If you've already soaked the sun in Dubai's many beaches, taken a dhow cruise on the Dubai Creek and climbed atop the world's tallest building - the Burj Khalifa, it's maybe time to head out of the glitzy city and discover what the other emirates have to offer. From the glamourous capital city of Abu Dhabi to the green emerald pools of Hatta, there's a lot you can do if you wander outside the perimeter of Dubai. Here are our top 7 picks for the best day trips from Dubai.
7 Best Day Trips From Dubai
1. Abu Dhabi
From Dubai: 130 KM
Travel Time: 2 hours
Perfect For: Culture vultures, Thrill seekers
UAE's capital city of Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven emirates, a heady mix of traditional and modern Arab architecture. From the Sheikh Zayed Mosque to Yas Island and Ferrari World, a day trip to Abu Dhabi will help you experience everything the city has to offer. Other noteable attractions in the city include the Emirates Palace Hotel, the Corniche, Louvre and the newly opened Jubail Mangrove Park. Among its many man-made islands, the Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and Sir Baniyas Island deserve a visit during your time here.
Read more about taking a day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
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Why Visit Abu Dhabi
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Getting There
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Things to do in Abu Dhabi
- Regional Importance: There's no leaving UAE without visiting the capital emirate, even if it's just for a day. The Founders Tomb is in Abu Dhabi and so is the presidential palace - Qasr Al Watan.
- Ease of access: There is a transportation option for every budget to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. Buses, taxis, flights, helicopters or a serene 2 hour drive.
- Lots to Explore: Abu Dhabi has its fair share of must-see attractions - Ferrari World, the Louvre and Sheikh Zayed Mosque to name a few. We'd recommend squeezing in 2 days to discover all of Abu Dhabi.
Bus (Cost - AED 30 | Duration - 2.5 hours)
- If you close to in Bur Dubai, Satwa, or Karama in Dubai take the E100 bus from the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
- If you are closer to Marina, JLT, or the JBR area in Dubai take the E101 bus from the Ibn Battuta Metro Station.
- The services run multiple times an hour, although the E100 service is slightly more frequent than the E101.
- The coaches are also air-conditioned, and offer free Wi-Fi, making it a comfortable journey.
Taxi (Cost - AED 250 | Duration - 2 hours)
- Taking a taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is an expensive affair, however, if an emergency arises - you have the option of hailing a taxi from anywhere in Dubai to anywhere in Abu Dhabi.
- Taxis in UAE accept debit card and NOL card payments.
- You can also use taxi booking apps like Uber and Careem, although rates may vary.
Car (Duration - 2 hours)
- The most common route from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is via the Sheikh Zayed Road, or Highway E 11. Depending on where you enter the highway, it has at least one toll. Each toll typically costs AED 4.
Organised Tour (Cost - AED 100 | Duration - 8 hours)
- If you're looking to explore the city of Abu Dhabi with coach transfers to and fro Dubai, sightseeing, lunch and a great tour guide keeping you company through the day - an organised tour from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a great choice. If you're a first timer in UAE, we'd recommend signing up for an organised tour and let the logistics be taken care of. You can sit back, relax and enjoy the sights and beauty of the emirates.
Airport coaches (Cost - Free | Duration - 2.5 hours)
- If you've arrived in Dubai via Etihad you can avail the free airport coach transfer.
- The pick-up and drop-off point is the Etihad Travel Mall in Downtown Dubai.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The gleaming white marble structure is one of the most beautiful mosques in the world and a sight to behold! And a trip to Abu Dhabi is incomplete without a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. The mosque has many unique elements that add up to its architectural beauty. But the exterior of the pristine white domes and imposing minarets itself is quite a sight.
The Corniche
Corniche is a waterfront promenade lined with parks, walkways, restaurants and cycle paths with a spectacular backdrop of the Abu Dhabi skyline and the clean blue waters to the front. Abu Dhabi's Corniche beach has been given the Blue Flag status which is an eco-label for beaches that guarantees safe and clean bathing water. Stroll along a stretch of the Corniche and feel the salty breeze in your hair.
Heritage Village
The Heritage Village provides travelers an insight into the desert life that bedouins in UAE led before the skyscrapers and glass structures came along. The Village is a reconstruction of a traditional oasis village replete with goat hair tents, the native falaj irrigation system and traditional artefacts used in the past. There are live workshops where you can see artisans demonstrate traditional skills like metalwork and pottery.
Louvre
The Louvre Abu Dhabi is a treasure trove of art and culture - twenty galleries that journey through twelve chronological chapters of world civilisation. Built on 64,000 sq.m of a man-made island, the massive Arabian counterpart of Paris’s Louvre houses unique paintings, sculptures, and other artworks that have been sourced in collaboration with the Agence France Museums.
