Winter escapes: Top winter destinations from Dubai
- Winter Destinations for Short Trips
- Budget-friendly places
- European Winter Destinations from Dubai
- Warm Winter Holiday Spots
- Tropical Getaways
- FAQs
Dubai’s strategic location and excellent air connections make it the perfect starting point for unforgettable winter getaways. While the city enjoys pleasant temperatures, many residents and visitors dream of experiencing a true winter wonderland. Luckily, it’s easy to find the best winter destinations near Dubai for every budget and liking!
From the powdery slopes of the Swiss Alps to the magical Northern Lights of Scandinavia, a world of winter adventures awaits just a flight away. We’ll explore spectacular winter destinations from Dubai, each offering unique experiences that contrast beautifully with the UAE’s climate.
BEST WINTER TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FROM DUBAI
Most winter destinations from Dubai mentioned here are within a 3 to 9-hour flight radius. This means you spend less time on airport check-ins or the plane and make the most of the available time exploring these beautiful places to go to in winters from Dubai.
Best places for short winter trips from Dubai
Oman: Arabian Nights Come to Life
Just next door, Oman offers a perfect blend of culture, nature and warm hospitality. In fact, one of the easiest places to go to in winters from Dubai is Oman.
Head over to Salalah, one of the best places to visit in Oman from Dubai. Apart from Salalah, must-do experiences in Oman include the following:
- Be awe-struck by the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
- Go dune bashing in the Wahiba Sands
- Cruise through the dramatic Musandam fjords
It would be a good idea to create a list of things to do in Oman while visiting this cheap travel destination from Dubai in the cooler winter months.
- Travel tip: It’s just a hop away – a 1-hour flight or a 6-hour drive. Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival.
- Currency Value: AED 1 = OMR 0.10
Amman, Jordan
Planning weekend winter getaways from Dubai? Visit the historical sites of Petra and Wadi Rum without the usual crowds or experience local cuisine and bustling souks in Amman. Floating in the Dead Sea and historical tours of ancient ruins are popular activities here.
- Travel tip: Direct flights from Dubai (3-4 hours).
- Currency Value: AED 1 = JOD 0.19
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan is one of the most popular weekend winter getaways from Dubai. In fact, it is one of the best places to experience snow near Dubai. The country presents the perfect amalgamation of the old and new, where ancient traditions weave together with modern development, making Azerbaijan a popular tourist hub.
The country offers affordable transportation and accommodation — one of the main reasons residents usually prefer travelling to Azerbaijan from Dubai. Head over to Baku for quirky museums, stunning architecture and many other fun activities.
- Flight Time: 3 hours approximately
- Currency Value: AED 1 = AZN 0.46
Best winter destinations near Dubai for budget travellers
PAKISTAN
Planning low-cost winter trips from Dubai? You might be surprised to see this one on the list, but Pakistan has long been the underdog among winter destinations from Dubai.
A large part of this gorgeous country remains unexplored. The cities are vibrant, the people are friendly, the food is delicious and everything is highly affordable, making it one of the best cheap destinations to travel from Dubai in winter. Plus, you can escape to the snow-capped mountains in Gilgit Baltistan or explore the city’s boisterous bazaars and food streets.
- Flight Time: 2 hours approximately (Karachi)
- Currency Value: AED 1 = PKR 75.96
INDIA
For those seeking budget-friendly winter destinations from Dubai, Gulmarg in the Indian Himalayas is an excellent choice. This hidden gem offers great skiing opportunities amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. Gulmarg experiences cold, snowy winters with temperatures ranging from -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F), ensuring great conditions for winter sports.
Savour delicious Kashmiri cuisine and shop for exquisite local handicrafts like pashmina shawls and intricate woodwork. When in Gulmarg,
- Ski or snowboard on the slopes of Mount Apharwat.
- Take a ride on one of the world’s highest gondolas – Gulmarg Gondola.
- Try heli-skiing for the ultimate adrenaline rush.
- Enjoy a round of snow golf on the world’s highest green.
Taling about other destinations, Goa’s weather is perfect for exploring its unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures. Don’t leave without:
- Marveling at the churches of Old Goa
- Bargain-hunting at the famous Anjuna flea market
- Chasing waterfalls at Dudhsagar Falls
If you are looking for the best places to visit from Dubai in winter, India is the perfect option. You can get superb food, convenient transport and decent accommodations that don’t cost an arm and leg – what else could you ask for? You can find plenty of Indian airlines operating from Dubai.
