Top 7 Scenic Road Trips from Dubai — From Mountain Drives to Desert Escapes

Dubai sits at a geographic crossroads that connects beaches, deserts, and mountains within just a few hours of driving. The city’s infrastructure is world-class: smooth highways, clear signage, and fuel prices among the lowest globally. Whether you’re a visitor exploring beyond the skyline or an expat looking for a weekend escape, renting a car in Dubai offers unmatched flexibility and cost efficiency compared to organized tours or ride-hailing services.

For most travelers, renting a car in Dubai means freedom — to plan routes, stop spontaneously, and experience the UAE beyond curated itineraries. With a reliable partner like RentDrive.ae car rental, you get transparent terms, full insurance coverage, and flexible daily or monthly plans without hidden deposits.

1. Hatta — The mountain retreat within 90 minutes

Why go: Hatta offers a completely different climate and landscape from coastal Dubai — rocky mountain peaks, turquoise reservoirs, and winding mountain roads.
Drive time: ~1.5 hours (130 km)
Best for: Kayaking, hiking, and heritage village visits.

Quick tip: Rent a crossover or SUV for this route. The inclines near Hatta Dam are steep, and compact sedans may struggle on gravel sections.

2. Jebel Jais — The UAE’s highest road

Why go: The drive up Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah is legendary. With altitudes reaching 1,934 m, this route features wide serpentine turns and breathtaking viewpoints.
Drive time: ~2 hours (170 km)
Highlight: The world’s longest zipline and crisp mountain air — a rare contrast to Dubai’s humidity.

Pro tip: Start early to catch sunrise above the clouds. Evening temperatures can drop below 15°C, so a light jacket helps.

3. Al Ain — The Garden City and Jebel Hafeet Drive

Why go: Al Ain is an oasis city with deep Emirati heritage. The 12-km climb up Jebel Hafeet is one of the region’s most scenic mountain drives.
Drive time: ~1.5 hours (150 km)
Must-see: Al Ain Zoo, Al Jahili Fort, and the hot springs near Green Mubazzarah.

RentDrive.ae insight: Clients renting compact sedans for 3+ days often choose Al Ain as a day trip — smooth highways make it fuel-efficient and relaxing.

4. Abu Dhabi via Sheikh Zayed Road — Urban meets coastal

Why go: It’s a dual-carriage highway connecting Dubai’s skyscrapers to the UAE capital’s landmarks — Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Saadiyat beaches.
Drive time: ~1.5 hours (140 km)
Route quality: Perfect asphalt, consistent speed limits (120 km/h), and several rest stops.

5. Fujairah — East Coast beaches and mountain tunnels

Why go: Fujairah offers turquoise waters and winding coastal drives through the Hajar Mountains. It’s ideal for those who prefer serenity over city beaches.
Drive time: ~2.5 hours (190 km)
What to expect: Long mountain tunnels, small fishing towns, and snorkeling at Snoopy Island.

Local tip: Friday morning drives are calmest; fuel up before leaving Dubai — petrol stations are fewer on the mountain stretch.

6. Liwa Oasis — Into the Empty Quarter

Why go: Liwa is the edge of Rub’ al Khali, the world’s largest continuous sand desert. Endless dunes, minimal traffic, and surreal silence.
Drive time: ~4 hours (340 km)
Vehicle required: Full-size SUV with strong torque.

Safety insight: Always check tire pressure before entering desert zones — even minor under-inflation can lead to overheating at high speed.

7. Kalba and Khor Fakkan — The coastal twin towns

Why go: These Sharjah enclaves on the East Coast are connected by a scenic route through the mountains. Expect turquoise waters, palm-lined promenades, and tunnels carved directly into rock formations.
Drive time: ~2 hours (150 km)
Perfect for: Day trips with family or friends who enjoy photography and seaside dining.

What’s the real cost of renting a car for road trips in Dubai?

Renting a car in Dubai remains surprisingly affordable compared to similar markets like the US or Europe. For example, a weekly compact rental (with insurance) typically costs AED 550–650, while SUVs range between AED 900–1,300 per week. Fuel costs average AED 3.05 per liter (Octane 95) as of Q3 2025 — less than one-third of prices in Europe.

Comparison Table — Self-Drive vs Alternatives:

How to choose the right car for your route?

Think in terms of terrain, passengers, and distance. For mountain routes (Hatta, Jebel Jais), compact SUVs balance fuel efficiency and traction. For long highway drives (Liwa, Abu Dhabi), sedans provide comfort and lower fuel burn. RentDrive.ae offers both — with the option to switch mid-rental if your plans change.

Why RentDrive.ae stands out among car rentals in Dubai

Unlike large aggregators, RentDrive.ae operates its own verified fleet — meaning all vehicles are inspected and insured locally. Clients benefit from:

• Transparent, no-deposit rentals for tourists and expats.
• Inclusive insurance and maintenance — no fine print.
• 24/7 roadside support and replacement vehicle policy.
• Multi-month “car subscription” plans ideal for new residents or corporate clients.

When you rent directly from RentDrive.ae, you deal with a Dubai-based company that understands local roads, regulations, and seasonal driving conditions. That’s what converts a simple car rental into a safe, efficient mobility experience.

Dubai’s road network gives you access to every landscape the UAE offers — within a single tank of fuel. From sunrise above Jebel Jais to sunset over Liwa dunes, the journey itself becomes the destination.

If you’re planning your next escape, start with a reliable vehicle.
RentDrive.ae makes it effortless — transparent pricing, full insurance, and flexible terms for every traveler who values independence behind the wheel.

Author: Nikolas Sytnik, co-founder of RentDrive.ae Car Rental
RentDrive.ae — Smart mobility for Dubai’s explorers and residents.