Are you a UAE resident craving to set off on an international vacation? But do you also not want to go through the elaborate visa processes and paperwork? Well! You are in luck since there are more than 100 visa-free countries for UAE residents. From exotic beaches and cultural sites to bustling cities and wildlife adventures, you can plan a last-minute trip to a fantastic destination. While it may not possible to list down all the nations, let’s look at some of the best options for you to travel on your next long weekend.
Azerbaijan
Though Azerbaijan is an Islamic nation, it blends various cultures like Turkish, Iranian, and Soviet Union beautifully, thus offering visitors a different experience. Azerbaijan boasts of an enchanting landscape in the middle of the Caspian Sea and Caucasus Mountains. Be it mud volcanoes, flaming mountains, imposing mosques, walled fortresses, or crystal-clear lakes, Azerbaijan houses all the hidden gems of nature and more. The capital city of Baku is one of the most sought-after places with several well-known attractions and is a must-visit.
Sri Lanka
The island nation of Sri Lanka is full of pristine beaches, cave temples, verdant national parks, historical museums, and beautiful lakes. It is also an excellent place for whale watching and countless water activities. If you are looking for a relaxed break in a seaside destination, this is where you should head. Sigiriya, Yala National Park, The Dambulla Cave Temple, Galle, Adam’s Peak, and Nuwara Eliya are some of the top attractions in this country.
Malaysia
Another country that boasts of a dynamic cultural diversity is Malaysia, in Southeast Asia. UAE residents are eligible for a Malaysia Evisa, so it is a cakewalk to travel to this beautiful country and not just stopover using a Malaysia transit visa. Malaysia has some of the most remarkable highlights like the Petronas Twin Tower, Batu Caves, Langkawi, Taman Negara National Park, KL Tower, Sunway Lagoon theme park, and Malaka Historic City.
Jordan
Another Middle Eastern nation to join this list is Jordan, the land of ultimate UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The capital of Amman is a hilly region brimming with trendy restaurants, cafes, incredible art galleries, and classy shopping malls. The lunar-like landscape of Wadi Rum, with granite rock and sandstone cliffs, is another crowd-puller. And how can we forget Petra, Jordan’s crowning glory and also one of the wonders of the modern world.
Thailand
Thailand, the “Land of Smiles”, reminds us of magnificent Buddhist temples, lush national parks, full moon parties, colourful floating markets, and untouched islands. If you are a foodie, there is no better place than Thailand to relish lip-smacking street food. UNESCO Heritage sites like Ayutthaya and Sukhothai Historical Parks, with their rich history and captivating ruins, add to the entire fascination of this charming country.
Singapore
Like Dubai, Singapore is also often referred to as a playground for the rich and wealthy. This dazzling metropolis has wonderfully used cutting-edge technology to offer some mind-blowing attractions like the Gardens by the Bay and robots at the Sentosa Islands and Jewel Changi Airport. But they also place a lot of importance on their culture and tradition. You must plan a trip at least once to this innovative nation. If you have a relative or friend, you can request an Invitation Letter for a Singapore Visa or follow the regular process. SEA Aquarium, Universal Studios, Singapore Zoo, Little India, Singapore Flyer, China Town, Clarke Quay, and Marina Sands Bay are some other incredible highlights here.
South Korea
Whether you want to see bustling cities or charming villages, Buddhist monuments or royal palaces, majestic mountains or unexplored islands, South Korea ticks all the boxes with its attractions. A land where rulers and kingdoms have changed hands multiple times, South Korea has a deep-rooted history and fascinating cultural heritage, lip-smacking food, and colourful festivals all rolled into one.
Egypt
With a history that dates back to 3100 BC, there are no prizes for guessing that Egypt is one of the oldest civilizations on the planet. Just hearing its name conjures many vivid images – of the iconic and imposing Pyramids and the mysterious Sphinx to the vast golden sands of the Sahara Desert and the marvellous and glistening River Nile. It is astounding that this country houses some of the most captivating attractions you must visit at least once in your lifetime. You can also hike to the summit of Mount Sinai, scuba dive in the depths of the Red Sea, set off on a Nile cruise, and marvel at the fascinating temple complexes and ruins of Karnak, Luxor, and Aswan.
Indonesia
With more than 18,000 islands, Indonesia is undoubtedly the largest archipelago globally and features one of the Evisa countries for UAE residents. Whether it is Jakarta’s hustle-bustle or Bali’s serene ambience, the country is steeped in wonderful history and unparalleled natural beauty. This is another country that caters to every kind of traveller, as it is filled with adventure, nature, culture, history, and wildlife. Tana Toraja, Mount Bromo, the splendid beaches of Bali, Komodo National Park, Ubud Monkey Forest, Jatiluwih Rice Fields, and Lake Toba are some of the most visited places in the country.
Morocco
Morocco has an old-world charm, and a holiday here feels like you have stepped back in time. Whether it is the stunning backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, pretty coastal villages, mountains bordered by fortress walls, towering dunes, and vibrantly painted towns, combine the best African and Arab worlds. The lively cities of Marrakesh and Casablanca, the lovely coastal town of Essaouira, and the cultural city of Fez are places you must not miss on your holiday.
Bahrain
Known as the pearl region back in the day, Bahrain is even today known for its unmatched quality of pearls and gemstones. Like any other Middle Eastern region, Bahrain also has several beaches, souqs, forts, parks, and museums that you can visit. Also known as the Kingdom of Bahrain, this tiny Arab island nation comprises 33 islands on the Persian Gulf’s western coast.
Georgia
Another fabulous country in the Caucasus region to join this list is the breathtaking country of Georgia. A trip here takes you back to the ancient days with pretty villages, towns, and narrow lanes filled with nature’s bounty. Georgia boasts a fantastic collection of grand monasteries, medieval fortresses, magnificent mountains, rolling hills, mysterious caves, and rocky beaches.
Conclusion
UAE residents can travel to many more countries and enjoy an ideal vacation. But it won’t be possible to list down the best features of each one of them. However, depending on what kind of destination you prefer, you can research and plan a vacation to any one of these places.
Nilkanth Patil is a passionate writer with an impressive background in travel and has experience in the fields of visa consulting and customer service. He combines his expertise in these fields with his love of writing viewing it as both a hobby and a way to share his perspectives on topics that fascinate him.