Top 5 Roadside Scenic Spots Around Dubai for a Drive & Photo-Stop

Let's be honest - Dubai is famous for its towering skyscrapers and luxury shopping. But here's what most people don't tell you: some of the most breathtaking views are actually ‘outside’ the city, waiting on the open road.

Picture this: you're cruising in your dream car, windows down, and suddenly you round a corner to find golden sand dunes stretching endlessly. Or dramatic mountain peaks that look painted by nature itself. These moments? They're what road trips are made for.

We've explored every scenic route around Dubai (tough job, but someone's got to do it!). Here are our top 5 scenic spots around Dubai where you can pull over, snap incredible photos, and soak it all in.

1. Hatta Mountain Road – The Ultimate Mountain Drive

📍 Distance: 130 km from Dubai (1.5-2 hours)
🕐 Best Time: October - April
🚗 Route: E44 Highway

Why It's Amazing

This isn't just a drive - it's an experience. You start in Dubai's urban jungle, and within an hour, you're winding through the Hatta Mountains like you've been transported to another world. The rocks turn copper-red, and curves reveal jaw-dropping views around every bend.

Top Photo Spots

• Hatta Wadi Hub - 360-degree mountain views with proper parking
• Mountain curves on E44 - Natural pullover spots with dramatic backdrops
• Hatta Dam - Turquoise water meets rust-colored mountains (Instagram gold!)

Best Vehicle

Perfect for sports cars like the BMW M3 CS. Planning off-road exploration? Go for a Land Rover Defender or G-Wagon.

Pro Tip: Pack a jacket—mountains get surprisingly cool, even in Dubai!

2. Al Qudra Desert Road – Classic Desert Vibes

📍 Distance: 50 km from Dubai (45 minutes)
🕐 Best Time: Sunrise or late afternoon
🚗 Route: D63

Why You'll Love It

Perfect for those "I need to escape the city" moments. Beautifully paved road cutting through picturesque desert landscape. You'll pass Al Qudra Lakes, spot camels, and have countless pullover spots.

Must-Capture Moments

• The famous lone tree - That Instagram-famous ghaf tree (you'll spot it!)
• Al Qudra Lakes - Water meets desert, plus flamingos and oryx
• Dune access points - Golden hour turns everything magical

Vehicle Tip

Any luxury car works for the main road. SUV gives you options to venture slightly off-road for better shots.

Bring: Water, snacks, and sun protection. There aren't many facilities out there. 

Trust Tip: Always share your location with someone before exploring the Al Qudra side roads, cell service can be patchy.

3. Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road – The Driver's Dream

📍 Distance: 150 km from Dubai (1.5-2 hours to Al Ain)
🕐 Best Time: Year-round (winter is most comfortable)
🚗 Route: E66 to Al Ain, then Jebel Hafeet Road

What Makes It Special

Often called one of the world's greatest driving roads. 60 switchbacks of pure bliss climbing to 1,240 meters. At the top, you can see into Oman on clear days.

Photo Stops

• Halfway viewpoints - Built-in parking areas with valley views
• The Summit - Mercure Grand Hotel viewing area (grab coffee, you've earned it!)
• Green Mubazzarah - Natural hot springs at the base

Dream Drive

This road was made for sports cars - Ferrari, Lamborghini, BMW M-series. Feel the road like never before.

Timing Tip: Go weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid weekend crowds.

4. Dubai-Fujairah Road (E102) – Mountains Meet Coast

📍 Distance: 120 km to Fujairah (1.5 hours)
🕐 Best Time: October - April
🚗 Route: E102 through mountains

The Experience

Best of multiple worlds—desert, mountains, and coastline in one drive. Less crowded than Hatta, same spectacular views. You'll pass traditional villages and old watchtowers.

Scenic Highlights

• Masafi viewpoint - Mountains frame the valley perfectly
• Mountain pass curves - Dramatic drops and layered mountain views
• Fujairah approach - Gulf of Oman appearing between peaks

Bonus Stop

Masafi Friday Market - touristy but fun for fresh fruit, carpets, and pottery.

Best Choice

Land Rover is perfect - comfortable for long drives, capable for side roads.

5. Sweihan-Al Ain Road (E55) – The Hidden Gem

📍 Distance: 100 km loop from Dubai (1-1.5 hours)
🕐 Best Time: Early morning
🚗 Route: E55

Why It's Underrated

Feel like you have the whole desert to yourself. Peaceful, authentic, and virtually no traffic. Real Emirati landscape with camel farms and traditional architecture.

Photo Opportunities

• Desert viewpoints - Wide shoulders with interesting dune formations
• Camel crossings - They have right of way and make amazing photos!
• Date palm oases - Green pockets creating beautiful desert contrast

Ideal For

Luxury GT or sports sedan. Long straights let you experience real performance.

Important: Fuel up before leaving - stations are less frequent here.

Quick Tips Before You Hit the Road

Timing Matters

Golden hour (after sunrise/before sunset) = Instagram magic. Plus, you'll avoid brutal midday heat.

Safety First

• Use designated viewing areas when available
• Pull completely off the road
• Turn on hazard lights
• Be visible to other drivers

Protect the Environment

Stick to established roads. Don't drive on vegetation. Take trash with you. Keep these landscapes pristine😊.

Pack Smart

• Water & snacks
• Phone chargers & offline maps
• Sunscreen & sunglasses
• First aid kit
• Light jacket (for mountains)

Choose the Right Vehicle

Different routes suit different cars. Our Solid Cars team can recommend the perfect vehicle for your planned adventure.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

The roads around Dubai offer something special - space, freedom, and connection to Arabia's raw beauty. Whether you're chasing the perfect photo, living for great driving roads, or just need a city break, these routes deliver.

At Solid Cars, we provide more than luxury rentals in Dubai. We enable experiences. Every vehicle in our fleet is meticulously maintained and ready for adventures beyond Dubai's borders.

Your perfect drive is waiting. Visit solidcars.ae page to explore our collection and book today. These scenic spots aren't going anywhere, but the perfect weather won't last forever!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time to go on a road trip from Dubai?
The best months for scenic drives are October to April, when the weather is cooler and clearer. Early morning or golden hour in the evening gives the best light for photography.

2. Which car is best for a desert drive near Dubai?
SUVs like the Land Rover or Toyota Land Cruiser are ideal for comfort and control on desert terrain.

3. What are the best scenic drives around Dubai?
The best scenic routes from Dubai include Hatta Mountain Road, Al Qudra Desert Road, Jebel Hafeet Road in Al Ain, Dubai–Fujairah Road, and Sweihan–Al Ain Road. Each offers stunning landscapes and great photo stops.

4. Can tourists drive rental cars outside Dubai city limits?
Yes, tourists can drive anywhere within the UAE with a valid international driving permit and local car rental agreement. Always check with your rental provider for coverage limits. Learn more in here - Dubai driving rules