For those seeking a unique and enriching way to spend their extended break, why not celebrate the long weekend in true Arabic style? The rich traditions of the Arabic world offer activities that cater to all tastes and preferences.
Dubai, synonymous with opulence and innovation, beckons travelers to celebrate the long weekend in true Arabic style. A long weekend in Dubai is an opportunity to leave the routine and immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the Arab world. In this article, we will explore the essence of Arabic celebrations, from traditional festivals to culinary delights, offering insight into how to make the most of your long weekend in a culturally immersive way.
The Spirit of Arabic Long Weekend Celebration:
Arabic festivals include tradition, hospitality, and a diverse cultural history. Arabic hospitality is renowned worldwide and plays a central role in any celebration. The Arabic world knows how to party, from vibrant family gatherings to extravagant public events. Consider adopting the following components that characterize the spirit of Arabic festivity as you begin your long weekend:
The Charm of Dubai’s Long Weekend:
Dubai, strategically located at the crossroads of the East and West, is a melting pot of cultures, making it an ideal destination for a culturally immersive long weekend. The city’s dynamic atmosphere is amplified during extended breaks, with residents and visitors indulging in festivities that showcase the best of Arabian hospitality.
Places to Travel Near Dubai for a Long Weekend
Dubai recently changed its weekend from Friday and Saturday to Saturday and Sunday. Fortunately, a lot of national holidays fall on weekends in 2025. There are plenty of places just a short flight away from Dubai. Here are some places to visit near Dubai for the long weekend:
1. Eid Al Fitr (End of Ramadan): – March 31st to April 2 2025 – Monday to Wednesday
Bosporous Bridge Istambul
Destinations to go in and around the UAE : – Dubai in April offers a sweet period between pleasant and scorching. You can take part in the grand festivities of the city in this shoulder season and then plan an exciting road trip. Visit the Madinat Jumeirah, City Walk, Oman, Azerbaijan, and Saudi Arabia.
Where should you go – Istanbul, Turkey
Why you should visit – A quick flight from Dubai transports you to the magical crossroads
of Europe and Asia , – Istanbul. Dive into the city’s rich history by visiting the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, marveling at their architectural grandeur. Visit the bustling Grand
Bazaar to haggle for Turkish treasures. Cruise the Bosphorus to witness the city’s skyline and
the iconic Maiden’s Tower. Enjoy a traditional Turkish meal at a waterfront restaurant,
followed by a visit to the Topkapi Palace or the Basilica Cistern before bidding farewell to
this transcontinental city.
Travel Time: 5-hour flight
2. Arafat Day :May 30, 2025 – Friday and Eid Al Adha : May 31 to June 2, 2025– Saturday to Monday
Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Destinations to go in and around the UAE – With four days’ holiday, you can travel to faraway
places. You can travel to Norway, Greece, the United Kingdom, and Mauritius.
Where should you go – Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Why you should visit – Begin your day in Stone Town, strolling through tiny lanes lined
with spice merchants, old buildings, and bustling bazaars. Visit the Sultan’s Palace and the
Old Fort. Proceed to the Forodhani Gardens to sample the local street food. Relax on the
gorgeous beaches of Nungwi or Kendwa in the afternoon, where you may snorkel and swim.
Capture the sunset before enjoying a seafood dinner on the beach. Travel time: 5 hours flight
3. Al Hijri (Islamic New Year) – June 27, 2025 – Friday
Zayed Mosque Ras Al Khaimahh
Destinations to go in and around UAE – Consider a staycation in one of the luxurious
resorts in Palm Jumeirah. Take a road trip to Jebel Jais, Abu Dhabi, or Ras Al Khaimah.
Where should you go – Baku, Azerbaijan
Why you should visit – Make the most of the long weekend by visiting Baku, the capital of
Azerbaijan. Start your tour by visiting the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs
in the Old City. Stroll along the Caspian Sea Boulevard. Explore the Heydar Aliyev Center’s
collection of artifacts or savor the local street food. In the evening, visit the futuristic Flame
Towers, illuminated against the night sky.
Travel time: 3 hours flight
4. Birthday of Prophet Mohammad (Mawlid al-Nabi) – September 1, 2025 – Monday
Ar Rahmah Mosque by the red sea in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Destinations to go in and around the UAE – Book an overnight stay in the Dubai desert. Explore Yas Island and Dalma Island.
