Fancy a change of scenery without dipping into your annual leave? These UAE getaways have got you covered
Swap the busy hustle for a more relaxed vibe – think deserts, mountains and ancient dunes – all in a day or less. The UAE is packed with easy little escapes and UAE getaways that feel like a proper break, minus the airport chaos and leave request.
Whether you’re after a bit of adventure or just somewhere new for your weekend plans, these quick getaways let you clock out and clear your head, no time off needed.
Snorkel at Snoopy Island
Image: Sandy Beach Dive Academy Website
Drive out of Dubai for the day and head to Snoopy Island, just 150km away. This tiny island, shaped like the cartoon pup himself, is one of the UAE’s best little seaside escapes.
Jump in for a snorkel and you’ll spot colourful fish, turtles and even the odd reef shark cruising by. Not keen on getting your hair wet? Grab a paddleboard or kayak and glide around instead, soaking up the sun as you go. You can rent all the kit straight from the beach, so it’s an easy, no-fuss day out that feels like a proper getaway.
Where: Fujairah, UAE
Details: dubaicitytourism.com
Catch the breeze at Umm Al Quwain
Image: Eat Go See Website
Bring a little Bali vibe to your weekend at Kite Beach Center in Umm Al Quwain, just 139km from Dubai. Known for kitesurfing, this colourful beach also offers sun loungers, umbrellas, and Instagram-worthy doors in the sand. Rent a beach hut for the day, paddle a kayak, or take a surf lesson to make the most of the waves. A perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for a quick escape.
Where: Umm Al Quwain, UAE
Cost: Entry from Dhs45 on weekdays, Dhs75 on weekends
Also read: UAE public holidays 2026: Turn 10 days of leave into 36 days off
Paddle and hike at Hatta Dam
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Trade skyscrapers for mountains with a day trip to Hatta, just 134km from Dubai. Start your escape at the stunning Hatta Dam, where you can kayak or paddleboard across waters surrounded by rocky peaks. Then, head to Hatta Wadi Hub, (open October to May) from ziplines to mountain biking. It’s the perfect blend of calm and adventure for a quick, scenic getaway.
Where: Hatta, UAE
When: Hatta Wadi Hub open October to May, 9am to 5pm
Soar above the mountains at Jebel Jais
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Craving an adrenaline-fuelled escape? Head 166km from Dubai to Jebel Jais, the UAE’s tallest peak, for a day packed with thrills. Fly superman-style on the Jais Flight zipline, tackle six ziplines on the Jais Sky Tour, or speed down the Jais Sledder toboggan track. There’s also a rope course, scenic hiking trails, and a viewing deck.
Where: Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
When: Daily, 9am to 5pm
Cost: Jais Flight Dhs299, Jais Sky Tour Dhs450, Jais Sledder Dhs50
Contact: visitjebeljais.com
Go wild on a night desert safari
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Spend an evening under the stars with a desert safari by Arabian Adventures. Explore the Dubai desert’s natural beauty, spot local wildlife, and experience Bedouin culture, all while enjoying desert sports and activities. Perfect for a quick adventure after work or a weekend getaway without leaving the city for too long.
Where: Dubai Desert, UAE
Cost: From Dhs431
Contact: (800) 272 2426
Wander through the Al Wathba fossil dunes
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Step back in time at Al Wathba Fossil Dunes, home to over 1,700 ancient dunes spanning 7 square kilometres. Wander along 3km of well-lit trails, take in the unique desert formations, and relax at shaded benches along the way. The site also offers music and light shows from the amphitheatre, food trucks, and a visitor centre with viewing areas and a gallery corner, perfect for a fascinating day trip.
Where: Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, UAE
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