And they’re all under two hours drive away…

With summer on its way, we’ve got weekends away on our mind. But there’s no need to travel too far to get a slice of paradise, as there’s plenty of places you can get to in the UAE.

So whether you’re looking for family friendly or action and adventure, we’ve got you covered across the Emirates.

Here are 8 UAE staycations to check out this summer. 

Abu Dhabi

Anantara Sir Baniyas

Sir Baniyas doesn’t feel like Abu Dhabi. In fact, going to Sir Baniyas . There’s three resorts on the island; the fortress-style Desert Islands, the wildlife-surrounded Al Sahel and the couple-focused Al Yamm. So whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, a nature drive through 15,000 animals or cycling through the desert, there’s plenty of ways to wile away the day.

Anantara Sir Baniyas Island, Abu Dhabi, from Dhs660 per room. Tel:

Zaya Nurai Island

Fancying a Maldivian escape but not got the time (or bottomless budget)? Splurge instead on a short staycation and you’ll find this luxury island feels a world away from the capital. Developed as a five-star eco-resort, this spectacular outpost boasts a limited number of luxury rooms and villas, so you’ll have plenty of privacy to soak up the endless views of white sand, turquoise sea and specially-planted trees.

Zaya Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi, one bedroom villas start from Dhs2,750. Tel: (02) 5066 222. More info on website

St Regis Abu Dhabi

This top Abu Dhabi resort is offering a brunch staycation packages that means you won’t have to travel all the way back from the capital after their x. After enjoying a spread of seafood dishes, sushi BBQ bites and a desert offering Willy Wonka would be proud of, you can enjoy a nights stay in one of the sea view rooms. Stay Friday and Saturday, and you’ll also get breakfast included and a late check out at 4pm.

St Regis Abu Dhabi, Nation Tower, Corniche, until December 30, rates start from Dhs774 per person. Tel: (2) 6944444 . More info on website

Ajman

The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah 

Just under an hour out of Dubai sits the luxury The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah. Set amidst pristine white sand beaches and the lush diversity of the surrounding mangroves, the Ajman resort is offering a summer offer that includes a three course dinner at the resorts signature all day dining restaurant with prices starting from Dhs1,100 per person.

The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah, Ajman, valid until September 30, from Dhs1,100 per person including three course dinner, food only. Tel: (06) 5044888. More info on website 

Fujairah

Fairmont Fujairah

If you fancy kicking the weekend off as soon as work is finished, take advantage of the ‘Dupper and Stay’ offer at Fairmont Fujairah. The package includes a ‘dupper’ (that’s a drinks supper of unlimited drinks) at the recently opened Lave Beach Club, overnight stay with complimentary buffet breakfast at all-day dining restaurant, Canvas, and complimentary beach access for two the following day. Rates start from Dhs600 excluding taxes.

Fairmont Fujairah, Mina Al Fajer, Dibba, Fujairah, valid all year round, from Dhs600 per person excluding taxes and fees. Tel: (09) 204 1111. More info on website

Hatta

JA Hatta Fort Hotel

Surrounded by the stunning Al Hajar Mountains, JA Hatta Fort Hotel is a mere hour’s escape from Dubai. There’s a range of accommodation options, and plenty to do whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat or action-packed adventure. On site, there’s tennis, archery and shooting, plus the Al Hajar mountains and Hatta Dam on your doorstep for some adrenaline, or pamper yourself at the spa and take a dip in the resorts super sized swimming pools if you’d rather just chill. Plus, this summer, you can get 30 per cent off your rate with the code JAX30.

JA Hatta Fort Hotel, Hatta, rates start from Dhs625 per person including breakfast (excluding discount). Tel: (04) 814 5400 More info on website

Ras Al Khaimah

Hilton Garden Inn Ras al Khaimah

Looking for some watersport adventure? Head to Hilton Garden Inn Ras al Khaimah this may for an overnight stay and kayaking session. This kayaking eco-tour, which takes around four hours, will see you guided by a professional instructor throughout the stretch of mangroves close to the creek while you keep an eye out for flamingos, eagles and even sea turtles as you paddle past. The Hilton Garden Inn hotel is an ideal base for an adventure weekend away with views across the creek and home to the city’s largest garden.

Hilton Garden Inn, Ras al Khamiah, until May 31, from Dhs770 for two people including a kayak tour, 1 night accommodation and buffet breakfast at The Garden Grille. Tel: (0)7 228 8888. More info on website

Doubletree by Hilton Marjan Island

One for the adrenaline junkies, DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island has introduced its ‘Zip, Sip, Dip’ promotion for thrill-seekers. Valid until the end of August, the package includes a one night stay with pool and beach access, with a zip on the world’s longest zipline at Jebel Jais. Buffet breakfast, and late check out are also included in the package.

DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island, Ras Al Kaimah, valid until August 30, from Dhs1,390 per person. Tel: (07) 203 0000. More info on website

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