Many residents hit the road this Eid to explore places within UAE
From farm stays to adventure trips and visiting newly-opened tourist spots, people are making the most of their holidays
UAE residents who are not travelling abroad during the long Eid break are making the most of it within the country, celebrating in the pleasant weather with various leisure activities, ranging from farm stays to adventurous road trips.
Embracing the charm of domestic travel, families and friends across the country are immersing themselves in the beauty of the surroundings, seizing every opportunity to travel to newly-opened tourist spots in the country.
Mohammed Najar, an Egyptian expat, had been planning to visit the newly opened Hanging Gardens in Kalba. “And now it is the perfect time. We are here with all our friends and relatives,” Najar said.
“With the weather so nice, I just had to hit the road. The Hanging Gardens in Kalba is amazing. You can either climb to the top or drive up. We chose to climb and it was so peaceful. I am really glad I did not delay it further,” Najar added.
On Friday, Najar is planning to visit the Al Hefaiyah Lake, which is also in close proximity to the Hanging Gardens. “I want to spend a few hours enjoying the serenity of the lake. We will also be barbecuing later in the evening, near a Wadi. So for the next few days, our schedule is filled with road trips,” Najar said.
For Anthony Balos, a Filipino expat, gearing up for an adrenalinefuelled adventure is on the agenda. “For the next two days, the open road is calling us for great excitement and exploration. We are currently in Al Ain, exploring the vast lands and hills,” Balos said.
On Saturday, Balos, along with his friends, will be undertaking a thrilling hiking expedition. “We have got all our trekking and hiking gear ready. This time, many of our friends are joining us for a day of hiking in the hills of Fujairah,” Balos said.
For some, quality time with family is a preferred activity during the break, as they have planned a staycation away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Basit Bafaqui, an Indian expat and businessman, has reserved a farm stay in Ras Al Khaimah for a blissful day of relaxation for his entire family. “Every Eid celebration, we invite over our extended family. We book a farmhouse and undertake recreational activities together. From cooking meals, cleaning, swimming, games, and having food, makes it a perfect family bonding for us,” Bafaqui said.
“At the farmhouse, it’s not just Eid for over 25 children, it’s a whole world of fun for them. Every moment is filled with joy and laughter,” Bafaqui added.
Several residents reported encountering heavy traffic on their way to Kalba, which shows the popularity of the destination.
Ahmad Akrami, along with his family, was en route to Kalba around 4pm when they faced heavy traffic upon taking the exit to the Maleiha road. “Initially, we considered altering our plans and heading to a different location. However, upon checking the maps, we observed only a half-hour delay, so we decided to proceed,” he said.
“After a few kilometres, we encountered bumper-to-bumper traffic, indicating that it might take longer than expected,” Ahmad added.
With the weather so nice, I just had to hit the road. The Hanging Gardens in Kalba is amazing. You can either climb to the top or drive up. We chose to climb and it was so peaceful.” Mohammed Najar Egyptian expat