Are you always looking for places to eat and drink on your UAE road trips? I love finding somewhere to sit with a nice view when we’re roaming around the UAE. We have lots we like to go to often and then a few more we’ve not tried, but those are on my winter wishlist, so I’m sharing those too.
If you work from home, I really recommend heading out to some of these beautiful spots. The views from these ‘offices’ are way better than the ones at home! And you’ll be in a cleaner, quieter environment, too, with lots of positive ions to get your brain working all the better.
I’ll also add more over time so make sure to check back. You can also comment with your own recommendations below.
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23 cafes and restaurants with great views for your UAE road trip
Cafe Mleiha
Discover Mleiha is best known for its archaeological sites and centre and activities, but it also has a great cafe with beautiful relaxing views of the plains, mountains, Fossil Rock and even gazelles.
It has both indoor and outdoor seating so you can go all year round any time of day. This was one of my mum’s favourite places to sit and relax and it’s one I’ve used for working remotely.
There’s a walk of 2-3 minutes from the car park to the centre and cafe but if you have limited mobility, you can request a buggy at the security desk.
Tip: If you have children, book them into one of the educational programmes while you relax or work. I’ve done that several times! You can use my promo code GlimpsesUAE to get 10% off if you book online at Discover Mleiha.
Location: Mleiha (Maleha)
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Archaeological Centre, Activities at Discover Mleiha, stop off on a road trip east to Kalba, Shawka or Fujairah.
The Grove, Ajman
I love the views over the mangroves and the flamingoes from The Grove. I’ve even seen a kingfisher there. Look out for cormorants in the winter and birds of prey in the distance all year round. I usually go in the morning because you can sit in the shade outside until noon. The other best time is late afternoon to watch the sunset.
The Grove in the Golf Pavilion serves a range of food, including Lebanese and Emirati cuisine and a good breakfast menu. There’s also an Italian restaurant right next door with the same views and further along is a small sushi place.
Tip: The Grove is on the Ajman Cycle Track, so you can enjoy a long cycle along the waterfront with a breakfast stop en route.
Location: The Golf Pavilion, E11 (Ittihad Rd), Ajman
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Al Zorah, Ajman, Al Hamriyah Beach, Umm al Quwain
Al Madam Restaurant and Cafe, Badayer Retreat, Sharjah Central Region
Al Madam Restaurant is set in the middle of a rustic desert retreat. It offers tranquillity and tasty food. Although it doesn’t look onto the desert, it offers views of traditional-style buildings, palms and the Badayer Retreat mosque. A water feature is also nearby.
Part of the luxury Sharjah Collection, Al Badyer Retreat offers all-halal options for food and drink with both indoor and outdoor seating. (Iftar is also available during Ramadan.)
Location: E44, Awir-Hatta Rd
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Big Red, Madam Buried Village, Off-road History Museum, Al Faya Desert and Buhais Geology Park. Or book a staycation at Badayer Retreat!
La Brasseria, Kalba Hanging Garden
Let me be honest and say I haven’t eaten at La Brasseria yet as they had recently opened when I visited and didn’t have what I was looking for. But the views of Kalba Hanging Garden, Al Hefaiyah Lake and beyond are great so I’m planning on going back soon.
La Brasseria serves Mediterranean cuisine and has both indoor and outdoor seating. There is parking right outside, including disabled parking.
Location: Kalba, E102 old Kalba Rd,
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Wadi Al Helo, Kalba, Al Hefaiya Mountain Conservation Centre, Kalba Bird of Prey Centre, Awhala Fort
Hamour, Sambraid, Dibba
I think of Hamour Restaurant in DIbba Fujairah as cheap and cheerful. My recommendation is to sit outside. You need to pass through the indoor seating to get outside, but don’t be put off, as it’s much nicer when you get out!
The views over to Dibba Al Hisn and the mountains of Musandam are fabulous, and to the left is a beach on the right, you can see out across the ocean. (They have recently started doing building work in the port and I’m not sure how much that is affecting things at the moment.)
We’ve always had tasty food there and for reasonable prices. We’ve had fresh, grilled fish (ask if it’s fresh as they also have some frozen), Indian dishes, kebab, chicken nuggets, etc. We always order fresh juices too.
(There are cats living on the shore that like to hang around on the wall. They’re friendly, and we’ve never had an issue with them, but if you have a fear or dislike of cats, this place may not be for you.)
