United Arab Emirates Explorer: City, Coast, and Desert Roadtrip
Journey Through United Arab Emirates
Experience the wonders of the United Arab Emirates on a circular roadtrip blending urban highlights, ancient heritage, mountain landscapes, and serene oases. Start with Dubai’s world-famous skyline, efficient metro, and vibrant food scene. Continue east toward Fujairah’s coastal beauty and historical sites, then north to Ras Al Khaimah’s mountain vistas and adventure activities. Discover Al Ain, a tranquil desert oasis before returning to dynamic Dubai. With a mix of bustling city life, natural wonders, and cultural treasures, this route showcases the diversity and richness of the UAE, making it perfect for families, couples, nature enthusiasts, and travel photographers seeking a memorable journey with ease and flexibility.
Cultural Sites
Natural Beauty
Perfect For All
About This Roadtrip
This route highlights the striking contrasts of the United Arab Emirates, linking the ultra-modern city of Dubai to historic mosques and tranquil oases. Perfect for families looking for variety, couples seeking unique settings, and anyone who loves to capture spectacular scenery, it combines famous sights like the Burj Khalifa with natural gems like Jebel Jais and Al Ain Oasis.
Enjoy easy driving distances each day and a journey where each stop brings a new flavor-urban adventure, coastal serenity, rugged mountains, and peaceful gardens. It’s a UAE experience tailored for discovery, inspiration, and a touch of adventure.
View route on map
Starting Station: Dubai Airport (DXB)
Trip Duration: 4 days
Mileage Distance: 595 km
Perfect For: Couples, Families, Photography, Nature
Loading map...
Reddit Reviews
Dubai offers a wide array of budget-friendly activities and less touristy spots for visitors seeking unique experiences.
The Dubai metro is a popular and efficient way to get around the city.
Travelers appreciate the variety of quality food at affordable prices in Dubai's districts and restaurants.
Musandam Khasab is praised for its dramatic mountains, pristine beaches, and clear waters, making it a standout destination.
There is limited information or advice available for visiting or preparing for a trip to Al Ain, which may leave some travelers uncertain.
Some travelers find it necessary to carry both cash and cards in Dubai, as not all places accept cards for small purchases.
The roadtrip route from Dubai to Musandam Khasab and Al Ain offers a mix of urban excitement, scenic coastal drives, and tranquil desert landscapes.
Dubai stands out for its modern amenities, efficient transportation, and culinary diversity, while Musandam Khasab impresses with its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Al Ain is included as a peaceful desert stop, though traveler insights are limited, suggesting it is less explored or reviewed.
👍 83 % positive|👎 17 % negative
Begin Your United Arab Emirates Adventure
Set out from Dubai and unlock the vibrant contrasts of the UAE with every mile. This route invites you to experience everything from famous skylines to ancient sites and peaceful gardens, all from the comfort of your car. With helpful tips and flexible options, make every day of your journey unique and memorable.
Listen to our favorite spotify Music lists for roadtrips
Loading...
Where To Stop
Roadtrip Stops
Explore the must-visit stops along this UAE circular roadtrip, from the vibrant city pulse of Dubai to the historic coast of Fujairah, soaring mountains of Ras Al Khaimah, and tranquil gardens of Al Ain. Each destination adds a unique chapter to your adventure.
1
First stop
Dubai
Begin your journey at the iconic Burj Khalifa. Soaring above Dubai, this tallest structure in the world offers sweeping city views from its observation deck and a chance to witness modern engineering up close. Enjoy dazzling lights and vibrant city life before setting out to discover more of the UAE’s diversity.
Based on 78475 reviews
(4.5/5)
2
Second stop
Fujairah
Visit Al Bidya Mosque, the UAE’s oldest mosque. Located north of Fujairah, this historic site offers a glimpse into centuries-old Islamic architecture and the serene atmosphere of the coastline. It’s a meaningful cultural visit and a peaceful stop on your journey through the Emirates.
Based on 396 reviews
(4.3/5)
3
Third stop
Ras Al Khaimah
Don’t miss Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE. Ras Al Khaimah’s top attraction features dramatic peaks, hiking trails, and thrilling zip line experiences. The views from the top stretch across rocky landscapes and make for fantastic photos, adding adventure to your route.
Based on 1096 reviews
(4.5/5)
4
Fourth stop
Al Ain
Al Ain Oasis is the city’s green heart, filled with thousands of date palms and shady walking paths. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a cool retreat amid historic falaj irrigation channels and traditional gardens—an ideal spot for relaxation before returning to Dubai.
Based on 510 reviews
(4/5)
5
Fifth stop
Dubai
End your roadtrip in Dubai, where you can visit the Dubai Miracle Garden if in season, a floral wonderland featuring millions of blooming flowers in creative displays. It’s a unique, colorful way to celebrate the conclusion of your UAE adventure. Check seasonal timings before visiting this attraction.
Based on 8332 reviews
(4.4/5)
All you need to know before you go!
Frequently Asked Questions
Travelers recommend packing not just clothes but also useful items like adapters and sunscreen for Dubai, and being prepared for different activities along the route.
Cards are commonly used in Dubai, but it's advised to carry some cash in dirhams for small purchases.
Dubai offers budget-friendly activities and less touristy spots, while Musandam Khasab features scenic drives, dhow cruises, and outdoor adventures.
The Dubai metro is a popular option within the city, and traveling from Dubai to Musandam Khasab is commonly done by road via Ras Al Khaimah, with agencies offering pick-up services.
Latest Articles
Stay informed and inspired for your next journey
AbbyCar Travel Experts
Car Rental & Travel Industry Specialists
AbbyCar Travel Experts are the experienced professionals behind AbbyCar, one of Europe’s most trusted and value-for-money car rental brands, operating in over 30 countries. With more than 14 years of hands-on experience in car rentals and road-trip travel, the team has helped more than 1.5 million travellers explore their destinations with comfort and confidence. Drawing on in-depth knowledge of local routes, travel trends, and driving conditions, AbbyCar Travel Experts provide reliable, experience-based advice to help every traveller enjoy a safe, smart, and stress-free journey.
For more road-trip ideas and expert travel inspiration, visit our Road Trips Section