Still thinking about where to go for the upcoming Eid Al Adha break? Luckily, the UAE, positioned between Europe and Asia, offers a fantastic base for travel. Whether you fancy hopping across to neighboring Oman or are okay with spending a few more hours traveling to the magic of Istanbul, there’s plenty on offer for a short break this Eid Al Adha. Here are 10 places to consider, all within a five-hour flight of the UAE.
1. Muscat, Oman
Flight Duration : One hour
Airlines : Etihad Airways, Wizz Air, Emirates, Air Arabia, Oman Air, Salam Air
For a super-quick escape, Muscat is a well-worn favorite with UAE residents. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, explore the Al Jalali Fort at the harbor, or enjoy a tour of the Royal Opera House. For ocean vibes, head to Zale Beach Club at Kempinski Hotel Muscat, unwind at The Chedi, or explore the vibrant Mutrah Souq.
2. Baku, Azerbaijan
Flight Duration : Three hours
Airlines : Emirates, flydubai, Wizz Air, Air Arabia
Expect Parisian-style boulevards and Caspian coastlines with fantastic seafood in Baku. Must-see sites include the Heydar Aliyev Centre, the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, and the 12th-century Maiden Tower. Don’t miss the mud volcanoes in Gobustan National Park for a unique natural experience.
3. Dushanbe, Tajikistan
Flight Duration : Three hours
Airlines : Emirates, flydubai, Somon Air
Leafy boulevards, manicured parks, and pastel-colored buildings await in Dushanbe. Visit Rudaki Park, the National Museum of Tajikistan, and the Ethnography Museum. Enjoy a fusion of Arabic, Middle Eastern, Chinese, and international cuisine, with Chaykhona Rokhat being a must-visit tea house.
4. Tbilisi, Georgia
Flight Duration : About three and a half hours
Airlines : Emirates, Air Arabia, flydubai
Tbilisi, located on the historic Silk Road, offers centuries-old ruins, beautiful botanical gardens, and bustling street life. Enjoy the summer average temperature of 30ºC, explore Meidan Square, take a cable car to Turtle Lake, or visit Mtatsminda Park for family fun.
5. Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Flight Duration : Four hours
Airlines : Wizz Air, flydubai, Air Arabia
Bishkek features wide boulevards and plenty of green spaces. Explore Ala-Too Square, the State Historical Museum, and Gallery M for contemporary art. The city’s mix of Soviet-era architecture and modern culture makes it a unique destination.
6. Kathmandu, Nepal
Flight Duration : Just over four hours
Airlines : Emirates, flydubai, Air Arabia, Himalaya Airlines
Kathmandu offers a sensory overload with its bustling streets, ancient temples, and vibrant markets. Discover the charm of Thamel, visit the Chandragiri Hills for views of Mount Everest, and enjoy local cuisine, including delicious momos.
7. Colombo, Sri Lanka
Flight Duration : Just over four hours
Airlines : Etihad Airways, Emirates, flydubai, Air Arabia, Sri Lankan Airlines
Colombo combines beaches, jungles, and mountains with a rich mix of cultures. Explore churches, temples, and mosques, visit the Dutch Hospital for shopping and dining, and enjoy the arts scene in Park Street Mews.
8. Chennai, India
Flight Duration : About four and a half hours
Airlines : Etihad Airways, Emirates, Air Arabia, Air India, IndiGo
Chennai offers a rich blend of cultural, historic, and modern attractions. Visit Marina Beach, Fort St George, and Kapaleeshwarar Temple. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and rich history make it a great getaway.
9. Larnaca, Cyprus
Flight Duration : About four and a half hours
Airlines : Emirates, Wizz Air
Larnaca boasts a 75km coastline with sandy beaches ideal for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and jet-skiing. Explore Larnaca Castle, the Church of Saint Lazarus, and the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque. Enjoy traditional cuisine influenced by Arabic, Greek, Mediterranean, and Turkish flavors.
10. Istanbul, Turkey
Flight Duration : About five hours
Airlines : Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, Air Arabia, Pegasus, Turkish Airlines
Istanbul, a city bridging two continents, offers over 2,500 years of history, culture, and traditions. Visit Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and shop at the Grand Bazaar. A Bosphorus cruise is a must for soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
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This Eid Al Adha, take advantage of the UAE’s strategic location to explore some of the most exciting destinations within a five-hour flight. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, historical sites, or relaxing beach escapes, these ten destinations offer something for every traveler. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable short break!