Location: Next to Sambraid Beach, Dibba Al Fujairah
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Dibba Al Hisn, Dibba Fujairah, Dibba Musandam, Dibba Mountain Park and Resort
Fen Cafe, Khor Kalba
Kalba has another winner, this time with mangrove and water views! It has both outdoor and indoor seating, including comfortable sofas inside. The floor-to-ceiling windows still allow you to enjoy the view.
Fen Cafe and Restaurant has branches across the Emirate of Sharjah. They have a tasty varied menu, which includes gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free and vegan items. A breakfast item will cost you around AED 20-50 and a lunch dish 15-80.
Location: Khor Kalba, Next to Kalba Ice Factory and close to Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Kalba, Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre
Meer Cafe Masfoot
If you follow me on social media, you’ll know how often we go here! The main reason for going is the surroundings and view. With mountain views on all sides along with greenery, clean mountain air, landscaped gardens and Masfoot Watchtower on the grounds, it’s just perfect for me!
Masfoot rarely gets any humidity so you can sit out late afternoon for much of the year or earlier in the day in the cooler months. (You’ll probably need a sweater or similar in the cooler months.) In the winter, go on one of the many hiking trails or the MBT trail in Masfoot before cooling down here.
The menu is varied with burgers, club sandwiches, crepes, pasta, etc. We also always have fresh juice and milkshakes there.
Location: Masfoot Watchtower, Masfoot Walk
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Masfoot, Hatta
The View, Khorfakkan
The View in Khorfakkan lives up to its name well! With both indoor and outdoor seating and the view across the mountains, the town, the beach and the ocean, it’s a perfect spot to relax after a hike up the Rabi Trail, a visit to Al Rabi Tower or a tour of Khorfakkan.
The View menu includes sandwiches, croissants, salads, pasta, breakfast and a wide range of desserts. A coffee and a special croissant cost AED 40-50.
Location: Next to Al Rabi Tower, Khorfakkan
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Al Rabi Tower, the Resistance Monument, Khorfakkan
Gardenia, Kalba Clock Tower
Gardenia in Kalba Clock Tower is pretty small so if you’re planning on going in busier times, you might want to book ahead. The views stretch right across the town of Kalba, Kalba Lake, the mountains, the mangroves and out to the ocean.
The menu includes breakfast, sandwiches, pasta, risotto, burgers, and cakes. A burger costs around AED 50, a cake 30-45 and breakfast 35-50. There is also a larger branch of Gardenia with indoor and outdoor seating on Kalba Lake near the flagpole.
Entrance to Kalba Clock Tower is AED 5 and is free for ages 0- 13 and 60+. For the 60+, one carer goes free.
Location: Kalba Clock Tower, Khor Kalba
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Kalba, Al Hefaiya Mountain Conservation Centre, Kalba Bird of Prey Centre, Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre
1484 by Puro, Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
1484 by Puro gets its name from the fact that it’s 1,484 meters above sea level. This makes it the highest restaurant in the UAE, offering breathtaking views of the Hajar Mountains. 1484 is at the Jais Adventure Centre and has both an outdoor terrace and indoor seating and floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery wherever you choose to sit.
The menu includes a mix of international dishes, from full meals to light, healthy options. Breakfast items cost AED 55-80 and a burger costs AED 75.
It’s a popular spot to enjoy a meal after hiking to the top or trying out some of other adventures at Jebel Jais like the Jais Sky Tour or the Jais Sledder. You can also try Puro Express or some of the food trucks lower down the mountain, all with fabulous views too.
Location: Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Ras Al Khaimah, Jebel Jais,
Simuli, Al Hefaiyah Lake, Kalba
I haven’t tried this yet, but Simuli has great views over Al Hefaiyah Lake and mountains You can sit on the terrace or inside and still enjoy the view through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Simuli serves several cuisines including Emirati. The prices seemed average.
For something lighter, you could try Mara cafe next door, also with indoor and outdoor seating. A main dish costs around AED 60 and a cake around AED 30.
Location: E102, old Kalba Rd, Kalba
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Kalba, Kalba Hanging Garden, Al Hefaiya Mountain Conservation Centre, Kalba Bird of Prey Centre, Wadi Al Helo, Awhala Fort,
Railway Cafe Resistance Monument, Khorfakkan
The last time I was there, it was V cafe, so the decor inside will be a bit different from the photo, but the building itself is the Resistance Monument, which is glass all around. This did make it a little warm midday, so earlier or later may be better.
The views over Khorfakkan and the fountains are great. The decor inside now resembles a train station. I’ve heard from friends that the food was good so I’ll be trying it myself soon!
