9 great value Eid escapes in the UAE
As Ramadan comes to an end, we’re all preparing for Eid celebrations – and the sudden jump in prices that come with it. But if you’re looking for a quick escape this weekend, we’ve got it covered. Luxurious island retreats, city pads and beachside breaks, here’s our ShortList of staycations to suit every budget.
Sheraton Grand, Dubai
Sheraton’s hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road does prime location without the eye-watering price tag. Ideal for shoppers and foodies, this is the ideal cash pad for an action packed Eid.
Eid: The Stay For Free is AED500 for the night, and the hotel will give you AED500 in credit to spend in the restaurants or spa.
Details:
Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa, Dubai – Editor’s Pick
There aren’t many hotels in Dubai that can describe themselves as ‘boutique’, but Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa is the antidote to the mass-market hospitality industry. The adults-only resort is rustic, understated and extremely luxurious, with Bedouin style villas, private pools, and desert as far as the eye can see.
Eid: Stay for three nights, pay for two. Rates start at AED2,800 for a Bedouin suite including breakfast, lunch, dinner and two desert activities.
Details: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai – Al Ain Road, 800 0441 3231,
Fairmont, Ajman
Fairmont Ajman is relitevely new addition to the emirate. Just 30-minutes outside Dubai, the beachfront hotel has 200 metres of private sand reserved for guests. Most of the modern rooms come with unbeatable views of the Arabian Gulf, making it a fantastic spot for a mini break.
Eid: Enjoy an upgrade to the next available room or suite. Prices from AED625 per night.
Details: Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street, + 971 6 701 5757,
Millennium & Copthorne, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Oman & Fujairah
This range of hotels are great for those looking for an affordable escape this Eid. All have fantastic outdoor pools, and the Abu Dhabi property’s location makes it a perfect base for shopping trips at the nearby malls.
Eid: The Eat For Free package gives guests two complementary meals per day.
Details:
Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi
It’s difficult to believe that Sir Bani Yas Island is just off the coast of Abu Dhabi. The small island is home to flamingos, lagoons and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Al Yamm, on the eastern shore, is a romantic escape for those looking to feel worlds away from home.
Eid: From AED1,800 for an overnight stay and breakfast for two.
Details: Sir Bani Yas Island, +971 2 801 5400, www.al-yamm.anantara.com
Tila Liwa Hotel, Abu Dhabi
Although this is one of the more basic hotels on the list, the Arabian style, huge expanse of desert and plentiful activities make it a favourite amongst UAE residents. We highly recommend taking the hotel’s quadbikes out for a spin.
Eid: An overnight stay, breakfast, dinner, camel ride, and room upgrade for AED699.
Details: Madinat Zayed, +971 2 894 6111, www.tilalliwahotels.com
