Top searches
Trending brands
English
USD
2023/01/26
Are you ready for the UAE's most thrilling and memorable family road trips? We got your back! The United Arab Emirates is a world-class destination, home to some of the best tourist attractions and activities in the world.
From skydiving over the Palm Jumeirah to shopping at the Dubai Mall, there's something for everyone. If you are looking for an unforgettable journey with your family, why not embark on a family trip to this fantastic country?
Our article explores some of the best family road trips in the UAE that will make your trip even more special. See stunning beaches, iconic locations, cultural activities in exciting cities and roadside attractions as you drive around this beautiful country.
Road trips in Dubai are an exciting way to experience all the amazing sights, sounds, and activities the city offers. When planning road trips with family, the following issues are definitely worth resolving.
Firstly, you'll need to check the weather forecasts to plan your trip accordingly. Mornings and evenings tend to be cooler than the afternoons. So make sure you consider this when packing for your trip.
Secondly, ensuring the right vehicle for the journey is always important. Depending on the length of your journey and the number of people travelling, you may need to rent SUV or even a bigger car.
Once you have your vehicle sorted, you can start exploring! Whether a day trip to explore the city's iconic landmarks or a multi-day journey through desert villages, there is a road trip in UAE for everyone. Here are the ten best places to explore and experience on your UAE road trip.
Here are several excellent options you should consider and include in your family travel program.
The Fossil Rock in Sharjah is ideal for any UAE family road trip. It offers a unique and exciting experience that all ages can enjoy.
Not only is the area great for off-roading (bear in mind that you'll need to let down your tire pressure before heading onto the sand), but there's also plenty of opportunity to spot camels in the surrounding desert. Once you reach Fossil Rock and the nearby Camel Rock, you and your family can take a break, have some snacks and take in the views (that's if the weather is favourable).
If you're feeling adventurous, you can ride quad bike rides across the dunes at around Dhs 250 per hour. Or if you'd prefer something more educational, look no further than Mleiha Archaeological Centre.
Here, guided treks offer deeper insights into UAE's history and life in the desert. What makes this destination even better is its convenient location – only 68 km from Dubai via E102 and S116 or 201km from Abu Dhabi via E11. Make sure to include this stop on your UAE family road trip for an unforgettable adventure!
Located near Al Ain and the Oman border, Jebel Hafeet is one of the highest peaks in the country. And it offers breathtaking views of both the desert and Oman.
From a geological perspective, Jebel Hafeet also holds special significance. Its rocky limestone formation has been around for millions of years.
If you don't suffer from vertigo, there is no better experience than embarking on a journey up the hill by car. The winding road climbs 1,240 meters in elevation, so take regular breaks along the way to soak up all the stunning vistas that Jebel Hafeet offers.
Moreover, getting to Jebel Hafeet from Dubai (150 km) and Abu Dhabi (177 km) is easy thanks to roads like E66 or E20 that make for swift journeys by car. Jebel Hafeet stands out among other destinations due to its unique combination of lush nature, historical significance, and spectacular views from the hill.
Whether you want to spend time relaxing with friends and family or get active outdoors while exploring the area's natural beauty – Jebel Hafeet always provides unique experiences throughout each visit. So if you're planning a UAE family road trip soon, Jebel Hafeet is one of those locations you will also want to add to your list of must-see destinations!
Liwa is one of the most incredible places to explore and experience on your UAE family road trip. Located in the vast desert known as the Empty Quarter, Liwa offers stunning views of dunes and sunsets, making it a magical place.
The beauty of Liwa is only enhanced by its off-the-beaten-path location. At 332km from Dubai and 235 km from Abu Dhabi, it's just far enough away to feel like an adventure but close enough to visit easily.
One of our top tips for getting there is to stay in the Tila Liwa Hotel, located right at the edge of the desert. This hotel provides a unique taste of Arabia and offers excellent value with room rates starting around Dhs300 a night.
Aside from its natural landscape, Liwa has many activities for families to enjoy. It doesn't matter whether you fancy cultural experiences or you're an outdoor adventures person. There's something for everyone.
Visit local markets filled with traditional handicrafts or take a camel ride across the desert dunes. Whatever you choose to do, you'll be glad you decided Liwa as part of your family road trip!
Dibba offers an unforgettable and diverse experience. Located in Oman's Musandam peninsula, this little coastal town awaits with panoramic views of the sea, mountains and a variety of activities that everyone can enjoy together.
The journey to Dibba will allow families to bond over magnificent oceanic and mountainous sights. Once there, guests can stay at various resorts or bring their camping gear for a more genuine experience.
Moreover, Dibba is a great destination for water sports lovers looking for recreational activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and banana boat rides or taking a unique dhow cruise along its coast. Those seeking more adventurous adventures can explore the nearby mountains by embarking on exciting treks through them. Conveniently located only 143km from Dubai (via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road E311) and 279km from Abu Dhabi (via Emirates Road E611), it is easy to get to Dibba by rent a car Dubai or rent a car Abu-Dhabi and make it part of your UAE family road trip itinerary!
With its captivating beauty, winding roads, and sense of adventure, Salalah is the perfect spot in the UAE for a memorable journey with your loved ones. Getting there is relatively easy due to its proximity to Dubai (1,265km) and Abu Dhabi (1,292km) via Route 31.
The 13-hour car ride may seem intimidating initially, but it is more than worth it with our luxury cars! From June to September, you can witness lush green mountains and vast desert landscapes - while any time of year offers picturesque views of roaming camels and sheep.
