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Arab News
3 days ago
- Business
- Arab News
Dubai Basketball keep title dreams alive with overtime win against seven-time champions
DUBAI: Dubai Basketball edged out seven-time ABA League champions Partizan Mozzart Bet in Game 2 of the semi-finals — winning the pivotal clash 100-95 in the final five minutes of overtime to square the series. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport Dubai welcomed Serbian powerhouse Partizan Mozzart Bet to Coca-Cola Arena on Thursday night after a shock loss in Belgrade in the first leg of the semi-final. Needing a win to keep their league ambitions alive, Dubai Basketball were set for what would be one of their best games this season. In a stark contrast from the first game of the semis, Dubai Basketball kept Partizan on edge with unrelenting momentum and strong defensive tactics. Praising Dubai's response, Partizan coach Zeljko Obradovic spoke about the intensity of playing Dubai at home. 'We knew they would try to be aggressive here (in Dubai), and they were,' he said. Dubai's physicality and determination were evident from the start of the first quarter. Holding a narrow three-point lead in the second quarter, the team gained confidence as they landed crucial three-pointers, pushing ahead into the second half. However, Partizan quickly retaliated, with American guard Carlik Jones and Belgian international Frank Ntilikina making an early impact and keeping the contest tight. Leading by example for Dubai was captain and Man of the Match Klemen Prepelic. The Slovenian shooting guard has often been praised for his role in the debutant team, but his performance on Thursday night outshone his previous milestones for the team. Prepelic, the night's top scorer, contributed 30 points, three rebounds and one assist. Only one other Dubai Basketball member came close to these stats, with Nate Mason's perfectly executed free throws in the last 14 seconds of regulation time leveling the score and forcing Partizan into overtime. Praising the team's resilience, Dubai Basketball head coach Jurica Golemac said: 'I'm very proud. We didn't surrender; we didn't give up. You could see it in the players — the emotions in their eyes. We didn't want the season to end, and that was obvious.' With more than 7,000 fans in attendance, Dubai looked more confident than ever in the extra period. Spurred on by the home crowd, they secured the final points of the night and sealed a crucial win to force a deciding third game in Belgrade on Sunday. 'Our defence was unbelievable today,' Golemac added. 'I had the feeling there were 10,000 people inside — breathing and playing the game with us. They wanted to succeed just like we did.' Dubai Basketball now head to Serbia for the semi-final showdown, one step away from a place in the ABA League finals — marking an already historic debut season for the team with a second home win against one of Europe's most decorated clubs.
The National
3 days ago
- Business
- The National
Dubai Basketball take ABA League semi-final against Partizan to decider following OT win
Dubai Basketball kept their hopes of reaching the ABA League Finals alive with a dramatic 100-95 overtime victory against Partizan on Thursday to take the best-of-three semi-final down to a decider on Sunday. Partizan led by six points with five minutes left and by four with 90 seconds remaining of regulation time. But after Carlik Jones missed a potential game-winner, Dubai clawed their way back to force the game into overtime. Klemen Prepelic, who led from the front with a game-high 30 points, nailed a free throw in OT as Dubai held on to take the series back to Belgrade. An ecstatic Dubai head coach Jurica Golemac said: "I'm very proud. We didn't surrender, we didn't give up. We didn't want the season to end, and you could see that in the players – in their emotions and in their eyes. 'We played against an unbelievable opponent, a very good team. But the job is not done. We've got one more game to play. We need to rest, analyse, and move forward." It was Dubai's second victory over Partizan at the Coca-Cola Arena having also beaten the Serbian team in Round 23 of the regular season. Golemac acknowledged the part the home fans played. 'Last but not least, the fans were unbelievable today – like every game – but tonight it felt like 10,000 people were inside, breathing and playing the game with us. I truly felt that they wanted to succeed just as much as we did.' The game was a rollercoaster from the start. Partizan led in the opening minutes but it was the home side that finished the first quarter strong, taking a 29–23 lead after an excellent three-point shooting, hitting six of their first 10 attempts. Prepelic led from the front with Nate Mason each contributing two triples in the early surge. Despite struggling from deep, Partizan stayed competitive behind the efforts of Duane Washington and especially Frank Ntilikina, who hit three three-pointers without a miss in the second quarter. However, Dubai hung on to a 50–47 lead at half time with Davis Bertans sinking three threes, including one at the buzzer. Prepelic delivered a sterling performance, emerging as a constant offensive threat and one of the key reasons Dubai were able to even the series. The captain hit five shots from three, pulled down three rebounds and got two steals. 