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UAE Visa Cancelled? Your Stay Grace Period and Your Health Insurance Are Not the Same Thing All Business Setup Related Services: Contact Tycoon Documents, Dubai Apply Online Contact us Visa Cancelled in the UAE? Check Your Health Cover Before You Assume You’re Protected Dubai: When your UAE residence visa is cancelled, you usually get somewhere between 30 and 90 days to stay in the country. That window covers your legal stay, not necessarily your medical insurance. The health policy your employer arranged for you could end sooner than the grace period does. Insurance rules also aren’t the same everywhere in the UAE. Each emirate has its own requirements and arrangements, so no one rule applies to every resident. If you’ve just left a job, ask your former employer exactly when your coverage ends, and get the date in writing. Dubai: Health insurance continues for 30 days Dubai sets a clear rule for employers here. Once an employee’s residence visa is cancelled, the employer has to keep the health policy running for 30 days. If the employee leaves the UAE before those 30 days are up, the obligation ends at that point. The requirement comes from Article 26 of Administrative Resolution No. 78 of 2022, which put into effect the implementing bylaw of Dubai’s Law No. 11 of 2013. Keep in mind that this 30-day insurance period is separate from your immigration grace period. You may be allowed to stay in the UAE for longer than your insurance lasts, so plan for any gap in coverage. What happens in other emirates? Things are less clear-cut in the other emirates. A cancelled visa doesn’t automatically tell you whether your health policy is still active, because the two are connected but don’t always end on the same day. Firose Khan, CEO and Managing Partner of Arabian Business Centre – Amer, told Gulf News that the status of your policy depends on how long that policy is valid for. He also noted that there is no fixed rule when an employer cancels a residence visa. Some companies end the insurance the same day the visa is cancelled, while others leave it running through the grace period, particularly when they want to give a departing employee time to find another job. His advice is simple: contact your former employer and find out what happens to your health insurance before you assume you’re covered. What is a UAE visa cancellation grace period? Cancelling a visa is the official step that brings your UAE residency to an end. It’s normally started by your employer or sponsor, or by you if you’re planning to leave the country. When the cancellation goes through, the visa stops being valid and you no longer hold resident status. You aren’t required to leave immediately, though. The authorities allow a grace period of 30 to 90 days, with the exact length depending on your circumstances. That time lets you look for a new job and get a fresh visa, move to a different visa category, or organise your departure. Who provides health insurance for expat workers? Walk-in appointments continue to be offered to specific categories of applicants, including those needing Tatkal (urgent) passports, newborns, emergency certificate applicants, senior citizens aged 60 and above, and people of determination. Abu Dhabi In Abu Dhabi, the duty to arrange medical cover sits with the employer or sponsor. Besides the worker, the policy generally extends to their family, meaning one spouse and as many as three children who are under 18. Dubai Dubai has required residents to hold health insurance since January 2014, when its health insurance law took effect. Under that law, the employer must provide cover for their staff. That cover may not extend to family members, though. If your employer insures only you, the law makes you responsible for arranging a policy for the dependants you sponsor, such as your spouse, children or parents. Northern Emirates Since January 2025, anyone working in the private sector in Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah or Fujairah has needed at least basic health insurance. The same applies to domestic workers in those emirates. The change brings the northern emirates in line with Abu Dhabi and Dubai, which already had mandatory insurance in place.   Business Setup Corporate PRO VISA Services Business Consulting Attestation Call Us 24/7 971 56 993 1404/02 OR Get Your Consultation FREE! Request Appointment

