According to global travel data provider OAG, Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the second busiest airport in the world as of March 2024. In 2023, DXB already surpassed its pre-pandemic passenger traffic, flying around 87 million passengers. One major reason behind DXB’s busyness is Dubai’s proximity to Asia, Europe and Africa. This connectivity has allowed tourism to thrive in the city — while letting locals and foreigners alike to make quick getaways to short travel destinations from Dubai.
Looking for destinations that are a few hours away from the city? Here are ten options.
Doha, Qatar
Estimated flight time: 1 hour
Doha, the Qatari capital, is a quick one-hour flight from Dubai. It’s the ideal place if you want an art- and culture-rich getaway. The city is known for its museums, including the National Museum of Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Art. The Ned, a popular choice for accommodation, is a piece of art itself. The hotel, boasting a striking brutalist architecture, once housed the Ministry of Interior. It is also home to an exclusive art collection featuring Qatari artists.
For a unique artistic experience, take a trip to the desert and be in awe at remarkable installations. These include the towering steel plates of Richard Serra’s “East-West/West-East” and the mirrored rings of Olafur Eliasson’s “Shadows Travelling on the Sea of the Day”. Beyond the arts, you can visit retail shops and water parks and try different desert excursions.
Muscat, Oman
Estimated flight time: 1 hour
Flying over the Hajar Mountains, you will reach the Omani capital of Muscat. Alternatively, you can drive from Dubai to reach the city. Once there, you will be spoiled for choice for comfortable and luxurious accommodations.
Beyond those, Muscat boasts several attractions. These include the exquisite Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the aromatic stalls of Mutrah Souq. Meanwhile, Mutrah Corniche stretches three kilometers along the waterfront and is dotted with restaurants, cafes and markets. It’s a good spot if you want to have stunning views of Oman Port and the Hajar Mountains. If you’re a culture vulture, visit the Royal Opera House. If you’re more of a nature enthusiast, visit Wadi Bani Khalid, known for its emerald pools and lush palm trees.
AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Estimated flight time: 3 hours
A portal to the past, AlUla in Medina, Saudi Arabia, is considered the world’s largest living museum. Together with the neighboring oases of Khaybar and Tayma, this ancient trade hub has great historical and cultural significance.
For instance, Hegra, designated as Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest preserved site of the Nabataean civilization south of Petra. Beyond its Nabataean tombs, you can explore the Ashar Valley’s Maraya and the ancient inscriptions of Jabal Ikmah. With its otherworldly sandstone mountains and a sprawling oasis of over two million date palms, AlUla offers a breathtaking backdrop that merges natural beauty with archaeological marvels.
Amman, Jordan
Estimated flight time: 3 hours
If you have a penchant for historical travels, include Amman on your bucket list. Though it’s known as the gateway to the iconic Petra, it has its own charms. You can visit archaeological sites like the Citadel and the Roman Theater. Moreover, you can indulge in a unique gastronomic experience that offers Jordanian and Levantine cuisine.
From Amman, you can choose several day-long excursions. These include a journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra. Pro tip: Try the Petra by Night experience, available every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday to enjoy the ancient city under the stars. The landlocked salt lake of the Dead Sea is another must-visit.
Jaipur, India
Estimated flight time: 3 hours
Jaipur, known as the Pink City, is the capital of India’s state of Rajasthan. Salmon-hued and a feast to the senses, the city is known for its royal palaces, vibrant markets and tantalizing street food. If you want to marvel at its architectural wonders, these are some of the best places to go: the iconic Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal, the peacock doors of the City Palace, and the 16th-century Amber Fort located just outside the city. The Albert Hall Museum, Rajasthan’s state museum, is another interesting visit beyond the city.
Craving adventure? Nahargarh Fort lets you soak in breathtaking views of the South Asian city from above. To go there, gear up for a thrilling trek or bike ride. People recommend visiting at sunset to see the city shine in beautiful orange hues.
Read: Places to visit in Abu Dhabi
Tbilisi, Georgia
Estimated flight time: 3.5 hours
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, uniquely bridges Europe and Asia and sits along the historic trade route called the Silk Road. Thanks to its strategic location, the city has become a unique melting pot of cultures.
Many food lovers flock here for various culinary delights, including the indulgent khachapuri, savory khinkali dumplings and pkhali (a purée of vegetables with garlic, walnuts and pomegranate seeds). If you shop at the Dry Bridge flea market, you’ll find a treasure trove of vintage finds like antique crystals and tea sets. Off the beaten path, the Chronicle of Georgia will let you witness the country’s rich history and artistic ambition. Though incomplete, the “Georgian Stonehenge” remains jaw-dropping.
Beirut, Lebanon
Estimated flight time: 4 hours
Beirut is the capital city of Lebanon and is considered the Paris of the Middle East. Here, you will enjoy a good mix of vibrant city life and ancient allure, making it one of the most sought-after short travel destinations from Dubai. Beit Kanz is a meticulously restored historical landmark that will give you a glimpse into the city’s craft heritage. Meanwhile, the Sursock Museum showcases art and history. If you want to enjoy a lively atmosphere, head to Gemmayze and Mar Mikhael. These cool neighborhoods have some of the best restaurants and bars in the city.
Want to get closer to nature? Pigeon Rocks or Raouché Rocks should be in your itinerary. It’s a well-known natural landmark in Beirut located in the Mediterranean Sea. Beirut Corniche, a lovely seaside promenade, is a great place to unwind.
Cairo, Egypt
Estimated flight time: 4 hours
One of the world’s oldest wonders, Cairo is home to the iconic Pyramids of Giza. After seeing these pyramids (or if you’ve already seen them), you can venture to the stepped pyramid at Saqqara and the Bent Pyramid at Dahshur for a deeper dive into ancient architecture. As the city sits along the historic Nile River, consider a water taxi ride on the river to see Cairo from a different perspective. You can also try stand-up paddleboarding on its waters.
You also don’t want to miss walking to Souk Al-Goma’a, the largest souk in Cairo. The souk sells many protected animals, such as Egyptian snakes, barn owls, tortoises, monitor lizards and even eagles.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Estimated flight time: 4 hours
For a peaceful, breathtaking retreat, Kathmandu is the place to visit. Set against the majestic Himalayas, the city is also one of the most exotic global destinations.
From the historic Durbar Square to the bustling alleys of Thamel, the city has several attractions that immerse you in its culture. Traditional momos (steamed filled dumplings) and Newari cuisine are also a must-try. A trip to the Sagarmatha National Park is worth an excursion. Sagarmatha (the Nepali name of Mount Everest) is home to the tallest mountain on earth.
Malé, Maldives
Estimated flight time: 4 hours
Azure waters, overwater bungalows and vibrant corals. These are some of the best things you can find in the Maldives. The archipelago boasts many beautiful islands, but its capital, Malé is one of the most popular.
While the island, surrounded by the Indian Ocean, is blessed with tranquil beaches, there is much more to explore. For instance, the Grand Friday Mosque embodies Maldivian religious and architectural grandeur. As the largest mosque in the country, its stunning design features pure white marble and a gleaming golden dome, making it an unmissable sight.
Final thoughts
Beyond these ten unique short travel destinations from Dubai, there are many more places to visit for a quick escape.
For instance, Bahrain boasts a rich history, while the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek offers natural beauty. If you’re looking for a tropical paradise, Mahé in Seychelles is the destination to visit. For a coastal vacation, consider Larnaca in Cyprus.
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