8 Day Trips From Dubai That Make The Ultimate City Escape
From an adventurous trip to Jebel Jais to a desert retreat at Sonara Camp, Bazaar Arabia shares a few must-visit spots here…
8 Day Trips From Dubai That Make The Ultimate City Escape
Holidays can often feel bittersweet. We’re excited for them to start, but in the back of our minds, a ticking clock plays a constant reminder that the adventure’s end is nearing every passing minute. Recently, that feeling has reached an all-time high for many as they say goodbye to the New Year festivities and enter January with post-vacation blues.
It certainly did help to find out that the first public holiday of 2024 will be in April. But worry not; Harper’s Bazaar Arabia has got you covered. Here are seven must-visit places for any short weekend or day trip…
8 Day Trips From Dubai That Make The Ultimate City Escape
Sonara Camp
Only 40 minutes from Dubai, Sonara Camp makes the perfect escape for anyone who doesn’t have the time for a long road trip but would still love to spend the night at peace gazing at a star-filled sky. The camp offers visitors a chance to experience eco-friendly dining with the availability of live entertainment.
For more information, please visit nara.ae.
Kayak Across the Hatta Dam
The escape to these blue waters is easy, with just a 90-minute drive. Once there, anyone and everyone will find something to enjoy. Stop by to take some Instagram-worthy spots or drive along the mesmerising water’s edge. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boats and more to get a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape and mountains from within the water.
For more information, please visit hattakayak.com.
Look Over Ras Al-Khaimah From Jebel Jais
Approximately two hours away from Dubai, Jebel Jais is a must-visit. Just ride up to the mountain peak to stand above the clouds and watch the city below. What’s great about this location is that it’s perfect for adventure travellers and those who like to chill more. The mountain allows for a large variety of activities, from the Jais Sledder to hiking. And if that doesn’t excite you, visitors can simply relax, enjoying the breathtaking views while sipping their favourite warm drink.
For more information, please visit visitjebeljais.com.
Explore the Desert Oasis Al Qudra Lakes
In under an hour, you could go from crowded streets to the scenic views of Al Qudra Lake. Situated in Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, the lakes give visitors an exciting chance to observe native Dubai animals in their natural habitat. You might be able to spot desert foxes or oryx as well as a variety of birds, including swans, geese, ducks, flamingos and more. For a better chance to catch these animals, it’s best to visit the lakes during the year’s cooler months.
For more information, please visit visitdubai.com.
Take a Tour of Al Ain Palace Museum
For a more cultural experience, visit one of the most important historical sites in the UAE. The palace-turned-museum gives visitors a glimpse into how the ruling family lived along with the practices and traditions of the culture. Many also go simply to marvel at the building and surrounding property, a mixture of modern design and traditional Emirati influences.
For more information, please visit abudhabiculture.ae.
Stop by Al Rafisah Dam
During any drive to Khorfakkan, make sure to stop by Al Rafisah Dam to catch a beautiful natural site. Not only is the dam a perfect place for an Instagram shot, but the location offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, hiking, bird watching and much more. And only a short climb away, visitors can reach The Castle, a structure on the side of the mountain.
For more information, please visit visitsharjah.com.
Experience Beautiful Natural Scenery at Wadi Shees
Once you reach Khorfakkan, you must stop at Wadi Shees, where you will be able to witness some natural scenery that will undoubtedly take your breath away. Here, guests can explore the Hajar mountains and hike to the Shees Valley, where they can walk alongside a picturesque waterway, joining an old village and local farms. Close by is also Shees Park, a cosy setting perfect for a quick picnic or to catch up with a good book.
For more information, please visit visitsharjah.com.
Spend a day learning about culture and history at Milehah
Approximately an hour’s ride from Dubai, Mleiha provides the ultimate desert adventure. Visitors can stop by the archaeological sites and museums, where they will be able to observe artefacts dating back 130,000 years. Guests can also take part in trekking, horseback riding, and visiting wadi caves. Mleiha also offers a glamping experience, perfect for those who want to lay under the stars in comfort.
For more information, please visit discovermleiha.ae.
Lead image courtesy of Instagram/SonaraCamp, JebelJais