The glamour city of Dubai city casts its spell which is difficult to break. But once you have had your fill of Dubai, I would urge you to consider these short trips from Dubai. This post also includes day trips from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, other emirates in UAE and to neighbouring Oman. Adventure, culture, retail therapy, family fun – here are some of the easy trips from Dubai you can take.
Discover the 12 best day trips from Dubai for adventure, culture, and stunning scenery. It is easy to combine a Dubai itinerary with some of these day trips. And if you are on a family trip, you will be amazed at the number of things to do in Dubai with kids.
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Day Trips from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
One of the most recommended short trips is a 2-day trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, offering adventure, culture, and fun.
Yas Island in Abu Dhabi
Located 115kms (1 hour) to the west of Dubai, Yas Island in Abu Dhabi Emirate has a little bit of everything for all ages! You can tackle it in a long Abu Dhabi day trip from Dubai. But it would be best to allow 2 days to experience everything Yas Island has to offer.
The island has 4 giant theme parks – Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi and SeaWorld Yas Island. Other than the waterpark, you’ll find the other 3 are all indoor, perfect for coping with the heat. Each offers plenty of action-packed adrenaline rides, including the fastest roller coaster in the world, kid–friendly rides, and entertaining shows.
If you’re the type that thinks of calm blue waters, palm trees and marinas when you mention the word “island”, you won’t be disappointed either. Abu Dhabi’s island of fun includes a private resort beach. There is free access if you’re staying at one of the hotels. There is the beautiful Yas Marina, where you can catch a private charter or a cruise to enjoy the waters around Abu Dhabi’s outer islands. The marina has a restaurant, entertainment district, and kids’ play area.
The latest addition to the island is Yas Bay Waterfront. This entertainment district includes Café Del Mar, an exclusive adults-only beach club. And Etihad Arena brings a string of international artists and sporting events to the capital. You’ll find the most happening places here with a string of bars and fine dining restaurants. Families will love bowling and arcade games at Central or pub grub at McCafferty’s.
The main attraction of the island though is Yas Marina Circuit. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is held here annually in November but there’s motor sports action happening pretty much year-round. If you are lucky to be visiting on a Sunday or Tuesday evening, come and join in the fun of Yas open nights where you can walk or cycle the Grand Prix track for free! It’s most beautiful at night when the Yas Hotel that straddles the Grand Prix track is fully lit up. You will find this information on how to get between Dubai and Abu Dhabi useful.
You can book a multi-park ticket to Yas Island or choose a ticket for one of the theme parks. Book a skip-the-line entry ticket to Warner Bros World. Book entrance ticket to SeaWorld, the region’s first marine life theme park.
Top tip: If you book a hotel on Yas Island, your room can be booked with your choice of theme park tickets included!
Contributed by Marta Correale | Little City Trips
Adrenaline rush at Ferrari World
Ferrari World is located on the action-packed Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. It is a must amongst Dubai day trips if cars and adventure is your thing. Put simply, is a motor-enthusiasts dream. The vast covered air-conditioned atrium of this uber modern shaped building houses as many adrenaline-soaked rides you could ever find under one roof. The 4 in-house rollercoasters though do whisk patrons out in the searing desert heat brief period, significantly adding to the thrill.
If you have ambitions of becoming a formula one race car driver, ensure you take a ride on the Formula Rossa. This engineering marvel will allow you to experience the acceleration effects of going from 0-240kph in under five seconds. Not much can prepare you for the shock of this. The added twists and turns bring some serious G-forces so it is not for the faint of heart!
The rest of Ferrari World contains a very well themed Flying Aces roller coaster, go-carts, driving simulators, stage shows. You can also race the clock changing a wheel on an actual F1 racing car. There is also a lot of history of the Ferrari Motor Company if you are specifically an Italian car enthusiast. Of course, if someone in your group is not up for an adrenaline rush, the connected Yas Mall will occupy with them a serious dose of retail therapy.
