You don’t have to travel that far for incredible views, stunning landscapes, historical sites and a good dose of relaxation. We selected a few destinations nearby offering desert, mountain and beach spots that will transform your few days off into unforgettable travelling memories.
JORDAN
The country blends ancient history and vibrant nature, with must-see places like the lost city of Petra, Wadi Rum for Jeep safaris, camel rides, luxury domes, traditional Bedouin camps, and the Dead Sea for floating in very salty waters. For geological enthusiasts, Dana Biosphere Reserve has an impressive selection of limestone, sandstone and granite formations.
If you are into hiking, the Jordan Trail is a 675km long-distance route running from Umm Qais in the north to Aqaba on the Red Sea. It passes through diverse landscapes, ancient history and local culture, connecting iconic sites like Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. It is divided into eight sections and it takes about 40 days to complete.
The best time to visit is spring and autumn, when the days are pleasantly warm and the nights are cool. Light clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are must-pack items. A shawl could be a handy accessory, and comfy, sturdy shoes are a must for walking on uneven terrain.
WHERE TO STAY
Memories Aicha Luxury Camp. In the heart of Jordan’s Wadi Rum Desert, this hotel is a great Eid eco-escape offering a Mars like experience. The domes have a transparent roof, allowing you to watch the stars from your bed. During the day, you can take in all the beauty of a true Arabian desert surrounded by mountains.
Grand Mercure Petra. The elevated fortress-style hotel sits in the hills of the Rift Valley, a 10-minute drive from the historic site of Petra. It combines stunning views with modern amenities, such as a heated indoor pool. There are 90 renovated hotel rooms and suites with balconies and terraces to enjoy the vistas of this striking place.
MAURITIUS
Famous for its volcanic landscape, this country offers idyllic beaches such as Flic-en-Flac, Troux aux Biches and Belle Mare, with fluffy white sand and calm waters. It’s a great destination for those who enjoy watersports and diving. Home to diverse marine life and extensive coral reefs, you can enjoy the underwater world in the popular snorkelling/diving spot: Blue Bay Marine Park.
However, if you prefer to keep your feet on land, you can appreciate the beauty of the volcanic peaks such as Le Morne Brabant, revel in the grandeur of the Tamarin Falls, or observe the Seven Coloured Earths’ geological formations. For adventure, you can hike in the Black River Gorges National Park or enjoy a stroll in a botanical garden like the Pamplemousses Gardens. The wildlife is another highlight of this country; it was home to the now-extinct dodo bird.
Despite its stunning scenery, Mauritius is not only a destination for lovers of natural beauty but also for those seeking an exciting and unique cuisine. The culinary scene is influenced by its diverse cultural background, a blend of African, Chinese, Dutch, French and British influences, resulting in dishes that mainly showcase fresh seafood and local, unique spices.
SLEEPING IN PARADISE
Constance Hotels & Resorts is a Mauritian brand with four properties in the country, and many others across the Indian Ocean. We highlight two of them: Constance Belle Mare Plage, the brand’s first property to open, and C Mauritius Palmar, from its sister brand, C Resorts.
Constance Belle Mare Plage is a leading hospitality destination in the country and ideal for families seeking a pampering experience. With seven restaurants, six bars and two championship golf courses, it offers much more than just a relaxing time. At C Mauritius Palmar, the focus is on fun, from a musical shower resembling a giant jellyfish to oversized swings overlooking the ocean. The resort’s all-inclusive concept ensures guests can focus on relaxation and enjoyment without worrying about the details.
OMAN
One thing people might not realise about this country is that it is actually not that small. Muscat is the capital, with many attractions such as Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muttrah Souq and Corniche and the Royal Opera House. If you drive south of Muscat for about 90 minutes, you reach the impressive Bimmah Sinkhole with beautiful, clear water for a swim.
There are many beaches and resorts to explore in the capital; however, if you want a water-centred destination with lush greenery, Salalah is the place to visit. It offers white-sand beaches and wadis, such as Wadi Darbat, for an authentic desert oasis experience. You also find seasonal waterfalls and serene lakes that attract abundant wildlife. Marneef Cave near Al Mughsail beach is famous for its sea caves and incredible blowholes.
For those who prefer hilly scenery, Jabal Akhdar is a mountainous region, part of the Hajar Mountains, known for its cooler climate and the need for a 4×4 vehicle to access its plateau. Reaching over 2,000m above sea level, with its highest point, Jebel Shams, at 3,018m, it offers breathtaking views and abundant greenery at such an altitude. It’s composed of hidden wadis, rock formations and several historic, often abandoned, ancient cliffside villages.