'In Game 1, we came in empty,' Golemac reflected on Monday's 102-72 defeat. 'The third game of the quarter-finals [ against Cedevita Olimpija ] was a must-win, and after we won it, we had a let-down [Partizan]. 'We came into the first game with confidence, but we weren't ready – for the fight or for the battle. 'We gave Partizan too much space. We lacked aggressiveness and the energy we showed today. When Partizan gets hot, you can't stop them – they were scoring from all positions. 'We watched the video and analysed it. The good thing about the play-offs is you get another chance. We got ours at home, and in the end, it doesn't matter by how much you wini – t only matters that you put a point on the board and get the win.' Golemac's men will have a massive task when they face seven-time ABA champions Partizan in front of their home crowd at Stark Arena. 'That's great. It's unbelievable. We deserve to play in a full gym, with great fans, against one of the best teams in Europe – for the finals,' Golemac added. 'All season long, our players have approached every game with the right mindset. I'm very proud of how they refuse to surrender. Playing in that kind of atmosphere is a reward for us. 'Motivation will be higher. They'll be under pressure, but we're going there to play the best game of our season.' Partizan coach Zeljko Obradovic said the defeat felt like a lost opportunity but insists his side will be better prepared for the decider in Belgrade. 'We won by 30 points in the last game. This one was very tight. It's obvious they played much better today,' he said. 'We knew they would try to be aggressive here, and they were. In the first half, they scored a lot of three-point shots. In the second half, we tried to cover that, but there were situations where we committed fouls. 'They have great shooters, and they showed that tonight. That was the first difference. If you want to play well against Dubai, you need to defend their three-point shots very well.'
Khaleej Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai Basketball gets overtime victory at home against 7-time league champion Partizan
A game for the books, Dubai Basketball edged out seven-time ABA League champions Partizan Mozzart Bet in Game 2 of the semi-finals – winning the pivotal clash 100:95 in the final five minutes of overtime. Dubai welcomed Serbian powerhouse Partizan Mozzart Bet to Coca-Cola Arena on Thursday night following a shocking loss in Belgrade in the first leg of the semi-final. Needing this win to keep their league ambitions alive, Dubai Basketball prepared for what would be one of their best games this season. A stark contrast from Game 1 of the semis, Dubai Basketball kept Partizan on edge with unrelenting momentum and strong defensive tactics. Hailing Dubai for their response, Partizan coach Zeljko Obradovic spoke about the intensity of playing Dubai at home, 'We knew they would try to be aggressive here [in Dubai], and they were.' Dubai's physicality and determination were evident from the beginning moments of the first quarter. Holding a narrow three-point lead in the second quarter, the team gained confidence as they landed crucial three-pointers, pushing ahead into the second half. However, Partizan quickly retaliated, with American guard Carlik Jones and Belgian international Frank Ntilikina making an early impact and keeping the contest tight. Leading by example was captain and Man of the Match, Klemen Prepelić. The Slovenian shooting guard has often been praised for his role in the debutant team, but his performance on Thursday night outshone his previous milestones for the team. Making him the night's top scorer, Prepelić contributed 30 points, 3 rebounds and 1 assist. A scoreline that only another Dubai Basketball team member came close to – Nate Mason's perfectly executed free throws in the last 14 seconds of regulation time are what equalised the score and forced Partizan into overtime. Praising the team's resilience, Dubai Basketball head coach Jurica Golemac said, 'I'm very proud. We didn't surrender; we didn't give up. You could see it in the players—the emotions in their eyes. We didn't want the season to end, and that was obvious.' With over 7,000 fans in attendance, Dubai looked more confident than ever in the extra period. Spurred on by the home crowd, they secured the final points of the night and sealed a crucial win to force a deciding third game in Belgrade on Sunday. 'Our defence was unbelievable today,' Golemac added. 'I had the feeling there were 10,000 people inside—breathing and playing the game with us. They wanted to succeed just like we did.' Dubai Basketball now head to Serbia for the final semi-final showdown, one step away from a coveted place in the ABA League finals – marking an already historic debut season for the team with a second home win against one of Europe's most decorated