Consider this full-day tour from Dubai to explore Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Emirates Palace and the Ferrari World.
Contributed by Warren Dobe| SlingAdventures
Mega Theme Park: Warner Bros World
Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi is one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world. It is a perfect spot to keep cool on a hot day whilst also having tonnes of fun. It’s a pretty easy day trip from Dubai to the Yas Island attraction with the free shuttle bus from the Sheraton Mall of The Emirates. Otherwise, it’s a 1hr 10 min drive from Dubai with ample free parking at the theme park.
This indoor park is fantastic for ages ranging from around 5 or 6 to adults. Babies and toddlers are also welcome, and there are a handful of rides for them. But it is much better for children who can reach the necessary height restriction for most rides. For many adults, Warner Bros World is like a blast from the past with beloved childhood cartoon characters and immersive worlds such as Bedrock and Gotham City.
If you are visiting with younger children, it’s best to start at Bedrock and work anti-clockwise through the circular route. Otherwise, head straight to Metropolis with tweens and teens to make the most of the bigger rides, which tend to get busier as the day progresses. It’s a good idea to look at the map, work out the rides you’d like to take and ensure the height restriction will not disappoint little ones.
Equally, there are some climbing zones, one requiring socks and another requiring closed shoes, so it’s worth keeping this in mind. Most likely, you feel quite warm from all of the excitement. But it is a fully AC park, so you may want a layer for waiting for the kiddos to take the ride.
Some of the highlights include The Flinstones Bedrock Adventure, an immersive river boat adventure with a raft-like drop at the end into the water. Be prepared for a bit of a splash! Fast and Furr-ous is another great ride. It’s a rollercoaster which hangs beneath the track and whizzes around Cartoon Junction above the heads of other guests. Finally, The Riddler Revolution is an adrenaline-fuelled ride for adults and kids, which is usually a highlight for many.
We also can’t forget the various performances and immersive experiences. Make sure to check the schedule on arrival. Most take place in the main plaza area. Plenty of different eateries exist, with options ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants. It is easy to book online admission ticket for Warner Bros World.
Contributed by Karen|Secret Abu Dhabi
Astounding beauty of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Arguably the most beautiful building in the country, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands at the gateway to the capital city, Abu Dhabi. One of the world’s largest mosques, the Grand Mosque is a stunning mix of Islamic architectural styles. This mosque can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers. It operates an open-door policy encouraging visitors of all faiths to come and appreciate its’ beauty and learn more about the region’s culture and religion.
It is very straightforward to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Dubai on an organized tour that will take just half a day from your itinerary. Alternatively, take a longer one-day cultural tour from Dubai. You could also add on a stop at the Louvre Abu Dhabi or see another of the city’s stunning buildings Qasr Al Watan (the Presidential Palace).
It’s also possible to hire a car and self-drive if you are confident with the fast-paced traffic of the UAE. You can get in early to beat the tourist buses arriving en masse from Dubai. Or use the flexibility to come just before sunset when the glowing white marble of the Grand Mosque shines at its best, a photographer’s delight!
It’s important to note that as an active house of worship, a strict dress code is applied for visitors to the Grand Mosque. They no longer provide free abayas for ladies or kanduras for men. So it’s essential you dress appropriately. A small shopping arcade is now located at the entrance so you can buy appropriate clothing, such as head scarves, if required.
Free cultural tours are offered every hour if you’d like to learn more about the building and its cultural and spiritual importance. Or you can self-guide your way around both the vast prayer hall and the grounds. If time permits, head across the freeway in front of the mosque for some of the best distance views of the building’s exterior at Wahat Al Karama. This is a memorial for fallen soldiers with a stunning reflective pool.
Contributed by Keri|Abu Dhabi Travel Planner
Unusual cultural experience at Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
For an interesting cultural experience, include a visit to the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital on a day trip from Dubai. Falcons are revered in the emirates, symbols of national pride. The care bestowed on falcons at the hospital reflects their status in Emirati culture.
