Planning Weekend Getaways from Dubai by Car
Dubai serves as the perfect base for weekend road trips across the UAE and beyond. The country’s compact size means you can reach stunning beaches, mountain villages, desert oases, and neighboring cities within just a few hours of driving. Whether you want to escape the city for a relaxing retreat or seek adventure in the mountains, weekend getaways from Dubai offer something for every type of traveler.
This guide covers the best drives from Dubai to popular weekend destinations including Abu Dhabi, Hatta, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Al Ain. You will find driving directions, travel times, road conditions, and recommendations for what to see and do at each destination. Every route in this guide rewards you with excellent scenery and memorable driving experiences.
Dubai to Abu Dhabi: The Capital City Experience
The drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi ranks as the most popular weekend getaway from Dubai. The journey covers approximately 140 kilometers along the E11 highway and takes about 90 minutes in normal traffic. The road is a smooth, well maintained six lane highway that makes the drive comfortable and effortless.
The Driving Route
Take Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) heading southwest from Dubai. The highway passes through Jebel Ali and the Dubai/Abu Dhabi border before entering the capital. The speed limit is 120 to 140 km/h on the highway sections between the two cities, with lower limits as you approach urban areas. Two Salik toll gates on the Dubai side and one Abu Dhabi toll gate (using the Darb system) apply to this route.
The scenery along the highway transitions from Dubai’s urban landscape through industrial zones and into the open desert between the two cities. As you approach Abu Dhabi, the skyline of the capital emerges on the horizon, dominated by the Etihad Towers and the ADNOC headquarters building.
“The Dubai to Abu Dhabi drive is a wonderful introduction to road tripping in the UAE. The road is excellent, the scenery changes throughout the journey, and Abu Dhabi offers so many attractions that you can visit multiple times and always discover something new.” – Kristan De Graaf, Co-Founder, Elite Rentals Dubai
What to Do in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi offers a rich collection of attractions that justify a full weekend visit. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the most visited landmark in the city and one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. It welcomes visitors of all faiths and offers free guided tours that explain the architecture and Islamic art within the building.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi brings world class art to the UAE in a stunning building designed by Jean Nouvel. The museum’s collection spans thousands of years of human history and features masterworks from every major civilization. Yas Island offers entertainment options including Ferrari World (home to the world’s fastest roller coaster), Yas Waterworld, and the Yas Marina Circuit where Formula 1 races take place.
For a more relaxed experience, the Corniche waterfront stretches for eight kilometers along the coast, with beaches, parks, and restaurants. Saadiyat Island features pristine public beaches and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum.
Dubai to Hatta: Mountain Escape
Hatta offers the closest mountain getaway from Dubai and provides a dramatic contrast to the flat urban landscape of the city. The drive covers approximately 115 kilometers and takes about 90 minutes. The route takes you through desert terrain before climbing into the Hajar Mountains, delivering one of the most scenic drives in the UAE.
The Driving Route
Start on the E44 (Al Khail Road) heading east, then merge onto the E102 toward Hatta. The road quality is excellent throughout, with smooth tarmac and clear lane markings. The speed limit drops from 120 km/h on the highway sections to 80 km/h as you enter the mountain roads. The mountain section features winding curves, elevation changes, and tunnels that make the driving experience exciting and engaging.
The scenery transforms as you drive. The flat desert gives way to rocky hills, then to genuine mountains with deep valleys and terraced slopes. The road passes through several small settlements before reaching Hatta town, which sits in a valley surrounded by the Hajar Mountains.
What to Do in Hatta
Hatta Dam is the most photographed attraction in the area. The turquoise water of the dam sits surrounded by rugged mountain terrain, creating a stunning visual contrast. You can rent kayaks and pedal boats to explore the water, or simply enjoy the views from the shore.
Hatta Heritage Village preserves traditional Emirati mountain architecture and offers insight into how people lived in the Hajar Mountains before modern development. The village includes restored watchtowers, a fort, and traditional houses made from stone and mud.
For adventure seekers, Hatta Wadi Hub offers mountain biking, hiking trails, zip lines, and archery. The trails range from beginner friendly paths to challenging mountain routes that take several hours to complete. Several new hotels and resorts have opened in Hatta, making it easy to extend your visit into a full weekend stay.
