Is your summer vacation coming up or are you tired of the scorching summer heat in Dubai? Whatever the case is, the best way to welcome summer is to plan a holiday. Picture yourself chilling by the shore, hiking in the mountains or paragliding in the sky. If this sounds like your dream vacation, you can plan an escape to one of the popular holiday destinations from Dubai.
Bring your friends and family together, get your passports stamped and escape to your dream destination. Join us to learn more about the best summer destinations from Dubai.
- Best for Beach Getaways
- Best for Adventure Seekers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Best for Families
- Best for Budget-Conscious Travellers
- FAQs
List of Best Summer Holiday Destinations from Dubai
Summer calls for holidays, whether beach escapes, adventure trips or family outings. Let’s walk you through the best holiday destinations from Dubai that you cannot miss this summer.
Best for Beach Getaways
Summer isn’t only about high temperatures. Do you know what the fun part is? Spending time at serene beaches, splashing water and creating memories.
While there are several picturesque beaches in Dubai, those who are planning a long escape can consider destinations nearby. Here are the best summer holiday destinations from Dubai:
1. Maldives
If you are seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle, the Maldives is your answer. Picture yourself soaking up the sun, sipping a refreshing mocktail and experiencing life at a slow pace. The Maldives is all about this–a place where the sun meets white sand and crystal clear waters.
It is best for all nature lovers, underwater enthusiasts and tranquillity seekers. When visiting the Maldives, don’t miss scuba diving at Fushifaru Thila and snorkelling at HP Reef.
The good part is that residents don’t need a visa to travel from Dubai to the Maldives. Simply pack your bags and enjoy a 30-day visa on arrival.
Top Attractions
- Cocoon Beach
- Rainbow Reef
- Reethi Beach
- Hulhumale
- Gulhi Beach
Visa Requirements
- UAE Citizens: 30-day visa on arrival
- UAE Residents: 30-day visa on arrival
Estimated Flight Duration from Dubai
4 hours and 25 minutes
2. Greece
Lose yourself in the magical beauty of sunsets and sunrises at Santorini in Greece. When it comes to beach escapes, Greece is another well-loved destination. The country is known for its relaxing beaches, inviting ambience and delicious food. The main highlight of this place is the volcanic beaches like White Beach and Red Beach.
Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple or a family, this destination offers a well-rounded experience. From chilling at Apella Beach to capturing photographs of the windmills, there is something for every traveller.
Top Attractions
- Corfu
- Santorini
- Meteora
- Mykonos
Visa Requirements
- UAE Citizens: Visa on arrival for 90 days
- UAE Residents: Visa requirements vary by nationality
Estimated Flight Duration from Dubai
5 hours and 39 minutes
3. Seychelles
Dive into the underwater world, explore marine life and experience the best this summer with a trip to Seychelles. It is an archipelago of 115 islands tucked away in the Indian Ocean. For all those who appreciate simple pleasures, Seychelles is an ideal destination.
Book a waterfront resort, soothe your soul amidst nature and enjoy watersports. The most exciting part is that you can spot rare wildlife species like the Aldabra Giant Tortoise. Not only that, you can indulge in cultural exploration at the vibrant markets and savour local cuisines.
Top Attractions
- Anse Source d’Argent
- Morne Seychellois National Park
- Beau Vallon Beach
- Curieuse Island
Visa Requirements
- UAE Citizens: No visa required; apply for travel authorisation before travelling.
- UAE Residents: No visa is required for all countries except Kosovo; apply for travel authorisation.
Estimated Flight Duration from Dubai
4 hours and 33 minutes
4. Mauritius
Mauritius is a bucket-list destination for its pleasant weather, vibrant culture and, of course, stunning beaches. You can simply relax by the shore, feel the cool white sand beneath your feet and capture the serenity of the tranquil waves.
What is even more captivating is the colourful vibe of its marketplaces. You can wander around the shops, connect with locals and enjoy authentic cuisine.
Top Attractions
- Ile aux Cerfs
- Les 7 Cascades
- Le Morne Brabant
- Mont Choisy Beach
Visa Requirements
- UAE Citizens: Visa on arrival for 90 days
- UAE Residents: Typically, UAE residents are granted a visa on arrival for 90 days, but this varies by nationality.
Estimated Flight Duration from Dubai
6 hours and 38 minutes
Best for Adventure Seekers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Do you want a blend of adventure and outdoor activities on your summer holiday? Let’s explore the best summer holiday destinations from Dubai for an action-packed trip.
5. Georgia
Are you looking for a place that blends adventure, culture and hospitality? Look no further than Georgia, a country known for its rich history, outdoorsy lifestyle and irresistible food. You can find almost anything here, from hiking in the Caucasus Mountains to rafting on the Rioni River.
The best thing is that Georgia is a visa-free country for UAE residents. This means UAE citizens and residents can get up to a 90-day visa on arrival.
