Near enough to be accessible from the UK, far enough away to be enticingly different, and with guaranteed blue skies and sunshine, Middle East holidays provide an idyllic winter escape for families, couples and friends.

Immerse yourself in a totally different culture while taking it easy on some truly fantastic beaches. Haggle your heart out in a souk, marvel at a soaring skyscraper as you take in glistening turquoise seas and mountain and desert landscapes, all on the same holiday.

In Dubai, the most outward looking and international of the United Arab Emirates, the remarkable city landscape incorporates important landmarks like the towering, sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel, and the luxurious artificial islands called The Palm. At the same time, traces of old Dubai linger in the mosques and souks.

Take in the Jumeirah mosque, the Dubai Museum, the Wild Wadi water park, or absorb some history in the newly renovated conservation area of Bastakiya.