Eid Al Adha travel: Last-minute holiday spots just three hours away from Dubai

Dubai: Are you still considering a quick getaway during the long Eid Al Adha weekend?

While UAE travellers have become savvy and choose to book tickets as early as three to six months before their holidays, several stragglers are still seeking very last-minute holiday options.

The good news: A flurry of super-last-minute travel deals are popping up from UAE-based travel companies, offering incredible opportunities for a quick getaway.

Forget the stress of extensive planning – snag one of these offers and jet off to exciting destinations for a memorable Eid break.

Mamoun Hmidan, Chief Business Officer at Wego – an online travel company, said, “Eid holidays continue to be a key travel period for UAE residents, and we’re seeing a clear shift towards destinations that offer more than just relaxation.”

He said, “Travellers are seeking immersive experiences, cultural depth, and visa-friendly convenience. Cities like Baku, Tbilisi, and Yerevan are rising in popularity as they offer the perfect blend of affordability, accessibility, and charm, making them ideal for spontaneous getaways and meaningful escapes.”

Here are some of the top holiday spots that are excellent for a quick getaway:

The Maldives

Consider an escape to Crossroads Maldives – a multi-island destination offering two distinct experiences for Eid Al Adha.

Choose either the Hard Rock Hotel Maldives or the SAii Lagoon Maldives Curio Collection by Hilton – both connected via a scenic boardwalk to The Marina's dining, shopping, and wellness options. The hotels also offer 20-40 per cent off on breakfast, dining, and stay options.

Some deals offer return airfare and 3-night stays from around Dh4,090 per person.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is steadily emerging as a top choice for travellers from the UAE, the GCC, and the broader Middle East, offering halal-friendly services, safety, cultural richness, and breathtaking landscapes. With its year-round appeal, upscale accommodations, and expanding infrastructure, the island caters to a broad range of travel preferences from the region.

Explore beautiful beaches, indulge in delicious food, and embark on outdoor adventures.

Try the Cinnamon Life – City of Dream - Sri Lanka’s flagship luxury lifestyle resort. Packages, including return flights and 3-night resort stays with breakfast, start from approximately Dh2,730.

Qatar

Immerse yourself in a floral wonderland at City Center Mall (June 4–15), or witness dazzling fireworks light up the sky at Katara Cultural Village (June 6-8) and Al Wakrah Old Souq (June 6-9).

Experience the energy of the Brazilian Samba Show at the Mall of Qatar (June 6–14) or enjoy family-friendly celebrations at Msheireb Downtown Doha (June 6-10) and Tawar Mall.

For a short Eid Al Adha trip from Dubai to Qatar, including return flights and a 3-night stay, you could be looking at a total cost ranging from Dh1,500 to Dh6,500 or more per person, depending on your preferences for airline and hotels.

Salalah, Oman

A close neighbour to the UAE, Oman offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich culture, making it an ideal destination for a short Eid Al Adha getaway.

For a unique experience, consider heading to Salalah, particularly if you enjoy lush landscapes and a cooler climate during the summer months. It's accessible by road from all Emirates or via a direct flight from Dubai. You can find holiday packages to Salalah, including hotel stays, starting from around Dh680.

Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku, a city where futuristic architecture meets timeless charm, continues to draw UAE travellers in with its unique appeal and affordability.

With an average airfare of Dh1,007 per person, Baku offers a cost-effective mix of history, hospitality, and modern-day luxury.

Scenic, soulful, and welcoming, Tbilisi charms visitors with its cobbled old town, wine culture, and mountain landscapes. UAE travellers benefit from visa-free entry for up to one year, making it a favourite for short breaks and extended stays. The average airfare is Dh 1,375, which offers great value for an enriching cultural getaway. 

Here are a few tips for snagging the best deals:

> Act fast: Last-minute deals are often limited in availability and can disappear quickly. Keep checking travel websites and airline pages frequently.

> Be flexible: If you're open to different destinations and travel dates, you'll have a higher chance of finding a great bargain.

> Consider package deals: Many travel companies offer packages that bundle flights and accommodation, often resulting in significant savings compared to booking separately.

>Follow social media: Watch travel influencers and companies' social media accounts for flash sales and exclusive offers.