The Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road: Exploring the Arabian Landscapes

Named by the American motoring website Edmunds.com as the "greatest driving road in the world", the Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road in the United Arab Emirates is not as long a stretch as many of the other routes we have reviewed in the past. The seven-mile stretch might seem paltry to many, but this short length of road is compensated by the experience that will challenge your technical driving skills.

The three-lane Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road offers over 50 corners and one of the smoothest paved surfaces that you will drive on.

The Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road was constructed by Strabag International, a construction company based in Cologne, Germany. The seven-mile road goes up the eponymous mountain range, and at the end, you will find a hotel that is owned by the emirs of the country. Many cyclists competing in international tournaments go to the Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road to train. The annual Jebel Hafeet Mercure Challenge, a prestigious cycling competition in the region, is held on this road every January.

The Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road is around two hours away, by car, from the commercial and cultural hubs of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

What to See

The dramatic Arabian landscapes are seen in their finest from this road, with views of the shifting colors of sand in the horizon. There are two distinct hues of sand in this part of the Middle East—yellow and a darker orange. The differences in color are caused by the presence of various minerals. The stunning panoramic views of Al Ain, a garden city in Abu Dhabi near the border with Oman, is one of the best things about going all the way to this mountain road.

The Mercure Jebel Hafeet Hotel right at the peak of the mountain might not be high on your list of things to see in your lifetime, but after a few minutes out in the scorching Arabian sun, it will be a wonderful oasis of air-conditioning and iced drinks. If you are a fan of great architecture, then this Mercure hotel will not disappoint—the architects of the structure designed the building to reflect the magic of this part of the world. The Mercure Jebel Hafeet offers over 120 rooms, two restaurants, a bar and a coffee ship, and swimming pools for overheated tourists to wade in.

If you have a bit more time in your hands, you can explore the natural cave system in the Jebel Hafeet mountain. If, on the other hand, you wish for a day of relaxation, the resort town at the bottom of the mountain is famous for its numerous soothing hot springs.

Final Tip

The Middle East is not really known for its pleasant cool weather—and it is best to avoid driving in the Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road in the height of summer. March to September might be the hottest, and that leaves you with a two- to three-month window for exploration. If you are in Abu Dhabi or Dubai during the summer season, just make sure that you have plenty of water, cool clothes, and the air-conditioning in your car is on full blast.

Does this road trip appeal to you? Don't delay. Hire your dream car today from us and have the time of your life! Book your Abu Dhabi Airport car hire to start your journey.