The UAE is celebrated for its soaring skylines and bustling urban centres, but beyond the glittering towers and manicured boulevards lies a vast landscape ripe for exploration.
Embarking on a road trip in the Emirates is an immersive experience, one that demands not only a spirit of adventure but also, crucially, a well-prepared vehicle. As anyone who has navigated the vastness of the Empty Quarter will attest, foresight is the most valuable co-pilot.
So, buckle up, ensure tyres are checked, satnav is set, and a sense of adventure is fully inflated. Bear in mind, though, distances will vary significantly – the ones listed are approximations, taking into account the fact you might want to do a little exploring en route.
Here are seven compelling road trip itineraries, designed to showcase the diverse tapestry of the region.
To Liwa Oasis and the Empty Quarter's great vastness
A deep dive into the vastness of the Empty Quarter, one of the largest sand deserts in the world, is a journey for the truly intrepid.
From Dubai or Abu Dhabi, head southwest towards the Liwa Oasis. Round trips are approximately 700km from Dubai and 500km from Abu Dhabi.
En route highlights: The drive is hypnotic, with the landscape gradually transforming into towering, undulating dunes. The Liwa Oasis itself is a string of villages and date palm plantations, a testament to human resilience in a harsh environment.
Consider a stay at the luxurious Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, nestled amid the dunes, offering unparalleled views and desert activities. Make sure your vehicle is a capable 4x4 and bring plenty of supplies, as services are far less frequent than in the UAE’s built-up areas.
To Fujairah and Khor Fakkan's coastal charms
For those seeking a refreshing escape from the desert heat, the east coast of the UAE offers a dramatic change of scenery. Head east from Dubai or Sharjah, and the flat plains gradually give way to the rugged Hajar Mountains.
The destination? Fujairah, the only emirate with a coastline entirely on the Gulf of Oman. With an early start, this loop is manageable in a day, with round trips covering about 280km from Dubai and 550km from Abu Dhabi.
En route highlights: The drive itself is spectacular, winding through mountain passes. Stop at Al Bidya Mosque, the oldest in the UAE, a humble yet profound structure dating back to the 15th century.
Fujairah city itself boasts historical forts and a vibrant fish market, a testament to its maritime heritage.
Continue to Khor Fakkan, a picturesque enclave of Sharjah, where the corniche offers stunning views and the newly developed Khor Fakkan Beach provides a perfect spot for relaxation.
Don't miss the dramatic Wadi Shees, a lush valley offering hiking opportunities and a tranquil escape.
To Abu Dhabi and the garden city of Al Ain
This road trip goes from the modern marvels of the capital to the ancient heartland of the UAE. Those starting their engines in Dubai will head south to Abu Dhabi, an emirate that blends tradition with futuristic ambition.
Round trips for this cultural odyssey cover about 440km from Dubai and 340km from Abu Dhabi.
En route highlights: In Abu Dhabi, devote time to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece that inspires awe. Explore the cultural treasures of Louvre Abu Dhabi, a stunning fusion of art and architecture, then continue inland to Al Ain, known as the garden city, and a Unesco World Heritage site.
The Al Ain Oasis offers a serene stroll through date palm groves, while the 19th-century Al Jahili Fort provides a glimpse into the region's past. For panoramic views, drive up Jebel Hafeet, a rocky mountain offering sweeping vistas of the city and the desert beyond.
To Ras Al Khaimah and the heights of Jebel Jais
If adrenaline is your preferred fuel, then Ras Al Khaimah beckons. The northern emirate is a playground for adventurers, dominated by the imposing Hajar Mountains.
This is another possible day adventure, with round trips covering about 250km from Dubai and 600km from Abu Dhabi.
En route highlights: The drive to Jebel Jais, the UAE's highest peak, is a thrill in itself, with winding roads offering incredible mountain scenery. At the summit is Jais Flight, the world's longest zipline, an exhilarating experience for the brave.
There are also hiking trails, viewing platforms and a dedicated picnic area, making it a perfect day trip for families and thrill-seekers alike. The emirate also offers historical sites such as the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah and traditional souqs.
