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Did you know that almost 88% of the UAE’s population comprises the expat community? People from all over the world come to this Middle Eastern country for better jobs and livelihood. The tax-free salaries and an advanced lifestyle are a few reasons people uproot themselves from this country. Plus, there are numerous benefits of having a UAE resident status. Several countries open their doors to UAE residents by altering their visa requirements. As the UAE has several short and long public holidays throughout the year, residents find numerous opportunities to travel around. Here, we present the top 10 international destinations that UAE residents must visit.
#1 Malaysia
A visit to Malaysia from the UAE will take you from the vast deserts to the lush green rainforests filled with wildlife. This Southeast Asian country is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant cities, and multicultural society. Be it the modern towers of Kuala Lumpur, the colonial charm of Penang, the tropical island of Langkawi, the gorgeous tea plantations of Cameron Highlands, the wildlife and rainforests of Borneo, or the UNESCO heritage town of Melaka, there is plenty to see and do in Malaysia.
Visa Requirements: UAE residents are eligible for an online Malaysia visa from Dubai. The Malaysia e-visa is a multiple-entry visa for up to 30 days.
Flight Time: 7+ hours
#2 Georgia
Georgia is a country located at the crossroads between Asia and Europe. Known to be one the oldest country in the world, the history of Georgia is around 8000 years old. A tour of its capital city, Tbilisi, would give you a glimpse into its rich history. But the reason most people visit Georgia is its natural beauty. The mountain villages of Kazbegi, the coastal city of Batumi, the skiing mountains of Gudauri, the sprawling vineyards of Kakheti, and the ancient cave town of Uplistsikhe are some things awaiting you in Georgia.
Visa Requirements: Residents of the UAE can enter Georgia and stay in the country for 90 days (maximum) without a visa.
Flight Time: 3+ hours
#3 Maldives
If you want to take a break from the deserts and cities of the UAE to soak in the beauty of nature, there is no better place than the Maldives. Endowed with turquoise blue waters, pristine white-sand beaches, rich coral reefs, and unparalleled landscapes, the Maldives is a dream holiday for many. To make your Maldives holiday extra special, book an overwater villa to be surrounded by unspoiled nature while being wrapped in luxury. The Maldives is also a great place to indulge in snorkeling and scuba diving.
Visa Requirements: UAE residents are eligible for a 30-day visa on arrival in the Maldives.
Flight Time: 4+ hours
#4 Saudi Arabia
If you do not have time for a long holiday but still want to go on a holiday, Saudi Arabia would be the perfect choice. A Middle Eastern country not far from the UAE, Saudi Arabia is known for its dramatic landscapes, modern cities, and archeological attractions. Visit the capital city, Riyadh, for its modern structures and cultural museums; Jeddah for its beaches; AlUla for its UNESCO World Heritage Site; and Abha for its hanging villages and misty mountains.
Visa Requirements: UAE residents can apply for an online multiple-entry Saudi visa from Dubai, which is valid for a year. With this e-visa, you can stay in the country for 90 days.
Flight Time: 2+ hours (Road trip from UAE to Saudi will take around 11 hours)
#5 Singapore
The tiny city-state of Singapore is ideal holiday destination if you want to vacation in a city. Its modern attractions, juxtaposed with the natural ones, make Singapore unique. Some of the iconic landmarks and attractions you must check out here are Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road, and more. For a thrilling wildlife experience, visit the Singapore Night Safari and the Singapore Zoo. Ethnic pockets like Little India, Chinatown, and Arab Street are also worth visiting.
Visa Requirements: Most UAE residents are eligible for Singapore e-visa, which is valid for around two months.
Flight Time: 7+ hours
#6 Azerbaijan
Another country that lies between Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan brings together the east and the west perfectly. The most popular place to visit in Azerbaijan is Baku, its capital known for the view of the Caspian Sea and its futuristic design. During your visit to Azerbaijan, you must go to Gobustan to see its mud volcanoes, Gabala for its natural landscapes and adventure park, and Sheki for its charming vibe complete with cobbled streets. If you are visiting during extreme winters, you must go to Shahdag for skiing and snowboarding fun.
Visa Requirements: Residents of the UAE can apply for an Azerbaijan e-visa.
Flight Time: 3+ hours
#7 Thailand
Unique culture, pristine beauty, amazing underwater life, and delicious food are a few of the things that attract people to Thailand. This Southeast Asian country is known for its ancient temples, fascinating Thai culture, scenic beaches, and magnificent landscapes. While Bangkok is known for its modern vibe and architecture, Chiang Mai is popular for its temples and elephant sanctuaries. Visit Pattaya for its pulsating nightlife, Ayutthaya for its ancient ruins, Phuket for its beaches and water sports, and Krabi for its enchanting islands.
Visa Requirements: Thailand e-visa for 15-30 days is available for UAE residents.
Flight Time: 6+ hours
#8 Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, the tiny tear-drop island in the Indian Ocean, offers a rustic allure with scenic surroundings, making for the perfect leisure holiday. Rich in history, culture, and picturesque charm, this place offers plenty to see and do. Colombo’s temples and modern structures, the rolling hills and tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, the Buddhist Temple in Kandy, the Nine Arches Bridge in Ella, and the Dutch colonial architecture of Galle make it worth visiting.
Visa Requirements: UAE residents can enter Sri Lanka with an ETA or Electronic Travel Authorization, which is available online. It lets you stay in the country for 30 days.
Flight Time: 4+ hours
#9 Japan
Japan is where tradition and technology meet. This Asian country is home to futuristic and technologically advanced cities while continuing to preserve its ancient traditions and heritage. A visit to the capital city of Tokyo is a must to check out its cutting-edge buildings and architecture, while a visit to Kyoto allow you to enjoy its culture with bamboo forests, shrines, and tea houses. Mount Fiji, Hiroshima, Nara, Hokkaido, and Osaka are other must-visit places in Japan.
Visa Requirements: UAE residents must apply for a Japanese visa before traveling to the country. The visa is usually valid for three months.
Flight Time: 9+hours
#10 Armenia
A West Asian country in the Caucasus Region, Armenia is an ancient country with a long, deep, and interesting history. A landlocked country, Armenia is most famous for its mighty mountains, making hiking one of the best things to do here. Yerevan is usually the first place people visit while holidaying in Armenia. The pink-stone buildings, the stunning architecture, and the lively markets and cafes of the city make it an interesting visit. Dilijan, Lake Sevan, Geghard Monastery, Garni Temple, etc., are the places you should visit in Armenia.
Visa Requirements: UAE residents can visit Armenia with an e-visa.
Flight Time: 3+ hours
Conclusion
The best part about going on a holiday as a UAE resident is the accessibility. The UAE’s international airports are some of the busiest airports in the world, with direct flights to almost all countries in the world. So, which one of these places would you like to visit on your next holiday? Do let us know in the comments.
