Top Day Trips from Dubai: Exploring the UAE

 

Abu Dhabi Day Trip From Dubai

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE. It offers the best innovations and is a mix of many traditions. Below are the day trips that a traveler can take from Dubai to Abu Dhabi in a day. Stay focused and explore with us to gain more knowledge.

  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

If we plan a day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque is mainly the primary stop. Finished in 2007, this architectural mosque can arrive within a ninety-minute safe drive from Dubai. The mosque has 82 doms and more than 1,000 sections.

  • Emirates Palace

Next, on your day trip, go to the Emirates Palace. It is a short drive from the mosque. Opened in 2005, this hotel is something other than just a stay. It is one of my favorite and best hotels for UAE travel guides. It's an image of luxury and magnificence. Your visit to this palace will allow you to experience its best lavishness, all within a couple of hours.

  • Qasr Al Watan

To continue your journey, visit Qasr Al Watan. This palace, also known as the Presidential Palace, was built in 2017. This royal residence is a landmark that will show you the UAE's governance and legacy. A guided tour like ours can also take you through its vast library and exhibition halls. This offers a quick look into the UAE's rich social legacy—all in a day.

  • Louvre Abu Dhabi

From Qasr Al Watan, you can spend your day heading towards the Louver Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island. Opened in 2017, this gallery is an architectural marvel planned by Jean Nouvel. The unique dome of this historical center makes a “center of light” impact, making this place a masterpiece. The day trip will let you explore its galleries.

  • Yas Island

If your day trip allows some time, Yas Island is one of my recommended and a great addition to your day trip. Established in 2006, this island is Abu Dhabi's so-called entertainment hub, including Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and Warner Brothers. World. Yas Island offers something for everybody, making it a fitting finish to your day trip.

  • Abu Dhabi Corniche

As you head back towards Dubai, drive along the Abu Dhabi Corniche. This landscape promenade was created in the 2000s. The Corniche is an ideal spot for a quick stop to extend your legs, enjoy the sea breeze, and catch some last-minute photographs before going to Dubai.

  • Heritage Village

You can also visit Legacy Town, built in the last part of the 1990s. This reconstructed Bedouin town gives guests a brief look into the UAE's past. The village was built to preserve the history and culture of Abu Dhabi.

  • Qasr Al Hosn

Finally, before going to Dubai, you can also stop at Qasr Al Hosn. It is the oldest stone structure in Abu Dhabi, initially built in the 1760s. This fort has been reestablished and now presents a beautiful gallery that tells the tale of Abu Dhabi's transformation from a small fishing village to a modern city.

Sharjah Day Trip From Dubai

Sharjah is known as the UAE’s cultural capital. It is only a short drive from Dubai, making it an ideal objective for your day trip.

  • Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization

This museum is a treasure trove of Islamic artists and art. With over 5,000 pieces in plain view, visitors deeply dive into Islamic culture. 

  • Al Noor Mosque

This mosque was built in 2005. Al Noor Mosque is an example of Ottoman architecture and one of the mosques in the UAE open to non-Muslim guests. It offers guided tours into Islamic customs. It's a quick 10-minute drive from the gallery, making it a simple next stop on your day visit.

  • Al Qasba

Al Qasba is one of Sharjah's premier entertainment venues. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere, canals, and the Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel. It's a great place for a leisurely afternoon, offering eating, shopping, and social activities. It's about a 15-minute drive from Al Noor Mosque.

  • Sharjah Arts Museum

One of the largest galleries in the UAE, the Sharjah Art Museum, established in 1997, features contemporary and present-day art from Arab artists. This exhibition hall is just a 5-minute drive from Al Qasba, making it a helpful next stop.

  • Blue Souk (Central Market)

You can end your day trip from Sharjah with a visit to the Blue Souk, also called the Central Market. Built in 1979, this market is famous for its blue-tiled exterior and offers many products, from gold to different jewelry. The market is only a 10-minute drive from the Sharjah Art Museum and gives an ideal finish to your day trip before going to Dubai.

Al Ain Day Trip From Dubai

Al Ain, known as the "Garden City," is a beautiful oasis town around 120 kilometers from Dubai. It is famous for its greenery, historical ports, and social significance.

  • Jebel Hafeet

Jebel Hafeet is the tallest mountain in the UAE. It offers panoramic views of Al Ain. The grand drive up the mountain is a feature that gives various viewpoints from which to enjoy the landscape.

  • Al Jahili Fort

This palace was built in 1891; Al Jahili Fort is one of the largest forts in the UAE. It houses a museum with exhibits emphasizing the region’s history and the adventures of English pioneer Wilfred Thesiger.

  • Al Ain National Museum

This museum is the oldest in the UAE. It offers a deep dive into the Emirati past, with displays ranging from archaeology to ethnography. The museum also features antiques that trace the region's history back to the Stone Age.

  • Al Ain Oasis

Al Ain Oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a retreat that includes the old Falaj water system. Walking through the palm forests offers a break and a brief look into the traditional agricultural practices. Please check here for more details.

Fujairah Day Trip From Dubai

Fujairah, the UAE's just emirate on the east coast, is a beautiful mix of history and natural beauty. This is the way you can explore its features:

  • Fujairah Fort

In the 16th century, Fujairah Fort was one of the oldest forts in the UAE. It remains a testament to the region’s history and traditional architecture. The fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

  • Fujairah Museum

The Fujairah Museum is near the fort and offers a glimpse into the emirate's past. Its exhibits feature archeological finds, conventional weapons, and old relics. The exhibition hall is a cultural gem for foreigners to explore.

  • Bidiya Mosque

Known as the oldest mosque in the UAE, the Bidiya Mosque is special for its four small domes and ancient architecture. This mosque isn't just a place for worship and a historical site.

Khor Fakkan City Tour From Dubai

Khor Fakkan, situated on the UAE's east coast, is ideal for full-day trips with natural attractions.

  • Khorfakkan Beach

Khorfakkan Ocean Side is a stunning spot for relaxation. Its clear waters make it ideal for swimming or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of the east coast.

  • Al Rafisah Dam

Present in the mindset of the Hajar Mountains, Al Rafisah Dam is a peaceful retreat ideal for boating. The dam's serene waters reflect the rugged landscape, making it a pleasant spot for nature walks and photography.

  • Shees Park

Shees Park is a green oasis with walking trails, picnic spots, and a waterfall. Opened in 2020, it's a safe house for families and nature darlings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, from serene beaches to old forts, Dubai's top day trips from different cities offer a new taste of the UAE, making your experience unforgettable.