Where should you go – Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Why you should visit – Jeddah, in Saudi Arabia, is renowned for its cosmopolitan
atmosphere. The historic district of Al-Balad is home to vibrant souks, traditional coral
houses, and mosques. The Corniche offers a beautiful view of
the lively Jeddah Waterfront and the Floating Mosque. Jeddah is a fascinating travel
destination because of its vibrant arts and culture scene, elegant shopping centres, and wide
variety of food options.
Travel time: 3 hours, 20 minutes flight
5. Commemoration Day: December 1, 2025 – Monday and UAE National Day: December 2 and 3, 2025 – Tuesday and Wednesday
Museum of the Future, Dubai
Destinations to go in and around the UAE – You can immerse yourself Dubai’s festivities
by visiting the Al Fahidi Historic District. Visit the Museum of the Future, Madinat Jumeirah,
and Dubai Frame. The long weekend allows you to visit places like Italy, Jordan, Greece, and
Zanzibar.
Where should you go :- Victoria, Seychelles
Why should you visit – The Seychelles is a breathtaking group of islands. Explore the Vallee
de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin Island, home of the Coco de Mer palm. Relax on the
pristine beaches of Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, surrounded by lush greenery. The place also boasts exotic marine life. Enjoy activities like rock climbing, snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, etc. Have a Creole dinner overlooking the Indian Ocean, savoring the tranquility of the Seychelles’ natural beauty.
Travel time: 4-hours 30 minutes (flight)
Things to do on a Long Weekend in Dubai
Explore the Cityscape
Begin your long weekend adventure by exploring Dubai’s iconic cityscape. The glittering skyscrapers, world-class shopping malls, and vibrant souks await your exploration. Dive into the heart of the city’s culture by visiting the historic Al Fahidi district, home to the Dubai Museum and charming wind-tower architecture.
Feast on Culinary Delights
Arabic cuisine is a feast for the senses with its tantalizing aromas and bold flavors. Take advantage of the long weekend to explore the culinary delights of the Arab world. Plan a trip to Dubai in June during Eid Al Adha and you’ll find the entire city filled with delicious aroma. Visit a nearby Arabian restaurant and sample traditional Arabic cuisine, including falafel, shawarma, and hummus. Participate in the age-old tradition of dining with loved ones to foster a sense of belonging and unity. As you unwind with loved ones, embrace the Arabic tradition of enjoying mint tea or Turkish coffee. Have aromatic drinks like chai, Moroccan mint tea, or saffron-infused tea.
Journey into the Desert: Nature and Adventure
For an immersive Arabic experience, consider taking a day trip into the desert. Arrange an Arabian desert safari Dubai tour to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the sandy landscapes. Engage in thrilling activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, or camel riding, allowing you to connect with the natural elements that have shaped Arabic cultures for centuries. As the evening unfolds, traditional Bedouin-style camps welcome you with open arms. Enjoy a feast under the starlit sky while enjoying live music and performances like belly dance, Tanura dance, and a fire show. Capture the essence of true Arabic style as you sip Arabic coffee and flavored shisha in a setting that transports you to a bygone era.
Learn Art and Calligraphy
Arabic calligraphy is a unique artistic expression deeply rooted in culture. Explore this beautiful art form by attending a calligraphy workshop. Create personalized pieces with meaningful Arabic phrases or your name in exquisite calligraphy, adding a touch of elegance to your space. Enjoy a show at Dubai Opera or Le Perle by Dragone.
Enjoy the Traditional Music and Dance
Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of Arabic music and the captivating movements of traditional dances. Seek out local performances or organize a music and dance night with friends. Learn a few basic steps of dances like the Dabke, a folk dance popular in many Arab countries, and let the energy bring everyone to their feet.
Explore Arabic Markets
Bring the charm of Arabic markets to your weekend by visiting local bazaars or souks. Revel in the vibrant atmosphere as you browse through stalls filled with spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Pick up unique souvenirs or ingredients for your culinary experiments, allowing the spirit of the market to infuse your long weekend with authenticity.
Indulge in a Spa Session and Cultural Reflection
A long weekend is the ideal time for self-care and reflection. Unwind in true Arabic style by indulging in a spa day with traditional Middle Eastern treatments. Many spas offer experiences inspired by ancient Arabic rituals, such as hammam sessions and aromatic oil massages. Allow the soothing scents and gentle touches to transport you to a world of relaxation and tranquility.
Rediscover History with a Visit to Museums and Heritage Sites
Arabic culture boasts a rich history. Make the most of the extended weekend by learning more about the rich cultural heritage and history of the Arab continent. Visit historic sites that provide an insight into the Arabic world’s architectural and cultural past. Visit local museums or cultural centers showcasing artifacts, art, and interactive exhibits. Engage in discussions about the contributions of Arab scholars, scientists, and artists to the world, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for this culturally diverse region. Engage with literature from the Arabic world, whether it is classic poetry, contemporary novels, or philosophical works. Join online discussions or local book clubs to share your thoughts and gain insights from others.
