The UAE is famous for providing modern civilizations with tall high-rises and luxurious ways of living, nevertheless, if you scratch the surface of the big cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi, there is much more to find. Due to good road network, enhance road safety and interesting terrains that include both mountains and coastlines, the UAE is one of the best places to take a road trip, giving the traveler the flexibility of getting to various interesting places at his/her own time.
Let us introduce you to some offbeat attractions that will lend character to your otherwise monotonous road trip around the UAE, though the article here serves as a guide on where to go and what to see. It so means whether you are the type who thrills in adventurous activities or the casual type that loves cruising along the countryside then these routes will suit you.
1. Dubai to Hatta: The Mountain Escape
The Journey
One of the most famous points of interest when driving from Dubai is the town of Hatta, which is a picturesque village in the Hajar Mountains range. This route can be recommended as the most balanced, as it performs the great journey from the city life to the mountains’ calmness.
The distance from Dubai to Hatta is roughly 130km and the journey will take roughly 1 ½ hours strictly road if the traffic conditions are not taken into consideration. As you move away from Dubai you will see that the land becomes deserted, then rocky and rises to form the Hajar Mountains. The road way is well lit and has good surface and is never a cause of a hitch even for those who are learning about the roads in the UAE.
What to Explore
When you get to Hatta, you should know that there are many activities that you can enjoy without having to look very hard for them. Hatta Dam is a must visit; there are breathtaking views of emerald green water with mountains in the backdrop. Another thing that one can do here is to rent a kayak and this is because the place is so peaceful.
For history lovers, the Hatta Heritage Village may offer a look at traditional Emirati way of life. When you tour the restored houses and forts one feels as though one can hear the whispers of the past.
2. Abu Dhabi to Al Ain: The Garden City
The Journey
The journey from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain is another beautiful journey, which one is able to witness the beauty and the features of the country. This is approximately 160 km long and takes about two hours; the terrain comprises of the desert and green belts occasionally.
The road to Al Ain is straight and connected which doesn’t require a lot of effort in driving. When approaching Al Ain, so-called the ‘Garden City’ of UAE, the view is becoming more diverse, and one can see many palm groves.
What to Explore
Al Ain is an old city with many traditions, and therefore it is perfect for cultural tourism in the UAE. A trip to Al Ain Oasis pretty much means crossing to another world, with the walks and paths provided by the falaj system of water management.
Jebel Hafeet mountain which is among the tallest in the UAE that presents an exciting drive through the twisted roads with the breathtaking views from the crest. The weather up there is relatively cooler compared to the desert and the views of the landscape surrounding the summit is worth the hike.
3. Fujairah Coastal Drive: The Eastern Oasis
The Journey
Fujairah Coastal Drive is a one-of-a-kind road trip for those who love the ocean and would like to explore more of the region. This route takes you across the country from Dubai and goes up to the eastern side of UAE to the emirate of Fujairah. The distance of the drive is approximately 120 kilometers and the time taken for the same is roughly two hours.
When you are approaching Fujairah, the land scape becomes completely different. You will traverse through the Hajar Mountains and when you get closer to the coast there are very beautiful views of the sea. The contrast between the rugged mountains and the calm waters of the Arabian Sea makes this drive particularly picturesque.
What to Explore
As soon as one reaches Fujairah there is much that one can visit and do. One of the interesting place to visit in the UAE is the Al Bidya Mosque which is the oldest mosque in the whole of the UAE. Its constructional simplicity and the green surroundings it enjoys are the complete antithesis of the massive structures of the mosques in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
You may also be interested in underwater, Fujairah is one of those places that offer great opportunities for diving and snorkeling. Snoopy Island is surrounded by rich marine life and it has become popular amongst divers and snorkeling enthusiasts.
4. Ras Al Khaimah to Jebel Jais: The Mountain Adventure
The Journey
For the lovers of adventure, the road trip to Jebel Jais of Ras Al Khaimah is the best adventure. Jebel Jais is one of the preferred locations for visitors with interesting roads and stunning views especially the Jebel Jais peak, the highest peak in the UAE. Ras Al Khaimah city to Jebel Jais is approximately 55 kilometers but what could be thrilling is the climb.
When you are at the higher altitude, the road is winding and again, you get the most beautiful views of the massive rocks and steep cliffs of the valleys. The journey can be tiring sometimes but the experience is very fulfilling particularly once you are at the top.
What to Explore
Above that and at the summit of Jebel Jais, there is the Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park where you get a view of the mountain ranges. There are several places which act as vantage points where one can stand and watch the beauty of the surroundings and sometimes it is possible to watch the sun setting behind the mountains – a beautiful sight indeed.
For lovers of adventurous activities, Jebel Jais Flight the longest zipline in the world will surely create a memorable impression. With speeds of up to 150 km/h you will be flying over the mountains and have close look at the surrounding landscape.
5. Sharjah to Kalba: The Coastal Escape
The Journey
For those interested in having a working life with minimal stress, then the drive from Sharjah to Kalba creates this beautiful scene. This they estimate to an approximately 120 kilometers drive through some desert and rocky areas with high altitudes of the Jebel and the coastal plain. The road network to and in Kalba is well developed and there are signs that are easily observable whenever one is lost while driving. The closer to Kalba you get, the greener it becomes and you can see mangroves and other coastal plants by the side of the road.
What to Explore
The place is very famous for its natural resources and attractions; thus, visiting The Kalba Mangrove Reserve would be a wise thing to do. Birds, fish and crabs form the animal population that can be easily observed when one visits the mangroves. It is an ideal place to go hiking and if you want to get closer to the mangroves you can rent a kayak, and a guide will take you around.
Another park in Kalba is the Khor Kalba Corniche Park which is a beautiful park where one can relax and take some moments for a picnic or strolling. From the park, one can have a very spectacular view of the Gulf of Oman and whenever the day is clear you can see the mountains of Oman.
Conclusion
The United Arab Emirates is one of such countries where such technologies are placed close to huge deserts and early roots. It is among the effective methods that will enable you to discover more of this diverse country other than the careers of conventional tourist sites.
From traveling up and down the mountain ranges of Hatta, cruising around the oases area of Al Ain or even sun basking as you drive along the coastal belt of Fujairah, you are bound to have a rich taste of an incredible and memorable road trip. Therefore, if you find yourself in Dubai or any other area in UAE the next time, it would be a good idea to hire a car and drive around. How many unexpected treasures does one come across when on a quest?
We recommend that you go to Rentico.ae for the most suitable car rental services. Rentico.ae offers a vast list of vehicles for rent and affordable prices, so you can plan your dream road trip in the UAE without any problems. So, what are you waiting for? Begin exploring today and unveil some of the most beautiful corners in this country.
