There are many of places to select from if you’re looking for a last-minute escape. Because of the UAE’s convenient position, several popular travel destinations are within easy reach. We’ve rounded up a list of holiday hotspots where flight times from the UAE are less than five hours, making them ideal for a last-minute getaway. From firm favourites like the Maldives and neighbouring Oman to plenty of less-discovered destinations that are just a quick flight away, we’ve rounded up a list of holiday hotspots where flight times from the UAE are less than five hours, making them ideal for a last-minute getaway.
1. Kannur, India
If you’ve seen the Kerala backwaters and want to see more, fly straight to Kannur in the state’s northwestern corner. Kannur, roughly 80 kilometres north of Kozhikode, was previously a major spice trading centre. The city is influenced by Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial rule, and the forts of St Angelo and Thalassery are worth visiting.
Travellers may wander through forests to find beautiful waterfalls, relax on uncrowded beaches, and stay in simple guesthouses and family-run hotels that are still off the usual tourist path.
2. Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, dripping with history, is a city worth spending weeks discovering. However, if you only have a few days to spare, its proximity to the UAE makes it an excellent choice for a few days of exploration. With a travel time of just under four hours, you’ll be checking out must-sees like the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum loaded with artefacts in no time. Make time to see the art galleries, shop in the ancient Khan El Khalili Bazaar, and take a Nile boat. The bent pyramids, which are located just south of the capital, are also worth seeing.
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3. Tbilisi, Georgia
Flydubai has a number of direct flights to Tbilisi that take less than four hours and are only a short flight from Dubai. The Georgian capital is home to centuries-old ruins, lovely floral gardens, and a busy street life. Summers in the Caucasus average 30 degrees Celsius, while winters are bitterly cold, with temperatures dropping to single digits. Take a stroll through Meidan Square, ride the cable car to Turtle Lake, or take the kids to Mtatsminda Park, Georgia’s version of Disneyland.
4. Muscat, Oman
Muscat is an excellent choice for a fast getaway and is a well-known favourite among UAE residents. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, head to the harbour to visit Al Jalali Fort, or purchase tickets to a Royal Opera House performance. If you’re looking for some ocean vibes, head to the northerly shore, where you may spend the day at Zale Beach Club or visit Mutrah in the ancient town.
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5. Amman, Jordan
The Jordanian capital is a fantastic choice for milder temperatures, plenty of scenery, and a trip to the Dead Sea. Three days is enough time to get to know the city, making it ideal for a long weekend getaway. On a Thursday night, when the pre-weekend energy collides with plenty of wonderful places to eat, drink, and people-watch, head to Rainbow Street. On Friday, take a day trip to the Dead Sea, which is about one hour away from Amman. If you have more time on your hands, go sightseeing at Al Qala’a’s ancient remains or see modern art at Jabal Al Weibdeh, then travel south to the Dana Biosphere, the country’s largest nature reserve.
6. Salalah, Oman
Salalah is another popular destination for a fast escape, with gorgeous boat cruises, beach relaxing, and mountain hikes. Due to the tail end of the African monsoon blowing across the capital of the Dhofar region, visit in April for frankincense season or from July to September for the cooler temperatures of Khareef season.
Temperatures range from the mid-twenties to the high-twenties in December. More than 20 species of whales and dolphins can be found in the waters around Salalah, and there are regular wildlife-spotting cruises departing from Juweira harbour.
7. Baku, Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan’s capital is large, so you won’t be able to see everything in a weekend visit, but it’s well worth the journey, especially since it’s only three hours away. Expect Parisian-style boulevards and Caspian coasts brimming with delicious seafood, as well as stunning architecture like the massive Heydar Aliyev Centre, one of the late architect Zaha Hadid’s final projects. Baku’s centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a wealth of history, including the Shirvanshahs’ Palace and Maiden Tower. Check out the mud volcanoes at Gobustan National Park — the rough ride is well worth it to view these unusual natural phenomena.
