Budget destinations attract UAE travellers during Eid al-Adha holidays

As the Eid Al Adha holiday approaches, travellers from the UAE are increasingly turning their attention to budget-friendly destinations amid rising travel costs and growing interest in affordable tourism that balances lower expenses with enjoyable experiences. This trend is being supported by the expansion of low-cost flight options and the continued recovery of the UAE’s aviation sector.

Gulf Today contacted several travel agencies to map out the most attractive low-cost destinations during the Eid holiday period. The survey reviewed round-trip airfare and four-star hotel accommodation costs for travel between May 24 and May 30.

Some destinations for UAE travellers

Round-trip airfares from Dubai to Salalah start at Dh1,150, while flights to Egypt begin at Dh1,700. Tickets to Thailand start from Dh3,550, and Armenia from Dhs2,100. Meanwhile, six-night hotel stays in Thailand start at Dh650, India at Dhs450, Georgia at Dhs600, and Armenia at Dh750. In Azerbaijan, hotel rates start from Dhs650, reflecting the wide range of affordable travel options available during the Eid season.

Arab destinations

Salalah remains one of the leading nearby low-cost holiday destinations thanks to its mild weather and lush green landscapes. Round-trip airfares from Dubai during Eid Al Adha start at Dhs1,150, while four-star hotel stays for six nights (excluding dinner) range from Dhs550 to Dhs1,600.

Jordan offers a well-rounded tourism experience close to the UAE, combining history and nature at moderate costs. Airfares during the holiday period start from Dh1,600, while six-night stays in four-star hotels range from Dhs800 to Dhs3,800.

Egypt continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for UAE travellers due to its proximity and affordable prices. Flights start at around Dhs1,700, while six-night stays in four-star hotels in Alexandria begin at Dhs1,000 and can go up to Dhs2,700.

Asian destinations

Thailand stands out as one of the top Asian destinations combining affordability with diverse tourism experiences. Round-trip tickets start from Dhs3,550, while six-night stays in four-star hotels range from Dhs650 to Dhs5,400.

India also remains among the most diverse destinations in terms of tourism options. Airfares to Indira Gandhi International Airport start at Dhs2,150, while hotel accommodation ranges between Dhs450 and Dhs3,500.

Eastern European destinations

Georgia is one of the most popular nearby destinations for UAE residents, particularly because residents can enter without a visa. Travel prices start from Dhs3,300, while six-night hotel stays begin at Dhs600 and can reach Dhs7,000.

Armenia also offers visa-free entry for UAE residents, with travel prices during Eid Al Adha starting from Dhs2,750. Hotel stays for six nights begin at Dhs700 and can rise to Dhs8,000.

Meanwhile, Azerbaijan grants UAE residents visas on arrival. Flights from Dubai during the Eid period start from Dhs2,800, while six-night stays in four-star hotels range from Dhs1,000 to Dhs7,500.

Tips for an affordable holiday

According to travel experts, choosing low-cost destinations depends on several strategies, most importantly selecting countries with a lower cost of living and close geographic proximity, as well as destinations offering easy or visa-free entry to reduce expenses and procedures.

Experts also recommend opting for budget-friendly accommodation such as mid-range hotels and serviced apartments, while using price comparison platforms to secure the best deals.

To reduce daily spending, travellers are advised to use public transport, avoid expensive tourist hotspots, and take advantage of free activities such as parks, beaches, and open tours. Flexibility in travel dates also plays a key role in lowering costs, especially when travelling outside peak periods and during midweek days.