Alhind’s ICACs Launch New Sunday Passport Collection Counter for Indian Expats in the UAE All Business Setup Related Services: Contact Tycoon Documents, Dubai Apply Online Contact us Indian nationals living in the UAE who struggle to collect their passports during the working week now have an easier option. All 16 Indian Consular Application Centres (ICACs) operated by Alhind Global Services across the UAE have introduced a dedicated Sunday counter for passport collection. What’s Changing The new counter runs from 10am to noon every Sunday and is meant solely for picking up already-processed passports  it is not available for submitting new applications, since the centres remain closed to applications on Sundays. The initiative was rolled out last week with backing from the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Indian Consulate in Dubai, and arrives as Alhind’s ICAC network completes two months of operations. Outside of the new Sunday slot, ICACs continue to operate their regular hours of 8am to 6pm, Monday through Saturday. Who It Helps The change is aimed at UAE residents who find it hard to visit a centre on weekdays because of work commitments, as well as those who don’t want to wait until Monday for courier delivery of an urgently needed passport. It should be particularly useful for people who need to travel on short notice, or who need their passport back quickly to complete a visa or Emirates ID application. A Smoother Two Months The Sunday service comes at a point when Alhind’s ICAC operations appear to have stabilised. The centres opened on 22 July, later than originally planned after legal disputes over the tender process delayed a scheduled 1 July start, and the first few weeks were marked by long queues and processing delays. According to the Indian missions, the entire early backlog has now been cleared, appointment slots are freely available, and day-to-day operations across all 16 centres are running smoothly. Demand has been significant: in the centres’ first month (22 July to 22 August), more than 53,000 consular services were processed, of which roughly 44,000 were passport-related. Other Services Available Walk-in appointments continue to be offered to specific categories of applicants, including those needing Tatkal (urgent) passports, newborns, emergency certificate applicants, senior citizens aged 60 and above, and people of determination. All ICACs handle passport and visa applications as well as attestation of Indian documents. Appointments can be booked through the consularsevainuae.com portal, with new slots released daily at 9am and 9pm. The centres also offer paid support services  including form-filling help, photographs, photocopying and courier  for a flat fee of Dh19, reducing the need for applicants to rely on outside agents for routine tasks. Business Setup Corporate PRO VISA Services Business Consulting Attestation Call Us 24/7 971 56 993 1404/02 OR Get Your Consultation FREE! Request Appointment

UAE 5-year tourist visa explained: Stay up to 180 days a year All Business Setup Related Services: Contact Tycoon Documents, Dubai Apply Online Contact us UAE Introduces Clear Guidelines for 5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa for All Nationalities Dubai: The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai) has outlined the eligibility requirements for the UAE’s 5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa, available to travellers of all nationalities. This self-sponsored visa allows visitors to enter and leave the UAE multiple times over a five-year period without requiring a local sponsor or host. Visa holders can stay in the UAE for up to 90 days per visit, with the option to extend their stay by an additional 90 days, subject to the applicable regulations. However, the total duration of stay must not exceed 180 days within a single calendar year. The visa is designed to make travel to the UAE more convenient for frequent visitors, offering greater flexibility for tourism, family visits, and short-term business travel. Dubai Issues Over 66,000 Golden Visas as Demand for 5-Year Tourist Visa Continues to Rise The 5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa is ideal for travellers who visit the UAE frequently. It offers a convenient long-term travel solution for tourists, business professionals, and those visiting family and friends, providing the flexibility to make multiple trips without applying for a new visa each time. Eligibility requirements To apply for the UAE 5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa, applicants must provide a passport valid for at least six months, a recent passport-sized photograph, valid health insurance covering their stay, a confirmed return or onward travel ticket, and bank statements from the last six months. In addition, applicants must show proof of a minimum bank balance of USD 4,000 (or the equivalent in another currency) maintained during the six months prior to submitting the application. How to apply Applicants can apply for the UAE 5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa through the country’s official online portals and smart applications, which are accessible 24/7. Those who prefer in-person assistance can also submit their applications at Customer Happiness Centres or Amer Service Centres. The application process is straightforward: choose the required visa service, complete the online application form, upload all necessary supporting documents, and pay the applicable government fees to complete the submission. Fees and stay rules The estimated