Top 7 Scenic Road Trip Routes Across the UAE and the Cars That Handle Them Best

Imagine cruising through the UAE’s golden deserts, winding past jagged Hajar Mountains, or hugging the turquoise coastline of the Gulf of Oman while the sun sets behind the dunes. In a country where modern highways meet ancient sandscapes, every road trip becomes a gateway to adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a Dubai resident chasing weekend thrills or a visitor exploring the Emirates, these scenic routes showcase the UAE’s most breathtaking terrains. 

With 2025 bringing cooler months, advanced EV charging stations, and upgraded highways, there’s never been a better time to hit the road. Just make sure you choose the right car, the right tyres, and a little curiosity for what lies ahead.

1. Dubai to Liwa Oasis – The Ultimate Desert Odyssey

Stretching 350 km from Dubai into the Rub’ al Khali’s sweeping dunes, this route is pure desert magic. You’ll pass camel farms, oasis villages, and even the Emirates National Automobile Museum in Al Dhafra. It’s best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset when the sands glow red and gold.

Cars That Handle It Best:
Toyota Land Cruiser and Nissan Patrol reign supreme here. Their V8 power, sand-tuned 4x4 systems, and 230 mm ground clearance make them ideal dune conquerors. Pair them with all-terrain tyres likeMichelin LTX Force for traction and heat endurance on the UAE’s toughest sands.

2. Dubai to Hatta – Mountain Majesty and Turquoise Trails

This 90 km escape leads into the Hajar Mountains, where winding roads carve through canyons and past Hatta Dam’s blue waters. Stop for kayaking, mountain biking, or exploring the Hatta Heritage Village. It’s the perfect half-day getaway packed with adrenaline and tranquility.

Cars That Handle It Best:
Land Rover Defender and Jeep Wrangler Rubicon are perfect for rocky climbs and off-road exploration. The Defender’s Terrain Response 2.0 handles every slope automatically, while the Wrangler’s Rock-Trac 4x4 system makes boulders feel like speed bumps. Use BFGoodrich KO2 tyres for a balance between grip and comfort.

3. Abu Dhabi to Al Ain – The Garden City’s Green Escape

Covering 160 km in about two hours, this drive transitions from urban skylines to palm-shaded oases and the majestic Jebel Hafeet road. Al Ain’s UNESCO-listed falaj irrigation system and zoo make it an ideal family drive.

Cars That Handle It Best:
Toyota Camry Hybrid and Mercedes-Benz E-Class dominate this smooth highway route. The Camry’s fuel efficiency and adaptive cruise control make long drives easy, while the E-Class’s air suspension glides through Jebel Hafeet’s 49 turns. Fit Bridgestone Turanza tyres for quiet, efficient travel.

4. Ras Al Khaimah to Jebel Jais – UAE’s Sky-High Summit

A 50 km ascent to the UAE’s highest peak (1,934 m), this drive is famous for its breathtaking twists, limestone cliffs, and zipline adventures. Cool temperatures and clear skies make it ideal year-round.

Cars That Handle It Best:
Ford Bronco and Subaru Outback handle mountain gradients with ease. The Bronco’s 330 mm clearance and G.O.A.T. modes offer unstoppable traction, while the Outback’s symmetrical AWD adds stability on sharp bends. Equip Falken Wildpeak tyres for reliable all-weather performance.

5. Dubai to Fujairah – Coastal Curves and Mountain Passes

This 130 km drive transitions from desert plains to the Gulf of Oman’s turquoise coast, passing Al Rafisah Dam and Snoopy Island. The contrast between arid mountains and ocean blues makes this one of the UAE’s most photogenic drives.

Cars That Handle It Best:
The Porsche Cayenne and the BMW X5 are perfect for this mix of terrain. The Cayenne’s adaptive suspension hugs corners smoothly, while the X5’s xDrive system provides precision control. Choose Continental PremiumContact tyres for coastal tarmac grip.

6. Sharjah to Kalba – The Hajar Tunnel Thriller

The 100 km journey through the Al Tawiyean Tunnel and Hajar foothills offers some of the most dramatic vistas in the country. Expect mountain tunnels, coastal winds, and flamingo sightings at Khor Kalba Beach.

Cars That Handle It Best:
The Audi A5 Convertible and Mazda CX-5 both shine here. The A5’s quattro AWD grips curves effortlessly, while the CX-5’s i-Activ AWD and fuel efficiency make it ideal for scenic detours. Try Yokohama Geolandar tyres for a balance between speed and stability.

7. Abu Dhabi to Sir Bani Yas Island – Wildlife and Waves

This 250 km route ends with a ferry ride to Sir Bani Yas Island, a nature reserve home to giraffes, cheetahs, and mangroves. The coastal drive offers pristine views and eco-adventure vibes for nature lovers.

Cars That Handle It Best:
The Range Rover and Honda CR-V make perfect companions. The Range Rover’s air suspension handles uneven terrain effortlessly, while the CR-V’s Real Time AWD is perfect for families. Equip Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady tyres for smooth wet-road performance.

Essential Tips for UAE Scenic Routes

Before you set out, remember that the UAE’s heat can test even the toughest vehicles. Check tyre pressure (35–40 PSI), tread depth (minimum 1.6 mm), and fluid levels before departure. Carry water, a spare tyre, and a jack. Use the RTA app for live traffic updates and ADNOC stations for quick refueling. Always plan around the golden hours (5–7 AM or PM) for photography and cooler temperatures.

FAQs 

Q1: What are the best 4x4 cars for off-roading in the UAE dunes?
Toyota Land Cruiser and Nissan Patrol lead for traction and reliability, especially in Liwa’s deep dunes.

Q2: Which UAE road trip is most family-friendly?
The Al Ain route is ideal for families thanks to short distances, zoos, and shaded oases.

Q3: How should I prepare my car for UAE mountain drives like Jebel Jais?
Ensure brakes and tyres are in top shape. A quick service at PitStopArabia before the trip ensures your vehicle performs safely on descents and turns.

Q4: Are electric cars suitable for long UAE road trips?
Yes. The UAE’s expanding EV network supports models like Tesla Model 3 or BYD Seal, though 4x4 hybrids remain best for off-road routes.

Q5: What’s the most scenic short drive from Dubai?
Hatta and Fujairah are top picks, offering quick access to mountains, dams, and beaches—all within two hours.