Zawya
5 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai announces Unmissable Eid Al Adha celebrations with epic entertainment, iconic family getaways, exclusive retail offers, and more
Spectacular line-up of thrilling concerts and live entertainment promise unforgettable entertainment for all ages, including legendary Saudi singer Mohamed Abdo heading to Coca-Cola Arena on 7 June Friends and families can book the perfect Eid getaways at Dubai's world-class hotels with exclusive packages and extra benefits, while offers on iconic citywide attractions - from waterparks, wildlife experiences, indoor adventure zones, and interactive children's entertainment hubs - promise nonstop fun for all ages Plus, shoppers can get a head start on Eid gifting with the season's biggest-ever discounts of 90 per cent off with the citywide 3 Day Super Sale, in addition to special offers, mega prizes, and grand raffles Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Dubai is set to transform into a spectacular season of joy, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences for this year's Eid Al Adha celebrations, with an action-packed programme of iconic citywide experiences organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) from 2 to 8 June. Friends, families, and visitors are all invited to come together to create unforgettable memories this Eid, with show-stopping entertainment, the season's biggest-ever retail offers, exclusive deals at citywide hotels and attractions, endless culinary adventures, once-in-a-lifetime mega prizes, and all-round unmissable adventures for everyone of all ages. LIVE EVENTS, CONCERTS AND SHOWS Dubai's Eid Al Adha celebrations promise a spectacular line-up of entertainment for all ages and interests. A top highlight of this season is a showstopping performance by legendary Saudi singer Mohamed Abdo as he lights up Coca-Cola Arena on 7 June in an unforgettable evening of music. Tickets are now available via the Coca-Cola Arena website. Meanwhile, families can enjoy a feel-good theatrical experience from 6 to 8 June as the Arabic play The Greatest Wish brings lively characters and captivating scenes to the stage at Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. Comedy lovers are in for a double treat on 7 June as French comedian Roman Frayssinet heads to the Emirates Theatre while Indian comic sensation Shraddha Jain makes her Dubai debut at Sheikh Rashid Auditorium, Indian High School. For a night of suspense and intrigue, the live-action murder mystery, Dinner With A Clue returns aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2 on 7 June. Music lovers can soak in the glow of flickering flames at the Candlelight Concert on 7 June, featuring classical renditions of timeless works by Vivaldi, as well as modern tributes to Coldplay, at Mina A'Salam Hotel in Madinat Jumeirah. Theatre-goers can enjoy a comedic twist on a classic tale with One Thousand Nights and A Wedding, performed on 7 and 8 June at Sheikh Rashid Hall, Dubai World Trade Centre. Rounding off the line-up, football fans can immerse themselves in the extraordinary world of Lionel Messi with nine interactive zones spanning 2,500 square metres at The Messi Experience, now open at Dubai Festival City Mall until 28 February 2026. RETAIL OFFERS AND CITY-WIDE SHOPPING RAFFLES Dubai's retail scene brings exciting offers, exclusive collections, and irresistible promotions across the city this Eid Al Adha. The eagerly awaited 3 Day Super Sale (3DSS) takes over the city from 30 May to 1 June, bringing the season's biggest-ever discounts of up to 90 per cent off at more than 500 top brands across over 2,500 outlets - perfect for everyone looking to pick out the perfect gifts for Eid, refresh wardrobes, upgrade to the latest tech must-haves, and enjoy the thrill of a well-deserved shopping spree. 