cost of the UAE 5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa is AED 3,713, which covers the visa fee, service charges, and a refundable security deposit. The final amount may vary depending on the applicant’s profile and any additional services or requirements. Visa holders must ensure they comply with the permitted duration of stay in the UAE. To avoid overstay fines or penalties, travellers are advised to regularly check their travel history and entry/exit records through the official travel movement report. Key features   Open to applicants of all nationalities No local sponsor or host is required Valid for five years from the date of issue Allows unlimited multiple entries during the visa’s validity Stay in the UAE for up to 90 days per visit Option to extend each stay by an additional 90 days, subject to approval Total stay must not exceed 180 days in a calendar year Applicants must maintain a minimum bank balance of USD 4,000 (or equivalent) during the six months before applying The 5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa reflects the UAE’s commitment to making travel more convenient for international visitors. By offering greater flexibility for frequent travellers, business visitors, and families, the visa is expected to strengthen the country’s tourism industry, encourage repeat visits, and support long-term growth across the travel, hospitality, and service sectors. Business Setup Corporate PRO VISA Services Business Consulting Attestation Call Us 24/7 971 56 993 1404/02 OR Get Your Consultation FREE! Request Appointment

Saudi Arabia multiple entry eVisa for GCC expats: How UAE residents can apply online. All Business Setup Related Services: Contact Tycoon Documents, Dubai Apply Online Contact us Dubai: UAE residents planning a trip to Saudi Arabia can now apply for a one-year multiple-entry eVisa online. The facility is also available to expatriates living in other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The visa allows travellers to make multiple visits to Saudi Arabia throughout the year for purposes such as tourism, business meetings, family visits, and Umrah outside the Hajj season. Applications can be submitted digitally through Saudi Arabia’s unified visa portal, introduced to simplify entry procedures for international visitors and GCC residents. Duration and validity of Saudi eVisa for GCC residents   Visa options: Available as single-entry or multiple-entry visas Validity period: Single-entry visas are generally valid for 90 days, while multiple-entry visas remain valid for one year Length of stay: Visitors can stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days, based on the approved visa terms and conditions Requirements for Saudi eVisa for UAE expatriates   Applicants must hold a residency permit that remains valid for a minimum of three months. Passports should have at least six months of remaining validity at the time of application. Travellers under 18 years of age can apply only if accompanied by a parent or guardian; otherwise, applicants must be at least 18 years old. Which documents do I need to provide?   A recent passport-sized photograph with a plain white background Copy of the applicant’s passport Copy of the UAE residence visa page How to apply for the Saudi eVisa   Step 1: Go to ksavisa.sa and choose the visa type Open the official website ksavisa.sa and navigate to the “Visit” section. From the available options, select Tourism as the purpose of your visit. Enter your nationality details. Choose the option indicating valid GCC residency (minimum three months validity required). Click on “Show Eligible Visas” to proceed. The system will display available visa types, such as transit visa and eVisa. Select the eVisa option and click “Apply Now” to start the application process. Step 2: Enter Travel Details   Your nationality and GCC residency details will be auto-filled based on the previous step. Choose the visa type (single-entry or multiple-entry) and select the required validity. You will then need to provide: Planned date of arrival in Saudi Arabia Country of residence Select the nearest embassy location (Abu Dhabi or Dubai) Optional fields may include transport method and port of entry. After filling in the details, click “Next” to continue. Step 3: Personal Information and Document Upload   Enter your full name exactly as it appears on your passport Provide your mobile number and residential address Select your gender and marital status Occupation can be added (optional), or you may choose “currently not working” Job title must be entered unless “not working” is selected Enter your date of birth Optional Purpose of Visit & Photo Upload You may optionally select the purpose of your stay by answering: “What do you plan on doing during your stay?” Available choices include Umrah, tourism/leisure, or visiting friends and family. Passport-sized Photograph Requirements Upload a recent colored photo that meets the following conditions: Size: 35 × 45 mm Plain