Off-beaten path: Top 10 unusual destinations UAE travellers are exploring for 2025 Eid Al Adha holidays
UAE travellers are shunning destinations experiencing over-tourism
Dubai: UAE travellers are increasingly seeking unique and less crowded holiday experiences, moving beyond the typical over-touristed hotspots like Rome, Paris, Bangkok, and even Tbilisi.
While traditional favourites such as the Maldives, Italy, and France still hold appeal, a noticeable shift is occurring, with many opting for off-the-beaten-path adventures including mountain climbing, cruise holidays ('cruisecations'), and stays in sustainable hotels, as well as exploring previously less-visited destinations, according to travel agents.
Lesser-known destinations
Data from online travel agency Musafir.com revealed that preferred destinations for 2025 range from Europe to Asia, encompassing familiar choices like Italy, Switzerland, France, and Germany, alongside emerging favourites such as Japan, South Africa, Singapore, and South Korea.
However, the trend is towards exploring less-known cities and regions within these countries, such as choosing destinations other than Zurich, Paris, Berlin, and Munich. Closer to home, Saudi Arabian cities like Jeddah, Riyadh, and Abha and Salalah in Oman are gaining popularity among UAE residents looking for regional getaways, according to Raheesh Babu, the COO of Musafir.com.
Moreover, spa treatments, yoga, and wellness experiences are in high demand, especially among young, solo travellers.
Popular wellness destinations include Thailand (Chiang Mai and Phuket), Bali in Indonesia for yoga retreats, India (Kerala and Rishikesh) for Ayurveda and spiritual healing and Switzerland for luxury relaxation retreats.
Here is a list of the top off-beat spots from the UAE, and here is how much it would cost to get there.
Bhutan
Bhutan is known for its breathtaking scenery and a national philosophy of Gross National Happiness in the Eastern Himalayas. Explore ancient monasteries, hike through pristine landscapes, and experience a kingdom that has carefully preserved its traditions.
Travel costs: Getting to Bhutan is tricky; with no direct flights, the only option is to fly to Delhi, India, and then take a connecting flight to Paro. Round-trip flights from Dubai to Paro (travel between June 1 and 8) are Dh4,959. Hotels: Willing Resort for Dh5,770 (not including taxes); Le Meridian Thimphu – Dh7,713 (not including taxes).
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Often called the "Switzerland of Asia," Kyrgyzstan boasts breathtaking natural beauty with snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. Bishkek offers a glimpse into nomadic culture and provides opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and exploring stunning landscapes away from the usual tourist trails.
Travel costs: Round-trip flights from Dubai to Bishkek (June 1 to 8) start from approximately Dh1,835 (non-stop). Hotels: Hyatt Regency Bishkek – Dh4,386; and Urban Hotel for Dh1,311.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Immerse yourself in the ancient history and diverse landscapes of Ethiopia. From the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the dramatic Simien Mountains and the historical sites of Aksum, Ethiopia offers a unique and culturally rich experience far from the usual tourist routes.
Travel costs: Round-trip flights from Dubai to Addis Ababa (June 1 to 8) start from approximately Dh 2,040 (flydubai) and Dh2,289 (Ethiopian Airlines). Hotels: Monarch Parkview Hotel – Dh885 for six nights; and Sapphire Addis Hotel – Dh1,593.
Amman, Jordan
Explore the rich history and stunning natural beauty of Jordan. Visit ancient sites like Jerash, explore the Dead Sea, and experience the unique culture. At the same time, Petra is well-known, and Amman and the north offer less crowded experiences
Travel costs: Round-trip flights from Sharjah to Amman (June 1 to 8) start at approximately Dh1225 (flydubai) and Dh2,245 on Emirates. Hotels: Crowne Plaza Amman by IHG for Dh3,157 and Radisson Blu, Amman Galeria Mall for Dh2,728.
Almaty, Kazakhstan
Discover the natural beauty of Central Asia in Almaty. This city offers a blend of modern urban life and stunning mountainous landscapes. Explore the Tian Shan mountains, visit picturesque lakes like Big Almaty Lake, and immerse yourself in Kazakh culture.
Travel costs: Round-trip flights from Dubai to Almaty (June 1 to 8) start from approximately Dh2,735 (Almaty). Hotels: Hotel Uyut Almaty for Dh2,418 and Kazkhakastan Hotel for Dh3,024 (includes taxes and fees).
Nepal (Beyond the Everest Region)
While the Mount Everest region attracts trekkers, other parts of Nepal offer equally stunning Himalayan scenery and unique cultural encounters with fewer crowds. Explore the Annapurna region, the Chitwan National Park for wildlife, or the vibrant culture of cities like Pokhara.
Travel costs: Round-trip flights from Dubai to Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital (June 1 to 8), start from approximately Dh1,710 (Himalayan Airlines) and Dh1,764 (flydubai). Hotels: Nirvana Boutique Hotel for Dh787 for 1 week (offer is available as a Getaway deal on Booking.com); and Kathmandu Marriott Dh3,600.
Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia
While Angkor Wat is a major draw, the Preah Vihear province in northern Cambodia offers equally impressive ancient temples like Prasat Preah Vihear, perched dramatically on a clifftop with far fewer crowds. Explore the remote beauty and historical significance of this region.
Travel costs: Round-trip flights from Dubai (June 1 to 8) to Siem Reap start from approximately Dh3,928 (Emirates and Air Cambodia). There are no direct flights to Siem Reap yet. However, Emirates will launch three weekly flights to Siem Reap from June 3 onwards. Hotels: Koh Ker Hotel and Restaurant for Dh1,286; and I AM Koh Ker for Dh668.
The Azores, Portugal
Escape to this stunning Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Each of the nine volcanic islands offers unique landscapes, from lush green hills and crater lakes to dramatic coastlines and hot springs. Enjoy hiking, whale watching, and a more relaxed pace of life. The only struggle here would be getting a Schengen visa in time; however, if you already have one, plan away!
Travel costs: Round-trip flights from Dubai to Lisbon (June 1 to 8) start from approximately Dh4,975 (Emirates) and Dh2,271 (two stops with flydubai and Wizz Air Malta). Hotels: The Linz Azores Dh6,125 (not including taxes); and VIP Executive Azores Hotel Dh4,192 (not including taxes).
Faroe Islands, Denmark
For a truly remote and dramatic experience, head to the Faroe Islands, an archipelago between Iceland and Norway. Expect breathtaking landscapes with towering cliffs, rugged coastlines, and vibrant green hills. Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and the unique culture of these North Atlantic islands.
Like Portugal, you would need a Schengen visa to get to Denmark. There aren’t a lot of hotels in the Faroe Islands. We recommend checking in to a homestay, as there are plenty of such options on Booking.com.
Travel costs: Getting to the Faroe Islands is tricky. With no direct connectivity, the available options are a Dh6,621 flight on KLM (two-stops). The journey, on average, would last 13 hours and 48 minutes. Hotels: Peddastova in the heart of fishing village Skopun for Dh4,927, not including taxes (for one week); and Hotel Føroyar for Dh8,703.
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