Escape The Summer

Top 5 Holiday Destinations Near the UAE to Beat the Summer Heat
Here are the top 5 holiday destinations close to the UAE where you can escape the extreme temperatures and enjoy a refreshing break.

1. Salalah, Oman
Just a two-hour flight from Dubai, or accessible by road if you’re up for a thrilling road trip, Salalah is a paradise of waterfalls, green mountains, white sand beaches, and banana plantations. If you love tropical destinations, you’ll find Salalah’s climate and vegetation reminiscent of Bali and Sri Lanka. Must-visit sites include Mughsail Beach and the lush green Wadi Darbat.

2. Almaty, Kazakhstan
A four-hour flight from Dubai, Almaty boasts mesmerizing architectural wonders and splendid mountain ranges. The best time to visit is during the months of June to September when the weather is pleasantly moderate, ranging between 20ºC and 30ºC. There is plenty to explore, from hiking to city hopping. Must-visit sites include the Medeu Skating Rink and Ski Resort, and the Ascension Cathedral, also known as Zenkov Cathedral. This Russian Orthodox cathedral, located in Panfilov Park, is an architectural fantasy.

3. Malé, Maldives
The Maldives needs no introduction, renowned for its turquoise beaches and luxury resorts. Malé, the densely populated capital of Maldives, is also famous for its mosques and colourful buildings. It is the perfect destination for ocean lovers, it is an abode of various water sports activities and underwater adventures and is home to vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Staying in overwater bungalows and visiting the glowing beach on Vaadhoo Island are experiences not to be missed while in Malé.

4. Gudauri, Georgia
Just a two-hour drive from Tbilisi, Gudauri has become the ultimate escape to snow-covered mountains and ski resorts. It is increasingly popular among UAE residents, who are attracted by its budget-friendly lodging and proximity to the Emirates, making the snowy peaks their ideal getaway.

5. Princess Island, Turkey
Princess Island in Istanbul, this serene retreat is an ideal spot to unwind and connect with nature. It offers a magical escape from the bustling city to the tranquil countryside. One of the most distinctive aspects of the Princes’ Islands is their peaceful ambiance, as all motorized vehicles are prohibited, creating a haven of quiet. The islands rely on bicycles, electric buses, and electric taxis for transportation, having phased out the traditional horse-drawn carriages in 2020. For those who love carefree strolls and the calm countryside, this destination is unparalleled.