- Flight Time:
- Fly from Dubai to New Delhi (3 hr 35 min) and then opt for a local carrier to fly to Srinagar (1 hr 40 min). A scenic 2-hour taxi ride will take you to Gulmarg.
- A Dubai to Goa direct flight takes about 3.5 hours.
- Currency Value: AED 1 = INR 23.65
ARMENIA
Wonder if there are budget-friendly destinations from Dubai in winter? Hands down one of the cheapest winter destinations from Dubai within a 5-hour flight radius – Armenia is a popular tourist hub for Dubai dwellers. This magnificent country offers plenty, especially if you’re looking for a holiday nestled in snowy peaks.
Famous for being the world’s oldest Christian country, this place goes all out with celebrations. There are several winter markets in the festive Christmas season in Yerevan, the pink city. Christmas cheer, mountains, and history are all around to make your trip worthwhile. If you love exploring a winter wonderland, start planning to travel to Armenia from the UAE.
- Flight Time: 4 hours approximately
- Currency Value: AED 1 = AMD 106.69
European winter destinations from Dubai
Zermatt, Switzerland
A city in Switzerland kicks off our list of European winter destinations from Dubai. Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is a winter sports paradise that will take your breath away. Dominated by the iconic Matterhorn peak, this car-free village offers a quintessential Alpine experience.
Activities you can enjoy at this winter destination from Dubai include these:
- Immerse yourself in Swiss alpine traditions.
- Ski or snowboard on over 360 km of slopes
- Enjoy a cosy fondue night in a rustic chalet
- Take the Gornergrat railway for panoramic mountain views
- Try winter hiking on well-maintained trails
- Indulge in Swiss chocolate-tasting sessions
- Experience the vibrant après-ski scene with locals and fellow travellers
Zermatt boasts cold, snowy winters with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F), perfect for preserving its world-class ski conditions.
- Travel Logistics: Fly from Dubai to Zurich or Geneva, then take a scenic train journey to Zermatt. The car-free policy ensures a peaceful, pollution-free environment.
- Currency Value: AED 1 = CHF 0.25 (the Swiss Franc)
Lapland, Finland
For truly magical luxury winter escapes from Dubai, head to Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland. Here, you can witness the ethereal Northern Lights and visit the official home of Santa Claus.
Lapland has a subarctic climate, with temperatures often dropping below -20°C (-4°F). Expect abundant snow and the unique phenomenon of polar nights
- Chase the Aurora Borealis on specialised Northern Lights tours
- Stay in a glass igloo or ice hotel for a once-in-a-lifetime experience
- Embark on exhilarating husky safaris through snowy forests
- Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
- Travel Logistics: Fly from Dubai to Helsinki, then take a connecting flight to Rovaniemi or Ivalo.
- Currency Value: AED 1 = EUR 0.26
Tromsø, Norway
Moving forward with winter holiday spots from Dubai, we have the “Paris of the North.” Tromsø is a vibrant Arctic city that perfectly blends nature, culture and winter activities.
Tromsø experiences polar nights from late November to late January, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F). Snow is common, creating a winter wonderland atmosphere.
- Join Northern Lights chasing tours for the best chance to see the aurora
- Go whale watching to spot orcas and humpbacks in the fjords
- Try dog sledging through the snowy Lyngen Alps
- Attend the Tromsø International Film Festival in January
Visit the striking Arctic Cathedral, learn about polar exploration at the Polar Museum and experience Sami culture through local guides when in Norway.
- Travel Logistics: Fly from Dubai to Tromsø with a layover in Oslo or Stockholm.
- Currency Value: AED 1 = NOK 3.06
TURKIYE
Plan to travel to Turkiye from Dubai? Sitting at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, this country will mesmerise you with its traditions, culture and history that date back more than 2,500 years.
While not a traditional winter destination, Cappadocia offers a unique winter landscape that’s equally mesmerising. Its famous fairy chimneys and hot air balloons create a magical scene when dusted with snow. Winters in Cappadocia are cold and occasionally snowy, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F).
Things to do in Cappadocia include:
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the snow-covered landscape
- Explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Hike through the Love Valley or Red Valley in the crisp winter air
- Visit a traditional carpet workshop and witness the art of weaving
Explore ancient underground cities, indulge in a traditional Turkish bath (Hamam) and enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine in cave restaurants. Landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Aspendos Theatre, Blue Mosque and Bodrum Castle are just the beginning of the spectacular sights and activities that await you. Our favourites include the Bosphorus cruise, a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia and shopping in the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.
- Flight Time: 5 hours approximately
- Currency Value: AED 1 = TRY 9.83
GEORGIA
Are you looking for a visa-free winter destination from Dubai? Georgia is the place to be! Cities in Georgia, particularly Tbilisi, light up during Christmas, making December a great time to visit.