The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is a world-class veterinary care facility that treats over 11,000 birds each year. It conducts research and offers training, boarding, and grooming services. There’s also a falcon release program where wild falcons are cared for and released back into the wild.
In 2007, the hospital introduced an award-winning tourism program. Its ‘Falcon World Tour’ is an informative, interactive tour offering insights into the world of these majestic birds, the history of falconry, and the life and care of falcons in modern times. The Falcon World Tour is a rich educational experience for people of all ages. It includes a presentation in the on-site falcon museum, and a visit to the treatment room where visitors observe a checkup of an anesthetized falcon.
Treatment includes the trimming of its beak and talons and perhaps the repair or replacement of a damaged or missing feather. The examination and procedures are accompanied by an interesting commentary delivered by a member of the hospital staff. A highlight of the tour is for each visitor to have a falcon perched on an arm in the treatment room. Thankfully, leather gloves are available to protect visitors’ arms from talons.
Contributed by Anne|Packing Light Travel
Day Trips from Dubai to other Emirates
Dubai, known for its vibrant city life and opulent attractions, also offers a plethora of short day trips for those seeking adventure, culture, and stunning scenery. Here are some short trips from Dubai to explore the nearby region’s hidden gems.
Adventures galore at Hatta Dam
If you’re craving adventure, you only need to drive 2 hours from Dubai to Hatta. In the Hajar mountains, you will discover a range of fun activities to suit families, couples and singles looking for a city getaway.
Kayaking in the freshwaters of Hatta Dam is mind-blowing with the turquoise waterscontrasting against the dark volcanic landscape. You can try the pedal boats, donut boats, yellow boats and water bikes if you’d rather! Hatta is a popular spot for mountain-bikers with a selection of easy to hard trails to ride on. This is a fabulous way to explore the mountainous terrain.
If you fancy taking it at a slower pace, throw on your hiking boots and experience the 3 km or 9 km routes. You will pass by spots of green vegetation by the wadis. A welcome sight against the expanse of the rocky Hajer Mountains. The treks bring you out near the Hatta Heritage Village where you can discover what life was like in Dubai a few thousand years ago. It was restored in 2001 to include two watchtowers, mosque and a fort. Inside the ruler’s house, ‘Bait Al Wali’, you can see displays of weaponry, artefacts, palm-tree products, handicrafts, weaving and traditional dress.
The adventure doesn’t stop there. To get a full flavour of this fascinating trip from Dubai, stay at the JA Hatta Fort Hotel. Here you can choose to relax by the pool or get involved in the activities on the resort such as archery, mini-golf, garden chess, tennis and much more. The chalet-style rooms are modern inside with character too. The views overlooking the lush green gardens with the backdrop of the Hajar Mountains are priceless. What’s not to love?
Browse through some Hatta tour options:
Contributed by Vanessa Ball | Wanders Miles
Cultural trip to Al Ain
Al Ain, at a distance of about 150 km. It makes for a good short trip from Dubai, if you are looking for culture and sightseeing. The first interesting site you can visit is the Al Ain Palace Museum. The most amazing thing about this landmark is the way the architecture blends the old and the new. Specifically, you can see Emerati-influenced design everywhere. The courtyards are a way to merge together the private and the public facilities of the structure.
The buildings are maintained well with local, environmentally-friendly resources like clay and adobe. You can see the room that was used to teach palace residents the ways of the Qur’an, and Hadith that shows the teachings of Muhammad inscribed right on the ceiling. It is a moving visit for all and a very historical one at that. You can pay a visit here anywhere from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM, and see what life was like for Sheikh Zayed and his family. It is easy to book a cultural tour from Dubai to Al Ain.
If you or someone in your family is a car guru or auto lover, come check out the Al Ain Classic Car Museum. Here you will find a collection of old, treasured cars that go all the way back to the turn of the century. A Ford Model T, for example, is part of the collection. There is a huge garage in the back that you can check out. Here all the restorative work goes on-it shows that these cars take time to look their best. You can take photos of the cars, but no posing with them is allowed. The employees are helpful and kind and will answer any questions you might have.
