5 Day Trips from Dubai When You Get Tired of Shopping

While Dubai is a multi-faceted city with something to do for all travellers, a quick-getaway from the city takes you to some of the most fascinating natural and man-made wonders! Characteristically diverse from the sparkling lights of Dubai city, here are 5 super day trips from Dubai to discover the beauty of the UAE beyond the obvious attractions:

Abu Dhabi

The capital city of the UAE and the more modest counterpart of Dubai, Abu Dhabi is an opulent city, with a humble soul. The glitter might be lesser, but the city’s character is closer to the indigenous roots of the country. When in Abu Dhabi, you must visit the majestic Sheikh Zayed Mosque, or White Mosque as it is popularly called. This sparkling white mosque with intricate marble work will leave you spell-bound with its sheer grandeur. Apart from the mosque, Abu Dhabi has a host of attractions like Yas Island (for water parks, F1 circuit, etc.), Emirates Palace (a magnificent palace hotel), Ferrari World (a one-of-a-kind Ferrari themed amusement park), Marina Mall (a waterfront shopping complex), and many more.

Distances from Dubai: 140 kilometres

Ras al Khaimah

The quieter of the emirates, Ras al Khaimah is a small town, about an hour and a half drive from Dubai, and is the perfect getaway for a relaxing day out of the city. Many new desert resorts have sprouted around Ras al Khaimah, and it is increasingly becoming a great place for an off-road desert camp experience. Some of the other attractions in Ras al Khaimah include the Museum of Ras al Khaimah (a fort turned into a museum), Dayah Fort (a stunning 16^th century fort on a hilltop), Jazirat al-Hamra ( an abandoned fishing village), Khatt Springs (hot-springs with therapeutic properties), and several other historic monuments which tell the story of UAE’s indigenous roots.

Distance from Dubai: 114 kilometres

Fujairah

Dubai’s favourite beach getaway, Fujairah is known for its rugged hills, curving sea-side roads, a pounding surf and a white sandy gorgeous coast-line. People from Dubai head to Fujairah for its stark stone hills,  thrilling water sports or for a fun picnic at the beach. Some of the other popular attractions include Al Bidyah Mosque (the oldest mosque of the UAE), Fujairah Fort (a 17^th century traditional Arab fort) and the lovely serene beaches and corniche along the sea.

Distance from Dubai: 164 kilometres

Al Ain

A beautiful oasis in the desert, Al Ain will surprise you with its tree-lined roads, its sprawling parks and its greenery. The “Garden City of UAE” reflects the opulence of the UAE and attracts visitors from Dubai for its wonderful architecture, the Jabal Hafeet hills for the panoramic view of the city, Al Ain Zoo and beautifully landscaped parks which dot the city.

Distance from Dubai: 149 kilometres

Musandam

Take a detour from your holiday in Dubai, and head to Musandam, an Omani peninsula bordering with the UAE. This spell-binding natural retreat is popular for its day cruises along the jagged coastline, fishing tours to discover the thriving marine life and for the panoramic views from atop the high mountains surrounding the waters. Make your way through the fjords and inlets and if you’re lucky you might spot a dolphin or two!

Distance from Dubai: 191 kilometres

So, which of these day trips will you be taking on your next visit to Dubai? Start planning now!