Are you confused between Europe and Middle East, for your holiday destination? Here, we will help you choose between the two, as your first international holiday from Dubai.
Being a resident of Dubai or UAE comes with a lot of privileges and advantages. You enjoy a tax-free life as well as the world-class amenities, facilities, and luxuries of a developed country. Moreover, international travel becomes easier for Dubai or UAE residents. Good flight connectivity, easy visa options, and plenty of options for both short and long holidays, etc., are some of the reasons why traveling is stress-free from Dubai. Two of the most popular places among Dubai residents is Europe and Middle East. If you are planning your first international holiday and are confused about Europe vs. Middle East travel, we will help you to choose between the two.
Visa Requirements: Europe vs. Middle East
Visa is the basic requirement for international travel. Be it Middle East Asia or Europe, you need to get the visa of the country you are visiting in either region. However, there are some differences that you need to know.
Visa for Europe:
Europe is made of more than 44 countries, out of which 29 belong to the Schengen zone. The countries that come under the Schengen zone have signed an agreement that established border-free zone among certain European countries. UAE residents can apply for Schengen visa from Dubai, with which they can visit countries like France, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, etc., without the need to get a separate visa for each country. If you are visiting a country that is not a part of the Schengen zone, you need to apply for the visa separately. For instance, if you are planning a trip to the UK, a UK visa is what you need.
Type of Visa: Wherever you are traveling in Europe, you need to apply for the visa directly through the embassy of the country you are visiting. The processing time for European visas is 10-15 days and requires you to submit all the original documents. You may also have to attend a visa interview. You will receive the European visa as a stamp or sticker directly on your passport.
Visa for Middle East
Middle East Asia includes countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, etc. UAE citizens are eligible for visa-free-entry to GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries. But the same rule does not apply for UAE residents. However, several Middle East countries offer e-visa and visa-on-arrival to UAE or Dubai residents. There is no single visa for different countries. You need to apply for the visa of the country you are visiting. For instance, if you want to visit Saudi Arabia, you can apply for Saudi visa from Dubai.
Type of Visa: Most of the Middle East countries offer visa-on-arrival and e-visas to UAE residents. Countries like Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, etc., have e-visa services for residents of the UAE. The process takes anywhere between few hours and few days, making it easier to get the visa. The entire visa process, starting from filling the application form to submitting the documents and paying the visa fee, happens online. The e-visa arrives in your email once approved.
Best Time to Travel: Europe vs. Middle East
Europe: Europe has four climates: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. While summer is the most popular time for vacation, this is also the most crowded time. It is best to travel to Europe in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. Summers in Europe are also milder than that in the Middle East, making it a perfect destination for peak summers in Dubai.
Middle East: All Middle Eastern countries have almost the same climate. The best time to visit any of the Middle Eastern country would be during the winter season, i.e., between November and March. The weather during this time is pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing and indulging in outdoor activities.
Flight Frequency and Duration: Europe vs. Middle East
Europe: Dubai is well-connected to all European countries. You will find frequent flights to almost all the major European cities. If you book early, you can get good discounts on air flights from Dubai to Europe.
Middle East: As a major airport in the world, you will find several flights from Dubai to all the major cities of the Middle East. Dubai has almost daily flights to Muscat, Jeddah, Doha, etc. You can also drive to the cities of the neighboring countries from Dubai if you have time for a road trip.
Travel Experiences: Europe vs. Middle East
The travel experiences in Europe and Middle East are quite varied. Here’s what you can expect in each of these regions.
Europe:
- Europe is rich in history and culture, and these are reflected in its architecture, monuments, and museums.
- The continent boasts some of the most popular landmarks, including Eiffel Tower in Paris, Colosseum in Rome, Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Acropolis in Athens, Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, and more.
- You can also find several masterpieces of Gothic, Renaissance, Medieval, and Baroque architecture throughout the continent.
- Apart from architecture, Europe is also known for its natural beauty. The Alps, the Mediterranean Coast, the Norwegian Fjords, the Dolomites, the Scandinavian Highlands, and the Pyrenees have fascinated people for centuries.
- Taking train journeys is one of the highlights of any European trip. Not only are they great for traveling from one country to another but also an amazing way of admiring the beauty of the place.
- The weather in Europe is pleasant almost throughout the year, except during the winter season, when it snows in many places. Still, you will find different attractions and activities in each season, making Europe an all-year-long destination.
- The best way to explore Europe is by foot. Almost all the cities and towns in Europe are pedestrian-friendly. You will also find several walking tours in most European cities.
Must-Visit Places in Europe: Paris (France), Rome (Italy), Vienna (Austria), London (UK), Prague (Czechia), Berlin (Germany), Interlaken (Switzerland), and more.
Middle East:
- The Middle East is known for its world-class luxury and modern attractions. From opulent mosques and monuments to extravagant shopping malls and theme parks, there is much to explore here. The Middle East is perfect for luxury travelers.
- Even with all the modern opulence, the region is deep-rooted in its culture. Most of the Middle Eastern countries are home to old forts, ancient mosques, fascinating ruins, interesting museums, and traditional souks. There are also many archaeological sites in the Middle East, giving you the chance to peak into the history of the region.
- The Middle East is known for its dramatic desert landscapes, complete with vast desert dunes. Most of the places offer desert safaris, including camel riding, dune bashing, and star gazing. But the Middle East is not just about the desert. Many of the countries are home to pristine coastlines, rugged mountains, and gorgeous wadis, each one truly breathtaking.
- One of the highlights of traveling in the Middle East is the food. The different cuisines in the Middle Eastern area are filled with flavors and spices. There are plenty of dining options as well, ranging from hawker streets to fine dining restaurants.
- The most attractive thing about the Middle East is that it has adapted innovation and modern way of life while preserving its traditions, culture, and heritage.
Must-Visit Places in Middle East: Oman, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and more.
Conclusion
Your decision to choose Europe or the Middle East for your first trip from Dubai will completely depend on your personal choice as well as the things you want to experience. While Europe is perfect for long holidays, the Middle East is great for shorter holidays, including weekend getaways.