4 unforgettable Eid escapes less than 4 hours from Saudi

Ramadan officially began on March 11, and this means that many people are beginning to look ahead and start planning for the Eid al-Fitr holidays.

Eid al-Fitr is set to fall on April 10, although this will be confirmed close to the date by the Moon Sighting Committee. If Eid al-Fitr falls on April 10, it is expected that a public holiday will be announced from Tuesday April 9 until Sunday April 14.

If you are eager to plan a memorable getaway for the Eid al-Fitr holiday, but don't want to travel too far, here are four destinations to discover within four hours or less of travel time of Saudi.

For Aqua Adventurers

Oman

Hours from Riyadh: 2 hours, 20 minutes (direct flight)
Hours from Jeddah: 3 hours (direct flight)

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Just a quick hop, skip and jump from Saudi, Oman offers the ideal oasis of escape: sun, sea and top-notch service. If you're looking for tropical blue waters, plenty of sealife, and secluded beaches, look no further than Oman's Ad Dimaniyat Islands.

Its also well worth exploring Oman's wadis, enveloped by rugged, rocky terrain, towering cliff sides, and lush greenery, these picturesque valleys are often punctuated with crystal-clear pools nestled amidst rocky formations offer tranquil spots for swimming.

Hotel Recommendation: The Chedi Muscat – a GHM hotel
Activity Recommendation: Be sure to include a visit to a wadi in your itinerary, take in the scenery as you hike to either Wadi Shab or Wadi Bani Khalid. After your hike, take a refreshing dip in the cool, clear waters of the wadi and cool off.

For History Buffs

Jordan

Hours from Riyadh: 2 hours, 30 minutes (direct flight)
Hours from Jeddah: 2 hours, 10 minutes (direct flight)

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An ideal destination for history enthusiasts, Jordan offers visitors a captivating journey through ancient civilisations - and is home to one of the ancient Wonders of the World, Petra. Discover the iconic rose-red city of Petra, carved into the rock by the Nabateans over 2,000 years ago, to the majestic ruins of Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy. Escape to and explore the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum, where Lawrence of Arabia once roamed, or wander through the ancient city of Umm Qais, with its striking Greco-Roman ruins.

Hotel Recommendation: Kempinski Hotel Aqaba Red Sea
Activity Recommendation: Floating effortlessly in the waters of the Dead Sea

For a Taste of Something New

Georgia

Hours from Riyadh: 3 hours, 15 minutes (direct flight)

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Slightly offbeat but becoming an increasingly popular destination, Georgia is nestled at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Arab world but offers visitors stunning natural beauty, a rich history, and a vibrant culture. A visit to Georgia can take any path you wish as the country is filled with diverse experiences waiting to be discovered, from skiing in the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus Mountains to indulging in the therapeutic sulfur baths of Tbilisi and exploring the ancient streets of Mtskheta: whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a culinary enthusiast, Georgia promises an unforgettable journey filled with discovery.

Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Kazbegi
Activity Recommendation: Ride one of the world's steepest funiculars, the Tbilisi Funicular links the Georgian capital to the scenic Mtatsminda Plateau, and also makes for a unique and picturesque mode of transport.

For City Slickers

Dubai

Hours from Riyadh: 2 hours (direct flight)
Hours from Jeddah: 2 hours, 40 minutes (direct flight)

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A bustling metropolis, Dubai's city skyline includes towering skyscrapers, futuristic architecture and the tallest building in the world and is the perfect destination for those seeking the hustle and bustle of New York without the hefty number of hours in the air. Dubai offers visitors an unmatched blend of opulence and excitement, from sprawling shopping malls and Cirque du Soleil performances to Michelin Star dining experiences and unique activities (including a ski slope inside a mall!)

Hotel Recommendation: The Lana
Dinner Recommendation: Trèsind Studio (2 Michelin Stars)
Activity Recommendation: Glass Sky Slide: Slide down from floor 53 to 52 with views of Downtown Dubai