7 unusual getaways less than 4 hours from Dubai to travel to this long weekend
The upcoming long weekend is the perfect opportunity to trade Dubai’s glittering skyline for an unforgettable getaway—and you don’t need to venture far to experience something extraordinary.
Whether you’re craving pristine beaches, misty mountains, or cities rich in culture and history, these seven destinations are all just a short flight away, each offering a unique escape from the ordinary.
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Image credits: Photo by Tharoushan Kandarajah, Jalitha Hewage on Unsplash
A Tapestry of Culture, Jungle, and Coast
Just four hours from Dubai, Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital, Colombo, serves as the perfect gateway to an island brimming with natural beauty and cultural treasures. Beyond the city’s colonial architecture and bustling markets, the real magic lies in the countryside.
Picture yourself sipping freshly brewed Ceylon tea while overlooking endless emerald tea plantations, or boarding the iconic Kandy-to-Ella train, a journey that winds through misty hills, past cascading waterfalls, and into the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush highlands. For the adventurous, a sunrise climb up Sigiriya Rock—an ancient fortress rising dramatically from the jungle—is a must, rewarding hikers with panoramic views. If relaxation is the priority, the south coast’s golden beaches, like Dalawella, offer swaying palms and tranquil waters. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, spotting elephants on safari, or simply unwinding at a boutique tea estate, Sri Lanka blends adventure and serenity effortlessly, making it the perfect destination this Eid Al Adha.
Kannur, India
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Kerala’s Best-Kept Secret
For those who’ve already experienced Kerala’s famous backwaters, Kannur—just a three-and-a-half-hour flight from Dubai—offers a quieter, more authentic slice of South India. This coastal gem was once a hub of the spice trade, and its history lingers in the Portuguese and Dutch forts that dot the shoreline. St. Angelo Fort, perched overlooking the Arabian Sea, is a highlight, its weathered walls whispering tales of colonial conquests. Nearby, Muzhappilangad Drive-In Beach invites a unique experience: cruising along the sand with the waves lapping at your tires. Culture enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Theyyam, a mesmerizing ritual dance performed in temples across the region, where elaborately costumed dancers channel deities in a trance-like spectacle. And no visit is complete without indulging in Malabar cuisine—think fragrant seafood curries, fluffy appams, and rich, coconut-infused stews. For a truly serene stay, The Raviz Kadavu offers backwater villas and Ayurvedic spa treatments, ensuring total relaxation.
Kathmandu, Nepal
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Where Chaos Meets Enlightenment
A mere four-hour flight transports you to Kathmandu, a city that assaults the senses in the best possible way. The air hums with the scent of incense, the chatter of market vendors, and the rhythmic chants from ancient temples. Start your journey in Durbar Square, a UNESCO-listed maze of palaces and shrines where sadhus (holy men) and street sellers create a living tapestry of Nepali life.
Nearby, the monkey-filled alleys of Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) offer panoramic views of the city, while the massive stupa of Boudhanath draws pilgrims and visitors alike to its peaceful, prayer-flag-draped courtyard. For a taste of local flavor, Thamel’s labyrinthine streets are packed with cozy cafés serving steaming bowls of momos and hearty dal bhat. If the urban energy becomes overwhelming, a short trip to the Chandragiri Hills provides respite, with cable cars leading to breathtaking Himalayan vistas—on clear days, even Mount Everest is visible. Kathmandu is a city that demands patience, but those who embrace its chaos leave with unforgettable memories.
Tbilisi, Georgia
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A Feast for the Senses
Georgia’s charming capital, just over three hours from Dubai, is a dream for foodies, history lovers, and design enthusiasts alike. Meander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, where ornate wooden balconies lean over hidden wine bars and sulfur bathhouses emit plumes of steam. The culinary scene alone is worth the trip—indulge in khachapuri (cheese-filled bread boats), succulent khinkali dumplings, and pkhali (walnut-studded vegetable pâtés). For a dose of history, the Narikala Fortress offers sweeping city views, while the Dry Bridge Flea Market is a treasure trove of Soviet-era relics, vintage jewelry, and quirky antiques. Stay at the Stamba Hotel, a stylish conversion of a former printing house where books line the walls and the vibe is effortlessly cool. With its mix of old-world charm and modern creativity, Tbilisi is a city that lingers in your heart long after departure – a supreme choice for this Eid al Adha.
Larnaca, Cyprus
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Sun, Sea, and Ancient History
Just four and a half hours from Dubai, Larnaca combines Mediterranean relaxation with fascinating history. The city’s coastline stretches for 75 kilometers, offering sandy beaches where you can kitesurf, dive to shipwrecks, or simply soak up the sun. The iconic Hala Sultan Tekke, a serene mosque perched on the edge of Larnaca Salt Lake, is a must-visit, especially in winter when flocks of pink flamingos descend upon the waters. History buffs will appreciate the Church of Saint Lazarus, a stunning 9th-century Orthodox church said to house the tomb of Lazarus himself. For a taste of traditional Cypriot life, wander the old Turkish quarter, where bougainvillea-draped houses hide cozy tavernas serving mezze feasts of halloumi, grilled octopus, and slow-cooked lamb. With its blend of beachside bliss and cultural depth, Larnaca is the ideal Eid retreat.
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
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Central Asia’s Unsung Gem
Four hours from Dubai lies Bishkek, a city where Soviet grandeur meets nomadic spirit. Wide boulevards lined with towering oak trees lead to bustling bazaars, where vendors sell everything from fresh honey to handwoven shyrdak rugs. Ala-Too Square, the city’s heart, is flanked by the imposing State Historical Museum, its Soviet-era mosaics telling Kyrgyzstan’s complex story. Art lovers should seek out Gallery M, a contemporary space showcasing local painters and sculptors. For a taste of the countryside, take a day trip to Ala-Archa National Park, where alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks provide a stunning backdrop for hiking. Bishkek’s café culture thrives too—stop by a traditional chaikhana (tea house) for steaming bowls of laghman noodles and endless cups of fragrant green tea. With its mix of urban energy and wild nature, Bishkek is a refreshingly off-the-radar escape.
Mahé, Seychelles
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Paradise in Just Over Four Hours
For those craving pure tropical bliss, Mahé—the largest island in the Seychelles—is just over four hours from Dubai. Picture powder-soft beaches framed by granite boulders, turquoise waters teeming with marine life, and lush rainforests alive with rare birds. Spend your days snorkeling in Anse Intendance, hiking through Morne Seychellois National Park, or browsing the vibrant stalls of Victoria’s market, where vanilla pods and fresh coconuts abound. Luxury resorts like the Four Seasons offer overwater villas and private beaches, while boutique guesthouses provide a more intimate experience. With its year-round sunshine and laid-back island rhythm, Mahé is the ultimate Eid escape for sun-seekers and romantics alike.
This long weekend, skip the usual destinations and venture somewhere new—whether it’s the misty hills of Sri Lanka, the spice-scented streets of Kannur, or the sun-drenched shores of Cyprus. Each of these escapes promises adventure, relaxation, and memories to last long after the holiday ends. All you need to do is choose your favorite and pack your bags!
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