UAE – 2022/2023
Over the course of my six-month stay in Dubai, I have visited every single one of the United Arab Emirates. Essential for this undertaking was renting a car. Only relying on public transportation, you won’t venture too far. For many people visiting the UAE, Dubai is the only place of interest. (Plus the mandatory half-day desert tour). For me on the other hand, driving out of the most international of all 7 emirates and discovering the country’s beautiful landscapes was crucial for my mental health. So let’s look at a couple of places you can easily reach within 1.5 hours of driving out of Dubai. Listed in no particular order.
01
Abu Dhabi
The capital of the UAE is an easy drive south on E11 away from Dubai. Though it’s still a big city, it generally feels airier than Dubai. Some tourist highlights are the Louvre, Qasr Al Watan, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the Corniche, Dhow Harbour and Jubail Mangrove Park.
02
Al Ain
The only major city located in the desert and close to Oman is definitely worth a trip. Visit the Oasis in the city centre, have lunch at Al Fanar, head to the camel market and watch the sunset from Jebel Hafeet (or even better, stay at the hotel on the top of the hill).
03
Hatta
This man-made mountain getaway for Dubaians offers something for everyone. Hiking, mountain biking, bee farms,… I loved discovering the Wadis near Masfut and watching the sunset from Hatta Hill Park.
04
UAQ & RAK
This is one for beach lovers and explorers of local life: Umm al-Quwain sports popular Kite Beach Center and a cute mangrove beach. Highlights for Ras’ al-Khaima include the drive up to Jebel Jais, sunset on Flamingo beach and dinner at Madfoon Al Sadda.
05
Sharjah
Dubai’s northern neighbour is home to several cultural places of interest. Along the Al Majaz waterfront you find Souq Al Jubail, An-Nur Mosque and Al Noor Island. Sharjah also provides an insight into life in the UAE far from glitz and glamour.
06
Khor Fakkan
Watching the scenery change from desert to mountains and finally arriving at the Gulf of Oman is already worth the trip. After visiting the Old Souq and a walk on the beach, make sure to stop at Al Rafisah dam and Najd Al Maqsar Heritage Village.
07
Sharjah Desert
If you don’t want to go on a tourist tour to the desert, you can easily (& safely) drive yourself to the area around Fossil Rock. On the way, you’ll pass the beautiful Sharjah Mosque and possibly a couple of camels. Stop at Mleiha Archaeological site and drive down the smaller village streets too.
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