Are you a spontaneous person who loves to travel and hasn’t yet plans for the upcoming public holiday?

All is not lost – there are still plenty of spots you can fly to without parting with all your dirhams.

Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall on Wednesday April 10, and that means we are likely to get a six-day break. Tack on a couple of days and include the weekend and you are looking at a nine-day vacation.

You don’t want to rush too far over the break; it’s got to be in the Goldilocks zone – something not too distant, not too expensive and interesting enough to travel for.

Here’s a list of places you can head to for under Dhs1,500. And if your budget can stretch a little further, you’ve got even more options.

Save on flights: 3 return trips under Dhs1,500

Jeddah

There are many cultural marvels in the city, especially when you go to the historic Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But we suggest going the aqua adventure way when you head to Jeddah. Located by the Red Sea, it’s got unfiltered access to waters rife with turtles, sharks, fish and corals. Besides scuba diving and paddle boarding, you can also go kayaking in these waters off the coast of Saudi Arabia.

Dhs1,215. Saudia. Sun Apr 7-Sun Apr 14. 3 hours 5 minutes.

Kuwait

It’s going to be a struggle for you to make a trip to Kuwait cheaply since there are so many stunning things to buy. From handicrafts to perfumes, jewellery and carpets, there’s something for everyone. Head to the 200-year-old souq named Souk Al Mubarakiya for souvenirs – and a lesson in haggling.

Dhs887. Jazeera Airways and flydubai. Sun Apr 7-Sun Apr 14. 1 hour 35 minutes

Salalah, Oman

Explore beautiful waterfalls and enjoy the greenery of Salalah over the long weekend. There’ll be sunshine and the weather will be brilliant for surfing this time of year. Keep an eye out for the dolphins. Check into one of the resorts in Salalah and enjoy wildlife spotting. The region is home to animals such as wolves, ibex, mountain gazelle, rock hyrax and Arabian Leopard. Feeling in the mood for some history? Head to Frankincense Land Museum or check out Al-Baleed Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dhs883. flydubai. Sun Apr 7-Sun Apr 14. 1hour 55 minutes.

Splurge on flights: 3 more return trips under Dhs2,500

Colombo, Sri Lanka

The city of Colombo is home to ancient temples, bustling bazaars and colonial relics that will entice any culture-loving traveller. Check out the stunning buildings in the Fort Area that date back to the Dutch and British eras, Visit St Peter´s Church, which has been in use from 1821 and Gangaramaya Temple, where you’ll feel the itch to count the number of Buddha statues.

Dhs2,039. Hahnair . Sun Apr 7-Sun Apr 14. 4 hours 40 minutes.

Istanbul, Turkey

Everything about Istanbul screams grand – whether it’s the monuments that date back generations, the food or the shopping. Spend a day getting to know the history of the city – there’s the Hagia Sophia to visit and the Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern, where the movie Angels & Demons, starring Tom Hanks, was shot. Stop by the Grand Bazaar for hot, sweet apple tea and some souvenirs.

Dhs2,313. Pegasus Airlines. Sun Apr 7-Sun Apr 14. 4 hours 55 minutes.

Kathmandu, Nepal

There are Buddhist temples and bazaars galore to explore in the city of Kathmandu. You’ll find more knick-knacks here than you’ll know what to do with. Try some authentic momos and Thukpa (noodle soup), which will keep you warm and energised as you walk around. If you are in the mood for further flying and seeing the snow-capped mountains up close, you’ll also find small planes that will take you into peak-watching climes.
Dhs2,082. Himalaya Airlines. Sun Apr 7-Sun Apr 14. 4 hours 10 minutes.

You may also like: 13 countries that offer visa-on-arrival to UAE residents

Flight prices are subject to change. All estimates are correct as of Tuesday March 19.

Making plans? Check out these:

The best pool day deals in Dubai
Visit these spots to cool off

Dubai’s newest restaurants to try
The latest openings to tempt your taste buds

These are Dubai’s best happy hours
Offers to make you smile – every single day of the week