UAE residents are gearing up for a three-day break at the end of August, creating an ideal opportunity for a quick summer escape before schools reopen and regular routines return.
With Friday, August 28 declared a public holiday to mark Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday, residents who normally have Saturday and Sunday off will enjoy a three-day weekend through August 30.
For those looking to make the most of the break, options range from short international flights and Oman road trips to affordable UAE staycations.
Short international trips from the UAE
A number of travel companies are offering short-break packages to destinations including Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkey and Thailand.
Three-night packages are available from roughly Dh1,200 to Dh3,000 per person, depending on the destination, hotel and services included.
Georgia remains an attractive option for UAE travellers seeking a relatively short international getaway. The country recorded more than 145,000 visits from GCC markets in 2025, according to the Georgian National Tourism Administration.
Its combination of mountain landscapes, nature, city experiences and relatively short flight times has helped maintain its popularity among Gulf travellers.
Salalah offers a cooler road-trip alternative
For families willing to spend more time on the road, Salalah in southern Oman offers a very different summer experience during the Khareef season.
The drive from Dubai is roughly 1,200km each way, putting the total round trip at around 2,400km to 2,500km.
Depending on the vehicle, fuel consumption and accommodation, a family of four could expect to spend approximately Dh3,000 to Dh4,500 on the journey, including fuel, hotels, meals, border-related expenses and activities.
Popular attractions around Salalah include Wadi Darbat and Mughsail, while the upcoming Salalah Eye is also expected to add another attraction for visitors.
Travellers who prefer to avoid the long drive can also look at flight-and-hotel packages, with some offers starting at around Dh1,499.
Musandam for a shorter Oman escape
Residents looking for an easier cross-border trip can consider Musandam, often described as the “Norway of Arabia”.
Khasab and the surrounding Musandam region offer mountain views, coastal scenery and dhow cruises, making the area suitable for a short weekend break.
Some packages have been listed from around Dh250, while self-drive options allow travellers to plan their own itinerary.
With three days available, residents could leave Dubai on Thursday evening, spend one or two nights in the region and return before work resumes.
UAE staycations for a hassle-free break
Not everyone wants to spend the holiday travelling. For residents who prefer to stay within the UAE, hotels and resorts across the country are offering summer deals.
Some hotel offers start at less than Dh200, while travel listings show average staycation prices of around:
- Ras Al Khaimah: Dh300
- Dubai: Dh375
- Abu Dhabi: Dh450
- Al Ain: Dh495
- Ajman: Dh500
- Umm Al Quwain: Dh590
- Fujairah: Dh600
Actual prices can vary depending on the property, room category, meals, activities and booking dates.
For a more distinctive UAE getaway, residents can also consider Sir Bani Yas Island, offering an island experience without the need for an international flight.
Planning the August holiday
The August 28-30 break gives UAE residents a relatively short window to take a summer holiday before schools reopen and the usual work and family schedules resume.
Whether the preference is a three-night international trip, an Oman road adventure or a quiet hotel stay closer to home, travellers have several choices across different budgets.
Those planning to travel should check flight and hotel prices early, particularly for popular destinations, and confirm entry requirements, insurance and border procedures before setting off.
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