The UAE has some beautiful sights and amazing places to visit, so if you are looking for some desert road trip inspiration, here is our list of the 10 best UAE road trips!
Ajman
Ajman is the UAE’s tiniest emirate, which boasts a lot of desert fun for its size! The emirate is known to be super laid-back, perfect for those with a lot of time to spare in the vast desert landscapes.
There is a beautiful coastline and five-star resorts, making it perfect for people looking for a relaxing desert break. The drive takes you on the Emirates Highway, with gorgeous dunes around you.
You will see scenic desert landscapes as well as a look at UAE city culture. This road trip is well suited to those new to the UAE and who want to experience the culture, landscapes and relaxation the area has to offer.
Hatta
In the North of the UAE, you will find Hatta. Many years ago, Hatta was known as an escape from the heat for Dubai residents. Its milder climate has now also attracted holidaymakers.
As soon as you enter the Hatta region, you are greeted with stunning scenery. You can also enjoy the surrounding Hajar Mountains which make for a fantastically picturesque backdrop.
Liwa Oasis
If you want a longer road trip, you may want to consider Liwa Oasis. This lies around 100 miles southwest of the capital.
Here, you’ll find a desert settlement of roughly 50 villages. Liwa Oasis is the former home of the ruling families of both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. There are a few things to do, such as visit the dunes and forts.
But,if it’s peace and quiet you are after then this rural location offers tourists pure relaxation. It is so quiet and it makes the Liwa region a real one-off in the UAE. You can soak up the mystique of the Empty Quarter as you survey your unique surroundings.
Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah is known for its white-sand coastline. It is often considered a busier desert spot in the UAE for its nightlife and luxury restaurants. However, you can escape from it all if you go outside of the main hub.
A casual stroll along part of the 64km of white-sand coast followed by dinner overlooking Al Hamra Marina is an idyllic way to relax after making the drive up here.
If you do want to immerse yourself in tourist activities during your trip to Ras Al Khaimah, there are plenty of watersports activities and gorgeous spas.
Al-Ain
The UAE deserts are known for their neutral landscapes, which lack colors such as green. But, in Al-Ain, you will be greeted with beautiful gardens and greenery.
When you enter Al-Ain, you may not feel like you are in a UAE desert due to its abundance of color. You will witness the nation’s first curated Unesco World Heritage Site.
This is home to the incredible Falaj irrigation system, which was constructed some 3,000 years ago.
Muscat, Oman
Muscat is the home capital of Oman. It is one of the busiest spots, but Muscat is the place to go if you want to immerse yourself in Omani culture and desert life.
You may want to drive a long drive to stay in Wahabi Sands, the true Omani desert, for a few nights away from the capital.
Sharjah
Sharjah is regarded as the UAE’s capital, and it's a city well versed in its history and heritage. Here, you will find some of the best and most traditional markets. This road trip would not be complete without visiting The Blue Souk.
This is a traditional bazaar that offers the most beautiful views at sunset when gazed upon across the waters of Khalid Lagoon.
Jebel Hafeet
Jebel Hafeet is a rocky location, known as the rocky guardian to the city of Al-Ain, which lies beneath it. Here, you can discover the ancient dunes or foothills.
You can also discover the Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road, widely regarded as one of the best drives in the entire UAE.
This long and beautiful road will uncover some of the most incredible bird species in the UAE. With 119 species of bird spotted on the famous mountain road, you will definitely not get bored of the views.
Salalah, Oman
Salalah is not often visited because it is such a trek from anywhere, but it is so worth it! It offers peace and quiet, with totally unique sunny coastal city landscapes.
It is abundant in wildlife and incredibly welcoming. During the monsoon season, Salalah becomes incredibly green and unlike any other part of Oman. You can visit its coastal wetlands, which are a lovely location set against the backdrop of the stunning Dhofar Mountains.
Musandam Peninsula
Some argue that the Musandam Peninsula is one of the UAE’s most beautiful drives. It is a long stretch from the center, but it offers pure relaxation or an abundance of sport for those who want to get active in the hot climate.
From kayaking the “fjords” to going fishing using traditional equipment, Musandam has a wealth of aquatic activities on offer.
For those who love walking, you can enjoy hikes to the mountains around Khasab, the former using “secret staircases” hand-built by Pakistani goat herders.
If you are planning on a road trip, make sure your car is ready for the journey! Many of our car checks are free of charge, giving you peace of mind to enjoy your trip!
Give 800-CarGuru (800-227 4878) a call today!
