Dubai – a city that’s equal parts glamorous, sun-baked and rugged. Whether you’re a road tripper at heart or just looking for a quick getaway, you’re in luck. The emirate’s got this rare mix of city sparkle, golden sand and rugged mountains all packed into a single weekend. This guide will help you find the best scenic routes, the perfect time to head out, how to plan the perfect ride, and the top day trips for nature lovers across the gulf.
Our Top Picks: Best Scenic Drives in Dubai – A Quick Peek
- City & Coast
- Jumeirah Beach to Dubai Marina via JBR: a beachside cafe crawl, a visit to the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque and a photo stop at Madinat Jumeirah & the Burj Al Arab
- Palm Jumeirah island loop: take in those breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and the city skyline – from a totally unexpected angle
- Sheikh Zayed Road Skyline Run: the tallest building, the financial centre, the mall and the frame – this drive’s got the wow factor in spades
- Dubai Creek Heritage Loop: souks, abra rides and loads of old-meets-new city vibes
- Desert & Lakes
- Al Qudra Lakes: a serene spot for a picnic lunch and some stargazing on the weekends
- Liwa Oasis & the Empty Quarter: the ultimate arid adventure – where the desert meets the stars
- Mountains & Beyond
- The Hatta Mountains: a turquoise lake, a historic village and a lovely change of scenery
- Jebel Jais, Ras al Khaimah: the highest peak in the UAE, a zip line and some seriously breathtaking views
- Al Ain & Jebel Hafeet: green spaces, an oasis and a relaxing soak in the hot springs
- Dubai to Fujairah via the Hajar Mountains: a coastal road trip with a difference – where the mountains meet the sea
Planning Your Scenic Drive in Dubai (Timing, Car, Safety Tips)
- Best times to go
- Early morning and golden hour are the best times – you’ll have the roads to yourself and the views will be simply stunning. Winter’s the perfect time to visit – it’s cooler and the views are clearer. If you’re visiting in the summer, head out at sunrise or sunset to beat the heat
- Car choice & driving skills
- Any normal sedan will handle the city and highways, but if you’re planning to explore the desert or mountains, a 4×4 would be a lot safer and more comfortable. If you’re driving down a mountain, be sure to use the engine braking, keep your speed down and watch out for hidden fog pockets
- Navigation & the rules of the road
- Don’t forget to top up your Salik tolls before you head out on Sheikh Zayed Road – you don’t want to get caught out. Obey the speed limits and drive in your lane – there are plenty of cameras around to keep an eye on you. Fill up before heading out to the mountains or the desert.
- Comfort & Safety
- Pack plenty of water, some snacks, sunscreen and a first aid kit – you never know when you might need it. Download a map – you never know when you might lose signal. Be respectful of the environment and leave no trace – we want to keep Dubai beautiful for everyone.
Scenic City Routes in Dubai
Jumeirah Beach Road to JBR & Dubai Marina
This classic coastal drive runs along the Arabian Gulf and takes in all the sights – from the stunning Jumeirah Mosque to the beautiful beachside cafes and the iconic Burj Al Arab. If you’re feeling adventurous, drive out at sunrise for open roads and a soft light – or head out at dusk for a lively street scene and plenty of coastal views.
- Don’t miss…
- A viewpoint of the Burj Al Arab – it’s a real showstopper
- The beachside bars and cafes for a drink or a meal
- The street parking along Kite Beach – it’s a great spot to people watch
- Photo tip…
- Snap a wide-angle shot of the city skyline from Kite Beach – it’s the perfect way to capture the contrast between the sea and the city.
Palm Jumeirah Island Crescent Loop
This scenic drive loops around the Palm Jumeirah and takes in all the views – the coastline, the city skyline and the luxury resorts that line the Palm. It’s a real treat for the eyes – and the camera.
- Good to know…
- There’s street parking at the Boardwalk and the designated lay-bys – but be warned – weekends can get busy. Try to time it with the sunset – the light is perfect.
Sheikh Zayed Road Skyline Cruise
This drive’s got it all – the city skyline, the Burj Khalifa, the financial centre, the mall and the frame – it’s a real city spectacular. Take a drive out at sunrise or sunset for the best views and a real taste of Dubai’s glamour. Dubai’s main artery doubles as a movie montage of super-modern architecture. Catch a glimpse of the Burj Khalifa, Emirates Towers, Dubai International Financial Centre and the Dubai Mall interchange while the Dubai Frame lights up like a beacon near Zabeel Park. And then there’s the night drives: the city comes alive with the twinkling lights of its skyscrapers.
- Tip for a smooth ride
- Stick to the right-hand lanes unless you need to overtake, and keep an eye out for those Salik gates. Take a short detour into DIFC for some top dining or grab a parking spot to catch a Burj Khalifa fountain show.
