Dubai is a prime global destination with an extensive flight network, offering travellers an abundance of options for planning a getaway. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the second busiest airport in the world as of March 2024. In 2023, DXB surpassed its previous passenger traffic, flying around 87 million passengers. One major reason behind DXB’s busyness is Dubai’s proximity to Asia, Europe, and Africa. This connectivity has allowed tourism to thrive, enabling both locals and foreigners to take flights to various countries from Dubai. Looking for countries that are just a few hours away from the city? Below are twelve options.
1. Qatar (Doha)
The capital of Qatar, Doha, is a bustling city filled with arts, culture, and activities, and is only a short one-hour flight from Dubai. The city is well-known for its museums, including the Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar. It also has a hotel called The Ned, which features stunning brutalist architecture and a unique collection of Qatari art. Travelling into the desert to see installations like Olafur Eliasson's "Shadows Travelling on the Sea of the Day" and Richard Serra's "East-West/West-East" offers a unique cultural experience. In addition to its cultural attractions, Doha offers a wide range of activities, including shopping, water parks, and several desert adventures.
2. Maldives
A destination that needs no introduction, the Maldives combines uninterrupted ocean views, year-round sunshine, and some of the world’s best marine life, all within an easy four-hour flight from the UAE. This is the place to go if you want complete relaxation. The Maldives resorts are accessible by speedboat from the airport, making them the best choice for a long weekend. For those travelling with friends, the Grand Beach Villa at One&Only Reethi Rah accommodates up to six guests and features a private pool right on the beach. Couples often favour the dhoni-shaped overwater villas at Como Cocoa Island, which has an array of wellness facilities and healthy cuisines. Kurumba, located just ten minutes from the airport, has been popular in Maldivian tourism since its opening in 1972. This more affordable, family-friendly resort focuses on connecting guests with local communities through music, entertainment, and traditional experiences. Flight time from Dubai: 4 hours
3. Kyrgyzstan
If you're craving winter vibes, Kyrgyzstan is an ideal destination for a quick getaway. This landlocked country remains a winter wonderland, so pack your warmest clothes as temperatures in Bishkek, Central Asia’s greenest capital, barely rise above zero. The freezing weather makes it the perfect time to enjoy the country's skiing opportunities, with mountain resorts catering to everyone from beginners to experts. For those with some experience, fantastic backcountry skiing offers the chance to soar over untouched peaks as far as the eye can see. At night, stay warm and cosy by joining local villagers in their fur-insulated yurts. You can also go horse riding across pristine snow-covered fields and witness the ancient practice of eagle hunting, which is in full swing during the winter season. Flight time from Dubai: 4 hours
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4. Sri Lanka
The teardrop-shaped island of Sri Lanka offers stunning beaches, grassy plains, and a wealth of cultural attractions. Early in the year is an excellent time to visit the southern and central regions of the country. Travellers will find plenty of sunshine along the west and south coasts, where palm-fringed beaches beckon in places like Hikkaduwa, Galle, and Unawatuna. The central region also enjoys pleasant temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore. Pekoe Trail, stretching about 300 km from Kandy, guides visitors through nature-rich paths in the lesser-known Sri Lankan tea country. Yala National Park, located in the southeast, is another great destination for the start of the year. The dry weather provides the best conditions for spotting monkeys, crocodiles, elephants, and other wildlife. February is a festive time in Sri Lanka, with celebrations, fireworks, and joy marking the anniversary of Sri Lankan Independence. Flight time from Dubai: 4 hours 25 minutes
5. Jordan
Just a short three-hour flight from the UAE brings you to Amman, Jordan's vibrant capital, well-known for its arts, culture, and a “foodies'” delights. It is a gateway to the country's stunning natural landscapes and ancient historical sites. The Dead Sea is easily accessible, and at the beginning of the year, temperatures are at the lowest point ranging from the low to mid-twenties, with slightly warmer water, perfect for a peaceful swim. The red-stone city of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the ancient seat of the Nabataean Kingdom, is a must-see. You can experience local hospitality in the desert expanse of Wadi Rum, trek across otherworldly landscapes, or stargaze at the Dana Biosphere Reserve, the country’s largest nature reserve, which spans about 320 square kilometres of breathtaking mountains and wadis along the Great Rift Valley. If you're longing for beaches, head south to Aqaba, a seaside city with numerous luxury resorts and fantastic snorkelling opportunities. Flight time from Dubai: 3 hour
6. Cyprus