Contributed by Kaila Yu | NomList
Al Noor island and Butterfly House, Sharjah
For a perfect family day out from Dubai, head over to Buhairah Corniche in Sharjah. Start off at Al Noor Island and Butterfly House.
After admiring the beautiful award-winning Butterfly Pavilion, head into the Butterfly House and see different butterflies fluttering around and even landing on you. Look out for the chrysalises at different stages and caterpillars.
Next, explore the island and stroll through different habitats like the meadow, a cactus garden and silk floss trees! Wander through the maze, jump down the trampoline path, enjoy the art installations, play in the rope park, enjoy the view on the swing seat or relax in the Literature Pavilion.
From there, walk down Buhairah Corniche past Al Noor Mosque to Al Majaz Waterfront and eat at one of the many restaurants or cafes with a view over the lake. From around 4pm, you can take a ride in the Big Balloon that takes you over the lake, or little ones can play in the Splash Park. Or maybe take a dhow ride or rent a kayak or peddle boat. In the evening, you can watch the dancing fountains. If you can, time your visit when one of the many events and festivals are on.
The easiest way to get there is by car/taxi, or take a bus to Jubail Terminal and walk. Another option is to take the water taxi from Deira to Sharjah Aquarium and then a taxi or bus. If you’re planning on visiting more places, using the Hop on Hop off sightseeing bus would be a great option.
Contributed by Allison|Glimpses of the UAE
Ziplining in Ras Al Khaimah
Dubai has the dual advantage of being a big destination in itself and being able to work as a base for multiple short trips across UAE for a whole range of activities. One of our favourite such short trip from Dubai was to go ziplining in Ras-Al-Khaimah.
For most adventure enthusiasts, ziplining is something you do for a few minutes in an adventure park. Or as a specialized activity at a tourist attraction and hardly involves travelling to the place just for it. However what if we tell you that that it involves flying like superman on the world’s longest zipline over the Jebel Jais mountains, to a suspended base, at speeds equal to the fastest animal on the planet! Not hooked as yet? What if we tell you that the views are breathtaking? And that after a few minutes of obligatory terror, it is actually possible to enjoy them as if you’re taking a walk in the park.
It takes about 2-2.5 hours just to reach the Toro Verde (The company running the activity) parking lot. The entire experience takes about an hour after you’re fitted in, adding in a buffer to account for holiday season rushes. You can get done by lunch if you leave Dubai at sunrise.
We would recommend leaving early to beat the heat especially if you’re planning to do it anytime between March and October. We can easily recommend this for families, couples and solo adventure junkies alike given its great safety record. There is provision for two people to zip line simultaneously side by side. Book the entrance ticket to zip lining adventure.
Contributed by Rishabh Shah | Gypsy Couple
Other Easy Day Trips from Dubai
Dubai offers a plethora of exciting short drives from Dubai for adventure enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those seeking picturesque scenery.
Dramatic scenery at Musandam Peninsular, Oman
One of the most spectacular trips you can take from Dubai is to drive through the northern emirates. You will reach up to the very tip of the Arabian Peninsula to where the land meets the Strait of Hormuz in the most spectacular style. This is often referred to as the “Norway of Arabia” due to the dramatic fjords. This little-known natural wonder is, in fact, an enclave of Oman known as the Musandam Peninsular. If you are planning a trip to Oman separately, do look into this 6-day Oman itinerary.
A dramatic coastal drive up the west coast takes you to the regional capital of Khasab, via al Darah border crossing. The drive from Dubai can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Or longer depending on the road conditions and border crossing. Don’t forget to pack your passports and there is a small exit fee to pay from the UAE, as well as an Oman visit visa.
