Top 8 budget-friendly destinations for UAE travellers

   With the peak summer vacation season approaching, UAE travelers are increasingly seeking nearby destinations that offer comfort, moderate weather, and affordability. In the summer of 2025, there has been a growing demand for several neighboring countries, particularly among families and individual travelers who prefer flights of less than five hours. 

Gulf Today, a sister publication of Al Khaleej, has compiled a list of the most popular destinations requiring a flight time of three to five hours from the UAE, along with average ticket prices for the period from August 1 to 7, and the entry requirements for UAE citizens and residents.

1. Georgia

 Tbilisi and Batumi remain among the most popular destinations, particularly due to their mild climate and affordable prices. The flight from Dubai to Tbilisi takes approximately three and a half hours, with prices starting from AED 1,300 for direct flights. Georgia allows travelers from the UAE to enter without a prior visa.

 2. Armenia

 The capital, Yerevan, attracts travelers seeking a tranquil atmosphere and rich cultural sites. The flight takes less than four hours, with an average round-trip ticket price of around AED 1,300. As of July 1, the country allows UAE residents to enter without a visa. UAE citizens also do not require a visa.

 3. Azerbaijan

 Azerbaijan stands out as a unique urban destination for those seeking a blend of modernity and oriental charm. The average ticket price is around AED 1,100 each way, and the flight from Dubai to Baku takes approximately three hours. UAE citizens can enter without a visa, while residents must obtain one upon arrival.

 4. Turkey

 Turkey continues to attract tourists from the UAE, particularly to the moderately mountainous city of Trabzon. The average ticket price is around AED 2,000, with a flight time of no more than five hours. UAE residents require a visa to visit Turkey, while UAE citizens do not.

 5. Egypt

 Egypt remains a favored destination for UAE travelers, especially Cairo and Alexandria, due to their proximity, cultural richness, and ease of communication. The flight takes approximately four hours, with an average round-trip ticket price of AED 2,100.

 6. Sri Lanka

 Cities like Colombo are growing in popularity thanks to their tropical landscapes and family-friendly tourism infrastructure. The average ticket price is approximately AED 1,900, and the flight takes about four and a half hours. Both UAE citizens and residents are required to obtain an online Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

 7. India

 Destinations such as Goa and Kochi are becoming increasingly popular among UAE travelers for their unique beaches and cultural experiences. The flight takes approximately four hours, with an average round-trip ticket price of AED 1,300. Both UAE citizens and residents must apply for an Indian eVisa to visit.

 8. Jordan (The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan)

 Jordan continues to attract visitors interested in cultural and religious tourism. The flight lasts no more than three hours, with an average ticket price of approximately AED 2,500. UAE citizens can enter without a visa, while residents are typically granted a visa on arrival or a temporary exemption, depending on their nationality.

 Travel agents recommend booking early, monitoring special offers, and checking updated entry requirements, especially in light of ongoing changes to policies and laws in some of these countries. They note that these destinations represent convenient options for those seeking short, seamless getaways without the complications of long visa processes or extended travel times.