Qasr Al Watan
Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace of Abu Dhabi is an exquisitely crafted tribute to Arabian heritage and artistry. It is more than just a palace, it is a fountain of knowledge on the enriching journey of Arabian history in a contemporary setting. A mysterious labyrinthine of white domes, opulent buildings and well manicured gardens that were off limits to the public is now open to the public, giving travelers a chance to step foot into the grandiose palace and revel in its architecture, precious manuscripts and sculptures
Yas Island
Spread over 25 KM, Yas Island Abu Dhabi is is one of the finest man-made wonder's and truly a ‘leisure destination’ as they call it. With an array of world-class entertainment hubs like Warner Bros, Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Yas Marina Circuit, Clymb - there's no dearth of fun here! Activities aside, Yas Island is home to an array of opulent hotels like the Yas Viceroy, Crowne Plaza, Rotana etc. You also have the Yas Mall, a one stop destination for shopping, movies, arcades and fine restaurants.
Emirates Palace
The Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi is one of the few 7 star hotels in the world, a true world of opulence. This royal offering is decked with 394 rooms and suites and features 114 domes gilded in marble and gold. When the setting sun shines on the vast surface area of the hotel - it resembles a striking image in gold. For a quick taste of luxury and a glimpse of the different parts of this palatial hotel, you can sign up for an Emirates Palace tour.
Top Dubai To Abu Dhabi Tours
2. Hatta
From Dubai: 130 KM
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Perfect For: Adventure seekers, Nature lovers
An hour's drive out of Dubai leads you to the aesthetic mountain ranges and emerald green rock pools of Hatta. Set off on an unplanned bike ride or battle the waves on a colourful kayak, there’s a lot to do in Hatta for adventure seekers. To acquaint yourself to rural Emarati culture, take a walk down its heritage street and step into the Hatta Heritage Village for an insight into the glorious past of the mountain region. Hatta is also now home to the region’s first “trailer hotel”, where you can camp along the banks of Hatta Dam in luxuriously Hatta Sedr Trailers.
Read more about taking a day trip from Dubai to Hatta.
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Why visit Hatta
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Getting There
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Things to do in Hatta
- Adventure Hub: Hatta is synonymous with adventure among locals in UAE. Be it off-roading, kayaking, ziplining, zorbing, mountain biking or a mountain safari - Hatta has it all!
- Scenic Drive: The drive from Dubai to Hatta exposes you to a different terrain in UAE. Rugged and craggy greyish-brown mountains on either side of the road stretching for miles dotted by lush oases ever frequently.
- Offbeat: If you're looking for an offbeat experience, Hatta is where you should head. With the only glamping facility in the emirate, state of the art spas and a host of adventurous activities at the Hatta Wadi Hub and Hatta Drop-in, Hatta is the perfect example of luxury meets outdoors.
Bus : Bus number E16 from Dubai's Sabkha bus station to Hatta Bus Station 1 will take you around 3 hours. Bus fare typically costs AED 2.
Car : A 1.5 hour drive away from Dubai, Hatta is located 130 kilometers away from the city. Take the S112, Maliha road from Dubai and follow E-102 route towards Hatta for 90 minutes. A typical car rental in Dubai will charge you around AED 110 a day.
Hatta Heritage Village
Get a chance to see age-old watchtowers, mosques and forts that were constructed years back in the village of Hatta. Restored in 2001, the Hatta Heritage Village is treasure trove of traditional artefacts, weapons, furnishings, clothing and vessels of the bedouin tribes who lived in the rugged mountains of Hatta.
Hatta Hill Park
Developed by the Dubai Municipality for recreational and environmental reasons, the Hatta Hill Park is a lush greentop with a terrific view of the mountains surrounding Hatta. Set up a barbecue picnic and enjoy the crisp mountain air with your family at the Hatta Hill Park.
Mountain Safari & Biking
Experience the rugged ranges of Hatta first hand with a challenging mountain safari or a mountain bike and traverse the rocky ranges of Hatta. Most adventures start from the Wadi trails, crossing the dried river beds of Hatta and finally ends near the freshwater emerald pools. Feel free to take a dip in the pools!
Glamping In Hatta
The region’s first “trailer hotel” the Hatta Sedr Trailer, better known as glamping spots these days is open along the banks of Hatta Dam. If you're not much of a glamper, you can also opt to stay at the Hatta Damani Lodges featuring cosy purpose-built cabins closeby.
Hatta Wadi Hub & Hatta Drop-In
For an additional dose of adrenaline rush, head to the Hatta Wadi Hub or Hatta Drop -in. You can enjoy a range of adrenaline pumping activities like downhill carting, a human sling shot, axe throwing, archery, adventure rope courses, zip lines, and a lot more. Right next door the Wadi Hub is the the Hatta Drop-In -“water jump park” with crazy slides and intriguing “drop-in donuts”. You can also go zorbing here, a chance to roll down a hill in a giant transparent orb. It's unlimited fun here!
