Dubai has always been on bucket lists for many. If you already reside in this beautiful city, you know how lucky you are! However, the classic tourist destinations across the city might not feel as exciting anymore after a while. But wait, Dubai offers much more than lavish malls and glittering skylines. Yes, some offbeat locations around Dubai are perfect for a peaceful short trip with your loved ones. That’s why we present five stunning places near Dubai that tourists and locals can enjoy on the weekend!
- Al Ain
Brace yourselves to experience the Garden City of the UAE. It is the greenest city in the UAE and is also called an oasis itself! One can spot many palm trees, natural water sources, forts, and bronze age artifacts. Driving from Dubai to Al Ain treats you with a beautiful route by deserts on both sides. Al Jahili Fort, Jebel Hafeet mountain drive, Al Ain Oasis, and Al Ain Zoo are all city’s must-see attractions.
- Hatta
Are you looking for a completely different landscape than desserts? Then Hatta must be your next destination. It is an ideal destination if you need a spot to unwind from your busy schedule. You can rejoice in breathtaking mountains, magnificent natural pools, kayaking excursions, picnic areas, hotels, and resorts in this area.
- Liwa Oasis
When you head to Liwa, your oasis dreams are bound to come true! Liwa Oasis is a serene destination located on the northern side of Rub Al Khali. Enjoy an ultimate road adventure since you will be surrounded by nothing but endless desert stretches. Discover the desert by staying at beautiful oasis theme resorts. You can also head to Moreeb Dune, the tallest one in the UAE, or mount a camel for excursions among the rustic sand dunes. When night falls, relax with a picnic under the stars.
- Yas Island
Yas Island is a man-made island located in Abu Dhabi. It is approximately a one-hour drive from Dubai and is a fantastic tourist destination with plenty of leisure and entertainment. The island has malls, amusement parks, great eateries, and stunning hotels. In addition, Yas Island offers a variety of enjoyable attractions for visitors of all ages. Some notable entertainment spots are the charming Yas Beach, a sizable golf course, enormous open-air concerts, etc. If you are a car enthusiast, you can try sports vehicles like Ashton Martin, Ferrari, and formula race cars.
- Fujairah
As you drive towards Dibba in Fujairah, prepare for a picturesque 1.5-hour journey across towering mountains. The city, which borders Oman, has some of the best beaches in the United Arab Emirates, the magnificent Al Hajar Mountains, and architecture that reflects its rich history. Most of the hotels in the city offer panoramic views of the Gulf of Oman and are near various archaeological sites for exploring.
Final Thoughts To have a weekend packed with fun, all you need is great company. These locations are perfect for spending with family and friends. Also, to ensure the trip goes smoothly, remember to keep your car’s fuel tank full!