Al Ain, about 140km east of Abu Dhabi, is the UAE's largest inland city and a UNESCO World Heritage site for its ancient falaj (irrigation) system and oasis gardens. The walled palm grove of the Al Ain Oasis, the Al Jahili Fort, and the switchback drive up Jebel Hafit at sunset make for a full day out; the Al Ain Zoo is one of the best in the region. The drive across the dunes to reach the city is itself part of the appeal.
Liwa, about 200km south, is a crescent of oasis villages at the edge of the Empty Quarter, surrounded by some of the highest sand dunes in the world. Moreeb Dune rises 300 metres. A day trip is ambitious but possible; an overnight at one of the desert resorts makes far more sense, and sunset over the dunes is one of the great Arabian experiences. Guided 4x4 tours are essential — driving the dunes solo without experience is dangerous.
Sir Bani Yas, a desert island off the western coast, is home to the largest free-roaming herd of Arabian oryx in the world, plus cheetahs, giraffes, and gazelle in its Arabian Wildlife Park. The long drive and short ferry make it a stretch for a single day, but it rewards an overnight stay. Closer to the city, Jebel Hafit and Al Ain Oasis can be folded into the Al Ain trip.