3. Musandam
From Dubai: 155 KM
Travel Time: 2 hours
Perfect For: Cruise lovers, Nature lovers
Musandam is where the mountains meet the ocean, a breath-taking quaint coastal villages with an eclectic culture, vibrant local markets, historic forts and towns along with an abundant aquatic wildlife. Though it is geographically a part of Oman, it lies in close proximity to Dubai and hence one of the most popular weekend getaways from the city life. Thanks to its picturesque landscapes, Musandam is often hailed as the ‘Norway of Arabia’ - a spectacular combination of coastal indulgence and the magic of mountains.
Read more about taking a day trip from Dubai to Musandam
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Why Visit Musandam
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Getting There
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Things to do in Musandam
Scenic Beauty: Musandam is nestled among deep beautiful fjords, tranquil blue waters and the mighty red Hajar Mountains - a landscape like no other.
Omani hospitality onboard a dhow : A dhow cruise ride against the idyllic backdrop of Musandam is the cherry on top. These dhow cruise rides are also a chance to experience the Omani hospitality, replete with unlimited refreshments and a sumptuous spread of buffet lunch. The charming traditional dhows dotting the waters makes for the perfect environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Water activities galore: One can indulge in a bunch of water sports on the sparkling waters of Musandam - snorkelling, canoeing, kayaking and swimming.
Car
The best (and only) way to travel from Dubai to Khasab, Musandam is via car. The road from Dubai to Musandam is pretty straightforward. The route you will be following is Dubai - Sharjah - Ras Al Khaimah. At Ras Al Khaimah, drive on to the Cement Factory road which has road signs that direct you to Oman.
Since Musandam is geographically a part of Oman, you'll need a visa to cross the border. The crossing posts for UAE and Oman at Al’Darah are right next to each and the border processing time can be accounted for 20-30 minutes.
Oman visit visa is AED 85 for both UAE visa and UAE tourist via holders and can be obtained on arrival from border and can be applied online at Oman E-visa website. You can pay by credit card, debit card or cash to the get visa from border.
Organised Tour
This is one of the most preferred ways to travel from Dubai to Musandam. Sign up for an organized tour and enjoy a hassle free getaway. Your visa processing, dhow cruise and travel to and from Musandam will be taken care of. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the Omani landscape!
Heritage and History of Musandam
In towns like Khasab and Bukha of Musandam, one can witness the rich heritage of local tribes - old forts with unique architecture, a traditional hand mill and the house of locks which were vaults for precious belongings of the tribes. The museum also showcases weapons, clothes, gems and jewellery of the Hajar tribes. The Khasab Fort has restaurants serving Lebanese, Omani, and Indian cuisines.
Dhow Cruise
Hop aboard an Omani Dhow cruise and glide along the crystal blue waters of the Strait of Hormuz, contrasting the imposing mountains. Enjoy unlimited refreshments and a traditional buffet spread for lunch and if you're lucky, you might even spot a pod of dolphins swimming alongside your dhow!
Snorkelling & Diving
The Musandam coastline has been carved through the centuries and has created shallow caves and fissures underneath the mountains dotting the coast. Deep dive and snorkel through the beautiful natural reef teeming with sea creatures - a refreshingly delightful experience. Even if you don’t know swimming, you can snorkel under the guidance of instructors and float on the blue waters. If you are PADI certified diver, you can also dive in and explore the secrets of the ocean.
Fishing & Kayaking
Fan of fishing? Musandam is just the right place. Relax and forget the ticking clock as you hop onboard a boat and go fishing! You can also fish from your dhow and if you get lucky catch one for the trip home! You can also kayak or canoe and explore the overhanging cliffs of the mountains. The crystal clear waters are very inviting and you might find yourself jumping in to cool off after a day of adventure!
Musandam Dibba Tour with Dhow Cruise & Lunch
Embark on the Musandam tour from Dubai to explore the hidden fjords and waters of the Musandam Peninsula.
• A quick 2-hour drive from Dubai, the route to Musandam is lined by the stunning Hajar Mountains.
• Cruise in the waters of Musandam aboard a traditional Omani Dhow or boat.
• Discover the beauty of the mystic fjords and the blue waters of the ocean.
• Spot the dolphins that swim alongside the dhow.
• Enjoy a swim and snorkel in the cool water.
• Reconnect and make memories with your friends and family as you enjoy the sumptuous buffet lunch on the cruise.
