As Ramadan coincides with the summer holidays this year, it’s the perfect time to pack your bags, unleash your wanderlust and head wherever you want. Here’s our round up of holiday offers that will let you explore a fascinating new destination while observing the spirit of Ramadan.
Singapore
With its architecture, art and shopping, summer is the ideal time to explore Singapore. Consider staying at the Fairmont this Ramadan. Its Asian Market Cafe features an extensive halal buffet spread that includes local favourites and contemporary regional delicacies, with an added selection on offer this Ramadan. Marina Mandarin Singapore, a five-star luxury hotel offering breathtaking views of Marina Bay and the financial district, also offers a halal buffet for its Muslim guests at AquaMarine restaurant. The hotel has been upgraded from a Crescentrating 3 to 5. The Singapore-based Crescentrating is a rating system that focuses on the worldwide halal-friendly travel market segment.
The Maldives
An island nation in the Indian Ocean-Arabian Sea area, the Maldives is a spectacular sun-and-sea destination with plenty of opportunities to enjoy surfing, snorkeling, diving and other water sports. With a mix of heavy showers and sunny spells, monsoon is the perfect season for exploring the pristine beauty of the Maldives. Emirates Holidays (www.emiratesholidays.ae) offers a four-night holiday package to the Maldives from Dh4,910 per couple. The price includes economy Emirates flights, speedboat transfer and accommodation at the Adaaran resort on an all-inclusive basis.
Musandam, Oman
If you don’t like to spend much time travelling, we suggest you head for Six Senses Zighy Bay, 120km away from Dubai Airport, to explore the rugged landscapes of Oman. Its Family Friendly package offers complimentary dining and stay for children under 12 in their parents’ pool villa when booking a minimum of three nights. You can park the kids at the supervised Chaica’s Club for some quiet time with your partner. You can savour a special suhour menu comprising a selection of fresh pastries, organic yoghurts and homemade mezzes in the privacy of your villa. An array of traditional Omani dishes is also on offer for iftar. The package is available until September 30, excluding Eid. It starts from Dh2,644, including breakfast for two.
The UAE
Can’t go for a vacation away from home this year? Plan a staycation at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, a luxurious bedouin encampment in the desert just 45 minutes from Dubai. Built to be a conservation-led resort, its diverse wildlife and desert activities will keep you coming back for more. However, those with young ones should steer clear — Al Maha does not admit children under ten years of age. In its summer promotion, you can pay for two nights and get a third free until August 31. The full-board package is Dh3,500 net on weekdays and Dh4,000 net at weekends.