We are now less than 20 days from Arfat Day (Sunday, June 16th) and the 5-day Eid Al Adha long weekend (Saturday, June 15th till Wednesday, June 19th). While a 5-day break may not be a lot of time to go on your dream vacation, it certainly is the perfect amount of time to explore the country you call home – The UAE. So, if you don’t have any travel plans this Eid Al Adha, come with me, and I’ll show you all the brilliant things you can do around the country that’s sure to make you feel like you made the most out of your holiday.

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1. Explore Island Getaways Around The UAE

There’s nothing like basking in the sun with the sounds of waves crashing against the soft sand. If you don’t fancy getting on a plane this Eid holiday but still need a relaxing retreat, then there are 5 stunning Islands you can whisp away to around UAE:

1. Palm Jumeirah: This is the world’s largest artificial island. It is home to lavish resorts and the famous Atlantis Hotel for all your staycation needs and hosts the exhilarating Aquaventure water park along with other marvellous activities to indulge in.
   
2. Al Maya Island: Al Maya Island, exclusively managed by Abu Dhabi Country Club, can be accessed for a modest fee of AED 100. Relish a day trip that includes a leisurely cruise, beach access, and entry to the club’s amenities.
   
3. Happiness Island: Surrender to relaxation in one of the luxurious Houses of Happiness, where Pilates, aqua aerobics, and invigorating water sports await.
   
4. Sir Bani Yas Island: Journey to Sir Bani Yas Island, an awe-inspiring nature reserve home to over 13,000 animals. With half its expanse dedicated to the reserve, you can engage in thrilling safaris, horseback riding, archery, and water sports, all within the embrace of nature’s beauty.
   
5. Dolphin Island: Embark on a journey to Dolphin Island, a hidden gem accessible through private ferries offered by tour companies. Picture yourself on this sun-kissed staycation haven, surrounded by crystal-clear waters.

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2. Venture On A Road Trip Through The Country

Gather your friends, pack the card, find the perfect tunes, and you’re all set to hit the road. For me, the best part of a road trip is that it doesn’t always need to have a destination. But the best part about Dubai is that no matter which emirate you’re in, you’ll always end up somewhere fun. Here are X fun road trips you can take from Dubai:

1. Dubai to Dibba, Fujairah (1.5 Hours Drive): Nestled on the east coast of Fujairah, Dibba beckons with its stunning coastline and crystal clear waters. Engage in water sports, go whale watching, or take a hike. After a day of adventure, unwind at the beachfront Dibba Beach Resort for a luxurious stay with a private beach and scenic views.
   
2. Dubai to Liwa Oasis, Abu Dhabi 3.5 – 4 Hours Drive): Explore Liwa forts, oasis villages, and the Sheikh Hamad Auto Museum, housing some of the world’s oldest vehicles. Stay at the luxurious Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort for a heavenly retreat, or opt for the authentic experience at Liwa Nights Bedouin Glamping Retreat.
   
3. Dubai to Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah (2.5 Hours Drive): For thrill-seekers, Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE, is the place to be. Experience the breathtaking drive to the summit, surrounded by desert peaks you never knew existed.
   
4. Dubai to Hatta, Dubai (1.5 Hours Drive): Leave the hustle and bustle of Dubai’s scene and venture out the its glorious mountains scapes. Discover the charm of traditional villages and desert mountains at Hatta Heritage Village, offering a free journey through history. As the sun sets, grab a kayak and navigate the stunning blue waters of Hatta Dam, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Hatta peaks.
   
5. Bonus – Dubai to Khasab, Oman (3 Hours Drive): You may need a visa for this one, but it’s totally worth it. You’ll embark on the most scenic road trip from Dubai to Khasab, Oman, passing through the Hajar mountains. Khasab, located on the shores of the Persian Gulf, is renowned for scuba diving, snorkelling, and dolphin watching. Opt for the Khasab Musandam Overnight Stay on a Dhow Cruise for a unique experience surrounded by mountains and sandy beaches.

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3. Treat Yourself To A Relaxing Staycation

No driving. No journey. You don’t even need to use your mind for this one. All you have to do is choose a hotel that has a fantastic Eid offer, and your perfect staycation can begin. There is so much fuss when it comes to staycation. It’s best of both words to combine a relaxing vacation without the stress of travelling, visa, or currency. You can get a sliver of your dream vacation right here at home. Let me help you find the best Eid staycation offers in Dubai:

1. Burj Al Arab: Experience pure luxury with Burj Al Arab Jumeirah’s Ultimate Staycation Bed and Breakfast offer. Save up to 20% on the Jumeirah Flexible Rate, savour delicious daily breakfast, and enjoy lavish Hermes amenities in your room. Kids under 11 stay for free, while families relish in butler service, beach access, and unlimited Wild Wadi Waterpark™ fun. Exclusive Talise Spa and Summersalt Beach Club perks await, plus special savings for Jumeirah One members. Make your reservations by contacting +971 4 364 7194 Email: baareservations@jumeirah.com
   
