UAE National Day: Luxury Staycations

If you call the UAE home, you’ll know that public holidays are the perfect excuse to sneak in a long weekend getaway.  

The final three-day weekend of the year is around the corner – Commemoration Day on Friday 1 December followed by UAE National Day celebrations on 2 and 3 December – and to help you make the most of it, we’ve found the best staycations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and beyond.  

Whether you’re in need of time amidst the dunes or a vibrant urban escape, here are five staycations to book for UAE National Day weekend. 

Six Senses Zighy Bay
Situated on Oman’s stunning northern Musandam Peninsula, just a 120-minute scenic journey from Dubai, Six Senses Zighy Bay has long been a dream destination for those living in the UAE.  

Inspired by the Omani culture and breathtaking natural surroundings, the luxury resort is renowned for its commitment to the environment while also providing an unforgettable experience synonymous with the Six Senses brand.  

Raffles Dubai The Palm
A one-of-a-kind masterpiece standing proudly on the shores of the Palm Jumeirah’s Western Frond, Raffles The Palm Dubai welcomes those looking to spend UAE National Day weekend in style.  

Featuring a 500-metre private beach, award-winning spa, and six unique dining experiences, the ultra-luxury resort is the epitome of timeless glamour and contemporary style – not forgetting its incredible vistas of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai city skyline.  

Meliá Desert Palm
Meliá Desert Palm is set within a 64-hectare polo estate, just 20km from the heart of Dubai. A sophisticated ode to the sport of kings, the 5-star boutique retreat promises a stay of wellness and relaxation as well as a chance to enjoy the privacy of suites and villa with private pools.  

During UAE National Day, saddle up and visit the dedicated on-site horse-riding school or find rejuvenation at the resort’s spa.  

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah
Exceptional service, iconic views and an invigorating atmosphere can be found at Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah this UAE National Day. Perfect families and couples alike, the stunning resort features elegant guest rooms and suites and plenty of opportunities to explore the six restaurants and bars, cool down in the spacious pool, or embrace your inner child with the new ocean water park.  

No stay at Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah is complete without an experiencing Sunset55° – the resort’s new beach lounge offering a menu of eclectic cocktails and bar bites and front row seats to one of the best sunsets in Dubai.  

Anantara Qasr Al Sarab
Located 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi and just over two hours from Dubai, the resort is nestled amongst the majestic flame-coloured dunes of the Rub’ Al Khali. As the largest, uninterrupted sand desert in the world, this untouched environment is the perfect backdrop for your luxurious stay. 

Available until December 21, the UAE Residents Special offer allows residents to stay at this beautiful resort with a 20% discount on rooms and suites, as well as an additional 5% discount for Discovery Members on the best flexible rate.  

Making each stay one to remember, guests can savour a daily breakfast at Al Waha restaurant, enjoy a complimentary room upgrade (up to the one-bedroom Anantara Pool Villa), and late check-out until 4pm. Little ones up to 12 years old are also welcome to stay and dine for free.