As Eid Al Adha approaches, the long break brings the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to a relaxing and luxurious staycation. With Dubai and the other emirates hosting some premium hotels and resorts, residents are spoilt for choice. To make planning easier, we've carefully selected the best venues in the country that ensure a memorable and enjoyable getaway during the upcoming holiday.
Best Staycation Spots in Dubai
With carefully selected staycation destinations, we've curated a list of the best places in the country for a memorable and enjoyable getaway during the upcoming holiday.
1. Atlantis the Royal
If you are looking for the most luxurious staycation this Eid, Atlantis The Royal is the ultimate choice and should be high on your list. The venue is one of the most premium and up-scale hotels, favoured by celebrities and influencers from around the world. It offers a range of ultra-luxurious accommodations from different types of suites to Signature Penthouses, each presenting stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Palm Island. Guests have a range of luxurious accommodations, such as lavish sky suites featuring panoramic views of the island and the sea and around-the-clock butler service, or suites with a private pool
Enjoy fine dining at one of the 17 world-class restaurants, which include 8 celebrity chef venues. Close to the hotel is the Middle East’s largest waterpark, Aquaventure where visitors can have an adrenaline-infused day full of excitement. For a more relaxed experience, guests can enjoy the resort's sky pool and private beach.
2. The Nest by Sonara
For an off-the-grid retreat inside the stunning desert, you should head over to The Nest by Sonara. From the creators of Sonara Camp, this eco-friendly oasis offers a unique way to experience Dubai's natural beauty. Situated in the Margham desert, just 30 minutes from Dubai, the venue is home to 14 ‘nests’ that blend into the landscape, featuring dreamy bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, and outdoor majlises for sunset views. With no modern distractions like TV or WiFi, guests reconnect with nature, enjoying activities like camel riding, falconry, and more. Sonara Camp offers a luxurious dining experience under the stars, featuring a fully plated three-course meal accompanied by live performances, creating unforgettable memories under the desert stars.
3. Bulgari Resort
One of Dubai’s most opulent resorts, the Bulgari Resort on Jumeirah Bay Island, offers a luxurious staycation infused with the rich heritage of the Bulgari brand. Here guests will feel like they have been transported to an exotic island thanks to the isolated landscape of the surroundings. This is one of only 8 Bulgari branded resorts in the world and the only one in the MENA region, making it very exclusive. Located in one of the most upscale neighbourhoods in the city, it offers luxurious rooms, suites, and private villas with pools, all overlooking the Dubai skyline and private beach. Adults can unwind at the award-winning Bulgari Spa and savour Italian food at the two-Michelin-starred Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, while kids are entertained with activities at the Little Gems Club or with in-room movie nights.
4. Four Seasons Jumeirah
A calm beachside retreat awaits at this lavish venue on Jumeirah's shores. It is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city, and you’ll feel the Middle Eastern opulence depicted in the marble fixtures, Murano chandeliers, and gold-leaf ceilings. With a rich history rooted in top-tier hospitality, the Four Seasons Jumeirah provides a lavish beachfront escape, complete with personalised service and stunning views of the Dubai Water Canal and city skyline. The hotel offers soulful food from multiple cuisines, including everything from detox salads to yellowtail ceviche and flavours of Nusr-Et Steakhouse. With a Swiss anti-ageing spa and panoramic views from the rooftop Mercury Lounge, this retreat offers the ultimate getaway for a staycation this Eid.
5. Terra Solis Dubai
A visit to Terra Solis is an opportunity to discover a hidden gem in Dubai, built by the minds behind the most famous music festival in the world – Tomorrowland. The resort's Arabian-inspired exterior merges with the sandy landscape, imbuing the resort with an authentic Arabian ambience. Relax by the pool area with sunbeds, cabanas, and energetic beats from the poolside DJ – a perfect weekend escape for ultimate rejuvenation. Admission at Terra Solis is restricted to adults above the age of 21.
6. Hatta Dome Park
Make the most of this long Eid break with a staycation at Hatta Dome Park, offering a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. With chic minimalist tents giving way to stunning mountain views, private terraces, and hotel-like amenities, it's an ideal choice for a getaway. Visitors can enjoy thrilling outdoor activities at the nearby Hatta Wadi Hub, such as zip-lining through canyons, mountain biking along trails, and kayaking across reservoirs set between breathtaking landscapes. As the night falls, it is time to relax with a private barbecue and campfire. Surrounded by nature's beauty and excitement, Hatta Dome Park is an ideal choice for your staycation.
7. Bab Al Qasr Desert Resort by Anantara Abu Dhabi
Hidden amidst towering dunes, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is a luxurious retreat known for its palatial ambience and premium services. Offering a range of pampering experiences, wellness journeys, and Bedouin-inspired adventures, it's a sought-after spot for a staycation for those looking for utmost seclusion. Surrounded by natural beauty, guests can relax at the spa, enjoy desert activities like sand surfing, or simply marvel at the starry night sky. With its timeless elegance and extensive amenities, Qasr Al Sarab sets the standard for desert resorts, providing an unforgettable escape from the mundane.
8. Nurai Island Hotel
Nurai Island in Abu Dhabi offers a luxurious sanctuary illustrated by natural beauty and modern comforts. Just a short boat ride from the city, it provides pristine beaches, lush greenery, and private villas for the ultimate relaxation. With personalised service, pet-friendly accommodations, and a variety of activities, Nurai Island has you in for a memorable break this Eid.
9. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi is widely recognised as one of the most distinguished hotels, priding itself on providing the ultimate luxury experience, matched by very few other venues. Nestled amidst manicured gardens and overlooking a private beach, this opulent retreat takes up an enviable location on Abu Dhabi's Corniche. With sprawling grounds and lavish amenities, including multiple pools, water sports, and a famous spa, guests can experience the ultimate staycation. The hotel's appeal is evident in every detail, from its grand boulevard-sized corridors to its exquisite dining options, featuring Michelin-starred chefs and award-winning restaurants. With warm hospitality and a wealth of activities, Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi promises a unique and luxurious staycation.
10. Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort
Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort offers the ultimate dream staycation, perched on the South American island of the World Islands just off Dubai's coast. Accessible via a scenic 15-minute speedboat ride from Anantara the Palm, it's a tropical paradise with breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline. With Maldives-like beaches and luxurious accommodations, including Garden Villas, guests enjoy unmatched privacy and personalised service. Infused with Thai/Indonesian-inspired aesthetics, Anantara World Islands offers the perfect getaway for couples and families seeking sun-kissed luxury.
As the Eid holidays approach, there's no need to plan travelling abroad for a memorable break. With delightful staycation options in Dubai and the other emirates, you can contemplate a rejuvenating retreat right here. Whether you're seeking a tranquil beachside escape or an adventure-filled city retreat, these handpicked staycation destinations promise to make your Eid holiday truly special.