HOLIDAY ABODES
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort is on the verge of the mountain range with 82 canyon view rooms and 33 private pool villas. With a viewing platform where Princess Diana once stood to admire the stunning vista. The Anantara Spa offers traditional Thai healing therapies in this mountain sanctuary. The hotel also offers many trips and adventures in the surrounding area.
Alila Hinu Bay is a short drive from Salalah airport, located in Mirbat. It sits at the base of Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve. The hotel offers customised experiences designed to integrate indigenous nature, traditional culture and local community. An array of land and ocean activities, such as a 4X4 adventure in the Empty Quarter (one of the world’s largest continuous sand deserts spanning four countries: Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE and Yemen) or scuba diving.
RAS AL KHAIMAH (RAK)
The northernmost Emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), an hour’s drive from Dubai, is not as well-known as its popular neighbours, but it is getting its turn in the spotlight in recent years. Its diverse landscape includes mountains, beaches and deserts with a strong focus on outdoor activities. It blends adventure (home to one of the world’s longest ziplines) and history, with many new hospitality destinations attracting more tourists to this corner of the UAE.
You can hike in the Jebel Jais mountains and visit Al Jazira Al Hamra Heritage Village, Dhayah Fort and learn about traditional pearl diving at Suwaidi Pearls. The Emirate is trying to position itself as a regional adventure hub. The Jais Flight zipline is located atop Jebel Jais, with a length of 2.83km at a height of 1,680m above sea level. The ride offers breathtaking views of the Hajar mountain range (a vast system stretching across the northeastern Arabian Peninsula) and takes you across deep ravines and canyons. The whole experience takes about three minutes, reaching speeds up to 150km/h.
The best time to visit is between October and April (winter and spring) for the best weather to enjoy the outdoor activities. Choose modest clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen. A light jacket for cooler evenings is a good idea.
HOTELS AND RESORTS
Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah is a family beach resort nestled between desert dunes, pristine beaches and striking mountains. The resort offers an all-inclusive stay with many attractions, such as a 1.5km private beach, seven swimming pools, including a saltwater pool, a full-service spa and a Sports Club.
SO/ Ras Al Khaimah is one of the brand-new properties in the Emirate, located 90 minutes from Dubai. Set against the Arabian Gulf coastline, it has 257 stylish rooms and suites, each offering uninterrupted sea views. Guests can choose from seven room categories, from the intimate SO/ Collection Sea View to the expansive Signature Club with private pool and beach access.
SAUDI ARABIA
This GCC country is still finding its spot in the sun when it comes to becoming a popular holiday destination. However, its vast land, unique landscapes and a more relaxed approach to its visa policies have been putting Saudi Arabia on many people’s travel lists. Ranked the 13th-largest country in the world (depending on the source, some say 12th), it has a lot to offer. From AlUla and its dramatic sandstone formations to the Red Sea, a tectonic rift where the African and Arabian plates meet, creating a deep basin.
The government has invested heavily to increase tourism in the country. The capital, Riyadh, is a hub for businesses and a destination for food enthusiasts, with well-known names in the market such as Carbone and Zuma. Jeddah is a port city with an important historical role on the Red Sea, with a modern, cosmopolitan vibe. It is also a gateway to the Islamic holy cities of Mecca and Medina. The long coastline is home to vibrant coral reefs.
If you plan to visit, bear in mind that the cities and regions are far apart, and the connections between them are yet under development. It’s better to stick to one destination and explore the surrounding beauty. Also, don’t forget that it is still a culture opening up to the rest of the world. Be mindful and respectful.
PLACES TO STAY
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is set on the private island of Ummahat in the Red Sea. It offers an intimate escape where natural beauty and refined luxury come together. The property embodies the brand’s philosophy of creating one-of-a-kind destinations that celebrate the environment they inhabit through thoughtful design and intuitive service. It invites guests to reconnect with nature with morning strolls by the sea and starlit evenings.
The Chedi Hegra in AlUla is located on the former Hegra Railway station, a historical project from 1907. The hotel’s transformation honours the original railway structures, meticulously preserving natural and historical integrity. Guests are just moments away from Hegra’s rock-carved tombs. The resort’s 35 luxurious guest rooms and villas, thoughtfully designed with the region’s heritage in mind, provide panoramic views of the sweeping desert landscape.