The vastness of Salalah's landscape makes the journey unforgettable since countless sites exist to explore. From historical monuments like Mirbat Castle or Taqah Castle to beautiful scenic locations such as Al-Mughsail Beach or Wadi Darbat - you'll be spoilt for choice!
If that's not enough, then why not walk through the town picking up souvenirs such as fragrant Frankincense or handmade pottery? Salalah offers something for everyone. When combined with the benefits of taking a road trip - such as having greater control over your travelling schedule and stops along the way - this location is one of the best options for family travel in the UAE.
Fujairah is one of the best places in the UAE to enjoy a family road trip due to its stunning scenery, easy-to-navigate roads, and various activities for all ages. For starters, Fujairah is home to some stunning landscapes, including majestic mountains and small towns.
These make for amazing sights and can be explored along scenic desert roads. Furthermore, the roads are in excellent condition, making Fujairah an ideal destination for families travelling with young children or toddlers.
Moreover, Fujairah is widely regarded as one of the top scuba-diving locations in the Emirates. So, it's perfect for those who have their Padi certification.
The clear waters provide an excellent opportunity for kids to don snorkels and explore colourful underwater marine life. It's also close enough to both Dubai (122km via E102) and Abu Dhabi (255km via E11) that you can spend less time on the road.
Hatta offers a perfect combination of tranquillity, adventure, and convenience. Located just 128 km from Dubai and 261 km from Abu Dhabi via Sharjah-Kalba Road E102, Hatta is situated at the foot of the stunning Hajar peaks.
The area is covered with lush palm trees and provides an idyllic mountain retreat for visitors. The tranquil atmosphere of Hatta makes it ideal for spending quality time with your family. At the same time, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
Kayaking on the crystal clear waters of the Hatta dam is a popular activity for those looking for excitement on their visit. Additionally, a series of interconnected mountain bike trails recently opened in the nearby hills providing plenty of opportunities to explore nature further.
With its stunning scenery and plenty of activities, Hatta is undoubtedly one of the best places to enjoy a family road trip in the UAE. It has all you need to ensure that everyone in your family has an unforgettable experience!
Jebel Jais is one of the best places to enjoy a family road trip in the UAE due to its stunning and unique beauty. The longest zip line in the world can be enjoyed here, as well as breathtaking views of eroded cliffs, deep canyons, and warped escarpments along the entire route.
There are many lay-bys for photo stops, but for an even more fantastic view, you should head up to Viewing Deck Park near the summit. Jebel Jais is located 1,934km high and is easily accessible from Dubai (165km) or Abu Dhabi (302km).
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road provides access to these two major cities while ensuring you can take in some of the most mesmerizing sights in the region. Further exploration around Jebel Jais will also bring other fantastic opportunities like camping or spending time outside to enjoy nature at its finest.
For an even more exciting experience, why plan a night drive up there? You'll be able to witness some of nature's most impressive displays–a total once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Our list of the best places to enjoy a family road trip in the UAE would only be complete by mentioning Ras Al Khaimah. Ras Al Khaimah is a great place to enjoy family road trips in the UAE, with an abundance of activities and sightseeing options for all ages.
Whether looking for an adventure or a relaxing weekend away, Ras Al Khaimah offers something for everyone. The emirate boasts stunning mountain vistas and plenty of outdoor activities, including paragliding, water sports, golfing, fishing, and horse riding.
Ras Al Khaimah is also home to some of the best five-star hotels and beach resorts in the country, offering unbeatable comfort for your stay. Plus, it's within easy reach of both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Only 112km from Dubai by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road E311 and 249km from Abu Dhabi via E11 and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road E311.
With Khasab's incredible array of fjords, aptly nicknamed the 'Norway of the Middle East,' the winding roads are great for taking breaks and camping out. Whether you're coming from Dubai or Abu Dhabi, it's an ideal way to get away for the weekend.
Khasab has located 196km from Dubai and 333km from Abu Dhabi via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. Its breathtaking views of rivers, mountains, and lakes provide a picturesque backdrop for creating lasting memories with family.
The nearby villages can offer traditional cultural experiences, while convenient shops make stocking up during your journey a breeze. Anyone wanting to explore Khasab and take advantage of all it offers should be aware that visas are required for those travelling overland - so be sure to plan accordingly!
No matter where you plan to go for your family road trip, it's essential to make sure you have everything you need before setting off. To make your work less complicated, we've rounded up the important items you should pack:
Snacks: Bring plenty of snacks to energise everyone during the long drives. Opt for healthy snacks such as nuts, fruits, and energy bars to keep your family fueled up!
Backpacks: Everyone should have their own backpack to store their things easily while on the go. Make sure each bag is lightweight and has plenty of compartments and pockets.
Wipes: Pack a few antibacterial wipes or hand sanitiser to keep your hands clean after stopping at bathrooms along the way.
Books: They are great companions on any road trip, especially for young children who may get bored quickly. Bring some books or magazines to help pass the time during long road trips!
Clothing: Depending on where you are going, pack clothes that keep you cool during hot summers and warm during cold winters. Remember to bring a few extra sets in emergencies!
Camera: Of course, no family road trip is complete without a camera – so don't forget to pack yours! Be sure to pack a few more batteries, too, just in case.
First Aid Kit: It's always better to be prepared for any eventuality. Make sure to bring a first aid kit with all necessary supplies, such as bandages and antiseptic ointment, so you'll have everything you need should someone get injured or fall ill.
Nothing beats the joy of exploring a new place with your family; road trips in the UAE are no exception. With so many incredible places to visit, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to plan and pack everything you need before setting off – then prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey! Happy travels!