white background Face the camera directly with a straight head position Neutral expression (no smile, mouth closed) Proper lighting with no shadows Appropriate attire for visa submission File format: JPEG or PNG Maximum file size: 5 MB Step 4: Passport Information and Upload Upload a scanned copy of your passport Select your passport type Enter your passport number Choose the country of issuance Provide your place of birth Fill in passport issue date and expiry date Click “Next” to proceed Step 5: UAE Residency Visa Details Upload a copy of your UAE residence visa Enter your visa number Provide the expiry date of your UAE residency Select your emirate of residence and enter your full address   Step 6: Accept Terms and Review Your Application Read and accept the terms and conditions by selecting “Agree.” Carefully review all the information entered in the application Once confirmed, click “Next” to continue Step 7: Choose Medical Insurance Answer a few basic questions related to medical insurance coverage by selecting “Yes” or “No” Proceed to view available insurance providers in Saudi Arabia Compare the listed insurance options and their fees before making a selection Step 8: Complete Payment for the eVisa After selecting an insurance provider, the system will display the total application cost, including visa and insurance charges Click “Pay Now” and complete the payment using a credit or debit card Once payment is successful, a transaction reference number will be generated for your application. Applicants can use this number, or their passport number, to monitor the application status through the tracking section on the official Saudi visa portal. Assistance is also available through the platform’s customer support centre. Saudi eVisa Fees for GCC Residents Applicants are required to pay the following charges for the Saudi eVisa: Visa fee: approximately $81 (around Dh297.48) Application processing fee: about $10.50 (around Dh38.5) Medical Insurance Charges Medical insurance is mandatory for the eVisa application. The insurance cost may vary depending on the provider and coverage selected, typically ranging from: $7.50 (around Dh27.54)to $252.04 (around Dh925.65) When Will You Receive the eVisa? Saudi Arabia’s visa platform states that many GCC residents may receive their eVisa approval almost immediately after submitting the application. However, in some cases, processing can take up to three working days. Once approved, the eVisa is sent directly to the applicant’s registered email address.               Business Setup Corporate PRO VISA Services Business Consulting Attestation Call Us 24/7 971 56 993 1404/02 OR Get Your Consultation FREE! Request Appointment

Dubai revises two-year residency visa rules for investors. All Business Setup Related Services: Contact Tycoon Documents, Dubai Apply Online Contact us Dubai eases residency permit rules for property owners, removing minimum investment limits for sole ownership and simplifying eligibility criteria for shared property investors. Dubai has updated its property investor residency rules, making it easier for buyers to qualify. The revised criteria remove the minimum property value requirement for individual owners and offer more flexible conditions for jointly owned properties. While authorities have not made an official announcement, the changes were published by Cube Centre, a Dubai Land Department-linked service platform for real estate investors. What has changed? Dubai’s updated residency visa guidelines no longer require solo property investors to meet the earlier Dh750,000 minimum investment threshold, provided the property is fully owned by one individual. For jointly owned properties, each co-owner must now have a minimum share value of Dh400,000 to qualify for the residency permit, regardless of equal ownership distribution. Documents required for a property visa in Dubai Documents required for obtaining a Dubai residency visa through property investment include a Dubai property title deed, a passport valid for over six months, Emirates ID, and a recent digital photograph meeting ICP standards. Applicants must also provide valid UAE medical insurance and a Dubai Police good conduct certificate addressed to the Dubai Land Department. Nationals of Iran, Pakistan, Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan are additionally required to submit their National ID cards. The name on the property title deed must exactly match the passport details. For mortgaged properties or units purchased through instalments, investors need a bank or developer-issued NOC confirming the amount paid, remaining balance, and mortgage details. If the property is completed, proof showing at least 50% of the property value or Dh375,000 has been paid must also be submitted. Eligible investors may sponsor their family members under the residency programme. Dubai’s 2-year property visa The UAE introduced a revamped visa framework in 2019 aimed at attracting global talent, investors, students, and