Weekend Getaways from Dubai
One of Dubai’s greatest travel advantages is its location. Within a 2-hour drive, you can be in a completely different world ancient mountains, fjord-like coastlines, heritage cities, or a neighbouring country. Here is your guide to the best weekend getaways from Dubai:
Within UAE — Day Trips & Short Breaks
Abu Dhabi (140 km — 90 mins): The UAE capital and the most popular day trip from Dubai. Non-negotiable highlights include: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (one of the world’s most magnificent mosques, free entry), Yas Island (Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World, F1 circuit), Louvre Abu Dhabi (stunning waterfront museum by Jean Nouvel), and the Corniche waterfront promenade. Overnight hotel stays in Abu Dhabi are often cheaper than Dubai. Ideal for a 1–2 night break.
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Sharjah (15 km — 30 mins): Dubai’s nearest neighbour and a UNESCO World Book Capital. Highlights: Sharjah Heritage Area and Heart of Sharjah (beautifully restored historic district), Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation, Sharjah Art Foundation, Blue Souk (best for carpets and gold at lower prices than Dubai), Al Noor Island (butterfly house and contemporary art). A surprisingly rich cultural day trip.
Hatta (100 km — 90 mins): A mountain enclave of the Dubai emirate in the Hajar Mountains. Completely different landscape from the city. Highlights: Hatta Dam reservoir kayaking, Hatta Heritage Village (traditional mountain settlement), mountain biking trails, hiking, and glamping/eco-lodge stays. The bubble pod and infinity pool glamping options have made Hatta hugely popular for couples. Perfect 1–2 night break.
Ras Al Khaimah (120 km — 90 mins): The UAE’s most adventure-forward emirate. Highlights: Jebel Jais (UAE’s highest peak at 1,934m) with the world’s longest zip line (2.83km), Via Ferrata climbing route, Dhayah Fort (oldest fort in the UAE on a hilltop), Mina Al Arab beach resort, and excellent hotels at significantly lower prices than Dubai. Outstanding mountain scenery and crisp air.
Fujairah (150 km — 90 mins): On the Gulf of Oman coast a dramatically different landscape of rugged mountains and pristine beaches. Highlights: Fujairah Fort (one of the oldest in the UAE), Al Bidyah Mosque (oldest mosque in the UAE, 15th century), Fujairah Beach (best beaches near Dubai for diving and snorkelling), and the beautiful sandy coves of Snoopy Island. Best for beach lovers and divers.
Al Ain (160 km — 1.5 hrs): A UNESCO World Heritage City in the interior of Abu Dhabi emirate. One of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. Highlights: Al Ain Oasis (largest oasis in the UAE), Al Ain National Museum, Jebel Hafeet mountain drive and hotel, and several ancient forts. A beautiful, peaceful contrast to the coastal cities.
International — Quick Flights from Dubai
Muscat, Oman (1 hr flight): A beautifully relaxed, culturally rich, and strikingly different Arab capital. The Grand Mosque of Oman, the Royal Opera House, Mutrah Souk, and the dramatic fjords of Musandam are highlights. A perfect long-weekend break.
Musandam Peninsula, Oman (4 hrs drive / 2 hrs with border crossing): The Norway of Arabia dramatic fjords, mountain roads, and dhow-filled harbours. Khasab is the base for dhow cruises through the fjords where dolphins follow the boats. One of the most spectacular landscapes in the region.
Maldives (4 hrs flight): The ultimate luxury weekend escape. Direct Emirates and flydubai flights connect Dubai to Male in 4 hours. For a 3–4-day break, the Maldives offers the most complete beach and overwater bungalow experience in Asia. Travfolks Holidays offers Dubai + Maldives combination packages.
Weekend Getaways from Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
Abu Dhabi is the best family weekend destination — Yas Island alone has Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World, and Legoland all in one area. Ras Al Khaimah is excellent for adventurous families who want mountains and beaches.
Indian passport holders require an Oman visa. It is available online via the Oman eVisa portal or through Travfolks Holidays. The Musandam Peninsula is part of Oman and a separate visa or entry is required even though it is geographically surrounded by the UAE.
Absolutely. Hatta is one of the most underrated weekend escapes in the UAE. The combination of kayaking on the dam, heritage village exploration, mountain biking, and beautiful glamping options makes it one of the best value short breaks available from Dubai.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is in Abu Dhabi, approximately 140km from central Dubai. The drive takes about 90 minutes. Entry to the mosque is free and it is widely considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. A day trip is entirely feasible.
Yes. Inter-emirate taxis and shared taxis operate to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, and Fujairah from various points in Dubai. However, renting a car gives you far more flexibility for exploring. Travfolks Holidays provides private transfers and day trip packages.