5 Best Day Trips from Abu Dhabi: Where to Go & What to See
If you’re based in Abu Dhabi and looking to escape the city for a day or two, you’re in luck—there’s a whole world of adventure, nature, and culture just a short drive away. Whether you’re in the mood for a desert retreat, a beach escape, cultural exploration, or family fun, the UAE offers plenty of unforgettable experiences within easy reach.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best day trips from Abu Dhabi, covering where to go, what to see, and how to make the most of your journey. So pack your day bag, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to explore!
Best Day Trips from Abu Dhabi
Looking for the best day trips from Abu Dhabi? Discover hidden gems, cultural experiences, and fun weekend getaways across the UAE—all just a short drive away.
1. Al Ain – The Garden City of the UAE
Distance from Abu Dhabi: ~1.5 hours (150 km)
Best For: Nature, heritage, families
Al Ain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. It’s a refreshing green escape from Abu Dhabi’s urban landscape, with lush oases, historic forts, and mountains. It is one of the best Day Trips from Abu Dhabi.
Highlights:
- Jebel Hafeet Mountain: Drive or hike up for stunning panoramic views.
- Al Ain Zoo: Perfect for families—home to Arabian wildlife and endangered species.
- Al Ain Oasis: Wander through palm plantations and ancient falaj irrigation systems.
- Al Jahili Fort: Explore one of the UAE’s most historic and well-preserved forts.
🧭 Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler mornings for sightseeing.
2. Saadiyat and Yas Island – Quick Getaway Without Leaving the City
Distance from Downtown Abu Dhabi: 20–30 minutes
Best For: Art, beaches, theme parks
If you want a day out without a long drive, Saadiyat and Yas Islands offer something for everyone. It is one of the best Day Trips from Abu Dhabi.
Yas Island | Day Trips from Abu Dhabi:
- Ferrari World: Home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa.
- Yas Waterworld: A splash-tastic experience for all ages.
- Warner Bros. World: An indoor theme park packed with your favorite characters.
- Yas Marina: Dine with a view or go for a luxury boat ride.
Saadiyat Island | Day Trips from Abu Dhabi:
- Louvre Abu Dhabi: A stunning museum where global art and architecture come together.
- Saadiyat Public Beach: Relax on soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Manarat Al Saadiyat: A creative hub for exhibitions, events, and workshops.
🧭 Pro Tip: Combine a cultural morning at the Louvre with an afternoon of beach or theme park fun.
3. Liwa Oasis – A True Desert Adventure
Distance from Abu Dhabi: ~2.5–3 hours (250 km)
Best For: Desert exploration, photography, adventure seekers
Located at the edge of the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter), Liwa is a dramatic desert escape with some of the tallest sand dunes in the world. If you’re craving adventure or want a digital detox, this is the place to go. It is one of the best Day Trips from Abu Dhabi.
Must-Do Activities:
- Dune Bashing at Moreeb Dune: A thrill-seeker’s dream.
- Desert Camping: Spend a night under the stars or try a luxury desert resort.
- Camel Farms and Date Plantations: Experience authentic Emirati heritage.
- Liwa Forts: Discover the historical significance of this ancient trade route.
🧭 Pro Tip: Best visited in the cooler months (October to March) due to intense summer heat.
4. Dubai – Glitz, Glamour, and Iconic Landmarks
Distance from Abu Dhabi: ~1.5 hours (140 km)
Best For: Shopping, architecture, food, city exploration
While Abu Dhabi is the UAE’s capital, Dubai is its buzzing tourism hub—and just a short drive away. Perfect for a full-day itinerary packed with sights, eats, and Instagrammable moments.
Top Attractions:
- Burj Khalifa: Go to the top for unforgettable city views.
- Dubai Mall & Dubai Fountain: Shop, eat, and watch the iconic fountain show.
- Dubai Marina & JBR: Great for a relaxed evening stroll and dinner.
- Al Fahidi Historical District: A look at old Dubai with museums and traditional architecture.
🧭 Pro Tip: Start your trip early to beat the traffic and plan your parking or Metro access in advance.
5. Sharjah – The Cultural Capital of the UAE
Distance from Abu Dhabi: ~2 hours (160 km)
Best For: Culture, art, museums, family outings
Sharjah is a UNESCO-recognized cultural capital and offers a quieter, more traditional Emirati experience than Dubai or Abu Dhabi. It is one of the best Day Trips from Abu Dhabi.
Highlights:
- Sharjah Art Museum: One of the largest in the Gulf.
- Sharjah Science Museum & Discovery Centre: Interactive fun for kids.
- Blue Souk (Central Market): Shop for traditional jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs.
- Al Noor Island: A tranquil garden with butterfly houses and art installations.
🧭 Pro Tip: Dress modestly and respect local customs—Sharjah follows more conservative cultural practices.
Fujairah – East Coast Beauty & Beach Escapes
Distance from Abu Dhabi: ~3 hours (250 km)
Best For: Scuba diving, snorkeling, relaxing beaches
For something totally different, head to Fujairah on the UAE’s east coast, where the Hajar Mountains meet the Gulf of Oman. It’s a hidden gem with less development and more nature.
Must-See:
- Snoopy Island: A top spot for snorkeling with turtles and tropical fish.
- Fujairah Fort: The oldest fort in the UAE, surrounded by lush palm gardens.
- Al Bidyah Mosque: The UAE’s oldest mosque, dating back over 500 years.
- Beach Resorts: Many offer day passes for pools and beach access.
🧭 Pro Tip: Go on a Friday or Saturday for vibrant beach vibes and seafood BBQs.
Mangrove National Park – Nature Escape Just Outside the City
Distance from Abu Dhabi: ~15 minutes
Best For: Kayaking, birdwatching, eco-tourism
Yes, you can escape to nature without leaving Abu Dhabi! The Mangrove National Park is an ecological treasure just a short drive from the city center.
Activities:
- Guided Kayak Tours: Paddle through serene waters surrounded by mangroves.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look out for flamingos, herons, and marine life.
- Floating Boardwalks: For a peaceful walk through protected waters.
🧭 Pro Tip: Visit early morning or at sunset for cooler temperatures and better chances of spotting wildlife.
Final Thoughts: So Many Day Trips, So Little Time
Living in or visiting Abu Dhabi doesn’t mean you’re limited to the city. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful beach day, a thrilling desert ride, or a cultural exploration, the UAE is rich with destinations just a short drive away.
🚗 Quick Overview: Day Trips from Abu Dhabi | Where to Go from Abu Dhabi
| Destination | Travel Time | Best For |
| Al Ain | 1.5 hours | Nature & heritage |
| Yas & Saadiyat | 30 mins | Beaches, museums, theme parks |
| Liwa Oasis | 3 hours | Desert adventure |
| Dubai | 1.5 hours | Shopping, modern attractions |
| Sharjah | 2 hours | Cultural experiences |
| Fujairah | 3 hours | Beaches, snorkeling, relaxation |
| Mangroves (Abu Dhabi) | 15 mins | Eco-tourism, kayaking |
