If you didn’t already know this, then you must definitely be new to town, so allow me to spill the beans for you. The next public holiday for the UAE is Eid Al Fitr, which comes directly after Ramadan. And this 2024 Eid Al Fitr, an already joyous occasion, just got that much more exciting because it’s giving us a complete 9-day-long holiday! And if this sounds too good to be true to you, then let me break down how it’s all going to work. And while I’m at it, I’ll also throw in some fantastic and affordable destinations you can travel to around UAE, that is, either visa-free or visa-on-arrival. But if you feel like taking it easy this holiday and hanging around Dubai (or UAE in general), then definitely stay tuned to Gulf Buzz, as we’ll give you all the best things you can do in the city closer to the time.
Also read: All The UAE Public Holidays & Long Weekends You Can Expect In 2024
Breaking Down How We’re Getting 9 Days Off
It’s all very simple, actually – If Ramadan commences on March 11, 2024, then that would mean Eid al Fitr will take place on April 10. This would make Ramadan 29 (April 8) to Shawwal 3 (April 12), which means we will all be welcomed with a delightful week off, complete with two weekends sandwiching the holiday on either end (April 6-7 and April 13-14). So, if your math skills are good enough, you’ll be able to calculate that this gives us 9 glorious days of holiday!
9 Affordable Destinations Around UAE
To commemorate this exceptionally long holiday, here are some incredible travel destinations that are only mere hours away from UAE and are either visa-free or visa-on-arrival for UAE nationals and residents.
1. Oman – Flight Time: 1.5 hours From Dubai
Dubai’s neighbour, Oman, is a picturesque blend of mountains, mosques, beaches, souks, and friendly locals. Experience adventure with rock climbing and hiking. A round trip to this scenic country is less than AED 1000. Fun Fact: Oman is home to one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Qalhat, dating back to the 3rd century!
2. Armenia – Flight Time: 3 hours From Dubai
A hidden gem in cultural diversity, Armenia is a traveller’s treasure trove. Seamlessly blending modernity and tradition, this historic nation welcomes you with open arms. Explore the picturesque landscapes, ancient cultural relics, wildlife tours, and hikes into the majestic Ararat mountains. The icing on the cake is the delectable Armenian cuisine. Book in advance for round-trip air tickets under AED 500! Fun Fact: Armenia is home to the world’s oldest winery, Areni-1, dating back to around 4100 BCE!
3. Georgia – Flight Time: 3.5 hours From Dubai
Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia is a true marvel of natural beauty. Its landscape is adorned with breathtaking lakes, towering mountain ranges, charming villages, and a plethora of ancient forts and monuments. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or a leisure seeker, Georgia promises not to disappoint. With round-trip airfares starting at a pocket-friendly AED 1300, this destination offers absolute value for your money. Additionally, enjoy cost-effective accommodation and dining options. Fun Fact: Did you know that Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world? Archaeological evidence shows that wine has been made in the region for over 8,000 years!
Also read: This Country Is Now Offering Visa-Free Travel To UAE Citizens – Top 3 Places You Must Visit
4. Kazakhstan – Flight Time: 4 hours From Dubai
An undiscovered gem in Central Asia, Kazakhstan boasts vast steppe landscapes and a modern cityscape in Almaty. Experience the wonders of canyons, the majestic Altai Mountains, glaciers, and golden deserts. Round-trip airfares start under AED 1400, offering a journey through the breathtaking Kazakh Steppe. Fun Fact: Kazakhstan is the world’s largest landlocked country and the ninth-largest by land area!
5. Jordan – Flight Time: 4 hours From Dubai
Stepping straight out of history books, Jordan beckons with the rock city of Petra and the buoyant Dead Sea. This ancient country offers hospitality and a wealth of cultural sites, forts, and monuments. Hikers and trekkers will find ample exploration in the mountains, all for round-trip airfares around AED 1500. Fun Fact: Petra, Jordan’s most famous archaeological site, was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007!
6. Turkey – Flight Time: 4 hours From Dubai
Turkey a land from fairytales, enchanted with hills, villages, lagoons, beaches, and ornate monuments. Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Cappadocia, and Pamukkale. Round-trip airfares start at around AED 900, providing a magical travel experience. Fun Fact: Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city, is the only city in the world located on two continents – Europe and Asia!
Also read: Turkey Extends Visa-Free Travel To UAE And Several Other Nations, Including GCC Countries
7. Uzbekistan – Flight Time: 4.5 hours From Dubai
Combine your Kazakhstan adventure with a visit to Uzbekistan, a key point along the ancient Silk Route. The liberal-minded country offers warm hospitality and striking monuments in cities like Samarkand and Bukhara. Let the grand landscapes awe you, and discover the historical wonders of this Central Asian nation. Fun Fact: Uzbekistan is home to the city of Samarkand, known as the “Crossroads of Cultures” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
8. Cyprus – Flight Time: 4.5 hours From Dubai
Cyprus, in the Eastern Mediterranean, is allured with turquoise blue waters, ancient monuments dedicated to Aphrodite, and opportunities for rock climbing and hiking. Round-trip journeys from Dubai cost around AED 1500. Fun Fact: Cyprus is known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty!
9. Morocco – Flight Time: 8 hours From Dubai
The picturesque Moroccan countryside destination, with its mountains, deserts, and ancient ruins, awaits exploration. Marvel at the timeless villages and indulge in shopping for rugs, teapots, jewellery, carpets, and leather goods. Immerse yourself in the age-old Moroccan style with dazzling home decor items. Fun Fact: Morocco is home to the world’s oldest university, the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 AD!
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