Yacht Cruise
Do you wish to take a break from the commonplace and seek for opulent long weekend getaways in Dubai? A yacht cruise along the captivating skyline of Dubai is a must do activity. One can spend quality time swimming, sunbathing, and relishing the cooling beverages. Moreover, there are several yacht rental companies that offer amazing and catchy discounted rates and hence one can party and enjoy the luxury!
Beach Day
Spend a leisurely day at the picturesque Dubai beaches like JBR & Kite Beach. The dazzling JBR beach has everything from beach clubs and diners to watersports like parasailing to jet skiing. Kite Beach is more suited to families with children as they have playgrounds for kids and food trucks. Furthermore, these two places are equipped with facilities such as restrooms, showers, and sunbeds to ensure that visitors have a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
Cruise Dinner
Eid or an extended weekend in Dubai calls for a culinary experience or two. In case you have not dined aboard a dhow cruise dinner, then you should do so. This 2.5-hour cruise along the Dubai Canal offers good food, breathtaking views of the skyline, and live entertainment, making it exquisite in every sense of the word.
Other Activities
In a long weekend, there is, in fact, a great span of things to do in Dubai. For the lovers of cinema, the outdoor cinemas of Dubai are a good experience. Or do something different that has been on your ‘to-do’ list for quite some time, such as delve into sculpting and photography. Road trips to best destinations in the UAE are some of the things one enjoys doing in Dubai especially during long weekends. Also go on adventure Dubai day trips in Hatta or laze around the beach resorts found in Fujairah.
Tips to Spend Dubai' Long Weekend
A long weekend offers the ideal chance to unwind, rejuvenate, and relax. To help you make the most of your long weekend, consider these suggestions:
1) Plan: Schedule your weekend activities well in advance.
2) Explore Local Gems: Consider exploring nearby attractions or places you have not visited. It could be a local park, museum, hiking trail, or a charming cafe. Discovering hidden gems in your own area can be surprisingly refreshing.
3) Disconnect with devices: Take a break from your digital devices. Disconnect from work emails and social media to fully enjoy your time off. This break can contribute significantly to your mental well-being.
4) Go Outdoors: If weather permits, engage in outdoor activities. Spending time outside, whether on a bike ride, a picnic, a nature walk, or a beach day, will help lower stress levels.
5) Attempt Something New: Use the additional time to start a new hobby or attempt an activity you have always wanted to try. It could be cooking a new recipe, learning a musical instrument, or taking a dance class.
6) Enjoy Culinary Delights: Plan a dinner night and try a new restaurant. Food has a way of bringing joy, and a long weekend is a great excuse to indulge in some culinary delights.
7) Pamper Yourself: Treat yourself to a spa day. Relaxing massages, facials, or even a simple bubble bath can do wonders for your well-being.
8) Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones: Spend the long weekend with friends or family and plan activities everyone can enjoy.
Dubai is renowned for its commitment to innovation and continuous expansion. For those visiting, there are exciting newest attractions for tourists in Dubai that promise unparalleled experiences, such as the Dubai Creek Tower, Dubai Harbour, Aladdin City, Ain Dubai, and many more. As you celebrate the long weekend in Dubai, the city unfolds a panorama of experiences that seamlessly blend tradition with the excitement of the future. Celebrate the long weekend by embracing the enchantment of Arabic customs and creating memories with people you love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. How can I infuse Arabic style into my weekend meals?
Explore the culinary delights of Arabia by trying your hand at cooking traditional dishes like hummus, falafel, and tagine. You can visit local Arabic restaurants to experience the authentic flavors of the cuisine.
2. Are there any recommended Arabic-themed activities for a staycation?
Transform your home into an oasis of Arabian Nights with themed decorations, traditional music, and activities such as calligraphy or henna painting and traditional dances like the Dabke.
3. Where can I experience the charm of Arabic markets during the long weekend?
Seek out local bazaars or markets that feature Arabic influences. Explore stalls filled with spices, textiles, and handicrafts to add an authentic touch to your long weekend experience.
4. How can I balance relaxation and cultural exploration during the long weekend?
Plan a well-rounded itinerary that includes both restful activities and cultural exploration. Whether attending a local festival, exploring a museum, or enjoying a quiet moment with a good book, finding balance ensures a fulfilling long weekend.