Introduction

Longing for a quick escape from Dubai’s skyscrapers? A rental car Dubai opens the road to amazing weekend getaways. Whether you crave mountain adventures, coastal charm, or desert peace, driving yourself gives freedom and flexibility. In this guide, you’ll learn how to choose the right car rental UAE option, plan routes, find top nearby destinations, and prepare for safe, comfortable journeys. Follow these simple steps to turn your weekends into memorable road trips without stress.

Dubai is an amazing city. From its ultra-modern skyline to its record-breaking attractions, it’s easy to stay entertained for weeks.

But what if you want to escape the hustle? That’s where weekend getaways come in  and the smartest way to experience them? Car Rental Dubai. Renting a car opens up a whole new world of possibilities beyond the city’s boundaries. We’re talking beaches, mountains, deserts, and even border-crossing road trips all within a few hours’ drive.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to use rental cars to level up your weekends, the best destinations to visit, and tips that most tourists completely miss.

Why Rent a Car for Weekend Getaways?

Here’s why relying on taxis, buses, or even private transfers won’t cut it:

1. Freedom to Go Anywhere

Public transport won’t take you to remote beaches, desert camps, or mountain roads. With a rental car, you’re in total control of the route and schedule.

2. Save Time

Skip the bus stops, taxi queues, or ride-hailing delays. Just hop in your rental and start your journey.

3. Cost-Efficient for Groups

If you’re heading out with friends or family, a rental car is far more economical than booking multiple ride-hailing services or private tours.

4. Make Multiple Stops

Want to stop for photos, explore a local café, or detour to a hidden wadi? You can when you have your own wheels.

In short, Car Rental Dubai transforms a basic weekend trip into an adventure.

Best Weekend Getaway Destinations from Dubai (With Driving Distances)

Want to escape the city? Here are the top picks you can reach in a few hours or less.

1. Hatta (1.5 Hours Drive)

• Located in the Hajar Mountains
• Perfect for kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking
• Visit Hatta Dam, Hatta Heritage Village, and the new Hatta Wadi Hub

Best Car: SUV or Crossover for winding roads and light off-road sections.

2. Khor Fakkan (2 Hours Drive)

• Seaside town on the east coast with stunning beaches
• Home to waterfalls, amphitheaters, and snorkeling spots
• Way less touristy than Dubai or Abu Dhabi

Best Car: Sedan or Crossover good for highway and coastal roads.

3. Fujairah (2 Hours Drive)

• Mountain meets beach here
• Snorkeling, scuba diving, and spa resorts
• Check out Al Bidyah Mosque the oldest mosque in the UAE

Best Car: Comfortable sedan or family SUV for long drives and gear storage.

4. Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah (2 Hours Drive)

• UAE’s highest peak
• Try the world’s longest zipline or just enjoy scenic drives
• Best during cooler months for hiking or camping

Best Car: SUV with hill-assist & cruise control for mountain driving.

5. Liwa Oasis (3.5 Hours Drive)

• Deep in the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert
• Dune bashing, stargazing, and desert camping
• Very few tourists. Maximum serenity.

Best Car: 4×4 is a must for sandy terrain and remote areas.

Step-by-Step: How to Use Car Rentals for Weekend Trips

Step 1: Plan Ahead

Before you even book a car, pick your destination. Use Google Maps to estimate:

• Total distance
• Driving time
• Road types (highway, mountain, desert)

Pro Tip: Aim to leave Friday morning and return Saturday night or Sunday morning to maximize your time.

Step 2: Choose the Right Rental Car

Not all rental cars are built for weekend adventures. Here’s what to consider:

• Fuel efficiency (for long drives)
• Trunk space (for bags, coolers, camping gear)
• Comfort features (cruise control, AC, USB ports)
• Insurance coverage (especially for desert or mountain drives)

If you’re traveling with 3+ people, go for a mid-size SUV.

Step 3: Use a Reliable Car Rental Dubai Provider

Look for:

• Clear rental policies (fuel, mileage, late return)
• 24/7 roadside support
• Easy drop-off and pick-up options
• GPS or app integration

Most reputable Car Rental Dubai companies offer weekend packages that start Friday morning and end Sunday night — often with discounts.

What to Pack for a Weekend Road Trip

You don’t want to be caught unprepared in the middle of the desert or on a remote mountain road. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Valid driving license and Emirates ID or passport
• Physical or digital car rental agreement
• Phone charger and power bank
• Snacks and water (a lot more if you’re going to Hatta or Liwa)
• Sunglasses, cap, sunscreen
• Google Maps or offline navigation app
• Music playlists or podcasts for the road

Driving Tips for Weekend Getaways

Even though Dubai and the UAE have great roads, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

1. Check Salik & Tolls: Dubai has toll gates called Salik. Make sure your rental car is tagged, and ask the agency how tolls will be billed.
2. Fuel Stations: Fuel is cheap, but not all remote areas have stations. Top up before leaving city limits.
3. Google Maps > Waze (Outside Cities): Waze is great inside cities, but Google Maps works better for remote destinations or less-frequented mountain areas.
4. Don’t Over-Speed: Some highways use hidden speed cameras. Fines can be high and charged to your rental agreement.

How to Save Money on Weekend Car Rentals

You don’t have to overspend. Here’s how to get the best deal:

1. Book Early: Most weekend getaways are planned last minute, and prices spike. Booking early = better rates and more vehicle options.
2. Look for Weekend Promotions: Many Car Rental Dubai agencies offer weekend bundles — especially during off-peak months.
3. Go Unlimited Mileage: If you’re driving to Hatta or Ras Al Khaimah, it’s better to have unlimited mileage. You don’t want to stress about every extra kilometer.
4. Refuel Before Returning: Most companies charge premium prices if you don’t return the tank full. Always stop at a nearby ENOC or ADNOC station before drop-off.

Bonus: Turn Your Car into a Mini Getaway Machine

Want to make the car part of the experience? Here’s how:

• Cooler box in the trunk = cold drinks on demand
• Neck pillows and window shades = naps on the go
• Bluetooth speaker = better road trip playlists
• Travel journal or GoPro = document your getaway

Make the ride just as memorable as the destination.

Conclusion

Using a rental car Dubai transforms your weekends into true adventures. From the rugged mountains of Hatta to the serene beaches of Fujairah, the UAE’s diverse landscapes await. By booking the right vehicle, planning smart routes, and preparing thoroughly, you ensure comfort, safety, and flexibility. Remember to respect local driving rules, pack essentials, and return your car in top condition to avoid extra fees. With these tips, your Dubai weekend getaways become effortless escapes, letting you create lifelong memories under the Arabian sun. Write your own road-trip story and hit the highway!

Final Thoughts

Let’s be real… Dubai’s got a lot going on. But sometimes, the best memories come when you leave the skyline behind and Car Rental Dubai is your gateway to those unforgettable weekends.

Whether it’s kayaking in Hatta, ziplining over Ras Al Khaimah, or camping under the stars in Liwa, a rental car gives you the power to explore beyond the brochures. So next time you feel the urge to escape, don’t wait for someone else to plan it.

Just grab the keys, fuel up, and drive into your next story.