Let’s face it:
Dubai is a jaw-dropping city with world-class roads. But if you never drive beyond the city limits…
You’re seriously missing out.
That’s why more travelers (and locals) are using Car Rental Dubai services to explore the breathtaking roads that stretch far beyond the Burj Khalifa. From winding mountain passes to coastal highways, the UAE has some of the most unforgettable driving routes in the region.
In this guide, I’ll show you 7 of the most scenic drives from Dubai, complete with pro travel tips and real-world examples to make your journey smooth, safe, and spectacular.
Ready to hit the road?
Let’s go.
Why Scenic Drives from Dubai Are a Must-Do
Dubai is exciting. No question.
But here’s the truth:
When you leave the city behind, you discover another side of the UAE.
One filled with:
Majestic mountain ranges
Hidden desert oases
Coastal cliff roads
Sandstone canyons
Endless ocean views
And the best part?
They’re all within a few hours of Dubai.
So if you’re planning a weekend escape, a day trip, or even a solo drive—these routes will give you Instagram-worthy landscapes AND total peace of mind behind the wheel.
1. Dubai to Hatta: The Mountain Escape
Drive Time: 90 minutes
Best For: Adventurers, mountain lovers, and picnickers
Once you hit the road from Dubai, take the E611 and head southeast toward Hatta. The closer you get, the more dramatic the scenery becomes.
We’re talking about:
Jagged Hajar Mountains
Winding roads hugging the cliffs
Deep blue waters at Hatta Dam
Traditional Hatta Heritage Village
Pro Tip: Rent a 4x4 SUV for this one. Some off-road spots near the Hatta Wadis are only accessible with an all-wheel-drive vehicle.
Want the full experience? Pack snacks and plan a picnic near Hatta Hill Park.
2. Dubai to Jebel Jais: The Ultimate Road Trip for Drivers
Drive Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Best For: Thrill-seekers and driving enthusiasts
Welcome to the UAE’s highest peak—Jebel Jais.
This route offers some of the most beautiful switchbacks in the Middle East. Picture this:
Clean tarmac roads
Hairpin turns
Endless mountain ridges
And at the top? A sky-high viewing platform with 360° views
The road to Jebel Jais is so iconic, it’s often used for car commercials.
Pro Tip: Leave Dubai early to avoid traffic. And if you want next-level bragging rights, book a session at the Jebel Jais Zipline—the world’s longest.
3. Dubai to Kalba: The Ocean Road
Drive Time: 2 hours
Best For: Beach lovers and photographers
This drive takes you through the Sharjah Desert Park, past the mountain tunnels, and lands you in Kalba, a pristine coastal town on the Gulf of Oman.
What makes it scenic?
Coastal cliffs
Mangrove forests
Sandy beaches
Surprising wildlife (like kingfishers and crabs)
It’s a nature-meets-sea combo you won’t forget.
Pro Tip: Stop at Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre on the way. It’s a gem that most tourists overlook.
4. Dubai to Liwa Oasis: The Ultimate Desert Drive
Drive Time: 4 hours
Best For: Desert explorers and silence lovers
If you’ve ever wanted to feel the enormity of the desert, this is the drive.
Once you leave Abu Dhabi behind and push toward the Empty Quarter (Rub' al Khali), the dunes grow taller and redder… until you arrive in Liwa Oasis, a mirage-like landscape of date palms and ancient forts.
Expect:
Zero crowds
Miles of sand in all directions
Sandboarding and camel rides
The kind of silence that resets your soul
Pro Tip: This route is best done with an SUV. Make sure your Car Rental Dubai agency includes unlimited mileage—this trip racks up the kilometers fast.
5. Dubai to Fujairah: Mountains Meet the Sea
Drive Time: 2 hours
Best For: Couples, families, and weekend warriors
This scenic route is wildly underrated.
You’ll cruise through the desert, pass mountain tunnels, and arrive at Fujairah’s coast, where the blue sea meets dark cliffs.
Here’s what to look out for:
Friday Market (a must-stop for local snacks and carpets)
Masafi Mountains
Sandy beaches with coral reefs
Al-Bidyah Mosque (the oldest mosque in the UAE)
Pro Tip: Stop for lunch in Dibba—a fishing town with beautiful sea views and fresh seafood.
6. Dubai to Al Ain: Garden City Charm
Drive Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Best For: Culture buffs and history fans
Nicknamed the “Garden City” of the UAE, Al Ain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with culture, greenery, and natural springs.
The drive itself is smooth and scenic, with long highways framed by date palm groves and sand dunes.
When you arrive, check out:
Al Ain Oasis
Al Jahili Fort
Hot springs at Green Mubazzarah
Jebel Hafeet Road (another scenic mountain drive!)
Pro Tip: If you’re doing a day trip, leave early—there’s a lot to see.
7. Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah: Northern Vibes
Drive Time: 90 minutes
Best For: Quick getaways and coastal adventures
This northern emirate has been making waves (literally) with its beaches, mountains, and luxury resorts.
Along the drive, you’ll enjoy:
Wide desert highways
Gulf views
Rolling hills
Access to outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and ziplining
Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect spot if you want just enough nature without going too remote.
Pro Tip: Book a sunset kayak session in the mangroves for a peaceful, magical end to your road trip.
What You Need to Know Before Hitting the Road
Now that you’re pumped to explore—let’s make sure your trip goes off without a hitch.
Here are 5 smart tips to prep like a pro:
✅ Rent the Right Car
Use Car Rental Dubai services that offer SUVs, sedans, and 4x4s. Match your vehicle to your route.
✅ Bring a GPS (or Load Google Maps)
Many scenic spots have spotty reception. Download your maps offline just in case.
✅ Pack Water, Snacks & a First Aid Kit
It’s the UAE. Even in the winter, hydration matters. Always pack more than you think you need.
✅ Start with a Full Tank
Some routes have long stretches with no fuel stations. Top up before you leave the city.
✅ Obey Speed Limits (Especially on Curvy Roads)
Mountain routes may be thrilling, but safety comes first. Don’t ruin your trip with a speeding fine.
Final Thoughts
Dubai is known for its skyline, shopping, and luxury. But beyond the high-rises lies an entire world of breathtaking landscapes, winding mountain roads, and desert adventures.
And with the right vehicle from a trusted Car Rental Dubai provider, every road is yours to conquer.
So:
Choose your destination
Pack your essentials
Hit the road
And let the UAE surprise you with its scenic beauty
One drive can change how you see the country forever.