professionals by allowing long-term residency without the need for a local sponsor. Among the available options was Dubai’s renewable two-year property investor visa, designed for individuals investing at least Dh750,000 in real estate. Applications were managed through the Dubai Land Department’s Taskeen service and approved by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).Dubai property sales in Q1 2026 Dubai’s updated residency visa policies highlight a more investor-friendly approach, expanding eligibility while continuing to enforce clear financial documentation standards. The emirate’s property sector maintained solid momentum during the first quarter of 2026, recording nearly Dh138.7 billion in sales through more than 44,000 transactions. The figures reflect sustained buyer confidence and resilient demand despite ongoing regional geopolitical challenges. Compared to the same period last year, total transaction value climbed by 21.2%, while overall deal volume saw a 4.35% increase. Market trends indicate growing interest in luxury and high-value residential properties. Industry analysts note that Dubai’s real estate growth is increasingly being driven by long-term investors rather than short-term speculation. In January alone, property transactions crossed Dh53.6 billion across 16,000+ deals, with the average transaction value reaching approximately Dh3.3 million, signaling stronger participation from institutional buyers and high-net-worth investors.   Business Setup Corporate PRO VISA Services Business Consulting Attestation Call Us 24/7 971 56 993 1404/02 OR Get Your Consultation FREE! Request Appointment

Qatar Introduces 10-Year Residency: Eligibility, Process & Benefits for UAE Professionals All Business Setup Related Services: Contact Tycoon Documents, Dubai Apply Online Contact us The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has introduced a pilot rollout of its digital attestation service for electronic documents, which began on April 27 across various service channels in the UAE. This initiative is part of the ministry’s efforts to enhance smart government services by offering more proactive and user-focused digital solutions. The new system is designed to better meet the changing expectations of users by streamlining document attestation through advanced technology. The ministry explained that the service was developed based on user feedback, allowing electronic documents with advanced verification elements—such as QR codes, reference numbers, and barcodes—to be officially attested. These features improve both the authenticity of documents and the ease of verifying them. With the updated system, individuals can complete attestation through the ministry and UAE embassies or missions in the destination country using unified digital platforms, including the official website and mobile app. This approach simplifies a process that previously required multiple steps. Business Setup Corporate PRO VISA Services Business Consulting Attestation Call Us 24/7 971 56 993 1404/02 OR Get Your Consultation FREE! Request Appointment

Qatar Introduces 10-Year Residency: Eligibility, Process & Benefits for UAE Professionals All Business Setup Related Services: Contact Tycoon Documents, Dubai Apply Online Contact us Qatar is set to introduce a long-term, 10-year residency permit aimed at business owners and high-level executives, signaling a major policy shift in the country’s approach to expatriate residency. The initiative was unveiled during Web Summit Qatar, highlighting Qatar’s focus on attracting global entrepreneurs, investors, and experienced corporate leaders. This new residency framework is expected to create fresh opportunities for professionals based in the GCC, particularly those working in the UAE. By offering extended stability without frequent renewals, Qatar is positioning itself as a competitive destination for regional talent seeking long-term security and business expansion. The move aligns with broader Gulf trends, where governments are introducing extended residency pathways to retain skilled professionals and stimulate economic growth. Entrepreneurs and Startup Founders This category is intended for founders developing scalable, innovation-focused ventures that align with Qatar’s strategic economic sectors. To qualify, applicants must secure formal approval from an accredited Qatari incubator or innovation hub, such as Qatar Science & Technology Park. The endorsement confirms that the business meets national development priorities. In addition, applicants must prove financial capability. A bank statement must reflect a minimum balance of QAR 36,500 (approximately USD 10,000) maintained over the preceding three months. This requirement serves as evidence of personal financial stability rather than a substitute for capital investment obligations. Senior Executives The executive pathway targets individuals holding senior leadership roles, including chairman, chief executive officer (CEO), chief