3DSS shoppers can unlock even greater value by using their favourite loyalty programmes to enjoy incredible rewards, points, air miles, and exclusive perks - be it BLUE Rewards, SHARE, Amber, Tickit, AURA, Privilege Plus, or Skywards Everyday. Adding to the 3DSS excitement, Dubai Festival City Mall's Spend & Win promotion gives shoppers who spend AED 300 or more the chance to win a whopping AED 20,000 mall gift card. Throughout Eid, the Dubai Jewellery Group invites shoppers to explore stunning Eid collections and unlock exclusive deals like complimentary gifts with minimum purchase, 50 per cent back on select diamond and pearl jewellery, free custom engraving, and zero deduction on old gold exchange till June 8. Adding to the citywide excitement is the Shop & Win raffle promotion from Dubai Shopping Malls Group, running until the second day of Eid Al Adha. 25 lucky shoppers stand the chance to win exciting cash prizes worth a total of AED 200,000 when they spend just AED 200 at participating malls, including Al Ghurair Centre, Arabian Center, Sunset Mall, Silicon Central Mall, and Bay Avenue Mall, among others. MALL ACTIVATIONS Dubai's malls are transforming into vibrant hubs of celebration with a wide array of immersive experiences, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. At Mercato Mall, families can dive into delightful activities from 6 to 9 June including a Fun Eid Explosion main show, cotton candy performances, face painting, craft and painting workshops, and roaming entertainers. Shoppers can also unlock exclusive discounts through the PrivilegePLUS App, making it a rewarding experience both on and off the stage. Over at City Walk, visitors can escape the summer heat and immerse themselves in exceptional dining experiences, live entertainment, and engaging family activities from 6 to 9 June between 5pm and 10pm. Ibn Battuta Mall turns up the excitement with VERSUS 2.0, a next-generation gaming activation at the Egypt mini court from 6 to 15 June - complete with immersive gameplay, competitions, and a buzzing atmosphere. Meanwhile, Dubai Festival City Mall sets the stage for a brand-new IMAGINE Show, featuring breathtaking projection mapping performances scheduled every hour from 7 PM onwards, in addition to traditional cultural shows on the first two days of Eid after 5 PM, and special giveaways at the VIP entrance from 2 to 9 PM. Roaming entertainment and traditional performances bring an authentic cultural flair to malls across Dubai this Eid Al Adha. Shoppers can enjoy the vibrant rhythms of Al Ayala and Al Harbiya bands, an essential part of Emirati celebrations, across top destinations like Ibn Battuta Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Festival City Mall, and more. Performances are scheduled throughout Eid, with multiple showtimes at 4:30 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:30 PM, and 9:30 PM. DINING DELIGHTS ACROSS THE CITY This Eid Al Adha, Dubai's culinary scene comes alive with a host of festive feasts and indulgent dining experiences. From exquisite high teas at the elegant Mosaico Lobby Lounge to a luxurious Eid dinner at Enigma, food lovers are spoilt for choice. Popular venues such as Varq, Palm Kitchen, Punjab Grill, and Dhaba Lane present dishes bursting with authentic flavours, while The Permit Room and The Market Island at Dubai Festival City Mall offer lively atmospheres. For themed evenings and family outings, Ranches Restaurant at Arabian Ranches Golf Club hosts everything from BBQ nights and Sunday roasts to a magical breakfast with Magic Phil. Diners can also celebrate in style at Palazzo Versace's Giardino or enjoy signature offerings at renowned hotel restaurants including Novotel World Trade Centre, Fairmont Dubai, Swissôtel Al Ghurair, and Dukes The Palm. Whether it's a refined meal or a casual gathering, Dubai's dining scene serves something special for every palate this Eid. EXCLUSIVE HOTEL DEALS FOR A LUXURIOUS EID BREAK Visitors can make the most of the long weekend with exclusive Hotel offers across Dubai's top hotels including a luxury city escape at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai with 25 per cent off dining across its award-winning restaurants. At InterContinental Dubai Festival City, guests are treated to 25 per cent off stays, gourmet breakfasts, VOCO Monaco beach access, Dubai Festival City Mall discounts, and One Rewards bonus points, perfect for a chic and serene Eid break. Leading properties across Dubai are adding to the Eid Al Adha excitement with indulgent packages and savings, including Swissôtel Al Ghurair, 25hours Hotel One Central, Fairmont Dubai, The Ritz-Carlton DIFC, W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Waldorf Astoria DIFC, Andaz Dubai The Palm, Delano Dubai, Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah, Hotel Avalon, TRYP by Wyndham Barsha Heights, Hyde Dubai, Courtyard by Marriott Al Barsha and World Trade Centre, Park Inn by Radisson Dubai Motor City, Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City, Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, V Hotel Dubai, Al Habtoor Palace, JA Palm Tree Court, JA Beach Hotel, Address Palace Hotels, Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf, Media One Hotel, Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, JA Hatta Fort