A stunning 2-hour drive from Dubai through the northern emirate of Ras Al Khaimah reveals the rugged beauty of these famed ‘Fjords of Arabia’. Visit Telegraph Island (you can hire a boat cheaply from the port at Khasab) for a secluded swim in crystalline waters. The area is utterly unspoilt, with few tourists, so see it now before it gets discovered. Stop off for a drink at the Golden Tulip Hotel, take in the majestic views from top of Jebel Harim Mountain and have a total switch-off from Dubai’s go-go pace.