Top 7 Road Trip Destinations in the UAE: Rent a Car and Just Drive
July 18, 2025
Let’s be honest, when most people think of the UAE, they picture towering skyscrapers, ultra-modern malls, and luxury at every turn. But there’s another side to this country, one that’s rugged, raw, and full of unforgettable road trip potential.
Whether you're living in the UAE or visiting for a few days, renting a car and heading out of the city is hands-down one of the best ways to experience the Emirates. Here's our roundup of seven incredible destinations worth the drive, plus why renting a car from Autorent makes it all easy and stress-free.
1. Hatta – Mountains, Lakes & A Breath of Fresh Air
Distance from Dubai: ~1.5 hours
Tucked into the Hajar Mountains, Hatta is like a mini escape from the city’s buzz. You’ll trade traffic and tall buildings for rugged hills, peaceful lakes, and fresh mountain air.
Must-Do’s:
- Kayak across the gorgeous turquoise waters of Hatta Dam
- Step back in time at Hatta Heritage Village
- Hit the trails for hiking, biking, or just scenic chilling
Why rent a car: Getting to Hatta without a car is tough. With your own rental car, you can take detours, stop for photos, and explore on your terms.
2. Jebel Jais – The UAE’s Tallest Peak & Ultimate Thrill
Distance from Dubai: ~2.5 hours
Ready to conquer some curves? The drive up Jebel Jais is packed with hairpin bends, epic views, and plenty of "pull over and snap a pic" moments.
Must-Do’s:
- Brave the world’s longest zipline
- Chill at the viewing decks with your coffee and the clouds
- Bring a picnic, trust us, it's worth it
Why car hire: You’ll want to stop as often as possible. A rental car means freedom to explore at your pace.
3. Fujairah – Where Mountains Meet the Sea
Distance from Dubai: ~1.5 hours
Fujairah feels like the UAE’s laid-back cousin. Think clean beaches, dramatic mountain backdrops, and a whole lot less traffic.
Must-Do’s:
- Snorkel off Snoopy Island
- Visit Al-Bidyah Mosque, the oldest in the UAE
- Cruise the coast with your playlist on blast
Why car rental:
The road through Masafi is stunning. With your own ride, you can take the scenic route, and all the detours you want.
4. Al Ain – Green, Peaceful, and Surprisingly Cool
Distance from Dubai: ~1.5 hours
Known as the “Garden City,” Al Ain is full of charm, culture, and greenery. It’s the kind of place that surprises you with how much there is to do.
Must-Do’s:
- Visit the family-friendly Al Ain Zoo
- Drive up Jebel Hafeet for jaw-dropping views
- Soak your feet in the Green Mubazzarah hot springs
Why Drive with your rental car: The city’s spread out, so having your own car is the best way to fit in everything without rushing.
5. Liwa Oasis – For Desert Vibes Like No Other
Distance from Dubai: ~3.5 hours
Ever wondered what it feels like to stand in the middle of endless desert? Liwa is your answer. It’s otherworldly, beautiful, and completely unforgettable.
Must-Do’s:
- Watch the sun rise over towering dunes
- Visit the Moreeb Dune, one of the tallest in the world
- Go stargazing far from city lights
Why Drive: This is true off-the-beaten-path travel. You'll need an SUV or 4x4, and Autorent has plenty.
6. Khor Fakkan – Hidden Coastal Treasure
Distance from Dubai: ~2 hours
Khor Fakkan isn’t on every traveler’s list, and that’s exactly why you should go. This quiet coastal town offers just the right mix of beach day and cultural escape.
Must-Do’s:
- Snap photos at Al Rafisah Dam
- Catch a show at the beautiful Amphitheatre
- Swim, tan, and repeat at the beaches
Why Drive: No strict schedules, no tour guides, just your own adventure, made better with spontaneous stops.
7. Abu Dhabi – Quick Capital City Escape
Distance from Dubai: ~1.5 hours
If you’re based in Dubai and haven’t road-tripped to the capital yet, what are you waiting for?
Must-Do’s:
- Visit the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Explore art and architecture at the Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Get your adrenaline fix at Ferrari World
Why rent a car in Abu Dhabi:
Buses and taxis are fine, but your own car means no waiting, no detours, and no “sorry, we’re fully booked.”
Road Trip Pro Tips
Before you head out, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Pack snacks, water, and a power bank
- Fill up the tank before desert or mountain drives
- Keep your license and ID handy
- Save your route in Google Maps (cell service can get spotty!)
Let Autorent Take Care of the Wheels
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full-blown Emirates adventure, Autorent makes it simple. Choose from economy cars, family-friendly SUVs, or rugged 4x4s, whatever suits your trip.
With daily, weekly and monthly car rentals, roadside help, and clean, reliable vehicles, we’re here to make sure the road is all yours.
Book your car today at Autorent-me.com and start your road trip the right way.
FAQs – Your UAE Road Trip Questions, Answered
1. What are the best short road trips from Dubai?
Hatta, Jebel Jais, and Fujairah are all under 3 hours and totally worth it.
2. Can I rent a car for just one day?
Of course! Autorent offers flexible short-term options.
3. Is it safe to drive in the desert?
Yes, just make sure you have a 4x4, and don’t venture too far off-road without experience.
4. What paperwork do I need to rent a car?
Just a valid driver’s license, passport/ID, and a credit card.
5. Are tolls included?
Tolls (Salik) are billed separately but automatically tracked easy!
6. Can I drive the rental outside the UAE?
Nope, UAE adventures only. But honestly, that’s more than enough.
7. Which cars are best for road trips?
SUVs for mountains or desert. Sedans for city-to-city trips. We’ve got both.
8. Can I get GPS or Wi-Fi in the car?
Yes, just ask for it when you book, it’s available as an add-on.
9. What’s parking like at tourist spots?
Generally easy and often free, especially in less crowded areas.
10. Can tourists go on road trips solo?
Absolutely! Roads are great, signs are clear, and exploring solo is part of the fun.