Location: Resistance Monument, Khorfakkan
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Khorfakkan, Madha
Fen Cafe, Suhub Rest Area, Khorfakkan
Fen Cafe and Restaurant sits at the top of one of Khorfakkan‘s highest mountains overlooking the town and across to the ocean. Some months, if you arrive there early, you may find yourself above or in the clouds. (It opens from 7am to 11pm.)
It has both indoor and outdoor settings and serves a varied menu, including main dishes, salads, snacks, and desserts with gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free and vegan options. A breakfast item will cost you around AED 20-50 and a lunch dish AED 15-80.
To work up an appetite for your breakfast, park at Al Rafisah Dam and hike up to Suhub Rest Area. Or do it in reverse to work off your lunch.
There is an entrance fee to the top area of the mountain but it’s free if you have a restaurant receipt of over AED 50. (Double-check when you go.) It can get busy at peak time though.
Location: Khorfakkan Ring Road, Khorfakkan
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Khorfakkan, hiking from Al Rafisah Dam
Al Bait Al Qadeem, Al Dhaid Oasis
Al Bait Al Qadeem is a traditional restaurant in Al Dhaid Oasis with a terrace overlooking the souq and farms. The falaj (water channels) running past add to its charm.
It serves Emirati food and other dishes like mixed grill. A kebab dish costs AED 35-55 and a fresh juice around AED 15. The menu was only in Arabic though. (This may have changed.)
I like to go and sit outside first thing (8am) for breakfast or late afternoon for a light meal.
Location: Al Dhaid Oasis, next to Al Dhaid Fort
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Al Dhaid, Al Dhaid Fort, Sharjah Safari, Masafi Friday Market, Sharjah Desert Park
Arabian Fish House, Sharjah
The Arabian Fish House is a branch of the Arabian Tea House, so it comes with the same blue and white traditional decor and a similar menu but with the addition of fish dishes.
Located on Al Heera Beach, it has views over the white sands and out to the Arabian Gulf. The shipwreck adds a mysterious touch to the view!
Emirati Rice with hamour costs AED 80 and individual breakfast items cost AED 30-60. I recommend ordering a breakfast tray between two though (or even three!)
Location: Al Heera Beach, Sharjah
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Heart of Sharjah, Al Heera Beach
Habib Beirut, Kalba Hanging Garden
In the heart of the Kalba Hanging Garden, Habib Beirut offers a lovely spot to enjoy Lebanese cuisine with a view. The circular building, with its large windows and terrace, provides sweeping views of the lush park surroundings, making it a great place to relax and dine.
We went during Ramadan and the fixed iftar menu with generous portions cost AED 99. A main dish costs between AED 45 and 110. and desserts around AED 30-35.
(They also have a branch in Khorfakkan at the top of Khorfakkan Waterfall but I haven’t been yet. I’ve heard you need to book in advance.)
Location: Kalba, E102 old Kalba Rd,
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Wadi Al Helo, Kalba, Al Hefaiya Mountain Conservation Centre, Kalba Bird of Prey Centre, Awhala Fort
Qawasim Corniche, Ras Al Khaimah
I don’t have a specific restaurant or cafe to recommend on Qawasim Corniche, but there are several to choose from, all with gorgeous views across the creek, mangroves and mountains. They offer a range of cuisines. Look out for the Turkish ice cream though.
This is great for families with grassy areas and both free and paid play options nearby.
You can also get great views over the creek and mangroves from the nearby Grove Village. I had a tasty Lebanese breakfast there at Semsom which was at a great price and it was more than enough to share with a friend.
Location: Ras Al Khaimah Town Centre
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Ras Al Khaimah
Korish, Esfai
Korish may not have the best views and it’s next to the highway but just turn yourself to face the low mountains, and it makes a great stop on the way to or from Fujairah or Kalba.
I’ve enjoyed both camel and deer burgers there and we often stop off for crepes with chocolate and toppings on the way home. Sit upstairs for the best view.
Location: Esfai, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Rd (Dubai-Fujairah Highway) E84.
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Fujairah Adventure Park, Sheikh Zayed Fujairah Grand Mosque, Fujairah Fort, Fujairah Museum, Al Hayl Fort, Kalba
Umbrella Beach Fujairah
Umbrella Beach in Fujairah has several places to eat with different cuisines. We’ve been to Al Rumailah Farm cafe a couple of times as we love their Jersey milk shakes and ice cream from their own herd of Jersey cows in Fujairah.
A regular milkshake costs around AED 25 and desserts, AED 16-24.
