10 trips to take during the Eid Al Fitr public holiday

With Eid Al Fitr approaching, residents across the UAE and wider GCC are planning ahead for the first public holiday of 2026. A potential three-day weekend is on the horizon, with celebrations expected from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 March. 

Travellers and agents across the region can capitalise on the opportunity by curating short-haul trips ranging from coastal escapes to cultural city stays. For those seeking a longer adventure, adding a few days of annual leave can easily extend the holiday to five days.

Here are 10 of the best destinations for GCC travellers to explore during the 2026 Eid Al Fitr holiday. 

1. Colombo, Sri Lanka

With just under a five-hour flight duration and direct services from all major local carriers, Colombo is an easily accessible destination from the UAE. The largest metropolis of the island nation, Colombo spans colonial-era temples and contemporary landmarks, including the Lotus Tower, one of South Asia’s tallest structures. Nature-seekers can embark on a day trip to Kandy, exploring the tea highlands and the Royal Botanical Gardens. The city recently also hosted the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, drawing international fans and highlighting Colombo’s potential for event-driven tourism. 

2. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Home to white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs, Zanzibar is emerging as a fast-growing Indian Ocean destination, just under a six-hour flight from the UAE. Located off the coast of Tanzania, the island has a rich Swahili culture, with heritage sites including the Unesco-listed Stone Town, a historic trading port for East Africa. Zanzibar has recorded a 53% rise in demand from Saudi travellers, as revealed in Skyscanner’s Travel Trends report, highlighting growing regional interest in alternative island destinations beyond traditional spots such as the Maldives. Local carrier Etihad is set to relaunch seasonal services to the island later this year.