Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE and there is certainly enough to do in the city to keep visitors busy for at least a week, especially since the massive development projects on Yas and Saadiyat Islands brought world-class museums, new beaches, and art and cultural districts.
But despite its small size, the UAE is home to a slew of interesting – and wildly different destinations – most of which are less than two hour’s drive from Abu Dhabi. Mountains, deserts and wildlife parks, as well as nearby cities like Dubai and Sharjah, are all accessible, even without your own wheels, and provide a valuable insight into what is a diverse nation.
1. Dubai
The obvious choice for visitors to Abu Dhabi, because could you really tell your friends back home you’d visited the UAE and not experienced Dubai?
Dubai is an easy day trip from Abu Dhabi, and its frenetic, free-wheeling atmosphere is a definite contrast from its comparatively chilled out richer, older brother to the south. Within a few hours in Dubai, visit the Burj Khalifa, wander the shops at Dubai Mall, or take an abra ride through the older parts of the city at Dubai Creek.
How to get to Dubai from Abu Dhabi: By car, it’s about 90 minutes. Buses run frequently from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Ibn Battuta and Al Ghubaiba stations in Dubai.
2. Al Ain
Nicknamed the Garden City, Al Ain is home to the Al Ain Oasis (a UNESCO site), Al Jahili Fort, and camel markets. The dramatic Jebel Hafeet rises nearby, offering sweeping views and a winding road to the top. With a storied history, cooler air and a slower pace, it is ideal for culture lovers and families.
How to get to Al Ain from Abu Dhabi: Drive via E22 in about 90 minutes. Public buses also connect Abu Dhabi and Al Ain several times daily.
3. Hatta
Set in the Hajar Mountains, Hatta is a popular escape for nature and adventure, with kayaking on Hatta Dam, exploring the Heritage Village, or hiking on one of the well-marked trails starting from Hatta Wadi Hub. The mountain air and rugged scenery make it feel much further from the city than it is. Hatta is closer to Dubai, but the 2.5 hour drive from Abu Dhabi bypasses the city and is almost a destination in itself, from the coastal plains into the mountains.
If you want to extend the trip, you are very close to Fujairah here and its wild, unique coastline. Consider spending the night and exploring it a little further.
How to get to Hatta from Abu Dhabi: Drive east via E611 and E44 (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours). Public transport is limited, so a car or organised tour is best. Some tours (mostly from Dubai) include kayaking or biking gear rental.
4. Liwa Oasis
Abu Dhabi’s location in the south of the emirate means that it is much closer than Dubai to the real desert, the Empty Quarter. Head to Liwa Oasis, on the edge of the Empty Quarter, for traditional villages, date farms, and the towering Moreeb Dune, one of the tallest in the UAE.
How to get to Liwa from Abu Dhabi: Drive via E65, it takes just over 2 hours. There’s no public transport, so a private vehicle is essential, although myriad tour operators offer excursions.
5. Sir Bani Yas Island
Located off the western coast of the UAE, Sir Bani Yas Island is home to the Arabian Wildlife Park, where animals like oryx, gazelles and cheetahs roam in open landscapes. You can also visit archaeological sites or kayak in mangrove-fringed waters. It's remote – and better to make an overnight trip of it – but doable in a long day if you are pushed for time.
How to get to Sir Bani Yas Island from Abu Dhabi: Drive to Jebel Dhanna port (about 2.5 hours), then take a 20-minute boat to the island. Tours must be booked in advance via Anantara, which runs wildlife drives and hotel day passes.
6. Sharjah
Often overlooked by tourists to the UAE, Sharjah is the country’s cultural capital and home to some of the best museums in the nation, especially the Museum of Islamic Civilization and the Sharjah Art Foundation. Walk the Heart of Sharjah, an old quarter under slow restoration, or browse the Blue Souk for crafts and gold. It has a quieter urban feel that contrasts with both Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
How to get to Sharjah from Abu Dhabi: Driving takes around 2 hours depending on traffic. It’s best to leave early and avoid peak hours. You can also take a bus to Dubai and then a taxi or ride-share onward to central Sharjah.
7. Jubail Mangrove Park
Located just 30 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi, Jubail Mangrove Park is one of the most accessible and calming natural areas near the city. Opened in 2024, its raised boardwalk winds through the coastal mangroves, offering a chance to spot herons, crabs and small fish in the clear shallows. There are several walking loops of varying lengths, plus shaded rest areas, viewing platforms and photo spots. It is free, although kayaking and dragon boat trips are available to purchase from various providers. Make sure you go at high tide for the best views.
How to get to Jubail Mangrove Park from Abu Dhabi: Located on Jubail Island, the park is a short 25–30 minute drive from downtown via the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Highway (E12).
