Planning a short break this Eid that doesn’t break the bank? Forget about booking a plane ticket to the Maldives or the French Alps. Fares at this time of year can knock your budget off track, especially when you decide to fly at the last minute.
If you don’t mind the scorching heat, pack some sunscreen and drive to the neighbouring towns instead. Holiday specialists at Sharaf Travel Services have put together some affordable packages that let you unwind and relax with your family in the comforts of a resort that’s just a short drive away.
These summer and Eid offers cost no more than Dh1,200 a night. Most of the prices are per room per night, inclusive of taxes. They are, however, indicative and may change depending on room availability or if you choose to book directly with the hotel.
Fujairah – Sandy Beach Resort
Sandy Beach Resort is accessible by road within 90 minutes from Dubai. Besides the affordable prices, the other reason that makes this resort a favorite among budget travelers is that it’s just next to Snoopy island, a popular snorkeling site in Fujairah. If you can’t wait to go there during Eid holidays, you can get a room for only Dh299 a night. Eid prices, however tend to double, starting from Dh770. However the price already covers breakfast buffet, as well as kayaking and snorkeling.
Summer price: Dh299 per night
Eid price: Dh770
Eid price inclusions: Breakfast buffet, kayaking and snorkeling access for two adults
Fujairah Rotana Beach Resort
If you’re looking for some luxury comforts, this five-star resort may be a good option. It’s got a child-friendly pool, so you can tag the little ones along. Summer prices cost nearly Dh500 a night, while for Eid, a package that already takes care of your breakfast and dinner can go up to Dh1,100.
Summer price: Dh499 per night
Eid price: Dh1,100
Eid price inclusions: Breakfast buffet, beach and pool access, Caribbean-style seafood set menu dinner at the ocean restaurant called the Waves
Sir Bani Yas Island – Al Yamm Villa Resort *
If you are feeling adventurous and want to venture farther afield, Sir Bani Yas Island may just be perfect for you. The island is located 100 kilometres southwest of Abu Dhabi. It’s a reserve where you can get up close with some wild animals, from the Arabian oryx, to cheetah, gazelle and giraffes. Within the island is the Al Yamm Villa Resort which, according to its website, is offering a special rate of Dh1,110 per night for a stay between April 23 and August 31, 2014. The rate, however, is subject to a 10 per cent service charge and 6 per cent tourism fee, and may be available only to those booking a minimum number of nights.
Summer price: Dh1,110
Inclusions: Daily breakfast and a 60-minute aromatherapy oil massage for two
Khasab, Oman- Atana Hotel
For a taste of Omani hospitality, head on over to the town of Khasab, about 200 kilometres from Dubai. This town has got a lot to offer, from dhow cruising to dolphin sighting and snorkeling. One of the hotels in town, Atana Khasab, has family-friendly amenities such as a children’s playground and a kiddie pool for the little ones to splash around in.
Summer price: Dh449 per night
Eid price: 999
Eid price inclusions: Breakfast, pool access, dolphin watching, dhow tour with lunch on board and snorkelling for two adults
Ras Al Khaimah – Hilton
Travel agents recommend this five-star resort even to budget holidaymakers because it offers luxury amenities at prices that are not going to cost your housing rent. It’s got seven swimming pools and an exciting array of water sports activities. It’s also close to Iceland Water Park and is accessible by road within an hour’s drive from Dubai.
Summer price: Dh499 per night
Eid price: Dh1,100
Eid price inclusions: Breakfast buffet, beach and pool access
*Note: Package is not available at Sharaf Travel. Contact the hotel directly for more details.