financial officer (CFO), chief operating officer (COO), chief technology officer (CTO), and executive director positions. Eligibility requirements include: A minimum of five years’ experience in senior executive management, whether in Qatar or internationally A valid employment contract with a qualifying organisation in Qatar Only specific employer categories are eligible: Public joint-stock companies listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange Banks and financial institutions licensed by the Qatar Central Bank Insurance companies regulated by either the Qatar Central Bank or the Qatar Financial Markets Authority Advisory firms offering management, financial, legal, or accounting services to government or semi-government entities The income criteria are notably stringent. Chairpersons and C-suite executives must earn a minimum monthly salary of QAR 50,000 (around USD 13,700). For other executive director roles, the threshold increases to QAR 80,000 (approximately USD 22,000), positioning this programme among the most selective long-term residency options in the Gulf region. Business Setup Corporate PRO VISA Services Business Consulting Attestation Call Us 24/7 971 56 993 1404/02 OR Get Your Consultation FREE! Request Appointment

GDRFA Dubai brings Golden Visa and smart services to Global Village All Business Setup Related Services: Contact Tycoon Documents, Dubai Apply Online Contact us A strong visitor response was seen as people explored Golden Visa options and smart travel solutions at Global Village. As part of initiatives to enhance community outreach, senior officials from the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai visited the “Closer to You” platform. The delegation was headed by Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA Dubai, alongside Major General Obaid Muhair bin Suroor, Deputy Director General, and other senior representatives. The visit was joined by Zeina Dagher, Senior Vice President of Operations at Dubai Holding Entertainment – Global Village, highlighting collaborative efforts to improve public engagement and service accessibility. Dubai’s Blue vs Golden visa: two paths to a 10-year future   The visit highlighted the authority’s focus on engaging directly with the public through on-site interaction, open dialogue, and easily accessible services, positioning the initiative as an effective model for community connection. The “Closer to You” platform has attracted strong participation from Global Village visitors, indicating a rising preference for in-person support and direct access to specialised teams. Attendance remained high across various service areas, with notable interest in Golden Visa offerings, along with the Smart Corridor and Red Carpet services. Visitors were able to receive clear information, submit queries, and gain personalized guidance in a welcoming and interactive environment, enhancing overall service satisfaction and public confidence. Running at Global Village until February 5, 2026, the initiative functions as a comprehensive community space that blends service delivery, awareness, and engagement. It reflects GDRFA Dubai’s “Customer First” strategy and its continued commitment to building long-term, trust-based relationships with the community.   Business Setup Corporate PRO VISA Services Business Consulting Attestation Call Us 24/7 971 56 993 1404/02 OR Get Your Consultation FREE! Request Appointment

16 Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Destinations for UAE Residents All Business Setup Related Services: Contact Tycoon Documents, Dubai Apply Online Contact us Calling all parents in need of a break—if a holiday is on your mind, here is some encouraging news. UAE residents and citizens enjoy easier access to many international destinations, with several countries allowing entry without a prior visa or offering visas on arrival. This makes spontaneous travel plans far more achievable. Do note that entry conditions can differ depending on passport and nationality, so it is always wise to confirm the latest requirements through official sources before finalizing your trip. From culturally rich cities known for their historic architecture to serene island escapes perfect for unwinding by the sea, the options cater to every travel style. Whether you are seeking exploration or relaxation, this list offers something for everyone. 1. Armenia Few destinations manage to impress at every turn, and Armenia is one of them. Despite its compact size of just under 30,000 square kilometers, the country offers a rich mix of experiences ideal for families. In the capital, Yerevan, historic structures stand comfortably beside modern architecture, reflecting the city’s evolving identity. Local cuisine is an essential part of the journey—freshly baked lavash from a traditional tonir, classic dishes prepared with veal and onions, and delicately crafted meat specialties showcase flavours refined over centuries. Beyond the cities, Armenia’s lush landscapes add a refreshing contrast, where green valleys and open spaces meet urban life without sacrificing comfort. Travel time from Dubai: approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. 