From visiting the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah to Dubai Mall, the list of things to do in Dubai is endless. However, the city’s true allure lies in its proximity to stunning destinations, just a few hours away. While holidaying in the city, consider venturing beyond the ordinary and planning exciting day trips from Dubai.
Experience the United Arab Emirates through Abu Dhabi, Hatta, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, or Saadiyat Island — ideal destinations for travellers looking to journey from the ‘Pearl of the Gulf’. These day trips from Dubai provide maximum exploration in a limited time.
Best day trips from Dubai
Sharjah (approximately 30 minutes from Dubai)
Distance: 29 kilometres
Sharjah is the third most populous city in the United Arab Emirates, forming part of the Dubai-Sharjah-Ajman metropolitan area. It is regarded as the cultural capital of the Arab world. The city’s museum houses artefacts and paintings that showcase Emirati heritage. The stunning coastline is also a popular destination for water sports.
Spend the day discovering Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Montazah Parks, Al Noor Island, Sharjah Old Town, Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation, Sharjah National Park, or Al Heera Beach.
Ras Al Khaimah (approximately 1 hour from Dubai)
Distance: 113 kilometres
The breathtaking landscape of Ras Al Khaimah makes it a popular day trip from Dubai. Adventurers travel here to explore the UAE’s highest peak, Jebel Jais, and to experience its heritage through diverse cultural sites.
Discover the Suwaidi Pearls pearl farm and Arabian horses at the Al Wadi Equestrian Adventure Centre, Dhayah Fort, the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, Corniche Al Qawasim, and Flamingo Beach. Camping, mountain climbing, and hiking the mountains surrounding Ras Al Khaimah are highly popular activities. Visit Jebel Jais to stand at the edge of the UAE and Oman, or try the world’s longest zipline.
Fujairah (approximately 1 hour from Dubai)
Distance: 121 kilometres
Scuba diving enthusiasts can visit Fujairah to experience some of the most breathtaking coral reefs in the UAE. It is the only Emirati capital city on the east coast of UAE. The coastal town offers a respite from the desert with mineral springs and picturesque beaches.
Snorkel or dive in the Gulf of Oman at Snoopy Island (Jazīrat al Ghubbah), Umbrella Beach, Qidfa Beach, and Al Aqah Beach to see turtles and black-tip reef sharks. Then, visit the Awhala Fort, Masafi Fort, Sakamkam Fort, and Fujairah Museum to learn about the city’s history.
Saadiyat Island (approximately 1 hour from Dubai)
Distance: 131 kilometres
Plan a trip to Saadiyat Island, a luxury paradise approximately 18 kilometres from Abu Dhabi. The island’s white-sand beach, turquoise waters, and five-star resorts make it a glamorous retreat from Dubai. Designed as an exclusive destination, Saadiyat Island offers curated packages, including resort stays and tickets to musicals such as Mamma Mia and Les Misérables.
Experience the finest in art and history at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, enjoy vibrant parties at the beach clubs, or observe the island’s wildlife at Saadiyat Marine National Park.
Related Stories
Al Ain (approximately 1.5 hours from Dubai)
Distance: 132 kilometres
Ever wondered what an oasis is like? Al Ain is the answer! This inland oasis is a true paradise in the UAE’s desert. Its lush greenery, palm groves, and natural springs have made it famous as the Garden City. This underrated destination is a historical wonder, once serving as an essential waypoint on ancient trade routes.
Jebel Hafit Mountain presents adventure activities, including hiking and white-water rafting. Monuments such as Qasr Al Muwaiji, Al Jahili Fort, and Al Hilo Archaeological Park narrate the city’s rich history.
Hatta (approximately 1.5 hours from Dubai)
Distance: 134 kilometres
Nestled in the Hajar Mountains, Hatta is an adventure destination ideal for a day trip from Dubai. This mountain town boasts historic monuments and stunning water bodies, providing the perfect escape from the fast-paced city lifestyle. The emerald waters, set against a backdrop of arid mountainous desert, give Hatta an oasis-like feel.
You can enjoy kayaking at Hatta Dam, cycling along the Hatta Mountain Bike Trail, observing swans at Swan Lake, and hiking through Hatta Watchtower and Hatta Heritage Village.
Shop the best travel experiences here
Abu Dhabi (approximately 1.5 hours from Dubai)
Distance: 139 kilometres
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is the most popular day trip destination from Dubai. Many international tourists combine visits to both cities, while locals head to Yas Island for a relaxing and enjoyable getaway. The island serves as the centre of governance, with its modern skyscrapers and grand monuments reflecting the nation’s identity.
Abu Dhabi offers many attractions, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Mangrove National Park, Ferrari World, Emirates Palace, Warner Bros. World, Yas Marina Circuit, and the Abu Dhabi Corniche.
(Feature image credit: Marvin Castelino/Unsplash)
Related | Your Essential Etiquette Guide To What Not To Do In Dubai
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
We may earn an affiliate commission when you shop through links on our site.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Yes, you can cover multiple locations on a day trip from Dubai.
The best way to get to Hatta is by driving down.
Yes, day trips from Dubai are suitable for solo travellers. However, the best way is reach by hiring a taxi or driving down on your own.
Written By
Priyaja Bakshi
Digital Writer - Growth, TravelPriyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism ..Read More