The Mediterranean island of Cyprus is rich with timeless archaeological sites, stunning coastal cities, and pristine beaches. On the western side of the island, the Paphos district has the longest coastline in the country, lined with beautiful beaches. The forests of Tilliria are interwoven with trails and picnic spots, perfect for nature lovers. Paphos town itself is worth visiting for its lively bars, restaurants, and hotels, among historical ruins, some of which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. With temperatures averaging around twenty degrees, it's an ideal location for trekking, cycling, wild swimming, and exploring cultural sites. It's also less crowded between January and May, so you can enjoy Cyprus without crowds of tourists. Flight time from Dubai: 3 hours 40 minutes
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7. India (Goa)
One of India’s most popular destinations, Goa presents a tasteful culinary scene, and numerous beautiful beaches. The peak season in this western state runs from November to January, but February offers pleasant temperatures without the crowds. You should explore Margao's Portuguese colonial heritage, relax and swim at Benaulim Beach in the south, or experience the lively nightlife at Baga Beach. Animal enthusiasts should not leave without visiting Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Goa’s oldest, featuring cascading waterfalls, amazing birdlife, leopards, elephants, deer, and more. The February month ends with the Goa Carnival, a colourful Mardi Gras-style celebration that showcases the culture and cuisine of Goa over four festive days. Flight time from Dubai: 3 hours 20 minutes
8. Nepal
Between the Indian subcontinent and the Tibetan Plateau, Nepal is a South Asian country known for its breathtaking scenery and rich cultural legacy. Nepal is admired for geographical diversity and is home to the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest, as well as the deepest gorge, Kaligandaki Gorge. With 125 different ethnic groups, the nation is a vibrant mix of traditions, languages, and cultures. Given that it is the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the founder of modern Buddhism, Nepal has great religious significance and several historic temples and holy sites. The capital city of Kathmandu has several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the elaborate Buddhist stupas and the ancient Durbar Squares. Nepal is a trekker's dream destination, offering views of the Himalayas, golden temples, quaint hill villages, and opportunities to see wildlife in jungles. Flight time from Dubai: 4 hours 10 minutes
9. Seychelles
For a taste of island life over a long weekend, head south to the Seychelles. Many visitors opt for a luxurious stay at one of the five-star resorts on Mahé, the main island, which is just a four-and-a-half-hour flight from Dubai. Summer is the prime season for green turtle nesting and egg-laying, one of many rare species thriving within the archipelago’s conservation reserves. Bird Island, a 30-minute light aircraft flight from Mahé, is a notable reserve providing a safe haven for hawksbill sea turtles and home to 22 Aldabra giant tortoises and numerous bird species. Kayaking or snorkelling in the surrounding crystal-clear seas offers sightings of tropical fish, while dolphins can be seen playing further offshore. Stay at the island’s eco-lodge, wander along hiking and nature trails, or hire a local guide to learn more about the flora and fauna. Flight time from Dubai: 4 hours 35 minutes
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11. Georgia
Tbilisi, Georgia's capital, is a true crowd-pleaser, compact enough to explore on foot and diverse enough to offer new discoveries at every turn. Many visitors come for the food alone, enjoying gooey, cheesy khachapuri, steaming khinkali dumplings, and pkhali puréed vegetables rich with flavours of garlic, crushed walnuts, and pomegranate seeds. The Dry Bridge flea market is perfect for finding antique crystal glasses, tea sets, and memorabilia, while fans of brutalist architecture will find plenty to photograph as they wander the streets. Stamba, a stylishly modernist hotel in a former printing house, filled with books and featuring staff uniforms reminiscent of The Grand Budapest Hotel, is a popular spot where Tbilisi’s bold and beautiful gather to enjoy coffee in the garden. Flight time from Dubai: 3 hours 30 minutes
12. Egypt
The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum has finally opened its doors this year, offering a spectacular new attraction in the Egyptian capital, Cairo. Even beyond the museum, there are plenty of reasons to visit Cairo. If you’ve already explored the Pyramids of Giza, venture out to the extraordinary Step Pyramid at nearby Saqqara and the Bent Pyramid at Dahshur. Many visitors to Cairo admire the Nile from a distance, but you can experience the river firsthand by taking a water taxi to avoid the city's notorious traffic or even try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the river. Flight time from Dubai: 3 hours 45 minutes
Dubai's strategic global location offers perfect connectivity, making it ideal for quick getaways. With flights ranging from three to five hours, these twelve fascinating destinations provide perfect retreats close to home.
