1. Oman

The UAE’s neighbour, Oman, is making a name for itself as a popular tourism destination. Oman has a wealth of intriguing history and culture to discover, making it a great weekend trip destination for anyone. There are beautiful beaches, breathtaking mountains, well-preserved Omani architecture, and verdant wadis, among other things. Oman is full of unique locations and experiences guaranteed to give you a once-in-a-lifetime experience, from the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat to the majestic Daymaniyat islands and the mountains of Jebel Akhdar. Although you will be crossing the border from the UAE to Oman, remember to take important documents with you.

2. Hatta

Hatta is one of the best spots for a road trip from Dubai, located 135 kilometres away, or an hour and a half drive from the city. In only a few short hours, it takes you over the arid landscapes of the desert and to the lofty peaks of Hajar. To immerse yourself in nature, take a kayak or doughnut ride over the enormous Hatta dam. You may also engage in other outdoor activities at Hatta Dam, including mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking. There’s also Hatta Heritage Village, an excellent place to learn about local culture. Hatta is undoubtedly a pleasant retreat from busy city life.

3. Ajman

Ajman, just one hour from Dubai, offers a casual, vibrant road trip. With breathtaking dunes all around you, you’ll be traveling on the windy Emirates Highway. Even though Ajman is the smallest emirate, it has several hidden treasures. Here, you may get a taste of the United Arab Emirates’ real, traditional side. Ajman’s must-see locations include the Ajman Museum, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, and the Ajman Fort. Additionally, you should go to Al Zorah National Reserve in Ajman, which is home to the emirate’s largest mangrove forest. In addition to the park’s diverse flora and wildlife, you can do kayaking, waterboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, pearl diving, and golfing.

4. Abu Dhabi

Go for a drive to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi, which is only two hours’ drive from Dubai, is home to some of the nation’s most popular landmarks. Travelling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is comfortable since the two Emirates are connected by a straight highway. Visit some of its famous locations, including the Yas Marina Circuit, the Louvre, the Emirates Palace, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Ferrari World, and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Go to Tel Moreeb in Abu Dhabi if you feel like taking a desert ride. This excursion into the endless desert is a spectacular experience that you can have in the UAE, which is widely regarded as the home of the largest dune in the world. 

5. Al Ain

Al Ain, one of the UAE’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is less than two hours away from Dubai. If you want to get away from the bustle of the city, this green haven is the perfect place for a road trip. The peak of Jebel Hafeet is the place to go if you want to take in the breathtaking views of Al Ain city. The mountain’s 1,249-meter height makes it the second-highest in the UAE and the tallest in Abu Dhabi, making it an excellent stopover point for trekking, riding bikes, bicycling, and off-roading. Al Ain is also known for its palm trees, beautiful oasis surroundings, and old villages.

6. Fujairah

Fujairah, located on the UAE’s east coast, is a picturesque location that is definitely worth a visit. Fujairah is the ideal day getaway destination because the time there from Dubai just takes around an hour and a half.  One of the best emirates for water activities, travel to the Dibba region for paddle boarding on the tranquil waters or take a 20-minute journey to Snoopy Island for some of the best snorkelling in the UAE due to the rich marine life there. Furthermore, you can check out the Fujairah Fort, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the Hajar Mountains, and nearby beaches.

7. Sharjah

Sharjah, the UAE’s cultural capital, is well worth a visit. Sharjah, which is only one hour from Dubai, offers a more authentic Arabian experience. Go to Khor Fakkan for a sunny beach day. Its 3 kilometres of palm-lined, sandy beach are surrounded by stores and restaurants. Relax and enjoy the view of the warm seas of the Gulf of Oman as you drive by. If you’re feeling adventurous, try paragliding on the back of a speedboat. You can kayak or rent a pedal boat to wander around the Al Rafisah Dam, which gives visitors unmatched splendour, and enjoy the magnificent vistas of nature. 

8. Umm Al Quwain

Umm Al Quwain (UAQ) is the second smallest emirate, taking only one hour to get from Dubai, and is ideal for a weekend getaway. Despite being the smallest emirate, the area is blessed with beautiful scenery and natural reserves. Umm Al Quwain, with its mangrove-covered islands and the lagoon’s crystal blue waters, is a relaxing destination with a plethora of sights and activities. Visit Kite Beach, Falaj Al Mualla Fort, Umm Al Quwain Fort, Al Sinniyah, Umm Al Quwain National Museum, and Falaj Al Mualla Fort. Al Sinniyah Island here is ideal for birdwatchers and environmental enthusiasts since it is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

9. Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah is one of the top destinations in the UAE for a weekend road trip. This magnificent, historic region is well-known for its stunning mountains and incredible adventure activities. The northern emirate, which is roughly 113 kilometres from Dubai, will satisfy you with unending vistas of dunes and lovely natural landscapes. Visit Jebal Jais while you’re here for some of the best views this nation has to offer. Jebel Jais is known for its natural beauty as well as two of its attractions, which are Jai’s Sledder and the longest zipline in the world. The RAK National Museum, the Dhayah Fort, and Wadi Shawka are some of the top sights worth seeing in this region.