Top 10 Road Trip Destinations in the UAE — Part 1 | Mountains, Off-Road Adventures, Islands, & More
The UAE is a land of striking contrasts, where futuristic cityscapes meet natural wonders, and ancient traditions harmoniously blend with modern innovations. While the country is often associated with its bustling cities and their skyscrapers, the government of the UAE under the purview of the Ministry of Economy , formed the Emirates Tourism Council and is playing a monumental role in strengthening the country’s tourism portfolio.?
From rugged mountain landscapes to pristine coastlines, the UAE offers some of the most scenic and diverse road trip destinations in the Middle East. In this article, we take you on a journey through the "Top 10 Road Trip Destinations in the UAE."
Al Rafisah Dam
Located in the emirate of Sharjah , Al Rafisah Dam is a hidden gem for road trip enthusiasts. The drive to this serene destination offers breathtaking views of the Hajar Mountains. Once you arrive, you can relax by the tranquil waters and enjoy a peaceful picnic. It's an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers seeking to capture the UAE's rugged beauty.
The dam was originally built in the 1980s. However, it has since then been renovated and more touristy facilities such as a rest area, boating, and more have been added in recent years. The scenic dam could also be a perfect stopover spot for those driving from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to Fujairah.
Distance:
Dubai to Al Rafisah Dam: 130 kilometres
Abhu Dhabi to Al Rafisah Dam: 260 kilometres
Liwa Oasis
Liwa Oasis, situated in the vast desert of Abu Dhabi 's Empty Quarter, is a must-visit for those craving an authentic Arabian desert experience. The road leading to Liwa is surrounded by towering dunes, making it a paradise for dune bashing and sandboarding. Don't forget to visit the historic Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort for a taste of luxury amidst the golden sands.
Liwa Oasis is made up of around 50 villages and the region is known for its nearly endless view of sand dunes. In fact, The deserts around Liwa Oasis have been used to represent different planets in movies such as Star Wars and Dune.
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Distance:
Dubai to Liwa Oasis: 335 kilometres
Abu Dhabi to Liwa Oasis: 237 kilometres
Hatta
Hatta is a mountainous enclave in the Emirate of Dubai , known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor adventures. The drive to Hatta takes you through the scenic Hajar Mountains, offering a stark contrast to the typical image of the UAE. Here, you can explore Hatta Dam, trek through the Hatta Rock Pools, or simply savor the tranquility of the mountains.
The Hatta Dam or Hatta Reservoir also offers boating and kayaking activities and there are several interesting options to stay in Hatta including glamping and camping. The Hatta Heritage Village is centuries old and will thrill history buffs.?
Distance:
Dubai to Hatta: 135 kilometres
Abu Dhabi to Hatta: 266 kilometres
Read the complete Top 10 Roadtrips article to know the seven other destinations to explore in the UAE.
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