You don’t need to travel far to travel well in Dubai. There are tons of fabulous options for those looking to take a day or two away from big city life.
1.Abu Dhabi
There is a lot to love about this emirate. Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates and just a short hour drive from Dubai. This beautiful city has a more traditional feel that allows you to capture the true Emirati culture.
One of their most grandiose attractions is the famous Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It covers an area of more than 30 acres and is the UAE’s key place of worship. The columns are clad with marble and inlaid with mother of pearl, the chandeliers incorporate millions of Swarovski crystals and the main prayer hall houses the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. It is truly a spectacular and luxurious mosque.
There are many other Abu Dhabi attractions including all that Yas Island has to offer. Here you will find Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, prestine white sand beaches and a yacht-filled marina. You can spend a whole day exploring this area of Abu Dhabi alone.
Lastly, a trip to Abu Dhabi wouldn’t be complete without a cultural trip to Saadiyat Island. Here you will find world-class museums including Abu Dhabi’s very own Guggenheim and Louvre. They are revolutionizing the art world in the Middle East and have art as beautiful as the buildings themselves.
2.Qasr Al Sarab
A three-hour drive through the desert dunes will lead you to the incredible Qasr Al Sarab resort. It is totally secluded with nothing but sand for miles and trust us that is an amazingly relaxing feeling.
There are many activities you can do whilst enjoying your seclusion at the 5-star Anantara hotel. We recommend lounging by the pool and taking advantage of their world-class spa. The massage tables overlook the desert for what is a truly soothing experience. The spa also includes a gym and sunrise yoga classes.
If you want to participate in a more active getaway, they also have plenty of options. There are organized desert walks, camel trekking and dune bashing in a 4×4. All taking place under the sun and against the beautiful backdrop of the desert.
Next time you’re in the market for a day of sun, sand, spa and service this is your destination.
3.Fujairah
Fujairah might be one of the most underrated areas in the Emriates. Not only is it home to some exceptional diving opportunities, it boasts a rich culture with a history that dates back over 2,000 years.
If you’re feeling adventurous Fujairah is the place to be. You can go on deep sea fishing excursions, 4×4 driving expeditions through dry river beds along the coastline an dive into untouched hot springs and waterfalls. Here you will find mile-long beaches touched by the Indian Ocean and coupled with a view of the stunning Hajar Mountains. There is really nothing like it.
There are also many cultural aspects of Fujairah that are worth the short trip. The Al Bidya Mosque s over 400 years old and shows an example of architecture and engineering of the time. Other cultural attractions include the Fujairah Fort and Fujairah Museum which both get rated as top attractions to see here.
It’s worth it to stay more than a day, perhaps for the weekend. If you’re not ready to leave just yet, you should stay at The Meridien Al Aqah Hotel. Just a 90-minute drive from Dubai and has a 230m stretch of beach along the Indian Ocean. Amazing restaurants, spa and views will complete your Fujairah experience.
4.Musandam, Oman
If you’re looking to really immerse yourself in something different, cross the border into the Omani treasure of Musandam. Steep mountains turn into glassy turquoise waters for a sight you won’t forget.
Getting to Musandam is half the adventure. The drive through the mountains is filled with extraordinary scenery. You will encounter stone houses built into cliffs, fields of date palms and mangoes and views that are worth a thousand pictures. Hiring a driver is definitely advised, as the roads are narrow and wind around the rocky mountains.
Once you get past Musandam’s capital and down to the beautiful ferry port you absolutely have to go on the dhow cruise to Khor as Sham. It is a unique fjord that has been titled ‘the Norway of the Middle East’ due to its exceptional beauty. From this cruise you can expect to stop for snorkeling and swimming in the Cobalt Sea, watch dolphins swim alongside the boat and lounge on those infamous Persian cushions. You can also opt to do an overnight cruise where you will spend the night camping on a quiet and secluded beach.
This is an absolute must and just a three-hour trip from Dubai.
