Arabia & Middle East Holidays

Scorching Arabia has a hot and balmy climate all year round, but it always depends on the specific region you wish to visit. Generally, the cooler months from November to March boast more comfortable temperatures for travel, as summers can get extremely hot. The best time to visit Dubai spans from September to March. September is much warmer with average temperatures of 30°C, dropping to 20°C by Jan.

If you love basking on the beach, you may wish to visit the country in May and June. July and August are the hottest months of the year, with a sultry climate and drastic temperatures of around 40°C. Most travellers tend to visit Dubai between September and May.

The diversity of the Arabian region makes it a hub for a wide range of things to see and do, from desert safaris to iconic modern architecture and an abundance of sensational, one-of-a-kind attractions.

The Burj Khalifa in Dubai, standing at an impressive 828 metres tall, is a must-see attraction that represents the heart and soul of the city, offering gob-smacking views from its observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors.

The Dubai Mall is the world's largest shopping destination, spanning over 1 million square metres (equivalent to 200 football pitches) and featuring over 1,200 retail stores, 70 signature outlets, a designer avenue with famous international brands, and the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, as well as a large cinema and Olympic-sized ice rink.

For adrenaline junkies, Dubai offers the unique experience of indoor skiing at the Mall of the Emirates, where visitors can hit the slopes surrounded by the mall's productive shoppers.

Jumeirah Beach, also known as Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), is a picturesque, pearly-white paradise offering much more than just its turquoise waters. Conveniently located near the Dubai Mall and Marina, JBR provides easy access to an array of shops and restaurants. On the beach itself, visitors can soak up the sun while admiring views of the iconic Burj Al Arab, watch an array of water sports, and enjoy thrilling fairground rides. It's worth noting that Jumeirah Beach is only accessible to women and children on Mondays.

For those seeking wind-based activities, Kite Beach is a must-visit destination. Its spacious, aquamarine waters provide ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Visitors can hire equipment from the Fun Beach Water Sports and Stand-Up Paddle Boat and Kayak Rental, or take lessons at one of the many surf schools lining the shore. After working up an appetite, sun-kissed restaurants can be found nearby, and the Aqua Park Leisure offers even more family-friendly fun.

Reflecting the rich cultural and historical influences of the region, Arabian cuisine is a kaleidoscope of diversity. Common dishes include rice paired with succulent roast meats like lamb or chicken, seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and cardamom. Kabsa, a celebrated speciality, features fragrant rice adorned with meat and vegetables, infused with nutmeg, cinnamon, saffron, and loomi (sun-dried black limes). Another beloved dish is shakshuka, featuring poached eggs nestled in a creamy tomato sauce with a kick of heat. During Ramadan, Jareesh, also known as Harees, is a favourite—a hearty blend of wheat, rice, and meat, seasoned to perfection. For a delightful treat, sample Matabaq, a Saudi Arabian delicacy consisting of a stuffed pancake or pan-fried bread filled with savoury or sweet ingredients. And no Arabian culinary journey is complete without having a cup of gahwa, Arabic coffee steeped in tradition and often served during social gatherings.

Arabian culture is deeply rooted in Islamic and Arab traditions, spanning across 22 countries in the Arab world. Its essence lies in a rich tapestry of history and hospitality, where social customs emphasize values like honesty and modesty in everyday interactions. Family holds paramount importance in Arabian society, reflecting a strong bond and commitment to tradition. Across different regions, you'll find unique variations in traditional music, dance, and cuisine, each showcasing local flavors and customs. Islamic art and architecture, characterized by intricate calligraphy and geometric patterns, are revered forms of expression, with museums preserving manuscripts and ancient artifacts as quintessential art forms. While Arabian culture presents a cohesive identity, there are also distinctive customs and traditions unique to each Arab country.