As kids, we grew up watching Hollywood stars taking us on road-trips to Las Vegas and Mexico in films with their convertible cars. We dreamed of getting behind the wheel to see similar scenic trips materialize.
Well, now's the time to do so ... right here in the GCC. Pack a bag filled with snacks, pick up a few friends, and hit the road whilst enjoying the breeze this autumn ... all while driving the new Mini Cabrio aka "the free spirit."
1. Dubai to Muscat
The distance from Dubai, UAE, to Muscat, Oman, is just four and a half hours by car ... which makes it the perfect trip for the weekend.
With your rooftop down, you can easily enjoy every bit of the scenery all throughout the drive ... which is breathtaking to say the least.
2. Abha to Rijal Alma (Saudi Arabia)
Driving time from the Saudi cities of Abha to Rijal Alma is estimated to take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car. This road trip will take you through what is believed to be the highest peak in Saudi Arabia, Jabal Sawda, with an elevation close to 3,000 meters.
The meandering road, with over a dozen hairpin turns, bends down the mountain range where the stunning stone town of Rijal Alma lies.
3. Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain (UAE)
If you're seeking a road-trip infused with relaxation, Al Ain is definitely the answer. The area is best known for its intricately structured Hafeet mountain overlooking the city of Al Ain and sits on the border with Oman.
There are a number of archaeological sites on Jebel Hafeet and the Al Hilli area to be explored.
Added plus is the fact that the route to the mountain is quite smooth and simple. Leaving from Dubai, you will just have to get onto the E66 Dubai-Al Ain highway.
4. Dubai to Liwa (UAE)
The distance from Dubai to Liwa desert in the UAE is estimated to take about 2 hours and 30 minutes by car. The route has been dubbed "The Empty Quarter" for being an endless stretch of road ... which makes it the perfect trip to indulge in the autumn breeze.
The golden sand dunes of the Liwa desert - located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi - offer fantastic backdrops to any photo ... so don't miss out on it.
5. Elephant Rock (Saudi Arabia)
Lying 11 kilometers northeast of Al Ula, just off the road to Hail, the Elephant Rock is definitely worth a drive any day.
The rock formation is set to become a tourist attraction in Saudi Arabia, as tourist visas in the kingdom are expected to materialize soon.
Travel time from the Saudi city of Jeddah to the Elephant Rock is estimated to take about 7 hours by car.
The MINI Cabrio is your go-to ride
The MINI Cabrio thrives on expression by taking spontaneous shortcuts, impulsively exploring the city and its vibrant outer edges, and seeking out interaction with a wide variety of interesting people.
Life with the top down is always animated, exciting, and fresh ... so maybe it's time you start living a little!