5 affordable getaways for memorable N-day break
The year’s last long weekend is just around the corner, and KT helps you plan a fantastic outing with family and friends
With the big National Day weekend around the corner, travel agents say they have been getting a large number of queries for short, budget tours and outings in the UAE and abroad.
The 51st UAE National Day will be the year's last long weekend, and to make it even more memorable, KT has put together a list of five affordablez, yet fantastic locations you can look at for the coming weekend. 1
Musandam
Easily accessible from the UAE, Musandam is perhaps the most sought-after destination for UAE residents. Located in Oman, this popular spot is situated across the Ras Al Khaimah border.
One option is to drive down to Musandam. While the drive is something out of this world, the dhow cruise is a fantastic way to unwind in the fjords of Musandam with playful dolphins for company. There are full day and half-day cruises, and it usually includes a buffet lunch on board.
Musandam continues to be a haven for adventure-seekers as well as those who just want to sit back and relax on the traditional dhow.
For those who opt to go via a travel agent, packages can range from Dh150 to Dh800 per person, depending on the number of nights and activities chosen.
There are also daily trips scheduled from Dubai. (Source: Rooh Travel and Tourism)
2
Central Asian and Cauca sian region (Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan)
Offering a European experience outside the continent, the Caucasian region is one of the top getaways for UAE tourists.
However, with huge demand this time around, many travel agents have stopped offering packages to these destinations since they are running at full capacity.
But don't fret, yet. Some travel companies such as Holiday Factory are still offering packages to some of these destinations. Prices begin from Dh2,599 for four nights, including accommodation and flights.
Libin Varghese, director of sales and marketing, Rooh Tourism, said they are running at full capacity. “We have exhausted our flight tickets, so if anyone wants to travel to these countries, they can book the air tickets, and we will take care of the visa and land tour, including accommodation and pick up and drop to the airport. Packages start at Dh600 going up to Dh1,200, depending on the country,” Varghese said.
3
Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia
Starting at just Dh2,200, UAE residents can experience history, landscapes, archaeological treasures, gorgeous vineyards, and much more.
These countries offer a visa-onarrival for UAE residents and a trip there will not burn a hole in your pocket.
However, if you book your ticket through Wizz Air, the round trip will cost just Dh1,422.
4 Salalah
Due to increased demand during the holiday season, several travel agents have scheduled trips to Salalah in Oman by bus. Prices for such packages begin at Dh1,000.
With visa-on-arrival at the Oman border, Salalah is a great location for nature-lovers as the visual treat is rich with scenic beauty.
“With the recent news of Oman offering visa on arrival for UAE residents, it has become one of the most preferred destinations for a short trip,” said Thomas Liju, sales and marketing manager at Tours On Board.
5
Domestic travel
However, if you are unable to finalise a foreign trip, or prefer to stay in the UAE, there are plenty of options to justify your decision to stay put.
A drive down to remote destinations in Abu Dhabi such as Liwa and Al Ain, or to the eastern emirate of Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah is a great way to spend the weekend. You can also try out a number of thrilling activities to get the adrenaline rush you seek.
While travel aggregators say that most hotels in Fujairah and Al Ain are booked, they say that spending the night inside a tent with the stars for company is a wonderful experience to try out. Packages range from Dh300 to Dh600, depending on the activities chosen.
Another great way to spend the holidays could be heading out to the mountains to trek, or do off-roading and camping. Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the country, is one of the top spots for these activities. Agents are offering packages ranging from Dh200 to Dh550 covering a range of activities.