Planning Tool Kit
Plan your travel most appropriately. Find out how you can make your travel time memorable.
Enjoy Adventurous Activities
Hike at Fujairah, kayak in Hatta Dam, take a desert safari in Liwa Oasis, and go motorbiking in Jebel Hafeet.
Beat the Heat
Visit Musandam, Ras Al Khaimah, Wild Wadi Waterpark, and Zaya Nurai Island for watersports and Ski Dubai for winter sports.
If you’re in the second-largest city of the United Arab Emirates for a long period, there are so many things you can do.
Don’t be mistaken by what we just said. There are so many things you can do in Abu Dhabi and around.
In case you believe that you have made the most out of the city during your stay here, there are so many places you can go for short trips from Abu Dhabi.
We are going to share a list of the top 14 places that you can visit.
And if you’re not good at planning your trips, the leading travel agency, Next Holidays can help you out with that part.
What's more, if you are a resident of Abu Dhabi, the places we will share below are going to be ideas for perfect weekend trips from Abu Dhabi.
So, what are we waiting for?
Let's get started!
Fujairah
Looking for a weekend break from Abu Dhabi, away from the hustle and bustle of the city?
Fujairah is the perfect place for you, for all nature lovers looking for an escape.
Nestled in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, Fujairah City is a popular place for hiking, with several routes suitable for all ages.
Whether you have been into hiking for a long time now or it’s your first time trying such an adventurous thing, Fujairah has hiking trails for all kinds of levels.
The adventure doesn’t stop here; once you are done hiking, go for a scuba diving or snorkeling experience. Sounds refreshing, right?
Dibba Rock, Al Aqah Beach, and Snoopy Island are world-renowned sites in Fujairah, popular for aquatic adventures.
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 253 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: It will take you nearly 2.5 hours by bus or by car since Fujairah is well-connected to Abu Dhabi by highway.
Hatta
While Fujairah lies at the mountain’s foothills, Hatta sits high in the Hajar Mountains.
This makes the place an even better idea for a unique day trip from Abu Dhabi.
Once you’re here, begin by paying a visit to Hatta Heritage Village, which is about 3,000 years old. Here, you will get to explore the traditional Emirati architecture and culture.
There, go to the Honeybee Discovery Center and learn about the significant role that pollinators and bees play.
Finally, end the day with a kayak trip to Hatta Dam. Imagine the beauty surrounding you—stunning, majestic mountains all around! Read this to get to know about more things to do in Hatta Dubai.
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 264 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: From private tours to buses and self-driving options, there are so many ways to reach Hatta. It takes approximately 3 hours from Abu Dhabi to reach this gorgeous place.
Liwa Oasis
What fun are weekend trips from Abu Dhabi if they aren’t about the adrenaline rush?
This is why Liwa Oasis is the perfect getaway for people seeking escape, especially thrill-lovers.
So now, whether or not you are an adrenaline junkie, you will love this vast desert oasis situated in the western area of Abu Dhabi.
Some of the globe’s tallest sand dunes are here at Liwa, which are more than ideal for extreme sports like desert safaris, quad biking, and dune bashing.
After a long and tiring day of adventure sports, it’s time to take a dip in the pool at your ultra-luxury resort stay.
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 236 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: It takes around 3 hours to reach by car and 3.5 hours if you take the bus.
Sharjah
What is a visit to the United Arab Emirates without going to its cultural capital?
And if you didn’t know this yet, Sharjah is the cultural capital. This is why it is a popular place among culture and art lovers.
Take a walk through the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization and then pay a visit to the great Sharjah Mosque.
During your stay, don’t forget to explore captivating museums in the Sharjah Heritage Area, ancient souks, and traditional Arab homes.
Now, enough about the conventional side of the city.
Explore modern Sharjah by staying at Al Noor Island, which is highly renowned for its brilliant art installations, stunning architecture, and lush green regions.
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 165 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: The drive from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah takes nearly two hours. Whether you take a bus, car, or taxi, it’s going to take nearly the same time.
More options from Sharjah!
