Best Day Trips from Abu Dhabi
The cultural capital of the United Arab Emirates will engage the most restless minds with its iconic galleries and museums, including the Louvre and, in 2025, the Guggenheim. Architecture enthusiasts can wander the streets of opulent, statement-making Islamic structures, including the country’s largest mosque. Adventure-seekers will find thrills in abundance at the world’s biggest man-made surfing wave, plus an entire theme park built for speed junkies.
When it’s time to take the pace of city life down a notch or two, a day trip from Abu Dhabi offers respite from development and fast pace. Beyond the city limits lie endless empty desert dunes and unlikely discoveries, from exotic wildlife to soaring cliffs of sand. Here are five of the best day trips from Abu Dhabi within a few hours of the city limits.
1. Explore the Vast Empty Desert of Rub Al Khali
Travel time: 2 hours 40 minutes by car
The world’s largest sand desert, Rub Al Khali, stretches 1000 km (620 miles) long and 500 km (310 miles) wide, crossing into Oman, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Known as the Empty Quarter by locals, this vast and mesmerizing space sits an easy drive southeast of Abu Dhabi. Here, visitors will find silence and the beauty of miles upon miles of harsh terrain. Keep your eyes peeled for free-roaming camels and spot 4WD enthusiasts taking on the golden mounds.
2. Watch a Camel Race in Al Wathba
Travel time: 30 minutes by car
Home to the Al Wathba Camel Race Track, this Abu Dhabi suburb is one of the best places to see the Gulf’s prized animals galloping at speeds of up to 65 km/h (40 mph). Race season runs between October and April, featuring races where around 100 camels race daily. The Al Wathba Wetland Reserve nearby is also worth the visit, boasting around 4000 flamingos that feed in its natural and artificial lakes during autumn and spring.
3. Go on a Wildlife Safari at Sir Bani Yas Island
Travel time: 3 hours by car and ferry
Sir Bani Yas Island is home to the Arabian Wildlife Park, which covers more than half the island. With 11,000 free-roaming animals, including endangered species, guests can search for Arabian oryx and gazelles on a sandy 4WD safari. Explore the beauty of this natural reserve while enjoying the serenity of the island.
4. Climb the UAE’s Second-Highest Mountain in Al Ain
Travel time: 2 hours by car
Stretching to the border of Oman, Jebel Hafeet stands tall at 1240 m (4068 ft) and offers thrilling hairpin turns leading up a stunning 12 km (7.5 miles) road. Visitors can explore the lush, sprawling Green Mubazzarah park below the mountain or the famous Al Ain Oasis, which features 150,000 date palms and fruit trees, providing a unique glimpse into the region’s biodiversity.
5. Turn Up the Tempo in Hedonistic Dubai
Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Dubai is renowned for hosting the world’s most spectacular attractions, including the tallest building and the largest mall, making it a prime destination for those seeking luxury and excitement. Visitors can shop for high-end brands, indulge in gourmet dining, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife the city has to offer.
