UAE residents are starting to look for fast getaways from the summer heat as they get ready for Islamic New Year 2026’s public holiday. Apparently Tuesday June 16 is predicted on the astronomical calendar to be 1 Muharram 1448 AH and many people are hoping the authorities will adjust the timing of the day to allow a long weekend.
Otherwise there may be a potential increase in hotel rates and airfares. Weekly airline fares can go up and up during the busy summer period reservations made earlier may help ease the pain this summer at cooler destinations.
Why Are Staycation Searches Surging?
With the scents of a potentially lengthy weekend, coupled with the high summer temperatures, demand is growing for resorts in the mountains, by the sea, and for destinations closer to where you live with more favorable temperatures.
More homeowners are seeking destinations that are cooler, greener and provide more outdoor space and activities when seeking a city break. The UAE is drawing more people to a number of locations within a couple of hours’ drive for their Islamic New Year holiday.
1 Jebel Jais Ras Al Khaimah
Stays in Jebel Jais are among the most sought-after summer holiday resorts in the UAE, due to its high altitude and much cooler weather than the coastal cities.
Scenic mountain roads, hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints and outdoor dining experiences await the visitors. It is a wonderful place to escape the sweltering summer heat and yet a mere drive from Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The mountain offers adventure for visitors, with exciting attractions and outdoor activities for the entire family.
2. Fujairah’s Mountain and Beach Resorts
This bustling coastal resort is a perfect vacation spot for a long weekend in Israel with mountain scenery and relaxing shoreline. The weather is generally cooler than in the west of the UAE, for most of the time.
There are luxury resorts on the Gulf of Oman offering access to private beaches, diving activities and even wellness centres. In the meantime, it is possible to hike or sightsee in the nearby Hajar Mountains.
The port of Fujairah will make it one of the most convenient places for UAE residents to take a staycation.
3. Salalah, Oman
The popular time of Khareef changes Salalah into a completely different place to experience in the summer months! Most of the Gulf is extreme in the heat, but Salalah becomes a green green land, lush with mist, and rainfall and with agreeable temperatures.
The visitors may enjoy waterfalls, mountain lookouts, coconut plantations and the sea serene journey. One of the reasons why this country is so appealing as a holiday spot for families is the fact that the destination offers a different kind of holiday experience altogether, while not requiring a long duration stay.
Demand is high in Khareef and so booking in advance is highly recommended.
4. Wakan Village, Oman
Window into Wakan Village of cool temperatures and stunning mountains and serene surroundings is found in Oman’s Hajar Mountains.
The village is famous for its terraced farms, fruit orchards and some lovely hiking trails. In summer there can be a lot more green than places like New Orleans and Gulfport as it is a cooler destination.
Note that to visit the village you need an appropriate car as the roads are quite steep and bumpy.
5. Jebel Akhdar, Oman
Egregiously known as the “Green Mountain”, Jebel Akhdar is one of the coldest places to visit in the area. Its elevation makes for nice weather and it’s a place which will draw summer visitors.
The resort area offers luxury resorts, stunning views of the canyons, and outdoor activities like hiking and riding atop the local mountains. The traditional mountain villages offer a wealth of opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Evenings can be blisteringly cold, and that’s a breath of fresh air where it may have been hot.
If you are looking for one of the best places to stay in the region, Jebel Akhdar is one of the creeks that stays high standard amongst guests with more luxury nature and standard of stay.
Why Should You Book Early?
In the UAE space, when the Islamic New Year holiday is anticipated to be transferred, individuals may just obtain a three-day holiday if the UAE government chooses Monday. They frequently result in short-term surge in hotel reservations and air traffic.
Getting reservations now also means that travellers can bargain better, have the most flexibility and reserve better rooms and room rentals before the peak travel period.
FAQs
In which month would the Islamic New Year 2026 be celebrated in the UAE?
According to the calculations made by astronomers, the Islamic New Year will be started on Tuesday, 16 June 2026 subject to official notification.
Can the UAE tip the balance to have a long weekend for holidays?
Public holidays may be shifted on the UAE Cabinet’s decision during mid-week. There are many opinions that expect the Islamic New Year holiday to be taken on Monday, June 15, which is not an official announcement.
Should Salalah be visited during the summer?
Yes. Salalah’s most popular season is actually the summer months, due to the Khareef monsoon which brings their cooler climate, green plants and foggy landscapes.
Don’t Miss These Stories
What’s Driving GCC Luxury Travel Boom?
Explore the rise of hyper-luxury travel trends shaping GCC tourism in 2026.
How Is GCC Embracing Eco Travel?
Discover eco-friendly journeys and sustainable tourism trends across the GCC region.
Are Dubai Flights Facing New Changes?
Check live updates on flights, delays, and airspace alerts at Dubai Airport.
Which Dubai Resorts Offer Easy Transfers?
Explore luxury resorts in Dubai that provide seamless airport transfer services.
Where To Track GCC Event Updates Fast?
Discover top sites for real-time GCC event cancellations and schedule updates.
News1 week ago
Dubai1 week ago
Entertainment1 week ago
Dubai1 week ago
