Living in the UAE means you don’t have to go far to escape the city life. Whether you're craving mountains, beaches, or a cultural retreat, there are plenty of quick trips you can take over the weekend, no annual leave needed! Here are the top 5 weekend getaways from Dubai that are easy to plan, light on your budget, and perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers.
1. Musandam Dibba – Dhow Cruise & Dolphin Watching
Distance from Dubai: ~2 hours
Highlights:
- Traditional Dhow cruise through fjords
- Snorkeling, banana boat ride, dolphin spotting
- Buffet lunch and transfers included
No visa required for UAE residents (with pre-approval)
👉 Book your Musandam Dibba Cruise here
2. Hatta – Nature, Kayaking & Mountains
Distance from Dubai: ~1.5 hours
Highlights:
- Hatta Dam kayaking
- Mountain trails & Hatta Heritage Village
- Ideal for photography & adventure lovers
Perfect for a quick day trip or overnight stay.
👉 Explore Hatta Day Tour Packages
3. Fujairah – Snorkeling with Turtles and BBQ
Distance from Dubai: ~2.5 hours
Highlights:
- Snorkeling at Snoopy Island
- Spot turtles and colorful fish
- Beachside BBQ and sunbathing included
Great for families and nature lovers.
👉 Check Fujairah Snorkeling Trips
4. Abu Dhabi – Grand Mosque and Adventure
Distance from Dubai: ~1.5 hours
Highlights:
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Qasr Al Watan and Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Yas Waterworld or Ferrari World for thrill-seekers
Combo tours available with transfers from Dubai.
👉 Book Abu Dhabi Day Tours
5. Snorkel Khor Fakkan's Colorful Shores
Distance: ~4 hours (including ferry)
Highlights:
- Immerse yourself in the one-of-a-kind snorkeling experience off Khor Fakkan’s scenic shore.
- Encounter turtles, vibrant fish, and colorful coral reefs.
- Underwater photos and videos available on request to capture the magic!
A hidden gem perfect for solo travellers and couples.
👉 Discover Weekend Packages
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to fly far or take time off to enjoy a refreshing getaway from Dubai. These short trips are ideal for recharging your energy and making unforgettable memories.
Whether you're planning a solo escape or a fun family weekend, TravelNestDxb has hand-picked packages with transfers, meals, and activities included, so you can travel stress-free.
Don’t forget to share this blog with your travel group or family WhatsApp chat , your weekend is calling!