The Best Winter Destinations To Visit From Dubai

While winter in Dubai certainly has its good points, a lot of people just need to see snow to believe that it’s winter. Luckily for those based in Dubai, the location of the UAE is perfect, as it has quick access to places in East and North Africa, Europe, and Central and Southeast Asia. If you’re in the mood for a magical or snowy winter holiday, here are the best destinations to go to from Dubai that will change your life.

1. Tbilisi, Georgia

Not only is the country of Georgia just a few hours away, but if you’re a resident of Dubai, you won’t even need a visa to visit! With its beautiful Georgian churches and lively squares to light up those cold winter nights, Tbilisi is a perfect getaway for those who need a little Christmas cheer.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi is truly a winter wonderland | © DDohler / Flickr

2. Yerevan, Armenia

The oldest Christian country in the world, Armenia boasts some of the homiest and comfortable Christmas scenes across Europe or Asia. Although Christmas is officially celebrated in January according to the Armenian church, all throughout December you will find adorable Christmas markets and get your fulfillment of snowy days—and all this for only a three-hour plane ride from Dubai!

Yerevan, Armenia

One of Yerevan’s Christmas squares at night | © Oleg Sidorenko / Flickr

3. Istanbul, Turkey

Mosque

Another nearby destination from Dubai with flights flying in and out every single day, going to Istanbul during the winter will give you another appreciation for Turkey. Whether it’s snowing or not, you’ll still get your dose of winter wonder in Istanbul’s lively and colorfully lighted streets and squares for only a few hundred dollars round trip.

Istanbul, Turkey

The Blue Mosque looks even more majestic with a glistening layer of winter snow | © Leandro Centomo / Flickr

5. St. Petersburg, Russia

For those living in Dubai who need a truly drastic change from the UAE, there’s no better place for that than St. Petersburg, Russia. With the cheapest tickets starting from only 300 dollars, you can experience what is arguably Russia’s most beautiful city. With its snowy landscape, delicious Russian pastries and warm dishes, and vibrant culture, you’ll be lost in the world of Tolstoy and Tchaikovsky even after you come back to the heat of Dubai.

St. Petersburg, Russia

Russia really knows how to make winter beautiful | © Alexander Savin / Flickr

6. Vatican City

The heart of Catholicism and the brightly independent nation surrounded by Rome, Italy, Vatican City is worth the six hours it takes from Dubai to get there. Join in the crowds for one of the most beautiful Christmas masses in the world, and bask in the glory of the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica for an experience like none other.

Vatican City

Christmas at the Vatican is a pilgrimage for many | © David Jones / Flickr

7. Paris, France

“Paris is always a good idea,” especially if you want a quintessential European escape from Dubai for the winter. With its sparkling Christmas decorations, delicious winter desserts, and frosty December weather perfect for cozying up next to a fireplace, Paris remains one of the most popular vacation getaways from the UAE, and with good reason!

Paris, France

The charm of Paris still glitters even in the dead of winter | © Daxis / Flickr

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.