Best Places to Travel in December from the UAE

Planning a getaway over a warm cup of coffee? Don’t forget to expand your list and check out the best countries to visit in December this year! With the cooler weather settling in the UAE, the idea of a year-end getaway feels like a perfect escape. It’s the perfect time of the calendar when you can explore the world's most beautiful destinations. From snowy cities to sun-soaked beaches or festive celebrations, there are a range of places across the world that will offer you an unforgettable lifelong experience. 

Top 10 Countries to Visit in December

Tabled below are the best countries to go in December with some additional information: 

✍️Check the visa requirements of the countries based on your nationality, as UAE residents may have different visa requirements as compared to other travellers. Always confirm the latest travel policies before planning your trip.

Best Countries to Visit in December from the UAE

Let’s take a look at the best countries to travel in December from the UAE: 

Maldives: A December Dreamy Escape

A quick hop from the UAE, the Maldives is a dreamlike escape for those seeking tranquility, romance, and crystal-clear waters. With direct flights and visa-free entry for UAE residents, it’s a perfect beach getaway in December. While much of the world bundles up for winter, here you’ll be diving into turquoise lagoons and relaxing in overwater villas.

Best Things to Do: 

✳️ Stay in an overwater bungalow

✳️ Go scuba diving or snorkelling in coral reefs

✳️ Enjoy a sunset cruise on a traditional Dhoni

✳️ Try luxury spa treatments on a private island

Japan: A Winter Wonderland of Tradition and Technology

Japan is a perfect country to visit in December. It is a wonderland of contrasts—from ancient temples dusted with snow to neon-lit cities buzzing with year-end energy. It’s ideal for UAE travellers looking to immerse themselves in a totally different culture and climate. With crisp winter air and minimal crowds, it’s the perfect time for UAE travellers to t explore both tradition and technology in this captivating country.

Best Things to Do: 

✳️ Explore Kyoto’s temples and tea houses

✳️ Visit Tokyo Disneyland’s winter celebrations

✳️ Witness a unique sport, a sumo wrestling match

✳️ Enjoy an onsen (hot spring bath) in Hakone

Sri Lanka: A Perfect December Escape 

If you are looking for a nearby getaway for December travel, consider Sri Lanka. Just a few hours from the UAE, this is one of the best countries to visit December, offering golden beaches, lush mountains, and rich heritage. December marks the start of its dry season, making it a perfect time to explore this teardrop island. Whether you’re into wildlife, surfing, or spiritual retreats, Sri Lanka has something for everyone. 

Best Things to Do: 

✳️ Safari in Yala National Park

✳️ Visit historic sites like Sigiriya

✳️ Surf in Arugam Bay or chill at Mirissa Beach

✳️ Visit tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya

France: A festive December Wonderland

France in December turns into a festive postcard, with Christmas markets, gourmet delights, and charming snowy Alpine towns. For UAE travellers, it offers a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and celebration, especially for those experiencing their first winter wonderland. Just be aware that this time popular places can be crowded, so it is wise to plan ahead for a smoother experience. 

Best Things to Do: 

✳️ Shop at Strasbourg’s world-famous Christmas market

✳️ Explore Paris’s festive ambience 

✳️ Ski in the French Alps

✳️ Sip hot chocolate in cosy cafés in Lyon

Germany: A Magical Escape 

Germany is one of the best countries to go to in December, as this time it’s all about festive cheer and fairy-tale settings. During this month, you can visit enchanting Christmas markets, snow-covered scenery, and cosy holiday vibes, making you experience a warmer winter. 

Best Things to Do: 

✳️ Visit the magical Christmas market in Nuremberg

✳️ Enjoy bratwurst and mulled wine in Berlin

✳️ Tour Neuschwanstein Castle surrounded by snow

✳️ Take a river cruise on the Rhine

Czech Republic: A Hidden Gem 

Charming, compact, and full of history, the Czech Republic—especially Prague—is a hidden gem in December. The UAE residents will love the mix of Gothic architecture, festive lights, and budget-friendly travel options. With temperatures ranging from 1°C to 3°C, it offers a true winter experience, though be prepared for the chilly weather as you explore this magical destination. 

Best Things to Do: 

✳️ Wander through Prague’s Old Town Square and Christmas market

✳️ Visit Prague Castle at sunset

✳️ Try Trdelník (chimney cake) and hot honey wine

✳️ Explore fairytale towns like Český Krumlov

Finland: Your Dream Winter Escape

Finland is among the best countries to visit in December for travellers chasing the ultimate winter fantasy. Visiting this country during winter means you are stepping into a snow globe. It’s ideal for UAE families wanting a magical Christmas or adventure-seekers craving Arctic thrills. Whether it’s meeting Santa in Lapland or exploring the Northern Lights, Finland promises an unforgettable winter fantasy.

Best Things to Do: 

✳️ Meet Santa Claus in Rovaniemi

✳️ Chase the Northern Lights in Lapland

✳️ Ride a husky sledge through snowy forests

✳️ Stay in a glass igloo under the stars

Explore more places to visit in Finland. 

India: The Perfect December Destination

Whether it’s a spiritual retreat, beach vacation, or mountain trek, India’s diversity makes it an ideal December destination. With many regions enjoying pleasant weather during this time, it’s a great choice for UAE travellers. Plus, with its proximity, it’s just a short flight away from the UAE.

Best Things to Do: 

✳️ Relax in Goa’s beach shacks

✳️ Explore Rajasthan’s desert forts and palaces

✳️ Attend Christmas festivities in Kerala

✳️ Trek in the scenic Himachal hills

Italy: A Cultural Feast 

Italy in December is a perfect blend of art, food, and festive flair in December, offering UAE tourists a cultural treat. From Rome’s twinkling streets to Venice’s misty canals, Italy is equally charming in the season. If you love to visit less crowded attractions, it’s a great time to explore Italy’s cultural treasures at a leisurely pace, making for an unforgettable winter getaway.

Best Things to Do:

✳️ Admire the Vatican’s Christmas displays

✳️ Enjoy winter sales in Milan

✳️ Eat your way through Bologna’s trattorias

✳️ Go for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding 

Thailand: December’s Perfect Blend of Sun and Culture

Thailand is one of the best countries to go to in December, boasting pleasant weather, minimal rainfall and clear skies. The most popular tourist destinations, including Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, are packed at this busy time of year. It means that the cost of your stay and travel will likely increase. However, the spectacular scenery, gorgeous beaches, and distinctive culture may make the trip worthwhile. 

Best Things to Do:

✳️ Explore stunning islands

✳️ Experience the culture up close

✳️ Head to historic sites like Ayutthaya and Sukhothai

✳️ Visit the local markets and take advantage of the year-end sale

Summing It Up 

From winter magic in Europe to tropical serenity in the Maldives, there are plenty of the best countries to go in December for UAE travellers. But no matter where your journey takes you, travel insurance is one thing you shouldn’t leave behind. It’s your safety net against unexpected delays, medical emergencies, or lost baggage. As you fill your suitcase with clothes and adventure, make sure you add peace of mind to the list too. 

Get the best travel insurance at Policybazaar.ae and travel with peace of mind!