Hotel, Grand Hyatt Dubai, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark, Millennium Hotels and Resorts Middle East, and Paramount Hotels Dubai. From beachfront luxury to urban sophistication, Dubai promises the perfect Eid retreat. FAMILY-FRIENDLY STAYS AND EID ATTRACTIONS Dubai is set to pull out all the stops for families this Eid Al Adha, with irresistible hotel deals and thrilling attractions for all ages. Over at Dubai Festival City, a trio of family-focused hotels including InterContinental Residence Suites, Holiday Inn & Suites, and Crowne Plaza, are offering luxury escapes with breakfast and dinner packages, discounts to kid-friendly hotspots like Leo & Loona, Fabyland, and Hello Park, plus spa credits, and IHG One Rewards points. The First Collection hotels are sweetening the deal with up to 45 per cent off advance bookings, free stays and meals for kids under 5, and generous F&B discounts. For a unique escape, families can enjoy 15 per cent off a secluded Bedouin villa stay at Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, featuring Arabian décor, a private pool, full-board dining, and desert activities including a premium stargazing and horse riding experience. Beyond the hotels, the city's top attractions are getting ready to roll-out exciting Eid specials. Families can make magical memories at Dubai Dolphinarium with 30 per cent off Dolphin & Seal Show tickets using promo code EID25, or cool-off with water rides and live entertainment at Wild Wadi Water Park. Little builders can join the action at LEGOLAND® Dubai's Summer Splash Fest, featuring interactive games, a Build-A-Boat Championship, and an exclusive afterparty at LEGOLAND Hotel. For nature lovers, The Green Planet transforms into a tropical Eid haven with henna, face painting, and family movie screenings. Tech-fuelled thrill-seekers can enjoy discounted 10 per cent off family bundles at Chaos Karts and PACMAN Live, while Hatta Wadi Hub slashes prices on outdoor adventure packages by 50 per cent. For immersive fun, House of Hype offers 4 tickets for AED 449, and the cosmic AYA Universe invites families to explore its wonders for AED 399. Eid in Dubai promises to delight visitors, with a citywide celebration that blends the ultimate excitement, cultural charm, and unforgettable moments for all ages. About Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), is responsible for developing Dubai's retail and festival sectors and supporting the positioning of Dubai as a world-class tourism destination with year-round family entertainment, shopping and events.
Economy ME
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Economy ME
Eid al-Adha 2025: Top travel spots, cultural festivities, and visa tips for families
At Eid al-Adha, one of the most important Islamic holidays, people come together to celebrate with families and friends across many parts of the world. It is predicted that the Eid in 2025 will coincide with Hajj and the opening of summer travels. This year, people are traveling more for both pleasure and spiritual reasons and places throughout the Middle East, Europe and Asia are organizing special events and offers for Eid visitors. In this piece, we explore the best Eid al-Adha 2025 holiday destinations, the latest travel updates, visa regulations, trending experiences to help you plan a memorable and hassle-free Eid getaway. Key Eid al-Adha destinations for 2025 Dubai, UAE: Urban luxury and family fun From fireworks at Dubai Festival City at night to headline concerts at Coca-Cola Arena and lavish Eid brunches at its 5-star hotels, Dubai is once again a regional favorite destination. Experience themed festivities in Al Fahidi Historic District to get a taste of Emirati heritage. Flights to Dubai are often in high demand, so planners are encouraged to book quickly to secure their travel. Abha, Saudi Arabia: Mountain retreat with festive flair Eid al-Adha 2025 will see many people choose Abha, located in Asir, Saudi Arabia. The summer heat can be avoided in the cool mountain climate and during Eid, Heritage Village is the place to visit, with its fireworks, traditional shows, craft areas and tours of Jabal Souda and Asir National Park. Airfares to Abha are generally accessible, making this city welcoming for families and travelers of all kinds. Abha, Saudi Arabia Istanbul, Türkiye: Spiritual heritage and vibrant bazaars The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul host grand Eid prayers and crowds gather to celebrate in Istanbul's Grand Bazaar. For Eid visitors, cruise the Bosphorus, visit Topkapı Palace (open during Eid except on the first day) and see a bit of calligraphy. With the recent easing of rules for Türkiye's mosques, it has become an appealing spiritual and leisure destination, with flight prices starting at a reasonable rate. Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt: Beachside festivities Eid brings live music, dancing and seaside feasts to Naama Bay, Sharm El-Sheikh. Families and those who like to have new adventures will appreciate the nearby Ras Mohammed National Park, where visitors can go snorkeling (or simply have a quick nature escape). Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt Trending Eid al-Adha destinations: Regional and international Egypt: Ancient wonders and festive gatherings Cairo: In Cairo, one of Egypt's biggest Eid prayers is held inside the Al-Azhar Mosque, while Islamic Cairo fills with decorations, vendors and traditional sweets. Festive shopping and local crafts are to be found in the Khan El-Khalili bazaar. Read more | Eid al-Adha 2025: UAE leads global innovation with AI-powered moon sighting Cairo, Egypt Giza: Families come to the Pyramids for picnics and celebrations and combine ancient history with a modern feel. Alexandria: Corniche, Montazah Palace Gardens: Seaside picnics, fireworks and cultural performances are the order of the day on the Corniche and in Montazah Palace Gardens. Luxor & Aswan: Eid in Luxor is about reflection, among the temples and Eid in Aswan is about warm hospitality in the Nubian villages and Nile cruises. Siwa Oasis & Abu Simbel: At Siwa oasis or Abu Simbel's temples: A real Emirati from Siwa or the initiation of the Abu Simbel Surises temples to witness a religious Eid. Al-Azhar Mosque Saudi Arabia: Festivities beyond the holy cities AlUla: The Banyan Tree AlUla Resort offers luxury desert escapes, hot air balloon rides and Bedouin style dining to enjoy, all in AlUla. Jeddah & Riyadh: Coastal and urban adventures abound in Jeddah & Riyadh: Snorkeling in the Red Sea, city festivals and culinary tours. Adventure Activities: These include ziplining at Al Baha, dune buggy safaris near Riyadh, hiking in Tanomah or camping at the Edge of the World where adrenaline is alive and kicking. UAE: Staycations and regional escapes Dubai & Abu Dhabi: Besides city festivities, luxury resorts and desert retreats including exclusive Eid packages in Dubai & Abu Dhabi. Domestic Travel: Staycations are gaining traction, with children's school breaks overlapping and increasing international costs meaning a plethora of families opting for local resorts or family-friendly attractions. Abu Dhabi Europe & Asia: Bucket-list Eid escapes Switzerland, France, Italy, Latvia, Budapest: Leading European destinations, like Switzerland, France, Italy, Latvia, Budapest: All these are trending European destinations for their cooler climate, iconic drawing power and multi city itineraries specifically for travellers choosing to stay in the UAE for longer time, more experience rich holidays. Paris, France Japan: For cultural depth and content – and the adventure that comes with it – Japan is a top pick and they have immersive itineraries that will cater to an Eid. Japan Thailand, Bali, Malaysia, Singapore: For shorter breaks, 3 – 5 days, Thailand, Bali, Malaysia and Singapore are family favorites – easy short flights, kid friendly things to do and good value. The Colosseum, Italy Latest travel updates & visa regulations Saudi Arabia: Hajj and Eid al-Adha visa rules Hajj Visa: Only available through approved agencies; mandatory biometric verification and digital applications required. Umrah visa suspension: Temporarily paused from April 13, 2025, to prioritize Hajj pilgrims. As the Hajj season approaches, Saudi Arabia is implementing measures to regulate the flow of travelers and ensure safety during this busy period. The country has announced a temporary suspension of short-term visas for nationals from 14 countries, effective Sunday, April 13th. This suspension affects nationals from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. All types of short-term visas will be temporarily halted, including Business Visit Visas (both single and multiple entry), E-Tourist Visas, and Family Visit Visas. Suspension of affected visas will begin on Sunday, April 13, 2025. Visitors with a valid short-term visa can enter Saudi Arabia until April 13, 2025, but must ensure they exit before April 29, 2025. Umrah visas resume after Hajj ends in mid-July. Tourist visas: Entry to Makkah and parts of Madinah is restricted during Hajj; tourists are encouraged to visit other cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, or Abha. Planning Tips: Apply early, use only government-approved agencies, and prepare all required documents, including medical and vaccination records. UAE: Early bookings and group travel trends Booking patterns: 60 percent of UAE travelers confirm plans at least three weeks in advance to avoid soaring airfare costs, according to a recent report from . Group travel: Family bookings make up 60 percent of the total, with a notable rise in women-only and solo trips. Travel budgets: Average between AED3,500–5,500 