve put together a list of our favorite road trips in the UAE below. Don’t have the perfect car for this adventure? No worries! At Gear Up Events, we can hook you up with your dream ride and even offer guided tours.
Jabal Hafeet Road – The Sunset Drive
The road to the peak of Jabal Hafeet is a mountain road located in Al Ain, in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Found on the eastern border with Oman, it extends for just under 12 kilometers in length. The road attracts bikers and drivers alike who come to tackle the ascent and navigate the corners and hairpin turns. The twists and turns will truly test your driving skills. At the top of the mountain, visitors are greeted by a platform with a view of the entire city of Al Ain. Experiencing a sunset from Jebel Hafeet is a must for any road trip in the UAE.
Fujairah Mountain Road & Dibba
This road is one of the oldest routes connecting the two coasts of the UAE, passing through the Hajar Mountain range and accessed via the Sharjah-Kalba road. This mountain road offers amazing scenery and a chance to visit the famous Friday Market, where you can find everything from pottery to tapestries. Make sure to also plan a stop at Dibba, which offers some of the best beaches in the country. Once there, be sure to visit Snoopy Island, which resembles the famous cartoon character.
Jabal Jais
Located in the northern emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, Jabal Jais is the highest peak in the UAE and a popular spot for those seeking a break from city life. The road up this mountain is a driver’s dream, featuring more than 10 hairpin turns and numerous S-turns. After a 30-kilometer drive up the mountain, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views of the mountain range and the RAK port.
Jabal Taween
Nestled in the Hajar Mountain range, Jabal Taween is home to a military surveillance base, making it a bit harder to find. The road to the peak is a challenging drive, with blind turns and sudden declines, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience. It is a great route for those seeking a thrilling drive.
Sir Bani Yas Island
A road trip to Sir Bani Yas Island, located 370 kilometers from Dubai, is an exciting adventure. The island is home to thousands of free-roaming animals, and visitors can stay at the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara.
Hatta
Hatta is known for its diverse landscape, featuring plain terrain, dunes, and rocky mountain slopes. Located 150 kilometers from Dubai, it also has a village with small Bedouin houses, a 16th-century fort, and several pools in the Hajar Mountains.
Khasab, Musandam
Musandam, located in Oman, is a popular destination for a road trip from Dubai. The drive takes you past the sandy trails of Ras Al Khaimah and onto a picturesque road, showcasing the beautiful coastline of Musandam with its fjords and bays. The best routes are the E11 or E311 via Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain.
Liwa Oasis
To reach Liwa Oasis, you can take two routes starting on the E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road) via Abu Dhabi. The trip features magnificent oasis villages, camel farms, and the Emirates National Automobile Museum. From Dubai, the distance to Liwa Oasis is around 350 kilometers, or a four-hour drive. The journey offers an exhilarating experience through vast and untamed beauty. It’s a chance to explore the serene desert landscape and discover the less-trodden paths of the UAE.
Al Bidya Mosque
Located in Fujairah, Al Bidya Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in the UAE and a significant historical site offering insights into early Islamic architecture and the region’s religious heritage.
The Historic Route: Dubai to Al Ain
This drive transitions from the energetic pulse of Dubai to the tranquil oases of Al Ain. The route showcases the diversity of the UAE, transforming from the skyscrapers of Dubai to the serene landscapes of Al Ain.
The Northern Emirates Route: Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah
This journey takes you from the cultural epicenter of Sharjah to the picturesque landscapes of Ras Al Khaimah, transitioning from urban elegance to natural tranquility.
The Urban Excursion: Abu Dhabi City Tour
An urban excursion around Abu Dhabi is a journey through the rich tapestry of modern architecture and cultural landmarks. Highlights include the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the city’s seamless blend of traditional and futuristic designs.
Making Memories on the Move
Exploring the UAE by road offers unforgettable experiences, traversing diverse cultural landscapes and breathtaking natural wonders. Gear Up Events’ selection of supercars guarantees style and reliability for your journey, making every road trip a memorable adventure. And to be sure that your car is ready for the road trip have it checked at ARM®.
