The Ultimate Guide to Road Trips in Dubai: Cars, Routes and Insider Tips

When you think of Dubai, chances are the Burj Khalifa, luxury shopping, and world-class dining come to mind. For many travelers, however, the real thrill lies beyond the city, in a road trip across the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Dubai serves as a launchpad for adventures on wheels, offering wide highways and stunning desert and coastal drives.

Whether you’re visiting from the United States, Canada, Europe, or across the Arabian Gulf, renting the right car for your road trip makes all the difference. This guide covers everything tourists need to know, from choosing the best cars for road trips to planning routes, handling documents, and making the most of your time behind the wheel.

 

Why Dubai Is Perfect for Road Trips

Few places worldwide are as tailor-made for road trips as Dubai and the UAE. Here’s why:

●       Smooth, modern highways: Long stretches of immaculate roads connect major cities, mountains, and desert landscapes.

●       Diverse scenery: In just a few hours, you can go from glittering cityscapes to golden dunes, rugged mountains, or the sparkling Arabian Gulf coastline.

●       Year-round driving: With sunny weather most of the year, road trip conditions are nearly always good (though summer heat means planning is key).

●       Convenient car rentals: Dubai has some of the widest selections of luxury, sports, and SUV rentals in the world, often at competitive rates compared to North America and Europe.

Choosing the Right Car for Your Dubai Road Trip

Not every road trip is the same, and the type of car you choose will shape your entire experience. Here’s how to pick:

 

Luxury SUVs

Perfect for families or groups who need space, comfort, and versatility. SUVs like the Range Rover, Mercedes G-Class, or Land Rover Defender handle both smooth highways and off-road detours.

 

Sports Cars

If your road trip is more about style and thrill than luggage space, you can rent a sports car (a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or even a Porsche 911) to add drama to every drive.

 

Premium Sedans

For couples or solo travelers, sedans like a BMW 7 Series or Mercedes S-Class provide the right balance between comfort and performance. They’re fuel-efficient, easy to handle, and great for longer distances.

 

Vans and People Carriers

Traveling with a big group? A Mercedes V-Class or similar van ensures everyone rides together with enough space for luggage. Ideal for multi-family trips or group tours.

 

Pro tip: Always think about your route. Planning to cruise Jebel Jais (the UAE’s highest mountain road)? A sporty convertible might be perfect. Heading into desert terrain? A luxury SUV is your best bet.

Brands like Luxury In Motion Dubai offer SUVs for longer trips and supercars for the adrenaline rush of speed along Dubai’s highways.

 

Popular Road Trip Routes from Dubai

Dubai is the hub, but the best memories happen once you hit the road. Here are some must-try routes:

 

1. Dubai to Abu Dhabi

●       Distance: 140 kilometers (90 miles), 1.5 hours

●       Why go: See the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Yas Island attractions.

●       Best car: A sedan or sports car for smooth highway cruising.

2. Dubai to Hatta

●       Distance: 130 kilometers (80 miles), 1.5 hours

●       Why go: Escape into the Hajar Mountains for kayaking, hiking, and heritage sites.

●       Best car: A 4x4 SUV like the Land Rover Defender.

3. Dubai to Fujairah

●       Distance: 170 kilometers (105 miles), 2 hours

●       Why go: Relax by the Gulf of Oman with its quieter beaches and scuba diving spots.

●       Best car: A comfortable sedan or SUV.

4. Dubai to Jebel Jais (Ras Al Khaimah)

●       Distance: 180 kilometers (112 miles), 2 hours

●       Why go: Drive the UAE’s most famous mountain road with thrilling hairpin bends and sweeping views.

●       Best car: A convertible sports car for maximum fun.

 

Tourist Essentials: What You Need to Rent a Car in Dubai

Before you start revving the engine, you’ll need to make sure your paperwork is in order.

 

Documents Required

●       Passport and visa with entry stamp

●       Home country driving license (if from an approved list)

●       International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license isn’t valid in the UAE

●       Credit card for the security deposit

Age Restrictions

●       Most luxury rentals require drivers to be at least 25 years old.

●       Some providers may allow drivers aged 21 and above for standard cars, but supercars and premium vehicles almost always require drivers aged 25 or older.

Insurance

●       Basic insurance is usually included, but for peace of mind, tourists should consider full coverage. This protects against accidents, theft, or natural damage, which are all essential if you’re heading out on long road trips.

Deposits

●       Rental companies hold a refundable security deposit, usually blocked on your card for 14 to 30 days.

●       Expect this to vary depending on the car type (higher for sports cars).

Tips for a Smooth Road Trip in Dubai

A little preparation goes a long way. Keep these in mind:

●       Mind the speed limits. Dubai has strict enforcement, and cameras are everywhere.

●       Fuel up wisely. Petrol is much cheaper than in Europe or North America, but always top up before heading into rural areas.

●       Plan for Salik tolls. Dubai uses an electronic toll system (about AED 4 per gate). Rental companies charge you afterward.

●       Use GPS or Google Maps. Roads are well-signed, but detours can happen, especially in developing areas.

●       Stay hydrated. If you’re driving in summer, keep water stocked in the car.

 

FAQs

What’s the best car for a desert road trip?

A luxury SUV like a Land Rover Defender or Mercedes G-Class is ideal. These vehicles handle off-road conditions while keeping you comfortable.

 

We’re traveling as a couple. Should I choose a convertible?

Absolutely. Driving a Porsche Boxster or Lamborghini Huracán with the top down through Jebel Jais or coastal roads is a once-in-a-lifetime memory.

 

Are road trips in Dubai safe for tourists?

Yes. Roads are well-maintained, police presence is strong, and highways are easy to navigate. Just follow speed limits and traffic laws.

 

Can I rent a car if it’s my first time in Dubai?

Of course. Rental companies like Luxury In Motion are used to working with international tourists. Just make sure you bring the required documents.

 

What’s the most scenic road trip near Dubai?

Most travelers agree that Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah offers the most breathtaking drive. It has switchbacks, viewpoints, and the longest zipline in the world waiting at the top.

 

Final Thoughts

Dubai is a gateway to some of the most exciting road trips in the Middle East. From the mountain passes of Ras Al Khaimah to the desert trails near Hatta, every route has something unique to offer. So, the next time you’re in Dubai, don’t just explore the city. Hit the open road and let the UAE unfold around you.