Tired of the usual Dubai Mall weekends or JBR sunsets on repeat? The UAE is full of secret spots and underrated gems that are perfect for a weekend escape whether you’re craving calm beaches, historical vibes, or something completely offbeat. Here’s your ultimate guide to uncovering the UAE’s most amazing hidden getaways the kind even locals don’t always know about!
1. Al Rafisah Dam – Sharjah’s Scenic Surprise
Location: Khor Fakkan, Sharjah (approx. 1.5 hours from Dubai)
Best for: Kayaking, nature walks, family picnics
Nestled between the Hajar Mountains, Al Rafisah Dam feels like a slice of Europe within the UAE. It’s beautifully green, incredibly peaceful, and shockingly underhyped. The dam is surrounded by a leisure complex that includes:
- A stunning waterfront promenade
- Paddle boat and kayak rentals
- A kids’ play area and café
Why go: Imagine sipping karak chai with mountain views, birds chirping, and not a skyscraper in sight all without leaving Sharjah. It’s a must-visit if you want nature without the tourist crowd.
2. Hatta Secret Pool – The Real Hidden Oasis
Location: Near the Oman border (Hatta, Dubai region)
Best for: Adventure seekers, off-road fans, nature lovers
Yes, Hatta is already famous for its dam and hiking trails but there’s a secret natural pool not shown on most tourist maps. To get there, you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle and a bit of hiking, but the reward is worth it.
- Cool, turquoise water hidden in the rocks
- Serene mountain backdrop
- Almost no crowd on weekdays
Travel tip: Use Google Maps cautiously this spot is not officially marked, and some paths are closed during the rainy season.
Why go: It feels like you’re discovering something no one else knows a true gem.
3. Kalba Mangroves – Eco-Escape on the East Coast
Location: Kalba, Sharjah (close to Fujairah border)
Best for: Wildlife spotting, kayaking, nature photography
Far from the buzz of city life, Kalba is home to one of the UAE’s oldest and most biodiverse mangrove forests. It’s quiet, untouched, and full of natural beauty you don’t expect in the UAE. You can spot endangered birds, turtles, and even crabs crawling through the roots.
- Eco-friendly kayak tours available
- Nearby Kalba Fort adds a cultural touch
- Ideal for sunrise adventures
Why go: If you want an escape where silence speaks louder than your playlist, this is the spot.
4. Al Ain Oasis – A UNESCO Site Most Forget
Location: Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
Best for: History buffs, families, slow-paced wanderers
Al Ain is often skipped by weekend travelers but it shouldn’t be. The Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers an incredibly serene walk through lush palm groves, traditional falaj irrigation systems, and heritage homes.
- Over 147,000 date palms
- Shaded pathways for relaxed walking
- Entry is free
Why go: It’s an ideal place to reconnect with the UAE’s roots and step away from fast-paced city life.
5. Moon Island – A Private Paradise Off Dubai Coast
Location: 70 km off the coast of Dubai (accessible by boat)
Best for: Camping, snorkeling, private parties
Shaped like a crescent (hence the name), Moon Island is a surreal and serene sandbank surrounded by crystal-clear water. It’s a place you can rent with friends or family and completely disconnect from the real world.
- Swimming and snorkeling in warm waters
- Stargazing at night with no city light pollution
- You can camp or glamp overnight
Why go: It’s like Maldives on a budget peaceful, private, and unforgettable.
6. Mleiha Archaeological Centre – Where History Meets Desert Adventure
Location: Mleiha, Sharjah (near Fossil Rock)
Best for: History lovers, stargazers, dune adventurers
This one’s for those who like their weekend getaway to include some mind-blowing history. Mleiha is home to pre-Islamic ruins, ancient tombs, fossils, and stargazing camps.
- Guided desert safaris and night astronomy tours
- Museum showcasing 130,000+ years of human history
- Dune bashing and desert trekking
Why go: You’ll walk through actual history and end the day watching stars from a desert lounge.
7. Sir Bani Yas Island – UAE’s Own Wildlife Safari
Location: Western Region of Abu Dhabi (access from Jebel Dhanna Jetty)
Best for: Wildlife, luxury, couples’ escapes
Few people know that the UAE has its own wildlife sanctuary island Sir Bani Yas is home to giraffes, cheetahs, antelopes, and more. There are luxury resorts like Anantara, but also eco lodges for the budget-conscious.
- Wildlife drives in open-top jeeps
- Kayaking through mangroves
- Cultural tours of old Christian monasteries
Why go: If you want a safari without flying to Africa, this is your dream weekend.
Weekend Escapes Beyond Malls and Beaches
The UAE is so much more than luxury shopping and brunches. Whether you’re craving adventure, silence, wildlife, or heritage, there’s always a hidden corner waiting to be discovered. The best part? Most of these escapes are just a 1–3 hour drive from the major cities.
So, next weekend, ditch the usual routine. Pick one of these gems, pack a bag, and head off into the unknown you might just discover your new favorite place.
