The summer is almost here. In Dubai, it certainly feels like the summer is already in full swing with the clear sky, sun shining every day and temperatures rising well above 30 degrees. Now is usually the time when we start preparing for our summer breaks, making travel arrangements, booking hotels abroad, and preparing our trendy holiday outfits. That is unless you are one of those that have their travel plans sealed months in advance.
Just in Q2 and Q3 2019, Dubai airport has welcomed over 42 million passengers, as residents, summer vacationers and business travellers journeyed from one corner of the globe to the next. However, we are all aware that this summer is going to be different for everyone. Four months after the coronavirus outbreak, the world now faces travel restrictions, social distancing rules are in place, and quarantine is mandatory almost everywhere for any traveller coming into the country.
So, today we are all following the news, checking the COVID-19 statistics daily, looking for a report on new travel advice and restrictions and, of course, longing for the moment to be able to book our flights, meet our friends and family, and travel freely. Altogether, we probably won’t have a chance to materialise our dream destination summer vacations this year.
As the long holiday weekend approaches in the UAE, the residents are even more eager to change the scenery after months spent at home in self-isolation. Although the official recommendation is still to stay safe at home in order to minimise the exposure to other people, and potentially the virus, a vast number of residents are deciding to explore some of the offers in hotels and resorts across the Emirates. The hotels in the UAE are obliged to follow strict hygiene and social distancing rules by displaying hand sanitiser dispensers for the guests and ensuring the guests are keeping 2 meters distance throughout the hotel. Moreover, the hotels and restaurants are allowed to operate at 30% capacity to facilitate the above mentioned social distancing measures successfully.
Therefore, for all those looking for their summer escape in the country, we have selected several hotels.
The first selection on our list takes us to Ras Al Khaimah, in the magnificent The Ritz-Carlton, Al Hamra Beach resort, just next to the azure water and pristine white-sand beach of the Arabian Gulf. This magnificent resort offers both seclusion and luxury experience. If you want to select a more personal experience, you can stay in one of the beachfront hotel villas which feature private swimming pools. However, everyone will have a chance to experience magical sunset rituals, spa relaxations and enjoy fine dining options. Due to the pandemic, the hotel is not offering buffet service, but you will be able to order a la carte meals in their restaurants.
If you decide to stay in one of Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, the will treat you with a 40% discount on your stay with unrivalled benefits and complimentary dining. Their unique resorts will guarantee an ideal staycation with memorable experiences on their two-kilometre private pristine beach. The offer is valid until the end of June, and it also includes complimentary breakfasts in hotel restaurants, as well as hotel rooms for those who prefer to stay inside. You will also be able to enjoy an early check-in and early check-out with 20% off on food and beverages throughout your stay. Sound appealing, doesn’t it? Which one of their hotels would you like to visit this summer?
With majestic views of the ocean and the famous Snoopy Island, Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort is certainly blessed with one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. The hotel is known as an ideal destination for leisure seekers that appreciate tranquillity and outdoor activities, whether it is just swimming, soaking up the sun, or staying active with watersports.
If you are in the mood for a staycation in style, One & Only Royal Mirage in Dubai will undoubtedly provide an abundance of lush surroundings and indulgent offerings. You will be able to indulge resort’s private golden sand beach, alongside acres of beautiful gardens. Let’s not forget they are also known for their DRIFT Beach Club, promising fun days full of swimming and sun-basking next to the Gulf waters. You will be able to enjoy complimentary breakfasts, late check out at 6 pm as well as AED 500 voucher redeemable in the resort.
Located just next to an expanse of mangroves and tranquillity, Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel is a perfect escape in the city. This year the hotel brought some attractive deals and time-limited promotions. If you decide to book and stay until 20 December 2020, you will enjoy 30% savings on food and beverage, a complimentary room upgrade to the next room category as well as a late check-out until 4.00 pm. However, most of the hotel facilities are not available at the time of writing due to the restrictions announced by the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi.