Budget-Friendly Countries to Travel to During Christmas 2024 from Dubai

Christmas is a great time to travel, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are many beautiful and affordable countries you can visit from Dubai without spending too much. Whether you’re looking for beach destinations, cultural experiences, or scenic landscapes, there are plenty of options for a budget-friendly Christmas vacation. In this post, we’ll explore the top budget-friendly countries to travel to during Christmas 2024 from Dubai.

Georgia is one of the closest and most budget-friendly destinations to travel to from Dubai. During Christmas, the capital city, Tbilisi, turns into a festive wonderland with Christmas lights, markets, and decorations. The country offers a mix of cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and affordable prices.  Georgia is known for its affordability, and the proximity to Dubai makes flights cheaper. Plus, you’ll experience a European-style Christmas without traveling too far.

Best things to Do:

• Visit the Christmas markets in Tbilisi.
• Explore the old town and Narikala Fortress.
• Enjoy skiing or snowboarding in Gudauri.

Average Cost:

• Flights: From AED 800 – AED 1,200 roundtrip.
• Accommodation: AED 100 – AED 300 per night for budget hotels.
• Meals: AED 15 – AED 40 for local dishes.
• Transportation: AED 5 – AED 15 for local taxis and buses.

Armenia is another budget-friendly destination close to Dubai. It’s a country filled with rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. During Christmas, the capital, Yerevan, is beautifully decorated with lights and festive markets. Armenia is close to Dubai, making flights affordable. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation is also very budget-friendly.

What to Do:

• Visit the Christmas markets in Yerevan.
• Explore the ancient monasteries like Geghard and Khor Virap.
• Go skiing at Tsaghkadzor Ski Resort.

Average Cost:

• Flights: From AED 700 – AED 1,200 roundtrip.
• Accommodation: AED 80 – AED 250 per night for budget hotels.
• Meals: AED 10 – AED 30 for local food.
• Transportation: AED 5 – AED 15 for taxis and buses.

Also Read: Top 30 enchanting Christmas destinations to travel to from Dubai

Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and rich culture. It’s an affordable destination from Dubai, and during Christmas, you can enjoy warm weather and festive celebrations in cities like Colombo and Kandy. Sri Lanka offers affordable flights from Dubai, and once you arrive, the cost of living is low. It’s a perfect destination for a budget-friendly beach getaway during Christmas.

What to Do:

• Relax on the beaches of Bentota or Mirissa.
• Explore the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya.
• Visit the ancient city of Sigiriya.

Average Cost:

• Flights: From AED 800 – AED 1,500 roundtrip.
• Accommodation: AED 100 – AED 300 per night for budget hotels.
• Meals: AED 10 – AED 30 for local food.
• Transportation: AED 5 – AED 20 for tuk-tuks and buses.

Turkey is a fantastic destination for those looking for a mix of culture, history, and affordability. Christmas is not widely celebrated, but cities like Istanbul are beautifully decorated during this time, and you can enjoy a unique blend of European and Asian culture. Turkey is a short flight from Dubai, and the cost of living is affordable. Whether you’re exploring Istanbul’s cultural sites or relaxing in Cappadocia, you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly options.

What to Do:

• Visit the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
• Take a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia.
• Explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus.

Average Cost:

• Flights: From AED 1,200 – AED 1,800 roundtrip.
• Accommodation: AED 120 – AED 400 per night for budget hotels.
• Meals: AED 15 – AED 50 for local food.
• Transportation: AED 5 – AED 20 for buses and trams.

Goa is a perfect destination for a budget-friendly Christmas holiday from Dubai. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and vibrant Christmas celebrations. Goa offers a tropical escape with warm weather and affordable accommodation. Goa offers affordable flights from Dubai, and once you’re there, the cost of accommodation and food is low. It’s a great destination for a tropical Christmas without breaking the bank.

What to Do:

• Relax on the beaches of Anjuna, Baga, and Palolem.
• Explore the historic churches in Old Goa.
• Enjoy the Christmas parties and nightlife in the beach towns.

Average Cost:

• Flights: From AED 900 – AED 1,500 roundtrip.
• Accommodation: AED 80 – AED 300 per night for budget hotels.
• Meals: AED 10 – AED 30 for local food.
• Transportation: AED 5 – AED 15 for taxis and scooters.

Egypt is a great option for travelers looking for both history and adventure on a budget. Cairo is lively during Christmas, with festive decorations, markets, and events. You can explore ancient monuments, relax by the Nile, or visit the beaches of the Red Sea. Egypt offers affordable flights and low living costs. It’s a perfect destination for a Christmas vacation filled with history, culture, and adventure.

What to Do:

• Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.
• Explore the temples and tombs in Luxor.
• Relax on the beaches of Sharm El Sheikh.

Average Cost:

• Flights: From AED 1,000 – AED 1,500 roundtrip.
• Accommodation: AED 100 – AED 350 per night for budget hotels.
• Meals: AED 10 – AED 40 for local food.
• Transportation: AED 5 – AED 20 for taxis and buses.

Also Read: Best places to go on long weekends from Dubai

Nepal is a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Christmas is not widely celebrated, but cities like Kathmandu have festive decorations. You can also explore the stunning Himalayan landscapes and enjoy trekking or sightseeing on a budget. Nepal offers affordable flights from Dubai, and once you’re there, the cost of accommodation, food, and transport is very low. It’s a great choice for a budget-friendly Christmas with nature and adventure.

What to Do:

• Explore the temples and markets in Kathmandu.
• Go trekking in the Himalayas, including the Annapurna region.
• Visit the serene city of Pokhara by the lake.

Average Cost:

• Flights: From AED 1,000 – AED 1,600 roundtrip.
• Accommodation: AED 80 – AED 250 per night for budget hotels.
• Meals: AED 5 – AED 20 for local food.
• Transportation: AED 5 – AED 20 for taxis and buses.

Azerbaijan, particularly the capital city of Baku, is a great destination for a budget-friendly Christmas holiday. Baku is known for its modern architecture, rich history, and festive decorations during the holiday season. Azerbaijan is very close to Dubai, making flights cheaper. The cost of living is also affordable, making it a great option for a budget Christmas trip.

What to Do:

• Visit the Flame Towers and Old City in Baku.
• Explore the Gobustan National Park with its ancient rock carvings.
• Enjoy the Christmas lights and events in the city.

Average Cost:

• Flights: From AED 700 – AED 1,200 roundtrip.
• Accommodation: AED 100 – AED 300 per night for budget hotels.
• Meals: AED 10 – AED 40 for local food.
• Transportation: AED 5 – AED 15 for local taxis and buses.

Read More: How to save your budget with a reverse trip planning strategy?

Jordan is a great choice for those interested in history, culture, and natural wonders. While Christmas is not widely celebrated, cities like Amman offer festive decorations. You can explore ancient ruins, the Dead Sea, and the stunning desert landscapes on a budget. Jordan is close to Dubai, and the cost of travel, food, and accommodation is affordable. It’s a great destination for a Christmas vacation filled with history and adventure.

What to Do:

• Visit the ancient city of Petra.
• Float in the Dead Sea.
• Explore the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum.

Average Cost:

• Flights: From AED 800 – AED 1,300 roundtrip.
• Accommodation: AED 100 – AED 350 per night for budget hotels.
• Meals: AED 10 – AED 40 for local food.
• Transportation: AED 5 – AED 20 for taxis and buses.

Thailand is a popular and affordable destination for travelers from Dubai, especially during Christmas. The warm tropical climate, stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage make it a great spot for a budget-friendly vacation.

Cities like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai offer a variety of festive events and Christmas markets, alongside Thailand’s renowned hospitality. Thailand offers affordable flights and a low cost of living. Whether you’re exploring the cities, enjoying the beaches, or experiencing the local culture, Thailand is a budget-friendly choice for Christmas.

What to Do:

• Visit the Grand Palace and temples in Bangkok.
• Relax on the beaches of Phuket or Koh Samui.
• Explore the night markets and Christmas festivals in Chiang Mai.

Average Cost:

• Flights: From AED 1,200 – AED 1,800 roundtrip.
• Accommodation: AED 80 – AED 300 per night for budget hotels.
• Meals: AED 10 – AED 30 for street food and local dishes.
• Transportation: AED 5 – AED 20 for tuk-tuks, buses, and local taxis.

1. Book Early: Christmas is a popular time to travel, so booking flights and accommodation early will help you get the best deals.
2. Choose Budget-Friendly Destinations: Certain destinations have a lower cost of living, making accommodation, food, and transport more affordable. Consider countries like Georgia, Armenia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, which are mentioned above.
3. Be Flexible with Travel Dates: Traveling a few days before or after the peak holiday dates can save you money on flights and accommodation. If possible, avoid traveling between December 23 and 26, as these are the most expensive days.
4. Look for Free or Low-Cost Activities Many destinations offer free holiday events like Christmas markets, public concerts, and light displays. Explore natural attractions like parks, beaches, or scenic viewpoints that don’t cost anything.

A budget-friendly Christmas trip is entirely possible with the right planning and mindset. By booking early, choosing affordable destinations, and being mindful of your spending on flights, accommodation, and activities, you can enjoy a magical holiday season without straining your finances. Remember, the true spirit of Christmas is about creating memories, and with these tips, you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. Contact us to plan your budget-friendly Christmas trip from UAE.