7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is not only a hub for business and culture but also a fantastic base for digital nomads seeking adventure on their weekends. With its strategic location, you have access to a variety of destinations that offer everything from historical sites and natural beauty to thrilling activities and relaxation. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems, Abu Dhabi has something for every type of traveler. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that are perfect for those living the digital nomad lifestyle in Abu Dhabi.

Al Ain

Known as the Garden City, Al Ain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's oldest permanently inhabited settlements. It's a breath of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can explore the Al Ain Oasis, visit the Al Ain Zoo, or take a trip up Jebel Hafeet for panoramic views. The city also boasts several museums, including the Al Ain National Museum and the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum.

How to Get There: Al Ain is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Abu Dhabi. Renting a car or taking a taxi are the most convenient options for this journey.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the hot springs at the base of Jebel Hafeet. They're perfect for a relaxing soak after a day of exploring.

Where to Stay: The Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet offers stunning views and has a refreshing pool, while the Al Ain Rotana stands out for its luxurious amenities.

Where to Eat: Zakher Lake, a serene spot perfect for picnics, is nearby. Alternatively, try the local cuisine at Ayla Restaurant, known for its traditional Middle Eastern dishes.

Liwa Oasis

For a true escape into the Arabian desert, the Liwa Oasis is a must-visit. This vast expanse of sand and palm groves is part of the Empty Quarter, the largest uninterrupted sand desert in the world. Visitors can enjoy dune bashing, camel trekking, or simply marvel at the majestic dunes, including the famous Moreeb Dune, one of the tallest in the world.

How to Get There: Liwa Oasis is about a 2-hour drive from Abu Dhabi. The journey is best made by car, either personal or rented.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during the Liwa Date Festival to experience local culture and taste the finest dates in the region.

Where to Stay: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara offers luxury accommodation with stunning desert views and an impressive infinity pool.

Where to Eat: The resort's restaurants offer a variety of dining options, but Al Waha is renowned for its Arabian flavors.

Sir Bani Yas Island

Sir Bani Yas Island is a natural island located 170 kilometers southwest of Abu Dhabi and is a wildlife sanctuary with more than 13,000 free-roaming animals. Activities include nature walks, bird watching, snorkeling, and kayaking. The island also features historical sites such as a Christian monastery dating back to the 7th century.

How to Get There: The island is accessible by a short flight from Abu Dhabi or by ferry from Jebel Dhanna.

Travel Tip: Take a wildlife drive to see some of the Arabian Peninsula's most endangered species, including the Arabian oryx.

Where to Stay: The Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts offer three distinct lodging experiences, with the Desert Islands Resort & Spa being a popular choice.

Where to Eat: The Savannah Grill at the resort offers a fine dining experience with views of the Arabian Gulf and the wildlife reserve.

Hatta

While technically in Dubai, Hatta is an easy drive from Abu Dhabi and offers a mountainous escape with cooler temperatures and stunning natural scenery. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with activities like mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking in the Hatta Dam. The Hatta Heritage Village provides a glimpse into the traditional mountain life of the UAE.

How to Get There: Hatta is about a 3-hour drive from Abu Dhabi. The journey is straightforward by car, with scenic views along the way.

Travel Tip: Visit during the cooler months to fully enjoy the outdoor activities without the intense heat.

Where to Stay: The JA Hatta Fort Hotel offers a cozy mountain lodge experience with great facilities for relaxation.

Where to Eat: The Hatta Fort Hotel's restaurants serve a range of international and local dishes, with the Jeema Restaurant being a highlight for its gourmet menu.

Jebel Hafeet

Just outside of Al Ain, Jebel Hafeet is the second highest peak in the UAE and offers breathtaking views of the desert. The drive up the mountain is an experience in itself, with winding roads and dramatic landscapes. At the top, visitors can enjoy the view from the Jebel Hafeet Mountain Hotel or explore the area's hiking trails.

How to Get There: Jebel Hafeet is about a 2-hour drive from Abu Dhabi, with the mountain located just outside Al Ain.

Travel Tip: For the best experience, visit at sunset when the colors of the desert come alive.

Where to Stay: The Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet at the summit provides comfortable accommodations with stunning views.

Where to Eat: The hotel's Le Belvedere restaurant offers a mix of international and Middle Eastern cuisine with a view.

Qasr Al Sarab

Nestled in the heart of the Empty Quarter, Qasr Al Sarab is a luxurious desert resort that offers an authentic Arabian experience. The resort is surrounded by towering dunes and provides a range of activities such as camel treks, dune bashing, and falconry. The tranquility of the desert makes it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.

How to Get There: Qasr Al Sarab is about a 2-hour drive from Abu Dhabi. The resort can arrange transportation, or you can drive yourself.

Travel Tip: Take advantage of the resort's spa treatments, which incorporate traditional Arabian elements for a unique wellness experience.

Where to Stay: The resort itself is the prime place to stay, offering luxurious rooms and villas with desert views.

Where to Eat: The resort's Al Waha restaurant serves up a range of Arabian and international dishes in an opulent setting.

Umm Al Quwain

For a weekend away from the typical tourist trail, head to Umm Al Quwain. This lesser-known emirate offers a laid-back atmosphere and attractions such as the UAQ National Museum, Dreamland Aqua Park, and the abandoned village of Al-Dur. It's a great place to experience the UAE's history and culture without the crowds.

How to Get There: Umm Al Quwain is approximately a 3-hour drive from Abu Dhabi. The journey is best made by car for flexibility in exploring the emirate.

Travel Tip: Visit the UAQ National Museum to learn about the area's rich archaeological history and see artifacts from the Al-Dur site.

Where to Stay: The Barracuda Beach Resort offers comfortable accommodations and is close to the aqua park for some fun in the sun.

Where to Eat: The resort's Thunder Road Pizza & Grill serves Italian and American cuisine with a view of the lagoon.