“Hatta is our top recommendation for guests who want a weekend getaway that feels completely different from Dubai. The mountains, the fresh air, and the outdoor activities create a perfect escape. We suggest taking a comfortable SUV for the mountain roads.” – Miss Sara, Booking Manager, Elite Rentals Dubai
Dubai to Fujairah: East Coast Beach Getaway
Fujairah sits on the east coast of the UAE, facing the Gulf of Oman rather than the Arabian Gulf. The drive from Dubai covers approximately 130 kilometers and takes about two hours. This route delivers you to a coastline that looks and feels entirely different from the beaches in Dubai.
The Driving Route
Take the E88 (Dubai to Fujairah highway) heading east from Dubai. The route crosses the open desert before reaching the Hajar Mountains, which you cross through a series of passes and tunnels. The road infrastructure on this route has improved significantly in recent years, with smooth surfaces and modern safety features throughout.
The highlight of the drive is the mountain crossing. As you pass through the Hajar range, the scenery includes rocky peaks, deep wadis (dry riverbeds), and scattered acacia trees. On the descent toward the coast, you catch your first glimpse of the Gulf of Oman, with its deep blue water stretching to the horizon.
What to Do in Fujairah
Fujairah’s beaches offer a quieter, more natural alternative to the developed beaches of Dubai. Sandy Beach and Al Aqah Beach feature calm, clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The area around Snoopy Island (named for its resemblance to the cartoon character lying on his back) offers some of the best snorkeling in the UAE, with coral reefs and abundant marine life just meters from the shore.
Fujairah Fort is one of the oldest fortifications in the UAE and provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The Friday Market (open daily despite its name) sits along the highway and sells fresh fruits, vegetables, pottery, and carpets at good prices.
For those interested in diving, the east coast offers the best dive sites in the UAE. Several dive centers operate from the Fujairah coast, offering trips for beginners and experienced divers alike. If you want to explore more driving routes in the UAE, our Dubai road trip guide with scenic routes covers additional destinations and route details.
Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah: Adventure Capital of the UAE
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has transformed itself into the adventure tourism capital of the UAE. The drive from Dubai covers approximately 100 kilometers and takes about one hour, making it one of the easiest weekend getaways from Dubai. The route follows the E11 highway north through Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain before reaching RAK.
The Driving Route
The highway to Ras Al Khaimah is straightforward and well signed. The speed limit ranges from 100 to 120 km/h on the highway sections. Traffic flows smoothly for most of the journey, though the sections through Sharjah can experience congestion during peak hours. Leaving Dubai early in the morning helps you avoid this traffic.
As you approach Ras Al Khaimah, the Hajar Mountains become visible in the distance. The city sits at the foot of these mountains, with the coast to the west and dramatic rocky terrain to the east. This combination of mountain and sea makes RAK one of the most geographically diverse emirates.
What to Do in Ras Al Khaimah
The Jebel Jais mountain road takes you to the highest point in the UAE at 1,934 meters above sea level. The drive up the mountain features sweeping switchbacks and hairpin turns with panoramic views that improve at every elevation. At the summit, you will find a viewing deck and the Jebel Jais Flight, the world’s longest zip line at 2.83 kilometers.
Bear Grylls Explorers Camp offers outdoor adventure activities including climbing, hiking, and survival skills courses. The camp sits at an elevation of 1,200 meters on Jebel Jais, surrounded by mountain scenery. For beach lovers, RAK offers quieter, less developed beaches compared to Dubai, with several luxury resorts providing day access to their private beach facilities.
The Dhayah Fort, perched on a hilltop, offers views across the palm groves and coastline. The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, housed in a former fort, covers the history and culture of the region from ancient times to the present.
“Ras Al Khaimah offers the best mountain driving experience in the entire UAE. The road to Jebel Jais is world class, and the views from the top are absolutely stunning. We recommend our guests take their time on this drive and stop at the viewpoints along the way.” – Julian De Graaf, Co-Founder, Elite Rentals Dubai
Dubai to Al Ain: The Garden City
Al Ain, known as the Garden City of the UAE, sits approximately 130 kilometers southeast of Dubai. The drive takes about 90 minutes along the E66 highway. Al Ain offers a slower pace of life compared to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with green spaces, historical sites, and a genuine oasis at its center.
The Driving Route
The E66 highway to Al Ain crosses open desert for most of the journey. The road is wide, smooth, and well maintained with a speed limit of 120 km/h. The flat terrain and straight road make this one of the most comfortable long distance drives in the UAE. Fuel stations are available along the route, though they become less frequent as you move away from Dubai.