• Relax and let the wind blow in your hair as the dhow cruises along the water
4. Al Ain
From Dubai: 147 KM
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Perfect For: Hot Springs, Culture lovers
Walking beneath lines of fruited date palm, listening to the babbling of a nearby hot spring and exploring the Jahili Fortress which houses UAE's oldest museum are all experiences exclusive to Al Ain. Nicknamed "The Garden City", this tranquil city of tall trees and quiet walled lanes - a modern age oasis is a popular getaway destination for locals and tourists alike. The Al Ain Zoo is a favourite among kids and views from Jebel Hafeet, the second tallest peak in the Emirates is a sight to behold.
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Why Visit Al Ain
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Getting There
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Things to do in Al Ain
Animal Haven: From the Al Ain Camel Souk, UAE’s biggest camel market where you can pet super-cute baby camels to the Al Ain Zoo where you have Arabian oryx, big-horned Barbary sheep and African gazelles - Al Ain is an animal lovers happy place.
Landscape & Views: Al Ain's called the Garden City for a reason. Blessed with bountiful greenery, unlike most of UAE, the greenery here is soothing and simply lush. Climb atop the Jebel Hafeet and you'll have a panoramic view of this oasis. Keep your cameras ready!
Natural Hot Springs: Hot Springs are a good enough reason to go just about anywhere! After a day's adventure, dip your feet in these hot springs and relax. It's absolutely free and you can sit as long as you'd like!
Bus (Cost - AED 25 | Duration - 2.5 hours)
- Bus E201 departs from Al Ghubaiba bus station in Deira, Dubai every 30 minutes and terminates at Al Ain Central Bus Station.
Minibus ( Cost - AED 20 |Duration - 1 hour 45 minutes)
- Al Ghazal minibuses are available every 40 minutes from Al Ghubaiba bus station.
- The minibus service starts from 05:40 am with intermittent services until 11:40 pm.
Taxi (Cost - AED 250 | Duration - 2 hours)
- Taking a taxi from Dubai to Al Ain is an expensive affair, however, you have the option of hailing a taxi from anywhere in Dubai to anywhere in Al Ain.
- Taxis in UAE accept debit card and NOL card payments.
- You can also use taxi booking apps like Uber and Careem, although rates may vary.
Drive (Duration - 1.5 hours)
- The most common route from Dubai to Al Ain is via the Al Ain Rd/E66.
- There are clear signboards throughout the journey or you can use the GPS to help you navigate better.
Organised Tour (Cost - AED 100 | Duration - 8 hours)
- If you're looking to explore the Al Ain with coach transfers to and fro Dubai, sightseeing, lunch and a great tour guide and entrance tickets to prime attractions - an organised tour from Dubai to Al Ain is a great choice. If you're a first timer in UAE, we'd recommend signing up for an organised tour and let the logistics be taken care of. You can sit back, relax and enjoy the sights and beauty of the Al Ain.
Al Ain Zoo
A family-friendly reserve famous for its research facilities and acclaimed breeding program for endangered species, the Al Ain Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals. Arabian oryx, big-horned Barbary sheep, African gazelles, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, monkeys, lions, tigers, pumas, leopards and jaguars to name a few. Some of the highlights include giraffe feedings, a walk-through lemur experience and the largest man-made safari trail in the world.
Jebel Hafeet
Rising 1,400 meters above the suburbs of Al Ain, Jebel Hafeet offers epic vistas views of the neighbouring lands of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and Oman. Scramble to the top of the country's second highest peak and snap some unforgettable views of the seemingly endless desert. In the vicinity, you'll find Bronze Age tombs where archeologists have unearthed 5,000-year-old ceramic and copper artefacts. The 12 km hairpin drive to the summit is a testing, yet fun one. The uphill road is also a particular favorite for cyclists who relish mile after mile of 8% inclines under a sweltering Arabian sun.
Green Mubazzarah
At the foothills of Jebel Hafeet, you'll find a stream trickling by. It's no ordinary stream - its a natural hot spring! Dip your feet for a few therapeutic hours and enjoy your commune with nature. The lush greenery around and never ending rows of palm trees is all the shade you need for hours of feet soaking!
Al Jahili Fort
The Al Jahili Fort was rehabbed in 2007 and now houses a cultural center and permanent exhibit about Wilfred Thesiger. Twenty odd minutes should suffice here, after which you can head to the Al Ain National Museum and Al Ain Palace Museum for your dose of historic fix.
Camel Souk
Al Ain's Camel Souk is a wonderful immersion of traditional Arab culture. From young Arabian camels that might grow up to be racers to impressive adult camels grown to breed, the market is a one-of-a-kind experience and glimpse into a treasured part of Emirati heritage. You can attend mock camel races, feed camels and see the way of life among locals and lifestock in here.
