With rising wedding costs and busy schedules, many couples are opting for minimoons, short, memorable getaways after their big day. Perfect for newlyweds looking to relax and celebrate without straying far from home, minimoons offer romance and adventure with less travel stress. 

Here are some top minimoon destinations around the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, each with unique features to suit every couple.

1. Al Ain, UAE: For a calming oasis

Distance: 1.5 hours’ drive from Abu Dhabi.

As one of the UAE’s only UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Al Ain offers a blend of tranquillity and cultural charm. Famous for its seven Oasis’ the forests, cooler weather, and tree-lined roads set it apart from the rest of Abu Dhab, so it feels like you’re travelling further than you are. 

Top couple picks:

• Check into the luxurious Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort for a hilltop retreat with stunning views, perfect for newlyweds seeking serenity.
• Stroll hand-in-hand through the UNESCO World Heritage Site Al Ain Oasis, or enjoy a romantic evening at Jebel Hafeet with panoramic desert views.
• Wander through the vibrant Al Ain Camel Market to bond over a unique and lighthearted local experience.

2. Musandam Peninsula, Oman: A dreamy escape

Distance: A 3.5-hour drive (including border crossings) from Dubai

Known as the “Norway of Arabia,” Musandam boasts dramatic fjords, turquoise waters, and pristine beaches, a dreamy escape for couples.

Top couple picks:

• Opt for a beachfront retreat at Six Senses Zighy Bay, featuring private villas with pools where couples can unwind in privacy.
• Enjoy a romantic traditional dhow cruise through the fjords, where you can spot dolphins together or explore hidden coves by kayak.
• Experience the thrill of paragliding from a mountaintop, sharing an adrenaline rush and landing together on the beach.

3. Doha, Qatar: Elegance meets adventure

Distance: A 1.5-hour flight from Dubai

Doha combines modern luxury with rich cultural heritage, making it ideal for couples seeking a mix of elegance and adventure.

Top couple picks:

• Indulge at The St. Regis Doha, offering beachfront views and world-class dining, a perfect setting for romantic dinners.
• Meander through the Souq Waqif together, exploring winding alleys, dining on Qatari cuisine, and shopping for keepsakes to remember your trip.
• Book a moonlit desert safari and end the evening with a private dinner under the stars, creating unforgettable memories.

4. AlUla, Saudi Arabia: Explore ancient sites

Distance: A 1.5-hour flight from Riyadh.

AlUla is Saudi Arabia’s hidden gem, known for its breathtaking landscapes and ancient history, making it a magical destination for couples.

Top couple picks: 

• Book a stay at Habitas AlUla, a sustainable resort surrounded by sandstone cliffs, an intimate retreat perfect for newlyweds.
• Walk hand-in-hand as you explore the Hegra Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning Nabatean tombs.
• Enjoy a stargazing session in the desert. Nothing says romance like a night under the stars. 

5. Manama, Bahrain: The best of both

Distance: 1.5-hour flight from Dubai 

Bahrain’s capital, Manama, offers a blend of modernity and history, combining luxury resorts with cultural heritage, making it a versatile minimoon destination.

Top couple picks:

• Relax at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, set on a private island and offering intimate settings for newlyweds.
• Explore the Bahrain Fort hand-in-hand, enjoying its evening lighting, or indulge in a rejuvenating couple’s spa day.
• Dive into the Pearl Diving Trail together, a unique underwater adventure to discover Bahrain’s pearling heritage.

6. Salalah, Oman: A cooling trip

Distance: A 1.5-hour flight from Muscat.

Salalah’s lush greenery and cool weather during the Khareef (monsoon) season make it a romantic escape for nature-loving couples.

Top couple picks:

• Experience luxury at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, with private villas and beachfront access, offering couples ultimate privacy.
• Take a couple’s walk by the Wadi Darbat waterfalls or explore the Frankincense Land Museum.
• Visit the local coconut and banana plantations for a lighthearted adventure, or sample the region’s signature frankincense-infused products.

7. Riyadh’s Edge of the World, Saudi Arabia

Distance: 1.5 hours’ drive from Riyadh.

A surreal geological marvel, the Edge of the World offers couples a dramatic and romantic backdrop with an experience to remember. A tour guide is recommended as driving to the location can have sheer cliffs that appear suddenly. 

Top couple picks:

• While accommodations near the site are limited, boutique hotels in Riyadh provide luxurious options for couples. 
• Embark on a guided hike to the cliff’s edge, holding hands as you take in breathtaking sunset views.
• Pack a gourmet picnic to enjoy at the cliff’s edge, sharing a meal with the horizon as your backdrop.

From tranquil deserts to vibrant cities and lush oases, MENA offers a wealth of romantic minimoons for newlyweds. The only thing left to do is pick one.