Location: Fujairah Beach
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Fujairah Adventure Park, Sheikh Zayed Fujairah Grand Mosque, Fujairah Fort, Fujairah Museum
Washi Cafe, Najd Al Miqsar, Khorfakkan
Washi Cafe opened just a few months ago along with the Najd Al Miqsar Hotel by Sharjah Collection. It has both indoor and outdoor seating looking over Wadi Shie and across to Khorfakkan and the sea.
The menu was a bit limited when we went but we enjoyed an Arabic breakfast and the view. The breakfast was around AED 80 for two, and other breakfast items were around AED30-50. There is parking right outside.
Location: Khorfakkan Rd S142,
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Khorfakkan, Al Rafisah Dam
Casa Mikoko, Umm Al Quwain
Casa Mikoko sits right on the edge of the Umm Al Quwain Mangrove Forest, offering amazing views interrupted only by islands with more mangroves. It serves a good range of food and drink but can get busy at peak time so you may need to book ahead.
My favourite time to go is in the morning. On a weekday morning, it’s the perfect spot to work remotely. Of course, late afternoon is also great to watch the sun set over the creek. Casa Mikoko is also pet friendly, so you can take your furry friend along too.
There is an entry fee to Mangrove Beach but keep your receipt for free entry. Read more about the eco-friendly resort at Casa Mikoko.
Tip: Take your binoculars to watch the local and migratory birds while you’re there.
Location: UAQ Mangrove Beach, Umm Al Quwain
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Umm Al Quwain
Al Rafisah Lounge, Khorfakkan
Al Rafisah Lounge offers gorgeous views over the lake, mountains and nearby gardens. The best view is from the outdoor terrace seating but an indoor table near a window also has great views.
It has a wide and varied menu and is in the mid-price range. It’s one I go to for the view and tranquillity rather than the food, but we always enjoy their fresh juices.
See more of Al Rafisah Dam and the surrounding views, amenities and activities like kayaking and hiking.
Location: Khorfakkan Rd, S142
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Khorfakkan, Wadi Shees
The View, Dibba Al Hisn
The View Cafe and Restaurant at Dibba Al Hisn looks straight out to the Gulf of Oman, left to Musandam, Oman and right to Dibba Al Hisn and the mountains and coastline of Dibba Fujairah.
It has lots of indoor and outdoor seating, both with views. We paid AED 30-40 for a cake/dessert.
Location: Al Hisn Island, Dibba Al Hisn
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Dibba Al HIsn, Dibba Musanadam
Food Truck Park, Liwa
Not a specific recommendation with this one but at the food trucks at the Liwa Sign at the top of a hill, you can enjoy a view over the town, the desert and green farms.
It’s the world’s largest sign according to the Guinness Book of Records in 2024 so you can grab some shots for your social media too!
While I was there visiting Liwa, I had crepes and hot chocolate to warm me up on a cold winter evening! I don’t remember the prices but they were reasonable. The best time to go is late afternoon to enjoy golden hour and the sunset.
Location: Liwa Sign, Liwa town
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Liwa, Al Dhafrah
Cafe Mughirah Bay, Abu Dhabi Western Region
The cafe is at the Visitor Centre on the waterfront and looks on to the mangroves. It didn’t have yet have outdoor seating when I was there a few months ago but i was assured it was coming. They served drinks and light snacks.
It’s right at the start (or end) point of Al Mughirah Mangrove Walk, where you can look out for turtles and dugongs. There are also several places to eat within walking distance at Al Mughirah Bay plaza. To see more, visit my post on Al Mirfa.
Location: Al Mughirah Bay, Al Mirfa.
Combine with these UAE Road trip destinations: Al Mirfa, Sila
Wrap-up on the Cafes and Restaurants with a view for your UAE Road Trips
Exploring the UAE is always more enjoyable when you have a great place to stop off and take in the scenery. From sea views to mountain vistas and desert landscapes to serene lake scenes, these 23 cafes and restaurants offer the perfect spots to unwind, have a snack or a meal, and enjoy stunning views. Each location brings something unique, from the tranquil mangroves in Umm Al Quwain to the rugged peaks of Jebel Jais.
If you’re working remotely, these scenic spots are also ideal for switching up your routine, especially during winter in UAE. What better way to be inspired than in beautiful natural settings? Be sure to bookmark this list for your next UAE road trip, and check back often, as I’ll be adding new favourites over time. And if you have a go-to spot with a great view, drop a comment below. I’d love to hear your recommendations!
Happy road-tripping!
If you liked this, you might also like My Favourite Places to Eat in Sharjah with a View or Winter in UAE, A Local Guide.
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