UAE Summer Getaways: Beat Heat, Visa Hassles

UAE Travel Trends for Summer 2025: Escaping Heat and Visa Issues

Summer 2025 presents unique challenges for UAE residents: visa appointments for the Schengen area are only available by mid-August, and appointments for US visas must be booked quarters in advance. Meanwhile, the Eid Al Adha holiday is approaching, offering a potential four-day break from June 5 to 8, prompting residents to seek alternative destinations beyond the usual European spots.

Why are UAE travelers looking for new destinations?

Traditional popular destinations like the United Kingdom, Switzerland, France, Germany, and Italy are less accessible this year due to delays in visa processing. Therefore, UAE residents now prefer destinations that are quicker and easier to reach, with pleasant climates and minimal visa processing requirements.

Nearby regions, such as Salalah in Oman and the Aseer region in Saudi Arabia, have become particularly popular, especially in the post-Hajj period. These destinations offer convenient e-visa options while the temperatures are more comfortable.

Popular visa-friendly summer getaways

Among travelers from GCC countries, the following destinations have come to the forefront:

Salalah, Oman: Welcoming visitors with lush green mountains and refreshing breezes during the famous Khareef season.

Aseer and Abha, Saudi Arabia: Mountain air and a rich cultural heritage.

Zanzibar, Bali, Japan, Nepal: Far-flung but smooth in terms of visa processing.

Georgia, Almaty (Kazakhstan), Armenia, Tashkent (Uzbekistan), Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Seychelles, Trabzon and Antalya in Turkey: All are either visa-free or offer visas upon arrival, providing diverse landscapes from beaches to mountains and lush green environments.

Affordable packages and prices

According to travel agencies, a 4-night, 5-day all-inclusive package (including flight, accommodation, transfers, and activities) is available from as low as 2,200 dirhams. For instance:

Tbilisi, Georgia: Mountain air and cultural diversity, with an average airfare of around 1,375 dirhams.

Yerevan, Armenia: E-visa or visa-free entry, with an average airfare of about 850 dirhams.

Baku, Azerbaijan: Cosmopolitan atmosphere and Caspian Sea breeze, a refreshing alternative to the desert heat.

Why are more people choosing hidden gems?

Following global post-COVID trends, UAE residents aim to avoid crowded tourist hubs and instead explore lesser-known locations. Travelers are planning more proactively, often 4–6 months in advance, opting for flexible and refundable options and considering multiple destinations if visa issues prevent their primary choice.

Summary

Summer 2025 in the UAE is not just about temperature, but also about flexibility and seeking new opportunities. Travelers are advised to book early, think of alternative destinations, and take advantage of visa-friendly or visa-free locations. Whether it's mountain walks, beach relaxation, or cultural adventures, there are many beautiful places in the world waiting for UAE travelers—perhaps closer, quicker, and more affordably than expected.

(Source of the article is based on UAE travel agencies' announcement.)