Travel Tips

Discover the 6 best long weekend trips from Dubai with short flights, one to four hours only. Here’s, top nearby countries from Dubai that are perfect for a quick escape, with rich culture, and will bring unforgettable experiences on your next long weekend.

Having a long weekend is always a good opportunity to go on a quick escape. In 2025, UAE public holidays will be at least 12 days off, and when combined with weekends, you have plenty of opportunities to travel. Effective as per January 1, 2025, a new public holiday law now allows non-Eid holidays that fall on weekends to be moved to weekdays. This means there will be more long weekends for UAE residents. 

Here are a few of this year's long weekends in the United Arab Emirates to help you plan your trip:

June 5 – 8 : A four-day break for Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha

June 27 – 29 : A three-day weekend for Islamic New Year 

September 5 – 7 : A three-day weekend for the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday

December 2 - 3 : A four day break for National Day 

Let’s explore somewhere you can escape. Whether you want to relax on a tropical resort, hiking for scenic panoramic views, or a gastronomic journey, here's the list of countries that can be your next long weekend journey!

Oman – 1 Hour Flight

Next to UAE, a getaway to Oman will only take an hour flight, you can also go by a road trip which will take you around 4 hours from Dubai. UAE residents can visit Oman visa or visa on arrival. A long weekend trip from Dubai to Muscat will be perfect for exploring nature such as hiking on Wadi Shab or mountain air in Jebel Akhdar. After then go on exploration through Oman culinary traditions like Shuwa, majboos, and fresh seafood.

Azerbaijan – 3 Hours Flight

Azerbaijan is a rising favorite destination for UAE residents, with just a 3 hours flight from Dubai to Baku. It is a perfect destination for an exploration to modern cities that have historical roots. It has a unique blend of Eastern European and Western Asian influences. The must visit list in Baku is the iconic Flame Towers and Icherisheher (old city) as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can explore mosques, caravanserais, and the iconic Maiden Tower and Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Ateshgah also called Fire Temple of Baku, is a religious temple that you can also explore.  Don’t miss aromatic plov (rice pilaf), dolma, and grilled shashlik meats in the city’s markets and restaurants. Spring and fall are ideal for exploring this dynamic capital. 

Georgia – 3.5 Hours Flight

As one of UAE residents most visited destinations, travel to Georgia from Dubai will only take 3.5 hours with direct flights. UAE residents can visit Georgia visa-free for up to 90 days within 180 days period.Tbilisi as the Capital of Georgia, offers nature attractions with mild weather and rich culture. You can visit Tbilisi’s Old Town, Narikala Fortress, and the Gergeti Trinity Church to explore the history, or you may prefer to go hiking or skiing in the Caucasus Mountains. A must try list is a Sulfur Bath in Tbilisi. Perfect for a refreshment during the quick trip, and then explore Georgian food such Khachapuri, khinkali and Shkmeruli. 

Armenia – 3.5 Hours Flight

Next destination is Armenia, with flight duration from Dubai will take 3.5 hours. UAE residents can take e-visa. An exploration through Yerevan can be started from Hellenistic Garni Temple and then continue to a UNESCO World Heritage, Geghard Monastery and then feel the local atmosphere of Armenian at the Vernissage flea market. Immerse yourself in exploring traditional food by taking a part of Lavash baking inside an underground oven, or take an adventure on Garni Adventure Park for biking, buggy rides or trails. 

Jordan – 3.5 Hours Flight

Discover one of the seven wonders in Jordan with a 3.5 hours flight from Dubai. The recommended time to visit is in Spring and Fall, which can be perfect for a long weekend schedule in September. Explore the rose red city of Petra, in Jordan, go floating on the Dead Sea or book a staycation in Wadi Rum. Do not miss the taste of Oman’s food such mansaf (lamb with fermented yogurt), falafel, and fresh mezze platters in Amman’s bustling food scene.

Maldives – 4.5 Hours Flight

A flight to Maldives from Dubai takes only 4.5 hours away. With visa-free entry for UAE passport holders and many nationalities. The recommended time to visit Maldives is from November to April. Which can be perfect for September or December long Weekend. A getaway to Maldives will be perfect for relaxation and calmness. While you can also enjoy a diverse fresh seafood, coconut curries, and tropical fruits. 

Instead of staycation in nearby hotel, your next long weekend deserve something special. Take the short flight to these destination and get a unique getaway, either it's with your family, partner, or if you are a solo traveler. Contact Arooha Leisure and you will get all your travel essentials ready, hassle free. 

📞 Let Arooha Leisure plan your unforgettable getaway!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. What are the best countries to visit from Dubai for a short weekend trip?
Top weekend destinations from Dubai include Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Jordan, and Oman. They are close, affordable, and offer great travel experiences.

2. Do UAE residents need a visa to visit these countries?
Most of these countries offer visa-free entry, e-visas, or visa on arrival for UAE residents. Always check the latest visa rules based on your nationality and residence.

3. When is the best time to travel for a weekend from Dubai?
The best time to go is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

4. Which countries are good for budget-friendly weekend trips from Dubai?
Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan are great for budget travelers. They offer low-cost food, hotels, and experiences—perfect for affordable weekend escapes.

5. Which destination is best for food lovers?
Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan are great for food lovers. Enjoy traditional dishes, vibrant street food, and unique culinary experiences like lavash baking in Armenia.

Also Read :

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