We have been tracking popular tourist places and these kept popping up. There are three months left this year for you to plan a quick vacation to one (or more) of these beautiful locations. All of them are easy to get to from the UAE.
Note: Return flights rates are correct at the time of writing this article – seasonal fluctuations not accounted for.
1. Thailand
Over 25 million tourists flock to Thailand every year and 2016 is no exception. Famous for its shopping districts, street-food joints and rich cultural influence, Thailand is a must-visit. Bangkok, the capital city, is known for its vibrant streets and opulent temples and is also the most visited city in Thailand. Other popular places here are Phuket and Pattaya.
Note: Avoid cities on the southern border (Thai-Malaysian border). Be aware about safety related events and instructions in cities you plan on going to.
Return flights from UAE Dh1900 onwards per person (Bangkok)
2. Indonesia
Bali in Indonesia was one of the most popular tourist destinations of 2015 as well. You can find the most eloquent description of the city in Elizabeth Gilbert’s ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ (featuring Julia Roberts in the movie version). This city is known for its peaceful and chilled-out environment as well as its budget-friendly tourist facilities. It's a perfect vacation spot for relaxing your mind and body.
Return flights from UAE Dh3400 onwards per person (Bali)
3. Italy
Venice and Rome are always on the list of loved destinations. Venice with its waterways and gondolas is always otherworldly while Rome boasts architectural and artistic marvels like no other city can.
Return flights from UAE Dh2500 onwards per person (Venice) and from Dh2700 onwards per person (Rome)
4. Maldives
Officially known as the Republic of Maldives, this island nation is a popular choice for mini-getaways. White beaches, sandy lagoons, coral reefs and a huge variety of ecosystems make the archipelago an amazing destination to visit. And the best part - tourists can get a visa on arrival provided they have a valid passport, proof of onward travel and sufficient money.
Return flights from UAE Dh2000 onwards per person (Male)
5. Jordan
Jordan is one of the best places you can visit in the Middle East and if the historical city of Petra, the rolling desert landscape and hospitable people don’t move you, floating unaided on the Dead Sea definitely will. Jordan is also one of the safest and budget-friendly countries to go to in the Middle East.
Return flights from UAE Dh936 onwards per person (Amman)
For UAE residents, tropical getaways and Eastern European tours are getting popular. We spoke to Mamoun Hmedan, Managing Director - Wego Middle East, North Africa and India, and he said, "With increased flight connections and hotel deal promotions from Asia, we've seen an increase in travel to Thailand and Malaysia - both for tropical island resort getaways, as well as the family friendly Genting Highlands in Malaysia, as well as China. The newest destination increasing in popularity with UAE travellers is Georgia, Azerbaijan and other nearby Eastern European locations. The region has been proactively targetting UAE travellers and an ease on visa restrictions as well as the great value accommodation options being offered, we expect this to continue and probably grow further."
