Top 10 Countries You Should Visit in Winter 2025: Simple Guide for UAE People

What You Will Learn Here

• Best 10 countries to visit in winter 2025
• How much money you need
• Which countries don't need visa
• Simple tips to plan your trip
• What documents you need
• How to save money on travel

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Why Travel in Winter 2025 is Good for UAE People

Winter in UAE (December to March) is the best time to travel. The weather is nice here, but it's also perfect weather in many other countries.

Here's why winter travel is smart:

• UAE weather is comfortable for flying
• Many countries have their best weather now
• Flight prices are often lower
• Less crowded tourist places
• Special winter events and festivals

Winter 2025 gives UAE people great chances to see the world. You can go to warm beach places or cold snowy countries. Both are amazing options.

Top 10 Best Countries to Visit in Winter 2025

1. Japan - Snow and Culture Country

Why Go: Amazing snow, hot springs, and beautiful culture

Japan in winter is like a fairy tale. From December to March, the country has lots of snow. You can see snow monkeys bathing in hot water. Tokyo has beautiful lights everywhere.

What You Can Do:

• Ski in Hokkaido (best snow in the world)
• Visit hot springs (called onsen)
• See winter light displays in big cities
• Try winter food like hot ramen
• Visit temples covered in snow

Important Details:

1. Visa: UAE residents can visit Japan for 15 to 30 days. Please check the Japan visa for UAE residents page for more info.
2. Flight Time: 7 to 9 hours direct from Dubai
3. Best Months: December, January, February, March
4. Money Needed: 550 to 1,100 AED per day
5. Weather: Cold (0 to 10 degrees), lots of snow

Money Saving Tips:

• Stay in business hotels instead of fancy ones
• Eat at local restaurants (much cheaper)
• Buy a JR Pass for trains
• Visit free temples and parks

2. Morocco - Perfect Weather Country

Why Go: Great weather, amazing markets, and easy to reach

Morocco in winter has the best weather. It's warm but not too hot. Perfect for walking around the old cities and markets.

What You Can Do:

• Walk through Marrakech markets
• Ride camels in Sahara Desert
• See Atlas Mountains with snow on top
• Visit four royal cities
• Try traditional Moroccan food

Important Details:

• Visa: No visa needed for UAE citizens(90 days free)
• Flight Time: 7 to 8 hours (usually one stop)
• Best Months: November, December, January, February, March, April
• Money Needed: 295 to 550 AED per day
• Weather: Warm days (20-25 degrees), cool nights

Money Saving Tips:

Stay in traditional houses (riads) - cheaper than hotels

Eat street food (safe and tasty)

Take local buses between cities

Buy things at local markets (not tourist shops)

3. New Zealand - Summer Season Country

Why Go: It's summer there when it's winter here

When UAE has winter, New Zealand has summer. This means perfect weather for outdoor activities and seeing beautiful nature.

What You Can Do:

• Hike in amazing mountains
• Try adventure sports in Queenstown
• See beautiful beaches and lakes
• Watch unique animals like kiwi birds
• Drive through stunning landscapes

Important Details:

1. Visa: UAE residents need a visa, and can apply for a New Zealand visa via VFS in Dubai
2. Flight Time: 16 to 20 hours (with stops)
3. Best Months: December, January, February (their summer)
4. Money Needed: 440 to 920 AED per day
5. Weather: Warm and sunny (20-25 degrees)

Money Saving Tips:

• Book accommodation early
• Cook your own food (groceries are cheaper)
• Use public transport in cities
• Do free walking tours

4. Thailand - Tropical Paradise Country

Why Go: Cheap, beautiful beaches, amazing food

Thailand's cool season is perfect timing for UAE travelers. Great weather, beautiful beaches, and everything costs very little money.

What You Can Do:

• Relax on amazing beaches
• Get cheap massages and spa treatments
• Eat the best street food in the world
• Visit beautiful temples
• Take boat trips to small islands

Important Details:

1. Visa: UAE residents can avail an E-visa to Thailand for 30 days
2. Flight Time: 6 to 7 hours direct
3. Best Months: November, December, January, February, March
4. Money Needed: 185 to 440 AED per day
5. Weather: Warm and dry (25-30 degrees)

Money Saving Tips:

• Stay away from main tourist beaches
• Eat at local food courts
• Use local buses and trains
• Book tours through local companies

5. Malaysia - Mix of Everything Country

Why Go: Cities, beaches, culture, and great food

Malaysia has everything. Modern cities like Kuala Lumpur, beautiful islands, and the best food variety in Asia.