per person, with strong demand for both affordable luxury and cultural depth. Eid al-Adha 2025: Top experiences & activities Cultural festivals and fireworks Abha, Saudi Arabia: Heritage Village fireworks, traditional dances, and craft workshops. Dubai, UAE: Nightly fireworks at Dubai Festival City, concerts, and Global Village festivities. Alexandria, Egypt: Seaside fireworks and cultural performances along the Corniche. Adventure and nature escapes Saudi Arabia: Ziplining, dune buggy safaris, hiking, camping, boat rides, and Red Sea snorkeling. Sharm El-Sheikh: Snorkeling and picnics at Ras Mohammed National Park. Giftun Island National Park, Egypt: Snorkeling, swimming, and beach picnics for a tranquil Eid. Spiritual journeys Makkah & Madinah: Reserved for Hajj pilgrims with strict entry rules. Cairo: Al-Azhar Mosque's grand Eid prayers and Islamic Cairo's historic ambiance. Istanbul: Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia Eid prayers, followed by traditional Turkish celebrations. Luxury retreats and wellness Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini, Greece: Private beaches, spas, and leisure sports for a rejuvenating Eid escape. Banyan Tree AlUla, Saudi Arabia: Opulent villas, private pools, and wellness retreats in the desert. AlUla, Saudi Arabia Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Eid al-Adha 2025 Travel When is Eid al-Adha 2025? Dhu al Hijjah starts on Wednesday, May 28, the UAE Presidential Court confirmed, as the crescent moon was sighted in the UAE and Saudi Arabia and Oman on May 27. Keeping this in mind Eid Al Adha will take place on Friday, June 6 or the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah. Switzerland Which destinations are trending for Eid al-Adha 2025? Popular destinations include Abha, Saudi Arabia; Dubai (UAE); Türkiye's Istanbul; Egypt's Sharm El Sheikh; Saudi Arabia's Al Ula; and destination cities in Europe such as Switzerland, France and Italy. Istanbul, Türkiye Are there any travel restrictions during Eid al-Adha 2025? Yes. Saudi Arabia has issued strict visa regulations during Hajj and Eid which entails a temporary suspension of the issuance of Umrah visa and restricting entry to Makkah and Madinah to non Hajj pilgrims, it said. Entry requirements may vary, for other countries, so check with official sources before booking. What are the best family-friendly Eid destinations? Families love Dubai, Sharm El Sheik, Cairo and Bali, where they can find activities and cultural events suitable for kids, suitable for their needs and the kids not to mention the convenience of traveling. How should I plan my Eid holiday to avoid high costs? Booking flights and accommodations early, opting for travel group or family packages and even taking domestic staycations or regional escapes if necessary. What adventure activities are available during Eid in Saudi Arabia? You can zipline, go on dune buggy safaris, hiking, camping in the desert, boat rides or snorkel in the Red Sea. Quite a few are aimed at families, but always check age and safety requirements. Can tourists visit Makkah or Madinah during Eid al-Adha? No. During the Hajj period only Hajj pilgrims with approved visas may enter Makkah or parts of Madinah. During this time tourists must visit other Saudi cities. What to carry when making a trip to Eid? Pack comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear so that you won't have any kind of trouble in trekking or walking around, sunscreen, hats and water bottles. In case of activities specific gear is also required. Please make sure to always check local weather and activity requirements. Tips for a smooth Eid al-Adha 2025 holiday Book early: Secure flights, hotels, and activities at least three weeks in advance to avoid price hikes and limited availability. Check visa requirements: Ensure you have the correct visa, especially for Saudi Arabia during Hajj and Eid. Plan for crowds: Popular destinations will be busy; plan itineraries to include both major attractions and quieter local experiences. Embrace local traditions: Participate in community events, try traditional foods, and explore local crafts for an authentic Eid experience. Stay updated: Follow official tourism and government websites for the latest travel advisories, festival schedules, and visa updates. Final word The coming Eid al Adha in 2025 will be a fortnight filled with holy pilgrimage, happy reunion with family and friends and one of the best experiences of your life. From the cool mountains of Abha to the cosmopolitan buzz of Dubai, Egypt's ancient wonders or bucket list escapes in Europe and Asia, Eid this year gives something to every traveller. Staying aware of the latest travel trends, showcasing envelopes with visa rules and seeing what's new at the destination will mean your Eid al-Adha holiday will be safe, fun and memorable.
