Top 5 Day Trips from Dubai by Car

One of the best reasons to rent a car in Dubai is everything that lies beyond it. With good roads in every direction, these five day trips are all within a comfortable drive.

1. Hatta

About 90 minutes into the Hajar Mountains, Hatta offers kayaking on a turquoise dam, mountain biking, and the heritage village. A mid-size SUV is ideal for the mountain roads.

2. Abu Dhabi

Ninety minutes south on Sheikh Zayed Road brings you to the capital — the Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Yas Island. Any comfortable sedan handles this highway run with ease. See more in our Abu Dhabi section on the locations hub.

3. The East Coast (Fujairah & Khorfakkan)

Cross the mountains to the Gulf of Oman for snorkelling, quiet beaches, and the dramatic Khorfakkan corniche. Roughly two hours each way.

4. Al Ain

The "Garden City" is home to an oasis, Jebel Hafeet's famous mountain road, and forts. The climb up Jebel Hafeet is one of the best driving roads in the country.

5. The Desert (Al Qudra & Liwa)

For dunes and stargazing, head to Al Qudra lakes nearby, or push on to the vast Liwa desert. Deep-sand driving needs a proper 4x4 and off-road insurance — never take a two-wheel-drive car onto the dunes.

Before you set off

• Fill up before leaving the city; some routes have long gaps between stations.
• Carry water and check your spare tyre.
• Confirm your insurance allows the roads you plan to drive.

Pick the right vehicle for your route from our rental fleet.