What You Can Do:

• Visit Petronas Twin Towers
• Explore the old Georgetown city
• Relax on Langkawi beaches
• Try food from many cultures
• Shop at huge malls and night markets

Important Details:

1. Visa: E-visa to Malaysia is available for UAE residents.
2. Flight Time: 7 to 8 hours direct
3. Best Months: December, January, February, March
4. Money Needed: 150 to 370 AED per day
5. Weather: Hot and humid but manageable (28-32 degrees)

Money Saving Tips:

• Stay in budget hotels (very clean and good)
• Eat at hawker centers (food courts)
• Use the Grab app for cheap transport
• Visit free attractions like temples and parks

6. Maldives - Island Paradise Country

Why Go: Perfect beaches, luxury resorts, easy from UAE

Maldives is very close to UAE and has the most beautiful water in the world. Perfect for relaxing and romantic trips.

What You Can Do:

• Stay in water villas over the ocean
• Snorkel and dive with tropical fish
• Get spa treatments by the beach
• Try water sports
• Watch beautiful sunsets

Important Details:

1. Visa: No visa needed
2. Flight Time: 4 to 5 hours direct
3. Best Months: November, December, January, February, March, April
4. Money Needed: 740 to 2,950+ AED per day (depends on resort)
5. Weather: Always warm (28-32 degrees), less rain in winter

Money Saving Tips:

• Stay on local islands instead of resort islands
• Book all-inclusive packages
• Travel in shoulder season (May or October)
• Bring your own snorkel gear

7. South Korea - Modern Culture Country

Why Go: K-pop culture, great shopping, winter festivals

South Korea is very popular now because of K-pop and Korean dramas. Winter is a great time to visit with mild weather and fun festivals.

What You Can Do:

• Visit K-pop entertainment companies
• Shop for Korean beauty products
• Try Korean BBQ and street food
• See winter light festivals
• Visit traditional palaces

Important Details:

1. Visa: UAE passport holders get 90 days visa-free. Residents of the UAE must apply for a visa through the South Korean Embassy in UAE.
2. Flight Time: 8 to 9 hours direct from Dubai
3. Best Months: December, January, February, March
4. Money Needed: 295 to 550 AED per day
5. Weather: Cold but not too cold (0-10 degrees)

Money Saving Tips:

• Stay in hostels or budget hotels
• Eat in university areas (cheap food)
• Use public transport (very good and cheap)
• Visit free markets and parks

8. Philippines - Island Hopping Country

Why Go: Thousands of beautiful islands, very cheap

Philippines has over 7,000 islands. Winter is the perfect time to visit with good weather and calm seas for island hopping.

What You Can Do:

• Visit world-famous beaches in Palawan
• Go island hopping tours
• Try scuba diving (very cheap here)
• See rice terraces in mountains
• Experience friendly Filipino culture

Important Details:

1. Visa: 30 days visa-free for UAE passport holders, and residents must obtain a visa before they travel.
2. Flight Time: 9 to 11 hours (usually one stop)
3. Best Months: December, January, February, March, April, May
4. Money Needed: 150 to 370 AED per day
5. Weather: Warm and dry (25-30 degrees)

Money Saving Tips:

• Use local buses and jeepneys for transport
• Stay in local guesthouses
• Eat at local restaurants (very cheap)
• Book island tours directly with boat operators

9. Armenia - History and Snow Country

Why Go: Very close to UAE, rich history, affordable

Armenia is very close to UAE and offers great value for money. Perfect for people who like history and winter landscapes.

What You Can Do:

1. Visit ancient monasteries and churches
2. Explore Yerevan city center
3. See Mount Ararat views
4. Try traditional Armenian food
5. Experience local culture and hospitality

Important Details:

1. Visa: UAE residents can get an Armenia E-visa online
2. Flight Time: 3 to 4 hours direct
3. Best Months: December, January, February, March
4. Money Needed: 110 to 295 AED per day
5. Weather: Cold with snow (0 to -10 degrees)

Money Saving Tips:

• Stay in local guesthouses
• Eat at family restaurants
• Use public transport
• Visit free historical sites

10. Brazil - Summer Festival Country

Why Go: It's summer there, carnival season, beach culture

Brazil has summer when UAE has winter. This means beach weather, pre-carnival celebrations, and amazing energy everywhere.