Top Attractions
- Mount Kazbek
- Bridge of Peace
- Narikala Fortress
- Caucasus Mountains
Visa Requirements
- UAE Citizens: Visa on arrival for 90 days
- UAE Residents: Visa on arrival for 90 days
Estimated Flight Duration from Dubai
3 hours and 27 minutes
6. Montenegro
Montenegro is one of the top outdoor holiday destinations from Dubai. Tivat, a town in the country, houses a marina where visitors can have outdoor fun. Some bucket-list activities include visiting Kalardovo Beach, hiking in Durmitor National Park and rafting on the Tara River. For a historical exploration, visit the Maritime Heritage Museum in Tivat.
Top Attractions
- Lipa Cave
- Bay of Kotor
- Our Lady of the Rocks
- Durmitor National Park
Visa Requirements
- UAE Citizens: 90-day visa-free entry, provided that you have a travel document
- UAE Residents: Depends on nationality
Estimated Flight Duration from Dubai
9 hours
Best for Families
Let’s explore the best family-friendly holiday destinations from Dubai.
7. Singapore
Singapore is a country where kids can meet their favourite cartoon characters and adults can enjoy thrilling activities. It is known as the ‘Lion City’ and the ‘World of Fiction’. What makes it even more appealing is the efficient public transport network.
Some must-visit attractions include Gardens by the Bay, the Singapore National Gallery and Universal Studios.
Top Attractions
- Flower Dome
- Fort Canning Park
- Cloud Forest
- Singapore Cable Car
Visa Requirements
- UAE Citizens: 30-day visa-free entry
- UAE Residents: Generally require a visa
Estimated Flight Duration from Dubai
7 hours and 56 minutes
8. Turkey
Turkey offers a mix of historical landmarks and a blend of European and Asian cultures. It is a family favourite for its lively bazaars, picturesque charm and iconic mosques. When visiting Turkey, you cannot miss the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and calming boat rides. What is even more exciting is exploring Cappadocia on a hot air balloon.
For all food aficionados, the taste of Turkish food will leave you longing for more. Don’t miss out on bargaining with local vendors and shopping for souvenirs.
Top Attractions
- Blue Mosque
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Suleymaniye Mosque
Visa Requirements
- UAE Citizens: Can apply for a Turkey e-visa
- UAE Residents: Can apply for a Turkey e-visa
Estimated Flight Duration from Dubai
4 hours and 35 minutes
Best for Budget-Conscious Travellers
Do you want to explore the best of the world without breaking the bank? Here are the best affordable summer holiday destinations from Dubai:
9. Thailand
Thailand is one of the top budget-friendly holiday destinations from Dubai. It is known for its rich history, warm hospitality, vibrant streets and world-famous Thai cuisine. This destination is best for families due to its welcoming atmosphere and friendly culture.
When it comes to tourist attractions in Thailand, the options are countless. You can visit Phuket Island, Phi Phi Islands, Koh Samui and Koh Tao.
Top Attractions
- Phi Phi Islands
- The Grand Palace
- Phuket Elephant Care
- Khao Sok National Park
Visa Requirements
- UAE Citizens: 30-day visa-free entry
- UAE Residents: Can apply for an e-visa
Estimated Flight Duration from Dubai
6 hours and 20 minutes
10. Sri Lanka
Are you seeking a quick weekend getaway from Dubai without breaking the bank? Plan a visit to Sri Lanka, also known as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean.’ It is a natural paradise that offers a mix of culture, heritage, nature and relaxation. You can experience Sri Lankan life, go on a wildlife safari and relax at the beaches.
Short and simple–it combines stunning beaches, a hospitable population, historical landmarks and delicious food.
Top Attractions
- Adam’s Peak
- Bentota Beach
- Mirissa Beach
- Royal Botanic Gardens
Visa Requirements
- UAE Citizens: Need to apply for an ETA
- UAE Residents: Can get a visa on arrival or need an ETA, depending on nationality
Estimated Flight Duration from Dubai
4 hours and 33 minutes
FAQs
You can visit many exciting summer destinations near Dubai, such as Singapore, the Maldives, Georgia and Greece.
Some of the most affordable countries to visit from Dubai include Thailand, Sri Lanka and Armenia.
Eid destinations from Dubai offer you a chance to spend time with family and create lasting memories. Some well-loved destinations include Armenia, Bahrain, Bali and Belgium.
That concludes our list of the best summer holiday destinations from Dubai. Whether you are after a beach escape, a family vacation or an adventure trip, these destinations cater to everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, take your dream flight and experience the best this summer.
Oman is another popular summer destination from Dubai. If you want to visit the country, you can easily apply for an Oman tourist visa.
If you don’t want to travel miles for your summer retreat, you can explore the tourist attractions in the UAE.