2. Cambodia Cambodia has a gentle way of encouraging travellers to slow down and truly take in their surroundings. Seeing the sunrise at Angkor Wat is a remarkable experience, but the country’s appeal goes far beyond its iconic landmarks. In Siem Reap, you will find calm cafés and creative spaces, while Phnom Penh offers museums that tell powerful stories with depth and care. Throughout the country, visitors are met with genuine hospitality and a strong sense of community. Food is another highlight, with aromatic curries and flavorful street dishes that leave a lasting impression. For UAE residents, the convenience of a visa on arrival makes Cambodia more accessible than expected, offering a rewarding journey that feels authentic, enriching, and refreshingly untouched. Travel time from Dubai: approximately 11 hours. 3. Tbilisi, Georgia For travellers who enjoy combining culture, history, and cuisine, Tbilisi offers all three in one vibrant destination. Begin your exploration at the Chronicles of Georgia, where towering stone columns depict key moments from the nation’s past and its religious heritage. The city itself reflects a rich blend of influences, drawing from European, Russian, and Middle Eastern traditions. Tbilisi is defined by contrast. Along the banks of the Mtkvari River, the historic quarter invites slow exploration, with narrow streets, classic wooden balconies, and access to the Narikala Fortress via cable car. Across the river, the newer districts showcase contemporary architecture and modern city life. A stroll across the Bridge of Peace reveals both faces of the capital in a single view. While the dining scene is impressive throughout the city, an authentic way to experience Georgian food is by joining a home-based cooking session led by local elders, where families can learn to prepare traditional dishes such as cheese-filled breads and handmade dumplings using time-honoured recipes. Travel time from Dubai: approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. . 4. Oman Oman has a way of making you pause and breathe. Just a short journey from the UAE, it offers a stunning mix of mountains, deserts, beaches, and pristine wadis. Muscat’s low-rise skyline exudes a relaxed charm, while scenic drives uncover hidden swimming spots, historic forts, and villages that seem untouched by time. Spend your mornings hiking, afternoons swimming in clear waters, and evenings watching the sun set behind dramatic landscapes. With visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry for UAE residents, Oman is ideal for last-minute trips that feel far more adventurous than the short distance suggests. Travel time from Dubai: around 1 hour. 5. Maldives When sun, sand, and sea are on the agenda, the real magic lies in what the destination has to offer. Crystal-clear waters give a window into vibrant marine life, where you might spot graceful manta rays gliding nearby or even discover shark teeth along the seabed. Many resorts occupy entire islands, providing everything from dining options to kids’ clubs and curated activities, giving parents some well-deserved downtime. Use this time to enjoy water sports, relax with tropical drinks, and soak in the serene surroundings. Travel time from Dubai: approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes. 6. Kenya If your little one is fascinated by animals—or if you are—this destination is ideal for an unforgettable adventure. December brings cooler weather, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife spotting. Step away from screens and social media, and fully immerse yourself in the rhythm of safari life for a truly memorable holiday. Important: While a traditional visa may not be required, travelers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) at least 72 hours before arrival. 7. Kuwait Kuwait has a quiet charm that makes it a refreshing short escape. It’s simple to reach yet offers enough difference from home to feel like a true getaway. Kuwait City blends modern skyscrapers with traditional souks, peaceful museums, and scenic seaside promenades that locals love. The culinary scene is a highlight, from comforting Gulf classics to bakeries worth returning to, and contemporary restaurants putting a fresh spin on local flavors. Spend an afternoon exploring the Tareq Rajab Museum, then enjoy coffee and people-watching along the corniche at sunset. With visa-on-arrival for UAE residents and a brief flight, Kuwait makes for a culture-rich long weekend without the crowds. Travel time from Dubai: around 1 hour and 45 minutes. 8. Thailand For families who love great food and plenty of shopping, Thailand is hard to beat. Picture mornings and evenings on the beach, watching the sunrise or sunset while kids play volleyball or football in the sand. Beyond the coast, scenic hiking