From adventure-packed escapes to city breaks, Natalie Marsh rounds up what to book right now.
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Doha
From ancient attractions, including the Unesco-listed Al Zubarah fort to the modern man-made island, Pearl-Qatar, Doha is a blend of old meets new. The Museum of Islamic Art is perfect for art lovers, while adventurous visitors can head into the desert for some adrenaline-filled activities.
“[Doha is] a really diverse destination, boasting guaranteed winter sunshine, decadent dining and a wealth of sightseeing opportunities to keep you entertained,” says Susan Greenhorn, If Only assistant product manager for Arabia and the Indian Ocean.
Book it: If Only offers a five-night stay at the W Doha Hotel & Residences for £1,039 per person with flights from Gatwick if booked by December 8, for travel on January 8, 2020.
ifonly.net
Abu Dhabi
Families will find winter a more comfortable time to visit Abu Dhabi, when temperatures sit in the mid to high 20s. The city is bursting with culture and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most impressive sights in the region, and over on Yas Island, they can find exciting attractions such as Warner Bros Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World.
Book it: Tui has recently introduced Abu Dhabi as a city-break destination. Seven nights at the Radisson Blu Hotel Abu Dhabi Yas Island starts from £878 per person including flights, based on two adults and two children sharing, departing January 6.
tui.co.uk
Ras Al Khaimah
Stepping into the spotlight alongside its fellow emirates is Ras Al Khaimah, home to beautiful coastline and dramatic landscapes. The world’s longest zipline, set high in the Jebel Jais Mountains, should be top of the bucket list.
“Ras Al Khaimah is full of surprises and is the perfect destination for those who want serenity, thrills and to connect with nature,” says John Poulton, Gold Medal’s assistant product manager for the Middle East, Indian Ocean and Africa.
Book it: Gold Medal offers three nights at the DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa, Marjan Island, from £399 per person, for departures between February 6-27, including flights.
goldmedal.co.uk
Oman
For couples on a romantic getaway, Oman is an idyllic escape. From attractions such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and National Museum of Oman to awe-inspiring souks and authentic local villages, Oman is full of culture. For somewhere a little more remote, recommend swapping the city for its incredible mountain ranges. “The mountainous landscapes are an exciting place for adventurers to explore with a hike and for a more low-key holiday,” says Carrier’s reservations manager, Deborah Matthews.
Book it: Carrier offers five nights at The Chedi Muscat from £4,055 per person, including flights, based on two adults sharing a Chedi Club Suite, departing March 9.
carrier.co.uk
Aqaba
Lesser known in the region, but no less deserving of attention, is the Red Sea resort of Aqaba in Jordan. Visitors can take advantage of incredible diving, while those who don’t want to venture below the surface can see the marine life from a glass-bottom boat. The beaches are full of family activities, with plenty of restaurants, watersports and beach clubs.
Book it: Cyplon offers two adults and one child under 10 a stay at the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Talan Bay for £1,475 per person, departing February 6, including flights.
cyplon.co.uk
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