Saturday, May 24, 2025
UAE travelers are increasingly seeking out unique, lesser-known destinations for their Eid Al Adha 2025 holidays, moving away from overcrowded hotspots like Paris, Bangkok, and Rome. While classic favorites such as the Maldives, Italy, and France remain popular, there’s a growing appetite for off-the-beaten-path adventures, from mountain climbing and cruise vacations to stays in sustainable hotels and immersive local experiences.
According to recent travel trends, UAE holidaymakers are exploring a diverse range of destinations stretching from Europe to Asia and Africa, including Switzerland, Japan, South Africa, Singapore, and South Korea. Within these countries, travellers are increasingly avoiding major cities in favour of quieter towns and regions that offer authentic culture and natural beauty.
Closer to home, cities such as Jeddah, Riyadh, Abha in Saudi Arabia, and Salalah in Oman are gaining traction for their blend of accessibility and unique local charm. Wellness tourism is also on the rise, with a notable increase in demand for yoga retreats, spa treatments, and holistic healing experiences in destinations like Thailand’s Chiang Mai and Phuket, Bali, India’s Kerala and Rishikesh, and Switzerland’s luxury wellness resorts.
Below is a curated list of the top 10 unusual destinations capturing the imagination of UAE travelers in 2025, complete with travel cost insights. Whether you’re seeking serene mountain landscapes, rich cultural heritage, or pristine beaches far from the crowds, these destinations promise memorable and meaningful Eid holidays.
As more UAE travellers look beyond the usual tourism hotspots for their Eid Al Adha holidays in 2025, a fresh wave of interest in unusual, less crowded destinations is reshaping holiday planning. From the mystical mountains of Bhutan to the rugged coastline of the Faroe Islands, travellers are eager to explore places where authenticity, natural beauty, and unique cultural experiences await.
Bhutan: The Kingdom of Gross National Happiness
Bhutan’s enchanting landscapes and commitment to preserving tradition make it a standout for travellers seeking spiritual and scenic solace. Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan offers visitors a chance to hike through pristine forests, visit ancient monasteries, and witness a culture that prioritizes well-being over economic gain.
Reaching Bhutan typically involves flying via Delhi to Paro, with round-trip flights from Dubai averaging around Dh4,959 in early June. Accommodations such as the Willing Resort and Le Meridian Thimphu provide comfortable bases for exploring this serene kingdom.
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan: Asia’s Switzerland
Known as Asia’s Switzerland, Bishkek boasts snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. It’s a gateway to nomadic culture, horseback riding, and untouched nature—perfect for adventurous travellers.
Flights from Dubai to Bishkek start at about Dh1,835, with luxury stays at Hyatt Regency Bishkek or more budget-friendly options like Urban Hotel.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A Cultural and Historical Treasure
Ethiopia’s capital is rich in history and natural wonders. Visitors can explore ancient rock-hewn churches in Lalibela, dramatic mountain ranges in the Simien Mountains, and archaeological sites in Aksum.
Round-trip flights from Dubai range between Dh2,040 and Dh2,289. Accommodations like Monarch Parkview Hotel and Sapphire Addis Hotel offer varied price points.
Amman, Jordan: Gateway to History and Nature
Amman is the perfect starting point for exploring Jordan’s rich heritage. Beyond the famed Petra, travellers can enjoy the Dead Sea and lesser-known northern sites.
Flights from Sharjah to Amman start around Dh1,225 with options such as Crowne Plaza Amman and Radisson Blu nearby.
Almaty, Kazakhstan: Urban Life Meets Mountain Majesty
Almaty blends city sophistication with natural splendor. Visitors can hike the Tian Shan mountains, relax by Big Almaty Lake, and immerse themselves in Kazakh culture.
Round-trip flights from Dubai cost about Dh2,735, with hotels like Hotel Uyut Almaty and Kazakhstan Hotel offering excellent stays.
Nepal Beyond Everest: Annapurna and Chitwan
While Mount Everest draws many, Nepal’s Annapurna region and Chitwan National Park offer equally spectacular scenery and wildlife with fewer crowds.
Flights to Kathmandu start near Dh1,710, with accommodations ranging from the cozy Nirvana Boutique Hotel to the upscale Kathmandu Marriott.
Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia: Temples and Tranquility
Known for its dramatic cliff-top temple Prasat Preah Vihear, this province offers a quieter alternative to Angkor Wat’s bustling crowds.
Flights to nearby Siem Reap start around Dh3,928, and lodging options include Koh Ker Hotel and I AM Koh Ker.
The Azores, Portugal: Atlantic Island Escape
This volcanic archipelago is a nature lover’s dream, offering crater lakes, hot springs, and whale watching. It’s ideal for travellers seeking relaxation and adventure off the mainland.
Round-trip flights from Dubai to Lisbon start at Dh4,975, with hotels like The Linz Azores and VIP Executive Azores Hotel welcoming guests.
Faroe Islands, Denmark: Remote North Atlantic Wilderness
Famous for dramatic cliffs and green hills, the Faroe Islands offer a rugged, peaceful retreat. Due to limited flights, travel requires multiple stops, with flights averaging Dh6,621.
Visitors can stay in homestays or hotels like Peddastova or Hotel Føroyar for a truly local experience.
Why UAE Travelers Are Choosing These Hidden Gems
Increasingly, UAE travellers are drawn to destinations that offer more space, authentic experiences, and opportunities to connect with nature and local culture. Wellness activities like yoga, spa treatments, and holistic therapies also feature prominently, reflecting a desire for meaningful and restorative holidays.
Emerging travel trends show a preference for sustainable tourism and regional exploration, with nearby Saudi Arabia and Oman gaining popularity for their unique cultural offerings and accessible luxury resorts.
Whether it’s the Himalayan serenity of Bhutan or the rich historical tapestry of Ethiopia, these unusual destinations provide a fresh alternative to the crowded cities that have long dominated global travel.
Final Thoughts
Eid Al Adha 2025 promises to be a time for discovery, with UAE travelers embracing the call of the less-traveled path. From Asia’s serene mountains to the rugged beauty of the North Atlantic, the world is opening up with unforgettable places waiting to be explored. Planning ahead and considering these off-the-beaten-track destinations can lead to enriching experiences that go beyond the ordinary, offering lasting memories and a deeper connection to the places and cultures visited.
