What’s Included in an All-Inclusive Holiday Package from the UAE?
An all-inclusive holiday package from the UAE usually bundles return flights, hotel stays, airport transfers, daily meals and selected drinks into one upfront price. The exact inclusions vary by resort and “board basis,” so the meals, drinks and activities covered can differ a lot — which is why it pays to read the inclusions line by line before you book.
“All-inclusive” is one of the most-searched terms by UAE travellers, and also one of the most misunderstood. The phrase means different things at different resorts. This guide breaks down what’s typically covered, what usually isn’t, and the smart questions to ask so your holiday has no surprise costs.
What does “all-inclusive” usually include?
At most resorts, an all-inclusive package covers:
- Return flights from a UAE airport (Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah).
- Accommodation for your full stay in the chosen room category.
- Airport–hotel transfers on both ends (private or shared).
- Meals — typically breakfast, lunch and dinner, often buffet-style with some à la carte options.
- Selected drinks — usually soft drinks, water, tea/coffee and house beverages during meals.
- Some on-site activities — non-motorised water sports, pool access, kids’ clubs and entertainment, depending on the resort.
Understanding “board basis” — the part that trips people up
The amount of food and drink included is described by a “board basis.” Knowing these terms is the single best way to compare packages fairly.
| Board basis | What’s included |
|---|---|
| Room Only (RO) | Accommodation only — no meals. |
| Bed & Breakfast (BB) | Room plus breakfast daily. |
| Half Board (HB) | Breakfast and dinner. |
| Full Board (FB) | Breakfast, lunch and dinner. |
| All-Inclusive (AI) | All meals plus selected drinks, snacks and some activities. |
| Premium / Ultra AI | Adds premium drinks, speciality dining, select excursions and more. |
What’s usually NOT included?
Even on a true all-inclusive plan, budget for these common extras:
- Premium or imported drinks above the “house” selection.
- Speciality restaurants or à la carte dining (sometimes a surcharge).
- Spa treatments, motorised water sports and diving.
- Off-resort excursions and tours.
- Visa fees, travel insurance and tourism/resort taxes.
- Tips and personal shopping.
For island destinations like the Maldives, transfers (seaplane or speedboat) can be a significant cost — always confirm whether they’re in your package. See how it works on our Maldives page.
Is an all-inclusive package worth it from the UAE?
It depends on how you travel. All-inclusive shines when you want predictable costs, plan to stay mostly at the resort, or are travelling with family and want meals sorted. If you’d rather explore local restaurants and tour widely — as in Georgia, Thailand or Bali — a bed-and-breakfast package with a flexible itinerary often delivers better value and a richer experience.
5 questions to ask before you book all-inclusive
- Which meals and which drinks are actually included?
- Are airport (and island) transfers included both ways?
- Are speciality restaurants free or surcharged?
- What activities are complimentary versus paid?
- Are taxes, visa and insurance inside the quoted price or on top?
Want a package with no fine-print surprises?
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Frequently asked questions
What does all-inclusive mean on a holiday package?
It means most of your trip’s core costs — flights, hotel, transfers, meals and selected drinks — are bundled into one upfront price, with some extras still charged separately.
Are drinks included in all-inclusive packages?
Usually house and soft drinks are included, but premium, branded or imported beverages often cost extra. Always check what “selected drinks” covers at your specific resort.
Is all-inclusive cheaper than booking separately?
Often yes, because operators secure bundled rates — but only if you’ll use the meals and inclusions. For exploring, tour-heavy trips, a flexible bed-and-breakfast package can work out better.
Can I book an all-inclusive holiday from the UAE online?
You can start online, but a quick WhatsApp conversation with a specialist ensures the board basis, transfers and extras match what you actually want — avoiding the most common booking mistakes.