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A long weekend is just around the corner, which means it’s the perfect time for a short getaway.
Luckily, for those of us in the UAE, there are a plethora of luxurious destinations right on our doorstep just a mere few hours plane journey away.
Here, GRAZIA rounds up the best Eid getaways, just a four-hour flight from the UAE, along with the most luxurious stays for the ultimate break.
Maldives
Any travel-obsessed individual based in the UAE can officially mark their bucket list complete since the Maldives is just a four-hour flight away. With pristine sandy white beaches and crystal blue water paired with an array of luxury hotels, this destination is always at the top of our list.
Where to stay: Joali Being
With spring officially here, there’s no better time to book a stay at JOALI BEING. As first wellbeing island in the Maldives, it’s the prime spot to be at to experience a 360 holistic rejuvenation retreat. Nestled in Bodufushi Island in Raa Atoll, JOALI BEING offers its vacationers ample experiences such as its designated wellness dining, villas with gorgeous vistas and leisure activities such as the Art House and marine water sports.
For more information, visit www.joali.com
Oman
Of course, the GCC offers more than just one luxury retreat. But with just a one-hour flight, you can experience a back-to-back wellness vacation at Oman’s blend of traditional experiences and modern luxury. Being one of the most beloved destinations in the Middle East, you can live and breathe a myriad of experiences, from the dessert or the pristine beach, take your pick.
Where to stay: Shangri-La Al Husn
While Oman offers plenty of stunning locations, there’s nothing quite like a serene clifftop retreat at Shangri-La Al Husn. Designed with Omani architecture in mind, this five-star hotel with private lounges and beaches offers a near-perfect itinerary for a true R&R experience. Coupled with the fact they hold the ultimate spa treatments and dining venues with the best dishes, here, guests can truly indulge.
For more information, visit www.shangri-la.com
India
India offers everything from beachside escapes, major tourist attractions and the fan-favourite healing retreats. Between its rich history and majestic forts, India gives a plethora of unique experiences with just a three-hour flight from the UAE. From the bustling bazaars to maybe even trying a royal spa treatment, you can find enough things to do.
Where to stay: The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
This Eid, if you plan to stay in the city of Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes, there’s only one five-star hotel you need to check out (and check in). The Overoi Udaivilas spans over 50 acres of luscious land and is nestled in the infamous Lake Pichola. With 37 domes, a lobby decorated with an 18-carat gold leaf, and architecture that nods back to 300 years of history, this hotel surely captures the quintessential need for an idyllic getaway. Naturally, they offer more locations to taste the finest cuisines and villas and suites with a picture-perfect view of the greens.
For more information, visit www.oberoihotels.com
Qatar
For those not looking to venture too far out, Qatar, just one hour away from Dubai, has everything you need for a pleasant Eid holiday. With 77 five-star hotels and miles and miles of beaches, any dissenting travellers would be well aware of its prime spot.
Where to stay: Raffles Doha
A true travel enthusiast knows how much Raffles Doha is an iconic location to book a stay. This 132-suite hotel that lies just by the coast and offers every guest a chance to experience the finest Arabian hospitality amongst its wellness, dining and leisure spaces. An unapologetic hotel that shows how luxury can be enjoyed, Raffles Doha rings the festivities with an ode to the spirit of Ramadan.
For more information, visit www.raffles.com
Turkey
Perhaps a four flight to Turkey’s rich vistas, culture and history is the ideal Eid getaway. Turkey offers an escape from the mundane walks of life with its nature-infused experiences. Whether its trips down to iconic landmarks or shopping by the Grand Bazaar, Turkey has many and more.
Where to stay: Four Seasons, Istanbul
A stay at any Four Season hotel can truly mark your long holiday to perfection. But in Istanbul, the Four Seasons adds a different kind of finesse with its touch of tradition. With two distinctive locations at Bosphorus and Sultanahmet, your choice of stay at either will show you the ins and outs of how to indulge in Turkey’s bustling culture. Whether its the sought-after traditional hammams, the comfort-first rooms or the hefty dining options, you can consider your Eid checklist finished here.
