Best UAE Drives This Summer: Scenic Road Trips To Explore

Summer in the UAE does not have to mean staying indoors. With the right route, a well-maintained car and an early start, drivers can explore mountain roads, coastal towns and vast desert landscapes across the country. Each route offers a different driving experience, from winding mountain bends to relaxing long-distance cruising.

Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah

Jebel Jais remains one of the most enjoyable mountain drives in the UAE. The road climbs through the Hajar Mountains with long bends, sharper corners and several viewing areas along the route.

The higher sections are usually more comfortable than the city during the early morning. Its smooth mountain road is suitable for family SUVs, saloons and performance cars. However, drivers should control their speed and avoid risky overtaking.

• Best for: Mountain views and enjoyable corners
• Recommended time: Early morning or late afternoon

Hidden Oasis, Ras Al Khaimah

Hidden Oasis offers a surprising area of greenery surrounded by the rugged mountains of Ras Al Khaimah. The contrast between the rocky landscape, palm trees and vegetation makes it one of the emirate’s most unusual natural attractions.

This is not a simple roadside stop; reaching the oasis may require walking over uneven terrain. Summer visitors should arrive around sunrise, carry plenty of water and avoid attempting the trip during extreme temperatures.

• Best for: Nature, photography and light hiking
• Recommended time: Sunrise or very early morning

Hatta, Dubai

The journey from Dubai to Hatta gradually changes from wide motorways and open desert roads to rugged mountain scenery. The route is easy to manage and makes for a relaxed summer day trip.

Visitors can stop at Hatta Dam, explore the heritage village or enjoy views of the Hajar Mountains. Some outdoor activities may operate seasonally, so it is important to check their availability before travelling.

• Best for: An easy day trip from Dubai
• Recommended time: Morning departure

Flamingo Lake, Dubai

Flamingo Lake near Ras Al Khor offers a quieter and shorter drive within Dubai. Visitors can view flamingos, wetlands and other bird species while still seeing parts of the Dubai skyline in the distance.

The attraction is best suited to a short morning trip rather than a full-day road journey. Visitors should remain within the designated viewing areas and carry binoculars for a better view of the birds.

• Best for: Wildlife viewing and a short city escape
• Recommended time: Early morning

Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain

Jebel Hafeet offers one of the UAE’s most memorable mountain roads. The route climbs towards the summit through sweeping bends, tighter corners and steep sections overlooking Al Ain.

Drivers should use lower gears when descending to reduce brake pressure. The drive can also be combined with Green Mubazzarah, Al Ain Zoo or other attractions in the city.

• Best for: Driving enthusiasts and sunset views
• Recommended time: Late afternoon

Al Ain Adventure

Located near Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain Adventure provides an activity-based destination after completing the mountain drive. Many of its main attractions are water-based, making it a good choice during the hotter months.

Visitors can try activities such as rafting, kayaking, surfing, tubing and water-based obstacle courses. Advance booking may be required for selected experiences.

• Best for: Families, groups and water activities
• Recommended time: Morning or late afternoon

Khor Fakkan, Sharjah

The drive towards Khor Fakkan combines motorways, mountain tunnels and coastal scenery. After crossing the mountains, drivers arrive at a seaside town positioned between rocky peaks and the Gulf of Oman.

Visitors can explore Khor Fakkan Beach, the amphitheatre, the waterfall and Al Suhub Rest House. The route offers plenty of variety without requiring a specialised vehicle.

• Best for: Mountains and coastal scenery
• Recommended time: Early morning, returning after sunset

Pentagon Café, Khor Fakkan

Pentagon Café serves as a convenient stopping point for drivers visiting the East Coast. Its location near Khor Fakkan Beach makes it suitable for a coffee break before exploring the waterfront or starting the return journey.

The café can be combined with the beach, Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre, the waterfall and nearby mountain viewpoints for a complete day trip.

• Best for: Coffee, beach views and a relaxed stop
• Recommended time: Morning or around sunset

Liwa Oasis And The Empty Quarter, Abu Dhabi

Liwa provides a completely different driving experience. Long stretches of road pass through Al Dhafra towards remote desert communities, enormous dunes and the edge of the Empty Quarter.

Fuel stations and other services can be far apart, so drivers should fill the tank before entering remote areas. Stay on paved roads unless travelling in a properly equipped 4×4 with experienced companions and recovery equipment.

• Best for: Desert landscapes and long-distance touring
• Recommended time: Late afternoon with an overnight stay

Salalah, Oman

Salalah is outside the UAE, but it is one of the best summer road-trip destinations from the country. During the Khareef season, mist and seasonal rainfall transform parts of Dhofar into green mountains, waterfalls and grassy valleys.

The journey from the UAE is long and should be treated as a multi-day road trip. Drivers should consider travelling with two drivers or including an overnight stop. The vehicle should also receive a full inspection before departure.

Once in Salalah, visitors can explore Wadi Darbat, Mughsail Beach, mountain roads, seasonal waterfalls and the coconut-lined coastline. Travellers should check Oman’s latest visa, vehicle insurance and border-entry requirements before starting the journey.

• Best for: A long summer holiday and green scenery
• Recommended time: July to early September during Khareef

Summer Road Trip Checklist

Before starting a long summer drive, inspect the tyres, coolant, engine oil, battery and air-conditioning system. Carry drinking water, a charged phone and basic safety equipment.

Ensure that safety tools are available before travelling. Flammable materials should not be left inside a parked vehicle. Avoid driving while tired, monitor the fuel level and tell someone where you are going when visiting remote areas.

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