Whilst Dubai has plenty to keep you busy, sometimes it’s nice to escape the city for a day or two and see what else the UAE has to offer.

And, trust me, you won’t be disappointed. I actually didn’t realise when I first moved over how mountainous the UAE actually is. Bizarrely, this country actually has a bit of everything; sun, sea, desert, mountains, waterfalls, greenery… meaning there’s plenty to explore.

So, if you’re curious about what’s beyond the Burj Khalifa and beach clubs, here are a few spots to check out.

Lumi Beach, Umm Al Quwain

About an hour’s drive from Dubai, Umm Al Quwain feels like a completely different world. Lumi Beach is part of The Beach Hotel UAQ and is perfect if you’re looking for a low-key day by the sea.

There’s a pool and private beach area, plus food and drinks available, so it’s all pretty straightforward. You could easily spend a lazy afternoon here without feeling rushed. Just check ahead for their entry policies or day pass costs.

1484 by Puro, Ras Al Khaimah

If you like your meals with a side of dramatic views, this one’s for you.

1484 by Puro is perched at the top of Jebel Jais, making it the highest restaurant in the UAE. It’s about a two-hour drive from Dubai, so it’s a bit of a trek, but the scenery is worth it.

The best plan? Aim to arrive around lunchtime or just before sunset to catch those golden hour views. You’ll need to book in advance as it’s a popular spot, especially on weekends. The food is good, but honestly, it’s the location that steals the show.

BONUS:

If you’re up for more adventure, you can combine this with some of
Jebel Jais’ adrenaline fuelled activities… zip-lining, anyone? But if you’re just there for the food and views, then you’re going to leave feeling just as fulfilled.

Khorfakkan & ‘The Waterfall’ Restaurant

This one’s over in Sharjah’s eastern region, roughly a 90-minute drive from Dubai. Khorfakkan has a rugged, natural vibe… think mountains, beaches, and a few spots to soak up the scenery.

The Waterfall restaurant, (which is actually called Habib Beirut, I’ve just affectionally renamed it The Waterfall Restaurant), is the main draw for a lot of people, as it’s literally built into a mountainside waterfall. It’s a cool concept, and it’s worth visiting for the views alone.

You could spend a couple of hours here exploring, having a meal, and taking in the surroundings before heading back to Dubai. It’s a relaxing day trip, minus the hike which can be taken at your leisure. This is a great shout especially if you’re looking for something quieter and less polished than what you’d find in the city.

Hatta

Hatta is another fantastic day trip, about 90 minutes from Dubai. It’s one of those places where you can be as active or as chilled as you like.

The Hatta Dam is stunning, and you can rent kayaks or pedal boats to really enjoy it up close. If you’re feeling more energetic, the Hatta Wadi Hub has loads of activities, like mountain biking and hiking trails.

For those who prefer a slower pace, there’s the Hatta Heritage Village, which gives you a glimpse into traditional Emirati life.

And if you’re not ready to leave by the end of the day, you can stay overnight in one of the lodges or even try glamping… it’s a fun & different way to make the most of the surroundings without rushing back to the city.

Going beyond Dubai

Dubai might be the focus of most holidays to the UAE at the moment, but it’s worth noting that there’s so much more to see in the UAE.

Whether it’s a quick trip to the mountains, a beach day in a quieter emirate, or exploring somewhere with a completely different vibe, stepping outside the city gives you a whole new perspective on what this country has to offer.

Beyond Dubai: Unique Places to Discover

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