What to Do in Al Ain
Al Ain Oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the UAE. The oasis covers 1,200 hectares and features thousands of date palms irrigated by the traditional falaj system. Walking through the shaded pathways of the oasis provides a peaceful experience that connects you to the region’s history.
Al Ain Zoo is the largest zoo in the UAE and home to over 4,000 animals. The facility has modernized significantly and now includes safari drives, feeding experiences, and conservation programs. Jebel Hafeet, a 1,249 meter mountain on the outskirts of Al Ain, offers another excellent driving road. The 12 kilometer road to the summit features 60 turns and provides stunning views of the surrounding desert and the green patches of Al Ain.
The hot springs at the base of Jebel Hafeet attract visitors who want to relax in the naturally heated mineral water. Several pools are open to the public and free of charge. Al Ain also features several forts and museums, including the Al Jahili Fort and the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, which offer insight into the history of the ruling family and the city.
Car Rental Tips for Weekend Road Trips
Choosing the right vehicle makes a significant difference to your road trip experience. Here are practical recommendations for weekend getaways from Dubai.
For Abu Dhabi trips: Any comfortable sedan or luxury car works well. The highway is smooth and flat, so comfort and fuel efficiency are the main considerations.
For Hatta and mountain routes: An SUV provides better ground clearance and a more comfortable ride on mountain roads. The elevated seating position also gives you better views of the mountain scenery.
For Fujairah beach trips: A mid size SUV or crossover works well for this route. You will want space for beach gear and the capability to handle the mountain pass comfortably.
For Ras Al Khaimah: A sports car or GT makes the Jebel Jais mountain road particularly thrilling. The road surface is excellent, and the curves reward a car with responsive handling.
When you rent a car for a weekend trip, confirm with the rental company that you can take the vehicle outside Dubai. Most companies allow travel within the UAE but may have restrictions on crossing into Oman. Also check the mileage policy, as some rentals include limited daily kilometers that may not cover a full weekend road trip.
Essential Packing List for UAE Road Trips
Every road trip from Dubai requires some basic preparation. Pack enough water for all passengers, especially during summer months when temperatures can exceed 45 degrees Celsius. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for any outdoor activities. A phone charger for the car is essential for navigation.
For mountain destinations like Hatta and Jebel Jais, pack a light jacket or sweater. Temperatures at elevation can be 10 to 15 degrees cooler than in Dubai. For beach destinations, bring swimwear, towels, and reef safe sunscreen. A cool box with drinks and snacks will save you money and time on longer trips.
Always carry your driving license, passport, and rental agreement. Keep the rental company’s emergency contact number saved in your phone. Check your tire pressure and fuel level before departing, and familiarize yourself with the route before setting off.
For more information on navigating Dubai’s roads, check our guide on how to get around Dubai, and for scenic routes within the city, explore the Dubai Marina drive for car lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weekend Getaways from Dubai
How long is the drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?
The drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi takes approximately 90 minutes via the E11 highway in normal traffic conditions. The distance is about 140 kilometers. Traffic can add 30 to 45 minutes during peak hours, particularly on Thursday evenings and Friday mornings when many people travel between the two cities for the weekend.
Can I take a rental car from Dubai to other emirates?
Yes, most rental companies in Dubai allow you to drive within all seven emirates of the UAE. Some companies require advance notification for inter emirate travel. Always confirm the policy with your rental company before your trip. Driving a UAE rental car into Oman requires separate approval and additional insurance in most cases.
What is the best weekend getaway from Dubai for families?
Al Ain is an excellent choice for families. The Al Ain Zoo provides a full day of entertainment for children, while the oasis and parks offer relaxed outdoor spaces. Hatta is also family friendly, with kayaking, pedal boats, and easy hiking trails suitable for children. Both destinations are within 90 minutes of Dubai by car.
Which destination from Dubai has the best beaches?
Fujairah offers the best beach experience for a weekend getaway from Dubai. The east coast beaches face the Gulf of Oman and feature calmer, clearer water than the Arabian Gulf beaches near Dubai. The snorkeling around Snoopy Island is particularly good, with coral reefs and tropical fish visible in shallow water.
Is it safe to drive in the mountains near Dubai?
Yes, the mountain roads near Dubai are safe and well maintained. The roads to Hatta and Jebel Jais feature modern surfaces, safety barriers, and clear signage. Drive at a moderate speed, stay in your lane on curves, and use your headlights in tunnels. Avoid mountain driving during heavy rain, as water can flow across the road surface in some areas.
