Top Dubai alternatives with beautiful beaches, guaranteed sunshine and 5-star stays for £100

Sarra Gray
Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:53:12 +0000

The ongoing crisis across parts of the Middle East is continuing to affect travel plans, making holidaymakers look further afield for guaranteed sunshine, privacy and value.

New research analysed global destinations across factors including flight costs, five-star hotels and luxury villas, and has revealed a new shortlist of long-haul hotspots offering the same indulgence as Dubai, but often at a lower cost.

The findings, by AbayaButh, show where travellers can combine high-end service, beautiful beaches and cultural experiences, often with better value.

Indonesia was named the top alternative as the Government continues to recommend against travel to the UAE.

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The top alternatives to Dubai

1. Indonesia (Score: 8.7)

2. Thailand (6.96)

3. Mexico (6.37)

4. Vietnam (5.43)

5. Greece (5.39)

Topping the list is Indonesia, where destinations such as Bali offer a compelling mix of private villas, high-end spas and five-star resorts. With premium economy flights averaging just over £1,100 and luxury stays from around £396 per night, it delivers the kind of exclusivity often associated with Dubai, but with a more tranquil, cultural edge.

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Close behind, Thailand appeals to Britons looking for affordable indulgence, particularly in destinations like Phuket and Krabi. Here, private pool villas and beachfront resorts come at a fraction of the cost, with five-star hotels averaging under £200 per night.

Further afield, Mexico stands out for its secluded, high-end resorts, particularly along the Riviera Maya and in Tulum. Five-star stays can cost around £100 per night, according to the research.

Meanwhile, Vietnam is emerging as one of the most affordable luxury destinations globally. Areas such as Ha Long Bay and Hoi An combine boutique resorts with cultural depth, making them ideal for travellers seeking both relaxation and authenticity. The experts said a five-star stay will set you back around £105 per night.

Within Europe, Greece remains a strong contender, with islands like Santorini and Crete offering boutique luxury and privacy without the long-haul flight.

The broader trend reflects a changing mindset among UK travellers, with more emphasis on value, privacy and meaningful experiences over traditional big-name luxury hubs.

AbayaButh’s spokesperson said: "Dubai has long been the go-to for luxury travel, but 2026 is the year to explore alternatives that offer privacy, indulgence, and peace of mind — without compromising on comfort or style."

Alternatively, Britons may want to book a staycation, and the UK has lots of beautiful locations to choose from. Experts have shared the UK cities perfect for an early spring staycation.