Once your paper work is in order, head to the harbor and get out on a boat! There are motorized speed boat options if you only have a short time to explore. But the best way to get around is to hire a traditional dhow for a day or two and sail between the giant khors. The waters are home to pods of dolphins, and scores of fish. It’s a popular scuba diving spot. Also a brilliant escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city with a book and a drink in hand.
Khasab itself isn’t much more than a small village but there is a castle with a small museum to explore. There are a few small resorts for overnight stays, or why not try camping? A good skipper can find you a lovely secluded beach. Or you can save on the tents and even sleep overnight on the boat itself under the stars.
These Musandam tours from Dubai are great options:
Contributed by Keri Hedrick| Our Globetrotters
Hot air balloon ride over Dubai’s desert
If I were to recommend a Dubai day trip, that needs to be the hot air balloon ride over Dubai’s desert I got to try 3 years ago. Really worthy of the early wake-up call and the hour-long ride to get out of the city.
You will be able to witness how the sun rises over the vast dunes and Hajar mountains surrounding the city, some real eye candy. I got to experience this once in a lifetime adventure with Balloon Adventures Dubai. This company has been offering balloon flights for the last 13 years. It only employs European qualified hot air balloon pilots with lots of flying hours, experience, and knowledge under their belt. In fact, our pilot was happy to share a few interesting facts on Dubai desert. He managed to fly over Peregrine falcons, camels, gazelles and we even witnessed the Arabian Oryx in their natural habitat.
It all starts really early in the morning when you are picked up from your hotel and taken to the take-off site in the desert, where the balloons are being inflated in the darkness. Then, you go onboard, get the needed safety briefing and take off, ascending to over a km above the earth. The sun rises when you are up in the air, in what is one of the most remarkable experiences ever. And a very photogenic one for that matter too. They fly every day of the week from September until May.
Book a Hot Air Ballon Tour:
Contributed by Inma Gregorio | A World To Travel
Desert Safari is a must for a first-time visitor
Going on a Dubai Desert Safari with your family offers a unique experience just a few hours away from Dubai. A Dubai Desert Safari trip would have to be booked and they will pick you up from Dubai and bring you to the desert camp.
The experience begins in a 4×4 jeep and dune bashing, where skilled drivers navigate the undulating terrain, creating a sense of excitement and exhilaration. Keep in mind, that this portion might not be suitable for small children. In addition, the beautiful desert landscape provides a scenic backdrop, creating opportunities for family photos. Also, there are a lot of animals in the camp which kids would enjoy seeing such as camels, donkeys, falcons, etc.
Visit the open-roof camp, where you can relax and enjoy cultural activities, such as henna painting, shisha smoking, and trying on traditional attire. In the evening, families can enjoy a buffet dinner featuring traditional Arabic cuisine. Keep in mind that there would not be any alcohol available at the buffet since UAE is a Muslim country. However, there will be soft drinks and juice available.
The meal is accompanied by cultural performances such as belly dancing and traditional music, offering insight into the local heritage. When preparing for a Dubai Desert Safari, families should opt for comfortable, lightweight clothing made of breathable fabrics such as cotton to help with the desert’s high temperatures. A scarf or shawl can be useful for added sun or wind protection. Also, dont forget to bring high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses and water.
Browse through some of the desert safari tours:
Contributed by Travel Addicted Unicorn
[This post was originally published in 2018, and later updated in 2023.]
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Which of the trips from Dubai has been your favourite? Has anything new or spectacular been missed? Share in the comments below.
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A very well explained article about short excursion from Dubai.
Such a amazing destination, never boring destination.
From a lazy fishing place to world class destination UAE.
Great Summary. Might be transferring there good to know.
Great compilation!
Thanks Raj, glad you enjoyed reading it. Have you been to Dubai or the surrounding areas?
Been to Dubai, very long time back.. I am sure now its totally a differnt world!
I have always been so fond of palaces and forts. The historical heritage that remains confined with those high walls really fascinate me. Al Ain should be perfect for me 🙂
And the Al-Fahidi Fort in Dubai as well.