Al Ain
One of the best weekend trips from Abu Dhabi is to Al Ain or the “Garden City” of the UAE.
Al Ain offers a blend of nature, culture, and history, which makes it perfect for all kinds of travelers.
When you visit the UAE’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Ain Oasis, you will be mesmerized by the architecture of the grand Al Jahili Fort. Here, you will get to learn about the history of Al Ain.
Buy a memento for yourself and gifts for your loved ones from traditional souks. Here, you will also get to experience the real Emirati culture.
Finally, visit Jebel Hafeet Mountain for a scenic ending to your weekend. The natural hot springs at the mountain’s base are noteworthy.
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 155 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: Buses operate on a regular basis between Al Ain and Abu Dhabi, with the journey taking a little more than a couple of hours. If you travel by car, it will take you less than 1.5 hours to reach Al Ain.
Musandam
Looking for weekend trips from Abu Dhabi where you can enjoy watersports? Musandam is the place for you.
Located in Oman, this place has warm temperatures and sparkling waters throughout the year.
There are so many aquatic adventures that you can enjoy during your time here. So, before we tell you everything you can do in Musandam, you need to first note that you have to pack a swimsuit.
About the activities, you can go for a whale-watching and dolphin-watching tour, snorkeling, and experience traditional boat cruises.
So much to do, so little time! So, make the most out of your weekend at Musandam!
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 329 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: It takes about 3.5-4 hours to reach here by car, which includes passport control time.
Dubai
Whether you are a resident or a traveler, Dubai tops the list of day trips from Abu Dhabi.
From the city’s nightlife to the high-class shopping experience, there is so much to do in Dubai. Besides, the high-end lifestyle is something you cannot miss witnessing when in UAE.
From the largest mall in the UAE, Dubai Mall, to the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, Dubai is home to so many iconic landmarks.
While spending your weekend here, spend time on a luxurious dinner cruise, enjoy the nightlife, and explore water parks.
Remember to plan your weekend wisely—with every sight being stunning in Dubai, you might get caught up in the moment and not want to leave for your next destination.
So, it’s up to you to decide: Fewer places and more time at each place or covering as many places as you can while spending little time everywhere.
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 140 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: The short journey is just a 1.5-hour drive from Abu Dhabi by car and nearly 2 hours ride by bus.
Ras Al Khaimah
The UAE’s northernmost emirate, Ras Al Khaimah is popular for its stunning beaches and islands.
From heritage forts and museums to waterparks and mosques, Ras Al Khaimah features a variety of destinations, which attract all types of tourists.
One of the must-try short trips from Abu Dhabi is to Ras Al Khaimah. Be it its century-old fort or Saqr Park, everything here is worth spending the weekend on.
Marjan Island, Ice Land Water Park, and Jazirat Al Hamra are some places you can’t miss visiting during your time here.
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 251 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: It takes around 4.5 hours to reach Ras Al Khaimah by bus and nearly 3 hours by car.
Jebel Hafeet
Right on the border of Oman and UAE, Jebel Hafeet is the highest mountain in the United Arab Emirates.
The scenic beauty and surrounding views are all mesmerizing. It is because of this that it is famous among adventure seekers.
Go hiking here if you want a good workout. The view from the top will be worth it.
The route is 8.4 km and may take around 3-4 hours. So, plan accordingly. We recommend a morning hike!
On the other hand, if you are into biking, you should consider motorbiking to Jebel Hafeet. Since the route is steep, be careful while riding.
What's more, there are several points on the way where you can stop for a view.
Now, the question arises: When should you go for a ride here?
Well, the best time is in the evening around sunset. Nonetheless, this place is heavily crowded at the time.
It is, in fact, the view of the city combined with the sun setting that makes Jebel Hafeet among the best Abu Dhabi weekend getaways.
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 176 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: It takes 3 hours by bus to reach Jebel Hafeet and over an hour by car.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
Time for visiting the largest indoor theme park in the world.
Yes, IMG Worlds of Adventure is the largest indoor theme park across the globe.
Located in Dubai, this amusement park is popular for being family-friendly—both adults and kids can enjoy it here.