To the lush valleys of Salalah, Oman
A cross-border adventure into Oman offers a stark contrast, particularly during the Khareef (monsoon) season from June to September. The journey is long but rewarding, covering about 1,200km one-way from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This is a multiday trip that requires careful planning.
En route highlights: The drive takes you through diverse landscapes, from arid plains to the greener, more mountainous terrain of Oman. Ensure all your visa and vehicle paperwork is in order for the border crossing, particularly if you’re in a rental car.
Once in Salalah, you'll be greeted by a surprisingly lush, misty and cool environment. Explore Al Mughsail Beach with its dramatic blowholes, the ancient Marneef Cave, and the verdant springs of Ayn Sahalnoot.
The frankincense trees, a symbol of the region's historical trade, are ubiquitous. This trip offers a blend of coastal beauty, historical sites and a climate that feels a world away from the UAE's summer heat.
To the shimmering cityscape of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Venturing into Saudi Arabia is a significant undertaking, requiring meticulous planning for visas and vehicle entry.
The drive to Riyadh, the capital, is long but offers a glimpse into the rapidly evolving landscape of the kingdom. The distance is about 1,000km one-way from Dubai and 900km one-way from Abu Dhabi, making this a multi-day excursion.
En route highlights: The journey itself is vast, traversing expansive desert plains. In Riyadh, explore modern architectural marvels such as the Kingdom Centre tower with its Sky Bridge, offering panoramic city views.
History buffs can head to Diriyah, which is 30 minutes away from Riyadh, and is the Unesco-listed birthplace of the first Saudi state. For a truly unique experience, consider a day trip to the Edge of the World (Jabal Fihrayn), a dramatic geological formation offering breathtaking cliff-edge vistas.
This journey requires careful logistical planning, but the cultural insights and burgeoning attractions of Saudi Arabia make it a compelling road trip.
To the cultural hub of Doha, Qatar
A shorter, more manageable cross-border trip is to Doha, the vibrant capital of Qatar. The drive from the UAE is straightforward, predominantly on well-maintained motorways, and covering a distance of about 700km one-way from Dubai and 600km one-way from Abu Dhabi.
En route highlights: The border crossing into Qatar is efficient, but, again, ensure all documentation is in order. Once in Doha, immerse yourself in art and culture at the Museum of Islamic Art, a stunning building housing an exquisite collection.
Wander through the bustling alleys of Souq Waqif, a traditional market offering everything from spices to falcons. Experience modern luxury at the Pearl Island, an artificial land mass with high-end boutiques and waterfront dining.
The city's rapidly developing infrastructure and growing cultural scene make it an engaging destination for a long weekend road trip.
Trump v Khan
2016: Feud begins after Khan criticised Trump’s proposed Muslim travel ban to US
2017: Trump criticises Khan’s ‘no reason to be alarmed’ response to London Bridge terror attacks
2019: Trump calls Khan a “stone cold loser” before first state visit
2019: Trump tweets about “Khan’s Londonistan”, calling him “a national disgrace”
2022: Khan’s office attributes rise in Islamophobic abuse against the major to hostility stoked during Trump’s presidency
July 2025 During a golfing trip to Scotland, Trump calls Khan “a nasty person”
Sept 2025 Trump blames Khan for London’s “stabbings and the dirt and the filth”.
Dec 2025 Trump suggests migrants got Khan elected, calls him a “horrible, vicious, disgusting mayor”
Classification of skills
A worker is categorised as skilled by the MOHRE based on nine levels given in the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO) issued by the International Labour Organisation.
A skilled worker would be someone at a professional level (levels 1 – 5) which includes managers, professionals, technicians and associate professionals, clerical support workers, and service and sales workers.
The worker must also have an attested educational certificate higher than secondary or an equivalent certification, and earn a monthly salary of at least Dh4,000.
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Results
5pm: Handicap (PA) Dh80,000 (Turf) 1,600m; Winner: Nadhra, Fabrice Veron (jockey), Eric Lemartinel (trainer)
5.30pm: Maiden (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 1,400m; Winner: AF Dars, Tadhg O’Shea, Ernst Oertel
6pm: Handicap (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 1,400m; Winner: AF Musannef, Tadhg O’Shea, Ernst Oertel
6.30pm: Handicap (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 1,200m; Winner: AF Taghzel, Malin Holmberg, Ernst Oertel
7pm: Wathba Stallions Cup Handicap (PA) Dh70,000 (T) 2,200m; Winner: M’Y Yaromoon, Khalifa Al Neyadi, Jesus Rosales
7.30pm: Handicap (TB) Dh100,000 (PA) 1,400m; Winner: Hakeem, Jim Crowley, Ali Rashid Al Raihe
The Perfect Couple
Starring: Nicole Kidman, Liev Schreiber, Jack Reynor
Creator: Jenna Lamia
Rating: 3/5
Alita: Battle Angel
Director: Robert Rodriguez
Stars: Rosa Salazar, Christoph Waltz, Keean Johnson
Four stars
Match info
Uefa Champions League Group B
Barcelona v Tottenham Hotspur, midnight
Benefits of first-time home buyers' scheme
- Priority access to new homes from participating developers
- Discounts on sales price of off-plan units
- Flexible payment plans from developers
- Mortgages with better interest rates, faster approval times and reduced fees
- DLD registration fee can be paid through banks or credit cards at zero interest rates
Timeline
2012-2015
The company offers payments/bribes to win key contracts in the Middle East
May 2017
The UK SFO officially opens investigation into Petrofac’s use of agents, corruption, and potential bribery to secure contracts
September 2021
Petrofac pleads guilty to seven counts of failing to prevent bribery under the UK Bribery Act
October 2021
Court fines Petrofac £77 million for bribery. Former executive receives a two-year suspended sentence
December 2024
Petrofac enters into comprehensive restructuring to strengthen the financial position of the group
May 2025
The High Court of England and Wales approves the company’s restructuring plan
July 2025
The Court of Appeal issues a judgment challenging parts of the restructuring plan
August 2025
Petrofac issues a business update to execute the restructuring and confirms it will appeal the Court of Appeal decision
October 2025
Petrofac loses a major TenneT offshore wind contract worth €13 billion. Holding company files for administration in the UK. Petrofac delisted from the London Stock Exchange
November 2025
180 Petrofac employees laid off in the UAE
Other promotions
- Deliveroo will team up with Pineapple Express to offer customers near JLT a special treat: free banana caramel dessert with all orders on January 26
- Jones the Grocer will have their limited edition Australia Day menu available until the end of the month (January 31)
- Australian Vet in Abu Dhabi (with locations in Khalifa City A and Reem Island) will have a 15 per cent off all store items (excluding medications)
Electric scooters: some rules to remember
- Riders must be 14-years-old or over
- Wear a protective helmet
- Park the electric scooter in designated parking lots (if any)
- Do not leave electric scooter in locations that obstruct traffic or pedestrians
- Solo riders only, no passengers allowed
- Do not drive outside designated lanes
Desert Warrior
Starring: Anthony Mackie, Aiysha Hart, Ben Kingsley
Director: Rupert Wyatt
Rating: 3/5
Dates for the diary
To mark Bodytree’s 10th anniversary, the coming season will be filled with celebratory activities:
- September 21 Anyone interested in becoming a certified yoga instructor can sign up for a 250-hour course in Yoga Teacher Training with Jacquelene Sadek. It begins on September 21 and will take place over the course of six weekends.
- October 18 to 21 International yoga instructor, Yogi Nora, will be visiting Bodytree and offering classes.
- October 26 to November 4 International pilates instructor Courtney Miller will be on hand at the studio, offering classes.
- November 9 Bodytree is hosting a party to celebrate turning 10, and everyone is invited. Expect a day full of free classes on the grounds of the studio.
- December 11 Yogeswari, an advanced certified Jivamukti teacher, will be visiting the studio.
- February 2, 2018 Bodytree will host its 4th annual yoga market.
How does ToTok work?
The calling app is available to download on Google Play and Apple App Store
To successfully install ToTok, users are asked to enter their phone number and then create a nickname.
The app then gives users the option add their existing phone contacts, allowing them to immediately contact people also using the application by video or voice call or via message.
Users can also invite other contacts to download ToTok to allow them to make contact through the app.
Padmaavat
Director: Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Starring: Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor, Jim Sarbh
3.5/5
SERIE A FIXTURES
Friday Sassuolo v Torino (Kick-off 10.45pm UAE)
Saturday Atalanta v Sampdoria (5pm),
Genoa v Inter Milan (8pm),
Lazio v Bologna (10.45pm)
Sunday Cagliari v Crotone (3.30pm)
Benevento v Napoli (6pm)
Parma v Spezia (6pm)
Fiorentina v Udinese (9pm)
Juventus v Hellas Verona (11.45pm)
Monday AC Milan v AS Roma (11.45pm)
Tamkeen's offering
- Option 1: 70% in year 1, 50% in year 2, 30% in year 3
- Option 2: 50% across three years
- Option 3: 30% across five years
What vitamins do we know are beneficial for living in the UAE
Vitamin D: Highly relevant in the UAE due to limited sun exposure; supports bone health, immunity and mood.
Vitamin B12: Important for nerve health and energy production, especially for vegetarians, vegans and individuals with absorption issues.
Iron: Useful only when deficiency or anaemia is confirmed; helps reduce fatigue and support immunity.
Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): Supports heart health and reduces inflammation, especially for those who consume little fish.
What the law says
Micro-retirement is not a recognised concept or employment status under Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations (as amended) (UAE Labour Law). As such, it reflects a voluntary work-life balance practice, rather than a recognised legal employment category, according to Dilini Loku, senior associate for law firm Gateley Middle East.
“Some companies may offer formal sabbatical policies or career break programmes; however, beyond such arrangements, there is no automatic right or statutory entitlement to extended breaks,” she explains.
“Any leave taken beyond statutory entitlements, such as annual leave, is typically regarded as unpaid leave in accordance with Article 33 of the UAE Labour Law. While employees may legally take unpaid leave, such requests are subject to the employer’s discretion and require approval.”
If an employee resigns to pursue micro-retirement, the employment contract is terminated, and the employer is under no legal obligation to rehire the employee in the future unless specific contractual agreements are in place (such as return-to-work arrangements), which are generally uncommon, Ms Loku adds.
The Birkin bag is made by Hermès.
It is named after actress and singer Jane Birkin
Noone from Hermès will go on record to say how much a new Birkin costs, how long one would have to wait to get one, and how many bags are actually made each year.
Company profile
Date started: 2015
Founder: John Tsioris and Ioanna Angelidaki
Based: Dubai
Sector: Online grocery delivery
Staff: 200
Funding: Undisclosed, but investors include the Jabbar Internet Group and Venture Friends
How to become a Boglehead
Bogleheads follow simple investing philosophies to build their wealth and live better lives. Just follow these steps.
• Spend less than you earn and save the rest. You can do this by earning more, or being frugal. Better still, do both.
• Invest early, invest often. It takes time to grow your wealth on the stock market. The sooner you begin, the better.
• Choose the right level of risk. Don't gamble by investing in get-rich-quick schemes or high-risk plays. Don't play it too safe, either, by leaving long-term savings in cash.
• Diversify. Do not keep all your eggs in one basket. Spread your money between different companies, sectors, markets and asset classes such as bonds and property.
• Keep charges low. The biggest drag on investment performance is all the charges you pay to advisers and active fund managers.
• Keep it simple. Complexity is your enemy. You can build a balanced, diversified portfolio with just a handful of ETFs.
• Forget timing the market. Nobody knows where share prices will go next, so don't try to second-guess them.
• Stick with it. Do not sell up in a market crash. Use the opportunity to invest more at the lower price.
How to help
Call the hotline on 0502955999 or send "thenational" to the following numbers:
2289 - Dh10
2252 - Dh50
6025 - Dh20
6027 - Dh100
6026 - Dh200
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Jonny Macdonald
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