So, you want to explore the UAE’s rich history.
That means more than visiting the malls and beaches. You’re here to discover ancient forts, old trading posts, archaeological treasures, and traditional villages scattered across all seven Emirates.
But here’s the thing:
These historical gems aren’t clustered in one spot. They’re spread out.
From the Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi to the Al Bidya Mosque in Fujairah, you’ll need a reliable way to move across the country on your own terms.
That’s where one decision changes everything: Rent a Car in Dubai.
It’s not just about convenience. It’s about unlocking experiences that tour buses and taxis can’t give you.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to plan and execute a historical road trip across the UAE—with the perfect rental car as your partner.
Let’s hit the road.
Why Rent a Car for a Historical Tour?
Let’s face it. Group tours are restrictive.
You’re bound by schedules, crowded buses, and 10-minute photo stops.
But with your own car, you can:
- Design your own route
- Spend hours at a historical site (if you want to)
- Visit off-the-radar heritage sites
- Stop at roadside cafés, souks, and local haunts
Think about it. You’re in a country with excellent highways, low fuel costs, and some of the most scenic desert landscapes in the Gulf.
All signs point to driving.
Step 1: Plan Your Historical Itinerary
You don’t need a time machine to explore the UAE’s past. You just need a map, a plan, and a tank of fuel.
Here’s a suggested itinerary to get you started:
1. Dubai – The Gateway
- Al Fahidi Historical District: Old wind-tower architecture and museums
- Dubai Museum: Housed inside the 18th-century Al Fahidi Fort
- Heritage House and Al Seef: Taste of Emirati life
🕐 Time Needed: Half day to full day
2. Sharjah – Cultural Capital
- Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
- Heart of Sharjah: Restoration project showing pre-oil era life
- Al Hisn Fort: Sharjah’s original seat of governance
🕐 Time Needed: Full day
3. Ajman – The Quiet Charm
- Ajman Museum: Inside an 18th-century fort with exhibits on traditional life
- Al Zorah Nature Reserve: Optional detour for nature lovers
🕐 Time Needed: Half day
4. Umm Al Quwain – Time Stands Still
- UAQ Fort and Museum: A lesser-known historical gem
- Falaj Al Mualla: Old farming village
🕐 Time Needed: Half day
5. Ras Al Khaimah – Archaeological Haven
- Dhayah Fort: 16th-century mountain-top fortress
- Shimal Ruins: Prehistoric tombs and structures
- RAK National Museum: Cultural archives
🕐 Time Needed: Full day
6. Fujairah – Eastern Coastline Legacy
- Al Bidya Mosque: The oldest mosque in the UAE
- Fujairah Fort: Strategic fortification overlooking the city
- Heritage Village: Traditional homes and crafts
🕐 Time Needed: Full day
7. Abu Dhabi – The Grand Finale
- Qasr Al Hosn: The oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi
- Heritage Village: Bedouin lifestyle exhibit
- Al Ain (Optional): UNESCO oasis and archaeological parks
🕐 Time Needed: 1–2 days
Step 2: Choose the Right Rental Car
This isn’t a quick city trip. You’ll be covering highways, mountain roads, and city streets.
You need a car that’s:
✅ Comfortable for long drives
✅ Fuel-efficient
✅ GPS-enabled or compatible with smartphone nav
Best Car Types for a UAE Road Trip:
- Sedans (Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima): Perfect balance of comfort and mileage
- SUVs (Mitsubishi Pajero, Toyota Fortuner): Ideal for mountain drives or desert detours
- Luxury cars (if you want to explore in style): Mercedes, Audi, BMW
Good news: When you Rent a Car in Dubai, you get access to all these options.
Pro Tip: Book in advance online for better rates and more choices.
Step 3: Know the Driving Rules and Etiquette
Driving in the UAE is smooth — but fast-paced.
To stay safe and on the right side of the law, follow these key rules:
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Stick to the speed limit (varies by road type)
- Avoid using your phone while driving
- Wear seatbelts at all times
- No alcohol tolerance: Even a small amount can land you in trouble
Also, don’t panic at speed cameras. They’re everywhere. Just follow the limits, and you’re good.
Step 4: Fuel Up, Literally and Figuratively
Here’s a major UAE advantage: fuel is cheap.
You can drive across multiple Emirates on less than $30 USD of fuel.
Look for stations by:
- ENOC
- ADNOC
- Emarat
Most stations accept card and cash. They also have convenience stores and cafés—perfect for breaks during long drives.
Refueling tip: Ask the station staff for a full tank if you’re headed to remote areas like RAK or Fujairah.
Step 5: Don’t Skip These Pro Tips
Ready for some real-world advice that guidebooks won’t give you?
Here’s your power list:
✔ Always carry:
- Your passport
- Driver’s license (international permit if needed)
- Rental agreement
✔ Navigation:
- Use Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic
- Download offline maps if heading to remote zones
✔ Parking:
- Paid parking zones exist in cities. Use RTA apps.
- Forts and museums usually offer free or low-cost parking
✔ Dress Respectfully:
You’re visiting cultural and religious sites. Modest clothing is essential.
✔ Stay Hydrated:
Desert heat is no joke—even in winter. Always carry water bottles.
Bonus: Historical Places You Can Only Reach by Car
These hidden gems don’t make the tourist brochure—but they’re gold for history buffs:
- Al Madam Ghost Village (Sharjah-Oman road): A deserted town swallowed by sand
- Jazirat Al Hamra (RAK): An abandoned pearl diving village
- Al Ain Oasis (Abu Dhabi): 3,000-year-old falaj irrigation system
None of these are accessible by metro or public bus. Only a car gets you there.
Final Thoughts
You don’t just want to visit the UAE. You want to understand it.
To feel the stones of an ancient fort. To step inside a mosque built centuries ago. To hear the call to prayer echo across desert towns.
That kind of connection doesn’t come from taxis, group tours, or quick snapshots.
It comes from going off the grid, at your own pace, in your own vehicle.
So if you’re planning to uncover the roots of Emirati culture, renting a car is non-negotiable.
And if you’re starting your journey from Dubai, your best bet is to Rent a Car in Dubai, where the selection, pricing, and convenience are unmatched.
Now, you’re not just a tourist. You’re a time traveler with a steering wheel.
Buckle up. a steering wheel.
Buckle up. History awaits.p. History awaits.