2. Jumeirah Beach Hotel: Experience family fun at Jumeirah Beach Hotel! Save up to 30% on your stay and enjoy free dining for kids under 11, pool access, Wild Wadi Waterpark™ entry, KiDS Club activities, and wellness perks. Upgrade to Club Rooms or Suites for added luxury, or relax in Beit Al Bahar Royal Villas. Exclusive rewards await Jumeirah One members. Make your reservations by contacting +971 4 364 7523 Email: JBHInfo@jumeirah.com
   
3. Jumeirah Zabeel Saray: Unwind in luxury at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray and save up to 40% on your stay. Indulge in delicious breakfasts and mouthwatering lunches or dinners with our Ultimate Staycation offer. Enjoy unlimited pool and beach access, plus rejuvenating spa treatments, including a free upgrade to 60 minutes for every 45-minute Sultan Massage booked. Celebrate Eid with their delectable themed buffet! Make your reservations by contacting +971 4 453 0000 Email: jzsreservations@jumeirah.com
   
4. Jumeirah Creekside Hotel: Escape to Jumeirah Creekside Hotel this Eid and enjoy exclusive savings and perks. Bring along your furry friend with pet-friendly rooms available using promo code ‘PETCATION’. Get up to 25% off with free daily breakfast and late check-out until 2 pm (subject to availability). Plus, enjoy up to 30% savings on spa treatments, access to temperature-controlled pools, the hotel’s private cinema, and wellness facilities at The Aviation Club. Make your reservations by contacting +971 4 230 8555 or Email: jchreservations@jumeirah.com
   
5. Al Habtoor Polo Resort: Escape to luxury, tranquillity, and excitement at Al Habtoor Polo Resort Dubai! Indulge in unique dining, expansive polo fields, and premium amenities, perfect for leisure visitors and family fun. Book your extraordinary staycation between April 9th and 14th with two exciting packages offering deluxe rooms, executive suites, delightful breakfast, and relaxing afternoon teas! Make your reservations by contacting +971 4 435 4444 or Email: roomreservation@habtoorpoloresort.com

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4. Visit UAE’s Serene Mangroves

Sometimes UAE can feel like you’re in one huge concrete jungle but we certainly know that’s not the case. However, going back and forth between either the beach or the mountains can get a little repetitive. So, how about this holiday when you’re looking to escape from the city life, you venture out to one of the country’s many gorgeous mangroves. Don’t tell me you didn’t know UAE had stunning mangroves. Here are the top 5 places you can go to spot beautiful wildlife: (* indicates a Ramsar site: an internationally important wetland)

1. Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
2. Ras Al Khor, Dubai*
3. Mangrove and Al Hafiya Protected Area in Khor Kalba, Sharjah*
4. Al Zora Wetland, Ajman
5. Khor Al Beidah Wetlands, Umm Al Quwain [3,4,5,6]

5. Visit One Of Dubai’s Many Free Beaches

If you’re not visiting the beach at least once this holiday, then I personally have to say that you are doing Dubai totally wrong. Sure, Dubai is all about the glitz and glamour of city life, but you also can’t forget to take a moment and appreciate the beauty of the Persian Gulf that comes crashing onto our shores. So, let me remind you of a handful of Dubai’s free beaches.

1. The Beach, JBR: Can’t start a Dubai beach list without starting with JBR. Here’s a fun fact for you – The Beach, JBR made it on to of the top 10 list of the best beaches around the world. That’s right; our very own swanky Dubai beach currently holds the 8th position for the beach ever. How amazing is that? And if this doesn’t convince you to go relax by the beach this holiday, then I’m not sure what will.
2. Kite Beach: This trendy hotspot offers an array of experiences for all ages, from chic cafes and gourmet food shacks to a skate park and a thrilling hanging rope obstacle course. Enjoy kite surfing adventure, paddleboard or kayak across the sparkling waters, or opt for a refreshing run along the impressive 14km beachside track.
3. Sunrise Beach: An exhilarating adventure awaits you at Sunrise Beach, and all you need is a car—preferably a 4×4—a picnic and all the necessary beach essentials (towels, toys, hats, and sun lotion). With no restaurants or toilets in sight, you’ll have the vast expanse of sand all to yourself.
4. Mercato Beach: Experience the charm of a neighbourhood beach at Mercato. While it may not be the most awe-inspiring beach in town, it’s the perfect destination for old-school beach holiday activities. This for when you really need a quiet day away from the city.
5. Nessnass Beach: Calling all water sports enthusiasts! Nessnass is your ultimate playground, where kite surfers dominate the scene, but there’s plenty of space for paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming, and sailing as well. Discover the hidden treasures of Nessnass Street behind Sunset Mall.

And there you have it, folks. Your 9-day holiday in UAE is all set to be hassle-free and relaxation-packed.

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