What You Can Do:

• Visit famous Rio de Janeiro beaches
• See Christ the Redeemer statue
• Experience Brazilian culture and music
• Try Brazilian food and drinks
• Explore Amazon rainforest

Important Details:

1. Visa: Residents in the UAE must apply for the visa through the Brazil Embassy in UAE. Consider applying via a reputable travel agency in Dubai, UAE
2. Flight Time: 14 to 18 hours (with stops)
3. Best Months: December, January, February, March
4. Money Needed: 220 to 550 AED per day
5. Weather: Hot and humid (25-35 degrees)

Money Saving Tips:

• Stay in neighborhoods away from main tourist areas
• Use public transport (metro and buses)
• Eat at local restaurants
• Book tours through local operators

How to Plan Your Winter Trip: Simple Steps

Step 1: Pick Your Country

Think about what you want:

• Hot weather: Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Maldives, Brazil
• Cold weather: Japan, South Korea, Armenia
• Mix of both: Morocco, New Zealand

Step 2: Check Visa Rules

1. Look at your passport type

2. Check if you need visa for your chosen country

3. If yes, apply at least 3-4 weeks before travel

4. Keep copies of all documents

Step 3: Book Your Flight

1. Compare prices on different websites

2. Book 6-8 weeks before travel for best prices

3. Consider flying on weekdays (cheaper)

4. Check baggage rules

Step 4: Book Your Hotel

1. Read reviews from other travelers

2. Check location (close to things you want to see)

3. Book cancellable rooms when possible

4. Consider vacation rentals for longer stays

Step 5: Plan Your Activities

1. Make a list of must-see places

2. Check if you need tickets in advance

3. Leave some time free for unexpected discoveries

4. Research local customs and rules

Money Guide: How Much You Need

Budget Travel (150-300 AED per day):

Countries: Thailand, Philippines, Armenia What this includes:

• Basic hotel or guesthouse
• Local food and street food
• Public transport
• Basic activities and sightseeing

Medium Budget Travel (300-600 AED per day):

Countries: Malaysia, Morocco, South Korea, Japan What this includes:

• Good 3-star hotels
• Mix of local and tourist restaurants
• Some taxis and private transport
• Paid attractions and tours

Luxury Travel (600+ AED per day):

Countries: New Zealand, Maldives, Brazil What this includes:

• 4-5 star hotels or resorts
• Fine dining restaurants
• Private tours and activities
• All comfort and convenience

Ways to Save Money:

1. Book Early: Flights and hotels are cheaper when booked in advance

2. Travel in Groups: Share hotel rooms and taxi costs

3. Eat Local Food: Street food and local restaurants cost much less

4. Use Public Transport: Much cheaper than taxis

5. Look for Free Activities: Many museums and parks are free

6. Shop at Local Markets: Better prices than tourist shops

Documents You Need: Simple Checklist

Before You Travel:

✅ Valid passport (at least 6 months left)

✅ Valid UAE residence visa

✅ Visa for destination (if needed)

✅ Travel insurance

✅ Hotel booking confirmation

✅ Flight tickets (printed and digital copies)

✅ Bank statements (some countries ask for this)

✅ Emergency contact information

Money and Cards:

• Credit cards that work internationally
• Some cash in US dollars or local currency
• Notify your bank about travel plans
• Keep copies of all cards

Health and Safety:

• Check if you need any vaccinations
• Bring any regular medicines you take
• Travel insurance with medical coverage
• Emergency phone numbers

Common Questions and Simple Answers

Q: Which countries require an E-visa for UAE residents?

A: Many countries offer visa-free entry for UAE residents, but it depends on your passport type. Countries like Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, and Armenia usually issue an E-visa. Always check current rules before booking.

Q: When should I book my winter trip?

A: Book flights 6-8 weeks before travel for the best prices. For popular places like Japan or Maldives, book 3-4 months early.

Q: How much money should I take?

A: It depends on where you go:

• Cheap countries: 1,000-1,500 AED for one week
• Medium price countries: 1,500-2,500 AED for one week
• Expensive countries: 2,500+ AED for one week

Q: Are there direct flights from UAE to these places?

A: Yes, many places have direct flights from Dubai or Abu Dhabi. These include Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Maldives, and South Korea.

Q: What should I pack for winter travel?

A: Pack clothes for different weather types. Bring warm and cool clothes, comfortable walking shoes, phone chargers, and sunscreen.

Q: Is it safe to travel alone?

A: Most countries on this list are very safe for solo travel. Research your destination, stay in safe areas, and keep emergency contacts handy.

Q: How do I get internet abroad?

A: You can buy local SIM cards, use international roaming, or rent portable WiFi devices. Many hotels and restaurants have free WiFi.

Q: What if I get sick while traveling?

A: Travel insurance is very important. Keep emergency numbers, know where hospitals are, and bring any medicines you regularly take