From mountain retreats to Red Sea escapes: Six winter getaways in the Middle East

As we approach the winter season, many travelers are looking to plan a getaway without venturing too far from the region. The Middle East offers a range of destinations that make the most of the cooler months, from mountain retreats and desert camps to Red Sea beaches and historic cities.

While some are suited to outdoor adventures and cooler-weather activities, others offer a slower pace, cultural experiences and the chance to explore landscapes that can be difficult to enjoy during the summer heat.

Here are six destinations to consider for a winter break, along with accommodation options for different types of stays.

ZAAROUR, LEBANON

Zaarour Club, Lebanon

Around an hour’s drive from Beirut, depending on traffic and road conditions, Zaarour offers a change of scenery from Lebanon’s coastal cities, with mountain views, cooler temperatures and a winter landscape that can be transformed by snowfall. 

Its ski resort makes it an option for visitors looking to spend time on the slopes without travelling to the country’s more distant mountain destinations. Beyond skiing, the surrounding area offers snow activities and quieter weekends in the mountains. Snow conditions and resort operations can vary from season to season, so visitors should check the latest updates before travelling.

Where to stay: Le Grand Chalet offers a boutique mountain stay within the Zaarour Club area, while Zaarour Club provides access to the resort’s seasonal activities.

WADI RUM, JORDAN

Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is a UNESCO-listed landscape of sandstone mountains, narrow canyons, natural arches and vast stretches of red sand. Winter offers more comfortable conditions for exploring the desert during the day, whether on a four-wheel-drive excursion, a guided hike or a camel ride.

It is also an atmospheric time to experience the region’s clear night skies and Bedouin hospitality. However, desert temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, making heated and well-insulated accommodation an important consideration.

Where to stay: Sun City Camp offers a desert-lodge experience, while Wadi Rum Palmera Camp provides a more upscale glamping-style stay.

HATTA, UAE

Hatta, UAE

For residents of Dubai looking to trade the city skyline for rugged mountain scenery, Hatta offers an accessible winter break around 90 minutes from the city. 

Set in the Hajar Mountains, the destination combines hiking and cycling trails with kayaking at Hatta Dam, mountain viewpoints and outdoor adventure activities at Hatta Wadi Hub. 

The cooler months are particularly suited to exploring the landscape on foot and spending time outdoors, with the area’s lodges and glamping options adding to its appeal as a short staycation.

Where to stay: Options range from the chalet-style JA Hatta Fort Hotel to Hatta Resorts, which offers Damani Lodges, dome stays and camper-style accommodation. Caravan Hatta by Our Habitas is another option for a more design-led outdoor experience.

DAHAB, EGYPT

Dahab, Egypt

On the southeast coast of the Sinai Peninsula, Dahab has a distinct character from Egypt’s larger resort towns. Its waterfront promenade, independent cafés, laid-back guesthouses and dive centers attract travelers looking for a less structured seaside break. 

Winter brings milder conditions for spending time outdoors, exploring the coastline and visiting nearby desert landscapes, while the Red Sea remains a draw for snorkeling and diving. 

The town is also a base for excursions to sites such as the Blue Hole and the mountains of South Sinai, although visitors should check local guidance and access arrangements before planning trips.

Where to stay: For a stay closer to Dahab’s waterfront promenade, visitors can consider smaller hotels and studio-style accommodation, including Alf Leila and Blue Hole Studios. Those looking for resort facilities can opt for JAZ Dahabeya, set by the lagoon, or Safir Dahab Resort, which offers beachfront accommodation.

LUXOR AND ASWAN, EGYPT

Luxor, Egypt

For travelers who prefer history and culture to a beach break, Luxor and Aswan offer some of the region’s most rewarding winter escapes. 

The cooler months make it easier to explore Upper Egypt’s archaeological sites, from the temples of Karnak and Luxor to the tombs of the Valley of the Kings on the West Bank. 

Further south, Aswan offers a slower pace, with visits to Philae Temple, Nubian villages and traditional markets, as well as boat trips along the Nile. 

The two cities can also be explored as part of a multi-day Nile cruise, with itineraries typically stopping at landmarks including Edfu and Kom Ombo. Winter is one of the most comfortable periods for this route, although early mornings and evenings can be cool.

Where to stay: In Luxor, the historic Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor offers a Nile-side stay, while Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa provides a riverside resort experience. In Aswan, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan is a landmark hotel overlooking the Nile, while Mövenpick Resort Aswan offers an island setting with views of the river and city.

SHEYBARAH ISLAND, SAUDI ARABIA

Shebara Resort, Saudi Arabia

For a more secluded winter escape, Sheybarah Island is part of the Red Sea destination developed by Red Sea Global. Set within the Al Wajh Lagoon, the island is known for its clear waters, coral reefs and distinctive overwater villas, offering a winter break centred on marine experiences and privacy. Its resort, Shebara, features 73 villas, including 38 overwater and 35 beachfront units.

Guests can reach the island by boat or seaplane from Red Sea International Airport, with activities including diving and other water-based experiences. 

The resort also places sustainability at the center of its design and operations, with an on-site solar farm and infrastructure intended to reduce its environmental footprint.

The island’s cooler season runs from mid-November to March, when daytime temperatures are typically around 23–27°C, making it well suited to outdoor and beach activities. 

While it is a more exclusive, high-end option than a conventional weekend staycation, it offers a distinctive way to experience Saudi Arabia’s expanding Red Sea tourism offering.

Where to stay: Shebara is the island’s sole resort, with overwater and beachfront villas designed around the surrounding marine environment.