Sheikh Zayed Road – A Very Different Approach To Exploring Dubai

Sheikh Zayed Road might not offer the most relaxing means of exploring Dubai, but for those with limited time and a passion for architecture, it’s unbeatable. No matter which one of our Egypt and Dubai tours you choose, you will almost certainly find yourself traveling on this road at some point during your stay.

One thing is very apparent in the United Arab Emirates – no challenge is too big or too difficult. If you’ve ever visited Dubai in the past, you will no doubt have seen this for yourself. An idea is born; meetings are called; designers and engineers are summoned, and then the work begins.

When Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the current ruler of Dubai, took the throne following the death of his elder brother, he embarked on a mission to transform Dubai. Dubai as it is today is living proof of his spectacular success, and the drive towards excellence is far from being over.

E 11 Highway – The Longest Stretch Of Road In the United Arab Emirates

Stretching from Al Silay in Abu Dhabi, the road finally ends in Ras Al Khaimah at the border of Oman. Admittedly, it may not be one of the best attractions in Dubai, but Sheikh Zayed Road is in itself yet another Emirati achievement in its own right. The highway connects a number of the main cities within the United Arab Emirates; taking on a different name as it passes through each of them.

While the road is called Sheikh Matoum Road in Abu Dhabi, the Dubai stretch of road is called Sheikh Zayed Road. The idea of constructing the road was initially proposed to Sheikh Zayed in 1971 by the Sheik of Dubai and the Sheikh of Abu Dhabi. Just nine years later, the highway was completed and opened to traffic.

An Artery Winding Its Way Through Dubai’s Finest

Virtually all of Dubai’s most astonishing architectural achievements can be seen along the Sheikh Zayed Road. While exploring such a vibrant city from the interior of a vehicle might not be everyone’s idea of fun, it certainly has its advantages for those travelers who only have a limited amount of time, and/or a desire for ultra-modern architecture.

From the world’s tallest building, to one of the world’s most exclusive residential areas, a journey along Sheikh Zayed Road will reveal all.

Burj Khalifa – The Photo Opportunity Of A Lifetime

At a cost of around 1.5 billion US dollars, it is not only the world’s tallest building, but also the world’s most expensive building. From ground level to the highest point, Burj Khalifa measures an astonishing 829.8 meters (just shy of one kilometer); thereby putting it well in the lead as far as tall buildings are concerned.

Once again, Sheihk Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum suggested a building capable of putting Dubai in a prominent position on the world map. Developments such as these have essentially been a drive to move away from an oil based industry, and into a market driven by tourism and tourism related enterprises.

If you intend booking one of our Egypt and Dubai packages, we can easily amend your chosen tour to include a sightseeing drive along this road for a fantastic photo taking opportunity.

Sheikh Zayed Road – The Road To Paradise

Travelling along Sheikh Zayed Road will also see you passing some of Dubai’s most prestigious areas, including Jumeirah Beach; Dubai Marina; Dubai Waterfront and the world famous Palm Jumeirah development which stretches out in the Dubai Creek, and is modeled on a Date Palm tree. Welcome to the Beverly Hills of the Middle East.

If you’ve considering jetting off to the City of Gold for a holiday, hiring and driving yourself around is probably the last thing on your mind. After all, Dubai has world class public transport, and besides, many visitors take advantage of Dubai package tours.

Nonetheless, if you do feel up to the challenge, you’ll be pleased to know that driving in Dubai is a remarkably safe option for exploring the city. Traffic laws are stringently enforced, and there’s also a “zero tolerance” drink driving policy in place. The country’s worst traffic incident happened several years ago, and when compared to many other countries, it pales by comparison.

Visiting Dubai with Egypt Tours Plus

With Dubai being such a phenomenal tourist destination these days, there’s no shortage of tours and package deals available, both locally and those which can be booked from abroad. To book your exclusive tour of Dubai’s infamous Sheikh Zayed Road, please visit our Egypt and Dubai tours page for the deal of a lifetime.

The E 11 Highway, known as Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai, is only about 56 kilometers; meaning the journey can be made in a day, and it really is a journey you’re not likely to forget.

Egypt and Dubai Tours

Learn more about our Egypt and Dubai Combined Tours here…

Last Updated on May 6, 2025