Dubai is overflowing with futuristic architecture, huge shopping centres and urban beaches. However, if you want to get away from the most common activities, you should know that there is a lot to see near Dubai.
You can go from urban luxury to seemingly never-ending deserts, green areas, traditional villages and corners that hold the most authentic history of the United Arab Emirates, all just a few miles outside the city. And travelling the country by car is the best option, because Dubai and its surroundings have modern highways that are very well signposted.
Fuel prices are quite competitive too. Fancy a drive to some of the best places in the Persian Gulf? We tell you what to see near Dubai in 3 days.
Day 1: Dubai to Al Ain, the garden city
Al Ain is about a two-hour drive from Dubai, and is known as the 'garden city' of the Emirates. It is situated in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, and is one of the oldest settlements in the region. In addition, you will be surprised at how different it is from the big cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Here, the pace of life is much more relaxed.
If you want to make the most of your getaway and not miss anything there is to see near Dubai, in Al Ain you should stop by:
- Al Jahili Fort, an impressive adobe construction surrounded by palm trees that was the residence of British explorer Wilfred Thesiger.
- The Al Ain Oasis, a traditional irrigation canal farming system (falaj) that is recognised by UNESCO.
- Al Ain Zoo (if you go in summer), one of the largest in the Gulf.
- The Jebel Hafeet viewpoint, the second highest mountain in the country, and from the road you can enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world.
Day 2: Hatta, a must-see spot near Dubai
Hatta is a hidden gem in the Hajar Mountains, about a 90-minute drive from Dubai. It is a great space if you want your trip to feature some wild nature, breathe some fresh air and see mountain landscapes. What's more, as it is within the emirate of Dubai, you won't need to cross any borders.
Our suggestion is to start the day with a walk through the Hatta Heritage Village, an open-air museum that nicely shows what life was like for Emiratis before oil, with restored houses, a mosque and a 19th-century fort. Then, continue on to the Hatta Dam, a neat reservoir catering to all tastes. If you are the quiet type, you can enjoy a moment of calm and the views. And if you are more adventurous, it is the best place to go kayaking.
You can also hike the Hatta Wadi Hub, an area with marked trails for all levels. You can even try mountain biking or a night of glamping under the stars. There are thousands of things to see near Dubai.
Day 3: Sharjah and Ajman, history and coast in one day
For the last day, we propose a getaway with lots of things to see near Dubai. Just 30 minutes away are the emirates of Sharjah and Ajman, with a very interesting mix of culture and coastal living. They are perfect if you want to make the most of the trip to see another side of the Emirates without having to travel very far.
Sharjah is considered the country's cultural centre, and has been recognised as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO. We recommend visits to:
- The Museum of Islamic Civilization.
- The Arts District.
- The Blue Souk, a traditional market with all kinds of local products.
The atmosphere is a little more traditional than what you will find in Dubai, making it a great spot where you can soak up the local culture. After lunch, you can drive to Ajman, which is the smallest emirate in the country. It has a fairly quiet promenade, ideal for a stroll or relaxing in front of the Persian Gulf. And you can round off your getaway with a visit to the Ajman Museum or a dip in the water at sunset.
This 3-day driving tour is the best way to discover another side of the United Arab Emirates, never venturing too far from Dubai. Rent your car with OK Mobility at Dubai airport and explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. And if you are spending more time in the country, OK Mobility has another branch in Abu Dhabi airport, another city worth discovering by car.
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