The UAE boasts some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, meaning that staycations can be an appealing option for short breaks like Eid, due at the end of the month.
From old favourites to decadent new properties, the country has a wealth of options to explore this coming Eid Al Fitr and staycations are expected to be a popular choice.
Mamoun Hmidan, chief business officer at travel site Wego, said: “Staycations have witnessed growth in the UAE, emerging as a preferred choice for residents seeking luxury, convenience, and relaxation without the need for international travel. This trend is set to peak during the Eid holidays as travellers look for seamless, high-quality getaways close to home.”
He said the UAE’s hospitality sector continues to meet this growing demand with its world-class resorts, beachfront retreats, and desert escapes. “Wego has observed a steady rise in domestic travel bookings, driven by affordability, accessibility, and the increasing appeal of short-but-immersive stays,” he said.
Expedia’s Spring Travel Outlook showed that Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the most popular destinations. RAK even saw a 240 per cent increase in demand this year. The destination is known for its stunning coast, dramatic mountains and adventure activities. “These emirates offer convenient and exciting staycation options, catering to a variety of tastes from cityscapes to beaches and desert adventures to relax and recharge,” the report said.
Now operated by the Mandarin Oriental, this stalwart of the capital, famous both for its seven-star hospitality and as an architectural icon, Emirates Palace never gets old.
A facelift by the new management completed less than two years ago means that this lavish destination is now even better. You never need to leave the property that boasts 1.3km of beachfront, 12 dining destinations and a 1,500-sqm spa.
Opened just in time for Eid, this architectural landmark now sits alongside its older sibling, Burj Al Arab. There will be 386 rooms, a three-storey wellness area spanning nearly 40,000 square feet and 13 treatment suites with private terraces.
Additionally, an 82-berth marina, waterfront promenade, four pools, two sandy beaches, nine ocean-view private villas, and 82 serviced residences are part of Dubai’s newest destination’s design.
The UAE’s northernmost emirate offers breathtaking landscapes of mountains and coast, perfect to feel an escape for the urban hustle and bustle. Whether families are looking for activities or couples are in search of romance, the hotel is a true hideaway.
The villas, some of which have private pools, allow you to escape the crowds, and with seven restaurants and bars, you will not have to venture far away.
Opened last year, this is the first Middle Eastern property from the luxury hotel operator the Dorchester Collection. Another architectural icon for Dubai, it was designed by renowned Foster + Partners, with 225 guest rooms and suites, as well as a collection of lavish residences.
Guests at the Business Bay waterside hotel can explore eight restaurants boasting some of the world’s most loved chefs.
Launched last year by Kerzner, the brand known for its global luxury properties under Atlantis and One&Only Hotels, Siro One at One Zabeel is all about wellbeing. Offering a unique blend of luxury and holistic wellness, the concept is built around fitness, nutrition, sleep, recovery and mindfulness.
Perfect for the city that never sleeps, rooms feature recovery equipment, a stretching bar and access to virtual exercise and mindfulness classes. To elevate the experience, the Fitness Suites have a personal gym, while Recovery Suites include a treatment room.
