Looking for some travel inspo for the upcoming Eid break? We’ve got the deets.
It’s set to be a long break – Eid Al Fitr is expected to begin on Wednesday April 10, which means UAE public and private sector workers could get a four-day public holiday. Tack on the weekend and it’s a six-day holiday.
That’s enough time to taxi down on a new town and explore some stuff that’s off-the-beaten track too.
You may also like: Eid Al Fitr travels: Places to fly from Dubai for under Dhs1,500
Don’t waste that holiday time on a long flight, however (well, unless you’re flying Business). Here’s a look at six destinations that can be reached in around three hours on plane from DXB.
Happy discovering.
Delhi, India
Why go: A hustling and bustling city break.
Essential sightseeing: For a foodie experience you’ll love, explore Chandni Chowk market’s paranthe wali gali. Or, head to Khan Market where you’ll find everything from dining destinations to reasons why you need to go on a shopping spree. On a bit of a budget but want to update your wardrobe? Make a beeline for Sarojini market where you’ll find many contenders for under Dhs100.
Flight length: 3 hours, 15 minutes.
Goa, India
Why go: To see the smallest state in India.
Essential sightseeing: Try a mud bathing experience at Chorãa and tour around The Figueiredo Mansion, which predates the Taj Mahal; it was built in 1590. If you are into the outdoors, you’ll love this location and not just for its beaches – it’s got plenty of hiking trails for you to take.
Flight length: 3 hours and 20 minutes.
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Why go: To see one of the oldest societies in the Gulf.
Essential sightseeing: From architectural marvels such as the world’s first 3D printed mosque to resorts with stunning views of the Red sea, you’ll have plenty of options when visiting Jeddah. Check out King Fahd Fountain, the tallest of its kind, from Jeddah Promenade.
Flight length: 3 hours, 5 minutes.
Muscat, Oman
Why go: To spot marine life in the crystal clear water.
Essential sightseeing: There is history on these shores. Check out landmarks such as the 16th-century Portuguese forts, Al Jalali and Mirani for a dose of culture. But if you just want to relax and unwind as you watch the world go by, stop by Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Junayz beaches.
Flight length: 1 hour, 10 minutes.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Why go: To see lots of greenery.
Essential sightseeing: There are of course historical sites such as the Fabrika Courtyard and the reconstructed 4th-century fortress Narikala here. But there are also other cool things to do such as taking a cooking class taught by a grandmother in a 100-year-old home, taking a cable car to the top of a hill, and chomping down on some first-class delicacies such as khachapuri (fresh bread with cheese and egg) and khinkali (meat and soup dumplings).
Flight length: 3 hours.
Yerevan, Armenia
Why go: For its historical architecture.
Essential sightseeing: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Monastery of Geghard and The Matenadaran Library. And see the city a bit differently – from the skies – when you go paragliding by Lake Sevan, the largest lake in the Caucasus. You can also unleash your inner geologist here by taking a tour of Mozrov Cave, which is full of stalactites, stalagmites, helictites and more.
Flight length: 3 hours and 10 minutes.
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