The UAE is more than just a glittering concrete jungle surrounded by desert – it’s home to some of the most magnificent scenic tracks which can serve as the perfect getaway from the city.
Here are the top 5 EjarCar picks that are a good playlist away – these amazing destinations are guaranteed to take your breath away:
Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road
One of the best drives in the UAE, the Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road is easily accessible from the E66 and can be seen from miles away. The road is posted with signs, so you should have no problem driving to Jebel Hafeet and getting the best of the best views (it is the UAE’s highest point, after all).
There’s a diverse variety of wildlife, especially birds, foxes, lizards and snakes – be sure to watch out for them! You should also check out the Green Mubazzarah hot-water springs. The best time to go there you ask? Right before dusk – where you can catch the sun setting and bask in awe of nature.
Distance from Dubai: Approximately 180 kms. Driving time: 2.5 hours
EjarCar Tip: We recommend renting an SUV for a family trip or renting a sports car if you’re riding with friends.
The Empty Quarter (Liwa Desert)
Need some mindful time, away from all the noise and chaos? The Empty Quarter, it is! Named rightly so, the Liwa desert is an uninterrupted stretch of sand mass in the middle of nowhere. Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) is home to the world’s tallest sand dune and the Liwa International Festival. Know more here (link to external website)
Distance from Dubai: 292 kms. Driving time: 3.5 hours
EjarCar Tip: Remember to fuel up on the way since the Liwa desert is an endless stretch of plain and stock up on food and supplies too!
Hatta Dam
Trying to plan a road trip on a budget but also want the best of nature? This one’s for you!
The scenery that greets you upon arrival to the dam is so enchantingly beautiful, it makes up for the otherwise dry landscape around it. The weather is mildly cooler than Dubai, making it the perfect escape for a day with friends or family. While one of the most popular routes for tourists, Hatta is also ideal for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts.
Distance from Dubai: 140 kms. Driving time: 2 hours
EjarCar Tip: Book a hotel for the night, or just rent the perfect convertible to watch the sunset and get them Instagram shots for your feed!
Jebel Jais
Planning that road trip with friends? In the past few years, Jebal Jais has become a popular road trip option for the young and adventurous, who also make a camping trip out of it.
A contender for the best drive in the region, Jebel Jais has neat curves and astonishing views that appeal to car and road trip enthusiasts who want to put their skills to practice and challenge themselves.
The drive is rewarding, as there are several view points to stop, gaze and click away too – get on to Emirates Road and drive away to RAK (make Google Maps your best buddy for this particular trip)
Distance from Dubai: 180 kms. Driving time: 2.5 hours
EjarCar Tip: Winter is coming – rent a Jeep for the weekend and have a night under the stars with your friends in the wonderful weather that’s to come soon!
Dibba
Need some sea-lovin’? This is the perfect road trip for you, we believe! With a panoramic view of the sea on one side and mountains on the other, this makes for an incredibly relaxed drive.
Distance from Dubai: 130 kms. Driving time: 2 hours
EjarCar Tip: DO make sure to carry your passport along with you, to get through the Oman border.
So what are you waiting for? Get your motor running with your camera, sunglasses, sandwiches and playlists ready! What are some of your favorite road trips in the UAE?