Exploring the UAE’s Best Kept Secrets: Road Trips to the Hidden Gems
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are undoubtedly the most popular places in the UAE, but there are many hidden gems that are less talked about. These hidden gems can offer breathtaking experiences and create unforgettable memories that lingers in our hearts forever. One of the best ways to explore these hidden gems in UAE is through a road trip. Along with the opportunity to quench your thirst for adventure, road trips offer great scenic routes and picturesque landscapes. Here’s a list of the best road trips in UAE that will take you to the hidden gems that are worth exploring.
The Fujairah Fort and its Beaches
If you’re a history and culture buff, the Fujairah Fort and its beaches is the perfect destination for you. Located on the east coast of the UAE and nestled in the Hajar Mountains, Fujairah is a lesser-known emirate that has retained its traditional architecture and unspoiled nature. Start your road trip at the Fujairah Fort, which is a 17th-century fortress built from mud brick and holds significant value in the UAE’s history. After that, you can explore the eastern coast’s beaches, such as Dibba Beach, Khor Fakkan Beach, and the famous Snoopy Island, which is known for its pristine clear waters and colorful aquatic life.
The Jebel Jais Mountain Road Trip
Jebel Jais is the highest mountain peak in the UAE, standing at 1,911 meters, and driving up to its peak is one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have in the UAE. The 20 km snaking road trip comprises over 50 bends and twists, ensuring that you have a thrilling ride during the journey. Stop at one of the many designated view stops along the route to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding mountains and valleys. At the summit, there is the Jebel Jais viewing platform, which provides a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the adjacent Musandam Peninsula Oman.
The Al Ain Oasis Road Trip
The Al Ain Oasis is an incredible hidden gem, housing six thousand-year-old mud brick structures, providing an insight into the UAE’s rich history and culture. This road trip lets you explore the UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest oasis in the city of Al Ain, which borders Oman. Stop by the Al Ain Palace Museum, which was the residence of the late UAE President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan before turning into a museum. The Al Ain Oasis road trip takes you through a richly-cultivated landscape filled with thousands of date palms, providing an escape from the hustle-bustle of city life.
The Liwa Oasis Road Trip
For the ultimate desert experience, the Liwa Oasis road trip is ideal for nature and adventure lovers. The Liwa Oasis sprawls over 100 km and is the largest oasis in the UAE, featuring towering sand dunes and fossil valleys that date back over 100,000 years. Along the road trip, you’ll come across a plethora of flora and fauna that have adapted to harsh desert conditions in their unique way. An absolute must-visit location is the Qasr Al Sarab Desert resort, which offers luxury accommodations in the heart of the Liwa desert.
Conclusion
The UAE is a country of contrasts, and road tripping to these hidden gems is an excellent way to appreciate and explore both traditional culture and modern lifestyle. A road trip through the Fujairah beaches, the Jebel Jais mountain, Al Ain Oasis, and Liwa Oasis, offers a mix of history, culture, and adventure that will blow your mind. So, pack your bags, fuel up your car, and start exploring the hidden gems of the UAE today!
