Most visitors spend their time checking out Dubai’s famous sights and malls. But there’s lots to see as soon as you exit the city. A few hours’ drive from Dubai can take you to quiet beaches, winding mountain roads, and old towns far from the city’s busy streets. On a tight budget, price out economy rentals cars before you rent a car, since smaller models tend to cost less to run. Fujairah, Jebel Jais, and Al Ain all make good weekend destinations. Choose one that looks interesting and then set off. You may end up enjoying the places outside Dubai even more than the city itself.
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Why a Rental Car Beats Tour Buses
A tour bus keeps you tied to the clock, even when you’d rather linger a while. A rental car loosens that. You can give the beach another hour, pull over at a tiny restaurant that caught your eye, or turn onto a road to see where it ends. There’s no group to hold up and no one watching the time. Plenty of travelers hire a vehicle through a car rental company in Dubai before flying in, while others sort it out at the airport. Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Al Ain all work as day trips if you start early.
Fujairah’s East Coast: Clear Water and Quiet Beaches
The drive to Fujairah is worth taking in its own right. The drive through the Hajar Mountains is beautiful, with the sea coming into view along the way. Stop at Al Aqah Beach for a swim or a break on the sand. Nearby, Snoopy Island is a good spot to snorkel and see fish around the rocks. After the water, drive over to Al Bidyah Mosque. It’s a modest stone building on a hillside, set apart from the UAE’s more modern landmarks. Many people consider it the oldest mosque in the country.
Mountain Roads Around Jebel Jais and Hatta
Jebel Jais, in Ras Al Khaimah, makes a good change of pace. The road winds uphill, with viewpoints where you can pull over safely for photos. It’s cooler up high, though the weather changes with the season.
Hatta is worth adding too. You can kayak at the dam when activities are available, or walk the trails. The town sits near the Oman border, so check your rental agreement before driving across. Anyone who plans to get a rental car won’t need a powerful one for most paved roads.
Desert Towns and Oases Around Al Ain
Four stops are worth seeing:
- Jebel Hafeet: The road climbs across the mountains, with wide desert views along the way. Visit the place in late afternoon.
- Al Ain Oasis: Walk under the date palms and look for the old falaj channels.
- Al Jahili Fort: This restored fort has exhibits on local life, history, and desert travel.
- Hili Archaeological Park: Bronze Age tombs are out in the open with little shade, so bring water and don’t forget your hat.
Practical Tips Before You Drive
Sort out your license before the trip, since some rental companies want an international permit too. Speed cameras watch most highways, and fines add up fast, so keep an eye on the limit signs. Skip the drinks if you’re driving, since the rules are strict and the penalties are harsh.
You’ll probably pass through a few Salik toll gates around Dubai, and the charges usually show up on your rental bill later. Ask the company how it handles them. Before leaving the city, stop for fuel and buy more water.
Your Own Route Beyond Dubai
All three fit into a long weekend, but picking two gives more time to enjoy each one. Don’t just book the first car you see. Check a few prices and take a look at the insurance details, too. Find a car rental service in the UAE that lists every fee before you sign. Pack plenty of water, download a map, and get on the road early if you can. The best stop of the trip might be one you never planned.