Georgia travel requirements from the UAE are fairly simple. If you’re looking for the perfect destination to visit from Dubai in winter, there’s no better option than this.
- Flight Time: 4 hours approximately
- Currency Value: AED 1 = GEL 0.76
BEST TIME TO VISIT
For most of these European destinations from Dubai, December to February offers the best winter experience. However, consider visiting between September and March for Northern Lights viewing in Lapland or Tromsø. Always follow local safety guidelines, especially for winter sports and Northern Lights tours.
WHAT TO PACK FOR EUROPEAN LUXURY WINTER ESCAPES FROM DUBAI?
Well, layers are key! Pack thermal underwear, fleece jackets, waterproof outer layers, warm socks and insulated boots. Don’t forget hats, gloves and scarves.
CURRENCY AND BUDGET:
Research local currencies and exchange rates. While Switzerland and Norway can be expensive, destinations like Georgia offer more budget-friendly options.
Warm winter holiday spots near Dubai
KENYA
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, Kenya is one of the top sunny destinations from Dubai in winter. December to February is an excellent time to make this trip because that’s when the wondrous wildebeest herds begin their migration.
Whether you witness the action in a typical Masai Mara safari or soar up in a hot air balloon to observe it all from the sky, you’re in for the win.
Apart from that, this is an excellent opportunity to experience what it’s like to live in an African savannah. The best part is Kenya offers visas on arrival to more than 130 nationalities – we bet your country is on the list, too!
- Flight Time: 6 hours approximately
- Currency Value: AED 1 = KES 35.03
EGYPT
Egypt is also part of this list of awesome winter destinations to visit from Dubai. An entire world of ancient Egyptian civilisation is begging to be explored, making this one of the unmissable places to visit from Dubai in winter.
Searching for warm winter holiday spots near Dubai? Enter the world of the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, Abu Simbel and the Luxor Temple. Plus, the people are friendly, and the marketplaces are alive with fervour. Don’t forget to carry handy cash; you’ll need it for shopping when you travel to Egypt from the UAE!
- Flight Time: 4 hours approximately
- Currency Value: AED 1 = EGP 13.80
Zanzibar: Where History Meets Paradise
Zanzibar’s weather is perfect for exploring its rich history and lounging on its white-sand beaches. Also, it’s one of the scenic budget-friendly destinations from Dubai in winter.
Can’t-miss experiences:
- Explore the historic Stone Town
- Visit a spice plantation and tantalise your taste buds
- Take a sunset dhow cruise along the coast
- Travel tip: 5 hours from Dubai.
- Currency Value: AED 1 = TZS 702.96
Cape Town: Where City Meets Nature
Cape Town offers a slightly cooler escape with no shortage of adventures.
Top picks:
- Take in the views from Table Mountain
- Walk in Nelson Mandela’s footsteps on Robben Island
- Sip world-class wines in the nearby Winelands
- Getting there: It’s a 9.5-hour journey
- Currency Value: AED 1 = ZAR 5.02
Tropical getaways from Dubai in winter
Are you ready to trade Dubai’s mild winter for some sizzling destinations? We’ve got you covered with some tropical getaways from Dubai in winter. Let’s dive into these tropical paradises that are just a hop, skip and jump away!
Maldives: Your Slice of Paradise
Picture this: crystal-clear waters, overwater bungalows and world-class diving. With an average temperature of 28°C (82°F), the Maldives is calling your name!
Why you’ll love it:
- Pristine beaches that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy
- Snorkelling adventures in technicolour coral reefs
- Luxurious resorts that redefine pampering
- Getting there: A quick 4-hour flight from Dubai, and you’re in heaven. Plus, most nationalities get a visa on arrival. Easy peasy!
- Currency Value: AED 1 = MVR 4.20 (Maldivian Rufiyaa)
Sri Lanka: A Tapestry of Experiences
Dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean,’ Sri Lanka is a paradise for nature buffs and one of the best tropical getaways from Dubai in winter.
The country offers everything from spectacular waterfalls to breathtaking mountains and miles of tea plantations. The temperatures here remain moderate all year round and some gorgeous sandy beaches await you. The inter-city trains will take you almost anywhere you want to be – even the relatively less popular attractions in Sri Lanka!
- Flight Time: 5 hours approximately
- Currency Value: AED 1 = LKR 80.58
Thailand: Where Smiles and Sunshine Abound
From bustling Bangkok to serene islands, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t miss:
- Temple-hopping in Bangkok (hello, Wat Pho!)
