Uncover Amazing Day Trips from Dubai
If you’ve tackled the best things to do in Dubai, consider exploring nearby emirates. From stunning mosques and fascinating museums to exhilarating mountain bike trails and ziplines, these day-trip destinations are perfect for a getaway.
Here are some incredible places to discover from Dubai in a day.
Visit Abu Dhabi – Just 90 Minutes Away
Home to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, with its majestic onion-shaped domes and pristine white marble, Abu Dhabi is a must-see. Located about 90 minutes from Downtown Dubai, the mosque offers free tours daily, except during Friday prayers. Additionally, Saadiyat Island features the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an essential stop for art and architecture enthusiasts. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, this site attracts visitors with its stunning structure and impressive collection of 600 artworks.
Getting to Abu Dhabi from Dubai: A taxi ride costs around Dhs200 ($55) one way, while you can take a public bus (routes E100 or E101) for Dhs28 ($7) one way.
Explore Mleiha – A Historical Treasure
Located in Sharjah’s central region, Mleiha is a premier archaeological destination in the United Arab Emirates. The Mleiha Archaeological Centre showcases the region’s history from the Paleolithic era, with guided tours available for Bronze Age tombs and pre-Islamic forts. For those seeking adventure, there are opportunities for guided treks, 4WD tours, fat biking, or even paragliding from Mleiha’s tallest peaks.
Getting to Mleiha from Dubai: Mleiha is approximately 47 miles (75 km) east of Dubai, reachable by car or by checking transport availability with the archaeological center.
Outdoor Adventures in Hatta
Surrounded by the Hajar Mountains, Hatta is a stunning destination for outdoor activities. The Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre features 31 miles (50 km) of graded trails, and rentals are available from local providers. For hikers, a scenic trail leads from the camping area past the historic Hatta Heritage Village to Hatta Dam, where kayaks and pedalos await for a refreshing experience on the turquoise waters.
Getting to Hatta from Dubai: Hatta is about 84 miles (135 km) southeast of Dubai, accessible by car or via the E16 bus.
Sharjah – A Hub of Culture
Only 18 miles (30 km) from Downtown Dubai, Sharjah is celebrated as the cultural capital of the UAE, boasting over 20 museums and galleries. Start at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, which features more than 5,000 artifacts from the Muslim world. Then, take a short stroll to the Sharjah Heritage Museum for a deeper insight into Emirati culture, followed by a visit to the Sharjah Art Museum to view contemporary Arab art.
Getting to Sharjah from Dubai: A taxi costs about Dhs90 ($24.50) each way; various public bus routes (E303, E303A, E304, E306, E307, or E107A) offer service in that direction for Dhs10 ($2.75).
Discover Al Ain Oasis – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
With over 147,000 date palms, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Al Ain Oasis once served as a crucial stop on historic caravan routes. Visitors can stroll along shaded walkways, learn about the ancient falaj irrigation system, and explore the eco-center. Don’t miss the Al Ain Palace Museum and the picturesque Al Jahili Fort, built in 1891 to protect the area’s plantations.
Getting to Al Ain from Dubai: Al Ain is located about 95 miles (150 km) southeast of Dubai, with public bus E201 providing service that takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Wildlife Watching in Kalba
The east coast exclave of Sharjah, Kalba, is an exceptional spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as Khor Kalba’s mangroves harbor the striking white-collared kingfisher. The Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre is home to endangered species like Arabian leopards and wolves. At the Kalba Bird of Prey Centre, enjoy free-flying demonstrations of various birds of prey!
Getting to Kalba from Dubai: Kalba is around 80 miles (130 km) east of Dubai; renting a car is recommended for convenience.
Outdoor Fun at Jebel Jais – The UAE’s Tallest Peak
Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah, standing at 6,345 ft (1,934 m), offers breathtaking views and thrilling activities. Enjoy a scenic drive along the winding roads, stopping at the viewing deck for stunning panoramas. The Jebel Jais Flight Zip Line, the world’s longest zipline, and the Jebel Jais Via Ferrata offer adrenaline-pumping experiences for adventure seekers.
Getting to Jebel Jais from Dubai: A rental car is necessary to reach Jebel Jais, located 100 miles (160 km) northeast of Dubai.
Diving and Snorkeling in Fujairah
Fujairah, situated along the Gulf of Oman, boasts superior visibility and diverse marine life compared to waters off Dubai. Snoopy Island, located about 350 ft (100 m) offshore at Al Aqah, is renowned for its snorkeling opportunities with clownfish and turtles. Local dive centers offer shore dives and boat excursions to popular dive sites.
Getting to Fujairah from Dubai: Al Aqah is approximately 100 miles (165 km) northeast of Dubai, where rental cars are available, or check dive centers for transport options.
Cruise the Musandam Peninsula – A Unique Experience
Known as “the Norway of Arabia,” the Omani exclave of Musandam features spectacular fjord-like inlets and clear waters. Numerous companies offer cruises aboard traditional wooden dhows, often including dolphin sightings. These tours usually offer round-trip transport and a buffet lunch, with ample time for swimming and snorkeling.
Plan ahead, as you cannot independently enter the Omani side of Dibba without the required permit, which is provided by local tour operators when arranging your trip.
Getting to Musandam from Dubai: Dibba is less than a two-hour drive from Dubai, while Khasab takes about three hours each way. Ensure to check Oman’s visa requirements before setting off.
This article provides in-depth insights into the rich experiences awaiting you on day trips from Dubai. Whether exploring natural wonders or cultural gems, these destinations offer unique adventures and unforgettable memories.