There are five themed zones at IMG, namely IMG Boulevard, Novo Cinemas, Lost Valley, Cartoon Network, and Marvel.
When you go here, you’ll realize there’s so much to do that you’d end up spending the whole day at IMG.
This is why we did not simply mention the place in the Dubai section of this blog. It is impossible to explore Dubai and IMG on the same day!
So, what can you expect from this unique day trip from Abu Dhabi?
At IMG Worlds of Adventure, you can dine at one of the themed restaurants, watch 3D animation movies, and enjoy thrilling rides. Sounds fun, right?
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 140 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: It takes around 1.5 hours to reach IMG Worlds of Adventure.
Wild Wadi Waterpark
While shortlisting the top day trips from Abu Dhabi, don’t forget to add Wild Wadi Waterpark to it.
After all, what’s a better excursion idea than going to a water park, away from the scorching heat?
Water slides, exciting slides, splash pools, and whatnot! This place is like the perfect weekend getaway for families.
And while you’re here, enjoy the view of Burj Al Arab, which is clearly visible from the water park.
Most importantly, do not miss out on Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon, Wipeout Flow Rider, Tantrums Alley, Burj Surj, and Master Blaster.
When you think you’re done for the day, it’s time to check out the water park’s restaurants and cafes. Some of these include Leila’s Fruits and Snacks, Riptide Pizza, and Smoke House.
Finally, loosen up in the cabanas beside the Wavepool to give your day the perfect ending.
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 130 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: It takes 1.2 to 3 hours depending on your mode of transport.
Ski Dubai
Are you already in Dubai for your weekend excursion and are looking for an escape from the heat?
Or, are you in Abu Dhabi, looking for the perfect weekend trips from Abu Dhabi to someplace cooler?
In any case, Ski Dubai is the best place to go to. Beat the heat and just chill here!
Besides, if you have never given winter sports a shot, now is the time to. Skiing sounds like a blast.
But also, you can go tobogganing, zorbing, ziplining, snow bullet, and snowboarding. So many winter adventures in one place!
And when you’re tired and looking for a cup of coffee, visit the indoor cafeteria of Ski Dubai.
What more could you possibly ask for in a place with a hot and humid climate and Ski Dubai tickets?
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 128 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: It takes nearly 2 hours to reach Ski Dubai.
Masdar City
Enough about the traditional places, amusement parks, sports, and nature!
Wait, if we remove all of these, then what will be left to explore?
Well, there is something. It's Masdar City, an urban, planned city popular for its sustainable community.
Apart from being perfect for your Instagram, Masdar City has so much to offer—you can visit trending bars and cafes, go for a leisure stroll, and visit Masdar Park.
If you’re looking for a little exploration on your weekend trips from Abu Dhabi, we recommend you rent a bike when in Masdar City.
Explore the city while riding is going to be an unforgettable experience!
Don't miss out on the Tree of Light as well as the outdoor gym and basketball.
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 29 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: It takes around 50 minutes to reach here by bus. If you take a car, it will take less time.
Zaya Nurai Island
For short breaks in Abu Dhabi, Zaya Nurai Island is a great place to relax with your partner or family.
From Yas Island, take a short boat ride to Zaya Nurai Island. The lavish private resort offers day passes to visitors, which allows them to spend the whole day here.
What's more, using the day pass, you can avail yourself of all kinds of facilities as well.
Let this day be about relaxing, calming, and positive vibes.
Go for a swim on the private beach and sunbathe. Alternatively, you can also take a dip in the swimming pool.
If you want to go for watersports, you can go kayaking and jet skiing or take a banana boat ride.
Savor delicious meals at the resort’s high-end restaurant.
And, to make the day even more soothing, pamper yourself with an aromatherapy massage at the Nurai Spa. They even offer couple massage packages.
The best thing about Zaya Nurai Island is that it is quite close to Abu Dhabi, which makes it one of the top weekend getaways from Abu Dhabi.
Distance from Abu Dhabi: 20.5 km
Time from Abu Dhabi: The journey to Zaya Nurai Island is just 15 minutes by boat.
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