- Island-hopping in the stunning Phi Phi Islands
- Haggling at Chiang Mai’s vibrant night markets
- Getting there: 6 hours in the air, and you’re in the Land of Smiles. Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival.
- Currency Value: AED 1 = THB 9.28
Seychelles: Nature’s Masterpiece
Seychelles is a tropical dream come true. Think of pristine beaches, giant tortoises and landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a painting.
Highlights:
- Snap a pic at the Instagram-famous Anse Source d’Argent Beach
- Explore the prehistoric palm forest of Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
- Spot rare birds in their natural habitat
- Travel logistics: Just 4.5 hours from Dubai, and no visa is required for most nationalities.
- Currency Value: AED 1 = SCR 3.92
Mauritius: A Melting Pot of Beauty
Mauritius isn’t just about beaches (although they’re pretty spectacular). Winter months are perfect for exploring its diverse landscapes and cultures.
Adventures await:
- Hike through the lush Black River Gorges National Park
- Marvel at the Seven Colored Earths in Chamarel
- Try your hand at every water sport under the sun
- Getting there: A 6.5-hour flight, and you’re in paradise. Many countries enjoy visa-free entry.
- Currency Value: AED 1 = MUR 12.74
Bali: Island of the Gods
Bali offers the perfect climate for both beach bums and culture vultures.
Your Bali bucket list can include these activities:
- Meet the cheeky residents of Ubud Monkey Forest (The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary)
- Watch the sunset at the iconic Tanah Lot Temple
- Surf, sunbathe and party in Seminyak
- Getting there: It’s a bit of a journey at 9 hours, but the scenery makes up for it!
- Currency Value: AED 1 = IDR 4,452.76
FAQs About the Top Winter Destinations from Dubai
Ready to jet off? We’ve got you covered with these top FAQs to make your winter escape a breeze. Let’s dive in!
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE POPULAR SUMMER DESTINATIONS TO TRAVEL TO FROM DUBAI?
Escape the scorching Dubai summer to cooler destinations. Some of the best summer holiday destinations from Dubai include the gorgeous Maldives, Seychelles, Greece and Armenia.
WHAT ARE SOME POPULAR BUDGET AIRLINES FROM THE UAE?
flydubai, Air Arabia and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi are budget airlines in the UAE that offer affordable international travel to some of the popular destinations across the globe.
WHAT ARE SOME BANNED ITEMS AT DUBAI AIRPORT?
Whether you are travelling to or from Dubai, make sure you don’t possess anything from the list of banned items at DXB Airport. Nobody wants last-minute distress before a much-needed vacation! The list includes several items that should not be in your luggage or hand-carry bag, such as nails, hammers, knives, rope, walkie-talkie, laser gun, measuring tape and packing tape.
What’s the best way to snag great deals on flights and accommodations?
- Be flexible with your travel dates. Mid-week flights often come with a smaller price tag.
- Sign up for airline newsletters. They’ll slide into your inbox with exclusive deals faster than you can say, “Vacation, please!”
- Use incognito mode when browsing. Travel sites can be sneaky with those cookies!
- Consider package deals. Sometimes, bundling your flight and hotel can save you some serious dirhams.
Do I really need travel insurance?
Short answer? YES! Here’s why:
- It’s your safety net for unexpected cancellations or delays.
- Medical emergencies abroad can cost a fortune. Travel insurance has got your back!
- Lost luggage? No problem when you’re insured.
- Some countries might even require it for entry.
Remember, it’s better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it!
There you have it, folks! Ten amazing destinations to beat Dubai’s winter blues. Whether you’re craving pristine beaches, cultural experiences or adrenaline-pumping adventures, there’s something for everyone on this list of the best winter destinations from Dubai.
Remember to check the latest travel requirements before you jet off. But one thing’s for sure – an unforgettable escape awaits you!
We understand that planning an entire holiday can sometimes be stressful, especially if you have demanding jobs or are clueless about where to start. You can book a travel agency in Dubai to help you find the best holiday package on a budget. Just tell them what you want, and they’ll arrange the holiday you need.
With a reliable travel agent taking care of all the bookings, planning and itinerary schedules, you must pack for the trip to easy visa destinations from the UAE.
So, which of these winter destinations from Dubai will you be crossing off your bucket list? Let us know in the comments below.
Disclaimer:
- All flight times mentioned are maximum durations for direct flights. Flight times with one or more stopovers will take longer.
- The currency values stated are based on current exchange rates on the date of publishing – 13th February 2025. They are subject to change with fluctuations in the currency market.
