5 Best Road Trips In And Around Dubai

The thought of travelling to exotic locations with cultures far different to the one you're used to has become a bucket list item for many a millennial or anyone with itchy feet and a desire for adventure.

As destinations worldwide compete with one another for tourists, they have to continue to enrich the experience and value for money. No city in the world has achieved this more than Dubai in the last two decades.

What used to be a city in the desert is now a 5-star travel destination with many people dreaming of visiting a dreamland destination like Dubai.

Dubai has positioned itself as a top tourist attraction and business hub.

Why Dubai?

Dubai's investment in infrastructure and entertainment has attracted an influx of western companies and brands. While business travel is a primary motivation, more recreational travellers and luxury tourists are starting to make the trip.

Dubai is more than just the Palm Island and the Burj Khalifa, many tourists fall for the trappings of the city centre and the luxury it offers, but Dubai has more to see. The city also has a bit of a well-kept travel secret, road trips.

Since the country is oil-rich, there's been an influx of luxury cars available for rent by tourists at pretty affordable prices and with oil prices so low in the country you have no excuse to hire a car and take on some of these trips.

Several fantastic road trip destinations are waiting for you, your friends or family, such as:

1. Al Qudra, Dubai

Al Qudra is a mesmerising spot best known as the home to Marmoon Desert Conservation Reserve and lakes. This spot earned popularity due to the ever-increasing tourism initiatives such as bustling boulevards and idyllic beaches to lounge on; there are also several tourist attractions new and lake activities and camping facilities. If you can enjoy only a single road trip in Dubai, you should go to Al Qudra to visualise nature's captivating beauty.

You will surely love the road trip more than the spot because of the chirping birds and serene views of desert landscapes. To have a glimpse of enchanting Arabian Oryx is considered a lucky charm for tourists. Besides other things, this landscape is a perfect spot for recreational activities for your children.

2. Wasit Wetland Centre, Sharjah

Dubai is often typed cast as either an urban playground or a dessert city, but it has much more to it than that. Tourists are usually amazed to see such a unique natural marvel in Sharjah. The Wasit Wetland Centre can be found at the merging point of land and sea, and its located 34 km outside Dubai and should take you around 40 mins to get there by car.

The drive is short and well worth it once you reach this fascinating landscape which offers visitors access to dunes of salty lagoons and muddy flats. You can quickly get entrance to this place by turning your rented vehicle to Al Dhaid on the main road.

Nature lovers and birdwatchers are in for a treat too, with various migratory and domestic birds species in the centre located near freshwater pools.

3. Jebel Hafeet, Abu Dhabi

Mountain lovers and hikers may be surprised that their favourite activity is mentioned alongside a destination in the UAE, but Jebel Hafeet will soon change your mind. Jebel HafeeIf you are also one who loves to breathe in the chilly mountain ranges.

Jebel Hafeet is situated in the ranges of Hajar mountain and can found in the Tawam region. The mountainous area sits 168 km outside Dubai and should take around a 2-hour drive to get there. If the mountains and hiking trails don't amaze you, then the presence of the incredible Mercure Grand Hotel might do the trick.

The Hotel is famous for its spicy cuisine in this hilly area of the UAE.

4. Fujairah and Dibba Rock

Are you afraid of getting bored in the lavishing Dubai tour? If yes, then perhaps some water sports could spice up your stay. Head off to Fujairah on the opposite coast of Dubai, and you'll come across a spot called Dibba Rock. Fujairah sits 125 km outside Dubai and is a short 1 hour and 20 mins drive.

The area is known for extreme sports and water sports with youngsters able to enjoy experiences such as gliding in the sky after getting the opportunity of driving a sports car in Dubai. Other popular activities in the region are shopping, hiking, swimming.

If you plan a short trip to the Eastern Emirates, then make sure you don't miss what some refer to as the most attractive sunset in the East.

5. Hatta, Dubai

Hatta is found to the East of Dubai, around 130 km and should take you an hour and 45 mins to drive to this hilly part of the country. Those considering a worthwhile road trip to get the motor going and take on the open road, then this routine to the hilly town close to the Oman border is a great option.

Hatta sits high in the Hajar Mountains and is build around centuries-old Hatta Heritage Village. The village features a defensive tower, stone houses with palm-frond roofs, and falaj, the traditional water system that will take you back in time.

At the nearby Hatta Dam, the Hatta Reservoir Visitor Point overlooks the pools of striking green water ideal for swimming and kayaking.

Explore Dubai's winding roads

Road trips are great for exploring at your pace, avoiding tourist traps, or creating a travel itinerary that caters to your interests. If you're not all that keen on spending hours behind the wheel, it's still worth noting that having a car on hand even if you're not planning a road trip while in the city is always best to commute in and around Dubai where freedom is concerned.

You also don't have to blow your budget on renting a luxury vehicle as there are several cheap car rental agencies in Dubai.

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Tags: Road Trip, Travel, Dubai