As we head into the winter months, many travellers will be planning their next holiday escape. Whether it’s celebrating the festive season on a tropical island, having a romantic getaway or ringing in the New Year with fireworks in Dubai with the family, Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, can get you there.

The award-winning airline has kindly provided us with a selection of must-visit winter sun destinations, and in this feature, we’re focusing on five of them.

Dubai
Emirates takes you to Dubai, a bustling cosmopolitan hub and one of the most desirable year-round vacation spots. Thanks to its sunny days, warm water beaches, fun-filled water parks and desert safaris, the popular UAE destination is also a major drawcard for those wanting to experience some winter sun.

Winter is also a time when Dubai is bustling with events. Sports enthusiasts can head to the Sevens Stadium and soak up the atmosphere at the Emirates Dubai 7s; others can shop until they drop at the Dubai Shopping Festival, see the floral wonderland of 150 million flowers at the Dubai Miracle Garden, and gaze up at the skies to watch the city’s famous fireworks display on New Year’s Eve.

Meanwhile, those wanting more outdoor adventures can also visit the historic mountain town of Hatta, Dubai’s scenic exclave. From kayaking at Hatta Dam, mountain biking the Al-Hajar mountains or visiting the historic forts, it is a must-visit.

  • Emirates currently operates 131 weekly flights from the UK to Dubai.

Thailand

Beyond its famous cities and beaches, Thailand offers travellers a chance to discover some hidden gems.

Take a trip to the Red Lotus Sea and witness an extraordinary sight where Udon Thani transforms into a sea of pink lotus flowers between November and February each year.

Alternatively, you can head to Koh Kood, an unexplored island paradise boasting untouched white sand shores and clear turquoise waters. Ao Klong Chao beach is ideal for snorkelling, and visitors can leisurely explore by foot or bike through the lush forests.

Holiday goers can also experience a journey aboard the floating train, making its return this year from November 2023 until January 2024. Starting in Bangkok, passengers will be transported over Thailand’s biggest reservoir, Lop Buri’s Pasak Jolasid Dam, allowing travellers to capture the breathtaking views and take in lasting memories.

  • With 35 weekly flights to Bangkok and 14 weekly flights to Phuket, Emirates offers travellers flexible and enhanced connections between Thailand and Dubai, as well as onwards to 140 destinations.

Bali
With its pristine beaches, dense jungles, and rich cultural heritage, Bali is a true paradise.

Whilst many will be familiar with Seminyak for its beaches and shopping and the lively Kuta Beach for entertainment and water sports, some of the lesser-known destinations to visit include Balian. Situated north of Seminyak, Balian offers travellers surfing and yoga, both on a volcanic beach set on a serene river estuary. Another is Menjangan Island, which features West Bali National Park and is renowned for its snorkelling.

For the more adventurous, they can climb Mount Batur, Bali’s third-highest volcano. As you reach the summit, you can enjoy boiled eggs and tea made using the geothermal heated soil for breakfast. Whilst others might be keen to scuba and explore the USAT Liberty shipwreck.

  • Emirates currently serves Indonesia with 28 weekly flights to both Bali and Jakarta and offers increased connectivity to 29 more domestic cities via the two gateways through its partnership agreements with both Garuda Indonesia and Batik Air.

Maldives
If staying in a luxurious overwater villa has been on your bucket list, then look no further than North Malé Atoll – the gateway to the Maldives. Here, people can unwind on white sand beaches, explore vibrant coral reefs, and enjoy incredible cuisine.

Diving and snorkelling enthusiasts can visit Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve which becomes a sanctuary for manta rays and whale sharks in December. One of the must-sees is Ari Atoll, which is famous for its beautiful coral and marine life, including reef sharks and sea turtles.

For those wanting to celebrate the festive season and ring in the new year can do so in tropical style. From Christmas meals to celebratory fireworks, many of the resorts have special activities lined up for guests.

  • The award-winning global airline 131 now operates 28 flights a week between Dubai and the Maldives. Recently, the airline and Maldivian announced an interline partnership, enabling Emirates customers to access 16 popular holiday destinations in the Maldives beyond Malé.

Mauritius
It’s said that sunshine provides 90% of our vitamin D, and with this destination known for providing year-round sunshine, why not consider Mauritius for your winter sun break?

Culture vultures can learn more about the island’s history, visit museums and experience local markets in the lively city of Port Louis. Those who prefer a slower pace can unwind on the multicoloured sands and take in the breathtaking views from around the Chamarel region.

There are also some exciting things for adrenaline junkies that will get their blood pumping. For example, there’s hiking in the Black River Gorges National Park or seeing the world from under the sea via scuba diving.

So, whether you’re a family wanting a beach holiday this winter, a couple looking for a romantic escape or an avid adventurer, Mauritius offers this and more!

  • Emirates currently provides two direct daily flights from Dubai to Mauritius, both operated by its flagship A380 aircraft.

The Emirates Travel Experience
Emirates’ extensive network extends to 140 destinations across six continents. The airline offers its customers an unmatched culinary experience in the skies with regionally inspired multi-course menus developed by a team of award-winning chefs complemented by a wide selection of premium beverages.

Its customers can sit back and relax with more than 6,500 channels of carefully curated global entertainment content featuring movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, games, audiobooks and more with Ice, Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment system.

For more information and to book your winter getaway, visit www.emirates.com or contact your local Emirates office.