Dubai Creek and Old Dubai Heritage Loop
If you’re after some real cultural richness, get yourself around Dubai Creek’s historic quarters, then pull up at Al Seef or Deira and jump on an abra. The mix of old, wooden dhows, wind towers and souks is like taking a peep into Dubai’s trading past. There are loads of easy walking stops for snaps, snacks and a bit of shopping.
Desert Lakes & Sandscapes Near Dubai
Scenic Drive: Al Qudra Lakes and Love Lakes
Just a hop beyond the city, you’ll find Al Qudra Lakes – tranquil waters, loads of birdlife and golden sands galore. It’s a real favourite with nature lovers. The route itself is smooth sailing on main approaches, with some sandy spurs that need a bit of clearance. Get there first thing in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife and pastel skies.
- Essentials
- Sedans are fine on main approaches; just watch out for the sandy spurs. If you can time it right, early morning or late afternoon is the perfect time to catch the wildlife and that gorgeous light.
Scenic Drive: Liwa Oasis and the Empty Quarter (Rub al Khali)
Now this is one of the best road trips in the Gulf. Liwa is just stunning – towering dune ridges and desert beauty everywhere. But this one really does need some planning: the drive takes 3.5-4.5 hours each way from Dubai to the edge of the Rub al Khali desert, and there’s not much in the way of services once you hit the dunes.
- Safety and driving skills
- If you plan on leaving the tarmac, make sure you’re in a 4×4. Bring some extra water, recovery gear and go with a group or a guide – the dunes can be pretty treacherous. For most people, the scenic drive on the highway to Liwa is reward enough.
Mountain Road Trips From Dubai
Scenic Drive: Hatta Mountains, Hatta Dam & Hatta Heritage Village
You gotta check out Hatta – set in the Hajar Mountains, it’s got cooler temps, rugged beauty and turquoise waters at Hatta Dam. The route takes 90-120 minutes via E102 and it’s a real treat – wadis, farms and the restored Hatta Heritage Village that shows off mountain life.
- Highlights
- Kayaking on Hatta Dam, hiking trails and mountain biking. Don’t forget your ID for the checkpoints and enjoy the laid-back vibe of this small town.
Scenic Drive: Dubai to Fujairah via Hajar Mountains (UAE’s East Coast)
This one threads its way through canyons and tunnels, then spits you out onto the UAE’s east coast with stunning coastal views near Khor Fakkan and some great snorkelling at Snoopy Island. The Dubai to Fujairah journey takes 1.5-2.5 hours depending on the pass.
- Plan it
- Get there early to beat the traffic. Why not combine a beach stop, Fujairah Fort and a seafood lunch with a bit of mountain road on the way back.
Scenic Drive: Jebel Jais, Ras al Khaimah (UAE’s Highest Peak Road)
Take a world-class mountain road that climbs to viewing decks below the highest peak in the country. The views are just breathtaking at every single bend. Temperatures drop pretty noticeably, and on weekends it’s all happening with food trucks and cyclists.
- Don’t miss
- Jebel Jais Flight – one of the world’s longest ziplines, so book a time slot in advance. And don’t forget to bring some layers and check the RAK road updates before you leave.
Scenic Drive: Al Ain (Garden City) & Jebel Hafeet via Dubai Al Ain Road
Drive on over to the Garden City for some lush parks, then take in the stunning views from the top of Jebel Hafeet. In town, the UNESCO-listed Al Ain Oasis is a real treat with its shaded trails among the date palms. And Al Ain Zoo and Green Mubazzarah hot springs are great for families.
- Route features
- Smooth E66 (Dubai Al Ain Road), heritage forts and sunset overlooks. It’s a real contrast between the green oasis and the surrounding desert.
Bonus Day Trip: Abu Dhabi Corniche via E11
Why not extend your scenic drive to Abu Dhabi for some waterfront vibes, mangroves and cultural landmarks? Take a cruise around the Corniche for some skyline reflections and cap it all off with a museum visit or a sunset beach stroll.
- Practical note
- The route takes 75-90 minutes each way outside of peak hours. Plan your parking and dinner reservations for the weekends.
Route Summary (Distances, Times, Highlights)
| Route | Distance (one-way) | Typical time | Highlights | Vehicle |
| Jumeirah Beach Road → JBR/Marina | 15–20 km | 30–60 min | Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Mosque, beachside cafes | Any |
| Palm Jumeirah Crescent | 10–15 km | 30–45 min | Panoramic views, turquoise waters | Any |
| Sheikh Zayed Road skyline | 15–25 km | 30–50 min | Burj Khalifa, Emirates Towers, DIFC | Any |
| Dubai Creek loop | 10–15 km | 30–60 min | Souks, abra ride, heritage vibes | Any |
| Al Qudra Lakes | 50–70 km | 45–70 min | Golden sands, tranquil waters, food trucks | Any (careful off-road) |
| Hatta Mountains & Dam | 125–150 km | 1.5–2 hrs | Hatta Dam, Heritage Village | Any (4×4 optional) |
| Jebel Jais (Ras al Khaimah) | 160–190 km | 2–2.5 hrs | Jagged peaks, viewing decks | Any |
| Al Ain & Jebel Hafeet | 150–170 km | 1.5–2 hrs | Al Ain Oasis, Green Mubazzarah | Any |
| Dubai to Fujairah (East Coast) | 120–150 km | 1.5–2.5 hrs | Hajar Mountains, Snoopy Island | Any |
| Liwa Oasis (Empty Quarter) | 320–360 km | 3.5–4.5 hrs | Rub al Khali dunes, arid beauty | 4×4 for off-road |
Note: Times are outside rush hour; weekend traffic will slow you down.
Snap-Worthy Panoramic Views
- City
- Burj Khalifa boardwalks, DIFC Gate framing the skyline, and the Dubai Frame at Zabeel Park – a great spot to see the old and new Dubai side by side.
- Coast
- Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk at sunset, JBR beach sunrise, and Kite Beach with the Burj Al Arab as your backdrop.
- Mountains
- Jebel Jais viewing decks, Jebel Hafeet hairpins, and the views from the Hatta Dam.
- Desert
- Al Qudra dunes at dawn, and the Liwa Oasis ridge lines for sweeping dune textures.
Pro tip: Tripods are usually fine in most public areas; drones require a permit so be sure to check local notices before flying
Food & Drink, Rest Stops & Facilities
- City & Coast
- Jumeirah Beach Road and JBR have loads of beachside cafes and bakeries, plus shaded promenades. The Dubai Mall and DIFC have some great gourmet food options too.
- Mountains
- Food trucks on Jebel Jais on weekends, and Hatta has local eateries and lots of picnic space.
- Desert
- Al Qudra has weekend kiosks; carry lots of water and snacks. For Liwa, stock up on supplies in Madinat Zayed before hitting the dunes.
- Family-friendly breaks
- Al Ain Zoo, Green Mubazzarah hot springs, Zabeel Park playgrounds, and creekside promenades.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Driving Tips
- Speed, spacing and mountain drivers’ etiquette
- Speed limits are in place for a reason, keep right unless overtaking and increase your gap on mountain descents and in fog.
- Mountain rules
- Lower your gears when heading down a mountain and don’t stop on blind corners – use your brakes instead.
- Desert drivers be aware
- Avoid soft sand unless you’re an experienced driver; reduce tire pressure only when entering dunes and re-inflate on the tarmac.
- Weather watch
- Winter fog on the highways, sudden showers in the mountains and desert sandstorms can all impact visibility.
‘Start early, carry water, and respect the terrain — Dubai’s scenic routes reward the prepared driver with unforgettable and simply stunning views.’
Scenic Drives in Dubai – Frequently Asked Questions
What are the absolute must-do scenic drives in Dubai?
Well you cant go past Jumeirah Beach Road, Palm Jumeirah Crescent, the incredible views from Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Qudra Lakes, the Hatta Mountains and the Hatta Dam, Jebel Jais in Ras al Khaimah (highest peak access), Dubai to Fujairah via the Hajar Mountains, and of course Al Ain and Jebel Hafeet, and Liwa Oasis.
How long does it take to get from Dubai to Fujairah?
The journey typically takes 1.5–2.5 hours depending on the pass youre taking, the traffic, and of course how many stops you make along the way along the UAE’s east coast.
Do I really need a 4×4 to get to Liwa Oasis and the Empty Quarter?
If you plan on going off-road, then a 4×4 is a must. But if you stick to the highway, your sedan will be fine, just make sure you have experience and the right recovery gear to get you out of any sticky situations in the soft sand.
What’s the best time of day to go for a scenic drive?
Early morning or late afternoon are ideal – its usually cooler then, and the light is just so much softer. If you can, plan your drive for the winter months when the skies are clear and the breeze is gentle.
Where can I see mountains near Dubai?
Hatta Mountains are a great place to start. If you want to push your limits, head to Jebel Jais in Ras al Khaimah (highest peak access), or Jebel Hafeet near Al Ain are always a great option.
Do I need to worry about tolls on Sheikh Zayed Road?
Yes, there are salik gates along the way, so make sure your balance is topped up so you can keep on driving.
Are there any family-friendly stops along the way?
There are loads – you can check out Al Ain Zoo, Green Mubazzarah hot springs, the Dubai Mall fountains, Zabeel Park, and the JBR beach promenades to name a few.
The Final Word: Get Out and Enjoy the Ride
From the glitz and glamour of Dubai’s city centre to the rugged beauty of the desert and the Hajar Mountains, scenic drives in Dubai have literally got something for everyone. Pick a route that suits your time and your driving style, get an early start, and of course make time for some photo stops – after all thats what its all about. Save this guide, plan your next road trip or scenic drive, and get out there and explore the very best of the gulf region.
