Top 10 Islands to Visit in the Philippines for UAE Travelers
- Muneera Safar
- Apr 28
- 5 min read
More than 7,000 islands comprise the tropical paradise of the Philippines, a country that gives adventure-seeking, leisure-loving, and cultural-escaping travelers from the UAE every breathtaking place they can imagine. From white-sand beaches and turquoise waters to rich history and warm hospitality, the Philippines guarantees some diversity for a really unforgettable vacation. Whether it'll be discovering the world-famous island of Boracay, diving into the remarkable clear waters of Palawan, or just hanging out in the chill atmosphere of Siargao, each island has there own tales and experiences to offer. With local flights and proximity to the UAE, it is no wonder many residents and citizens are now considering the Philippines as their next vacation.
UAE travelers usually start by applying for the Philippines Visa as the gateway for their dream island getaway. Thankfully, the process of applying for the visa is relatively simple and user-friendly. The Philippines Visa process from the UAE-via the Embassy of the Philippines or accredited agencies-applies to tourists visiting for leisure, family visits, or business engagements. In fact, UAE passport holders may enjoy visa-free entry for a limited stay; and expatriates in the UAE may apply for a tourist visa subject to standard documentation. Once the visa is done and dusted, the travelers are off with a flash, being able to tease and taunt their way into the island treasures that eagerly await the beautiful Southeast Asian archipelago.

Here are some islands to visit in the Philippines for UAE travellers:
1. Boracay: An Island of White Sands
Boracay ranks high as one of the travel destinations in the Philippines. It is for its soft powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. The visitors from other parts of the world, especially the UAE, are most likely going to find it relaxing and the beach are a paradise on itself as Boracay has with the many offerings from such attractions as the White Beach, where the diversity comes alive with stunning sunsets, mouthwatering nightlife, and beachfront resorts and activities, perfect for honeymooners, families and also solo travelers.
2. Palawan – Nature's Hidden Treasure
Palawan-oriented, the most sacredly given the title the world's most beautiful island, is popular not only with the El Nido and Coron, which are rich in limestone cliffs, secret lagoons, and very clear blue waters. Eco-tourism seekers, scuba divers, and nature landscape lovers coming from the UAE would not like this place missed by itch in Palawan. Island hopping tours are a must-see in the destination, especially at Big Lagoon and Kayangan Lake.
3. Cebu – A Harmony of Culture and Adventure
Cebu is duality that gives you a busy modern city and then an island touch. Further beautiful beaches like Malapascua and Bantayan then come with historical places and cultural experiences. For Emirati tourists, perhaps they might catch a glimpse of swimming with whale sharks in Oslob, or go hike toward Kawasan Falls. Cebu is accessible because it offers international flights, so travel to this island paradise is convenient for Middle Eastern tourists.
4. Siargao – Surfing Capital of the Philippines
In fact, if ever there's an island in the UAE where you can find some beach fun or simply lie back and catch some sun, this would be it: "Siargao". Besides its most famous surfing spot known as Cloud 9, it is also home to beautiful natural pools like Sugba Lagoon and Magpupungko Rock Pools. Also, Siargao is a peaceful island with coconut-lined roads and a very slow-paced island life beyond surfing.
5. Bohol-a rich natural and historical treasure
The dual kind of traveler is the one who travels for beach and at the same time enjoys inland attractions: larger families and groups from UAE can very much be engaged in visits to the Chocolate Hills, seeing the smallest primate in the world (the tarsier), and beachgoers busy sunbathing along Alona Beach in Panglao Island. Loboc River cruise is another sweet dessert of culture and culinary experience to the adventure journey.
6. Camiguin – The Island Born Out of Fire
Camiguin is a secluded island known for its volcanoes, hot springs, and ancient churches. It is not crowded like other destinations, making it a top choice among UAE travellers looking for solitude. Visit White Island, a sandbar facing Mount Hibok-Hibok or dip yourself in the Ardent Hot Springs. Camiguin is a heavenly place for spending that spiritual and nature retreat.
7. Coron – Diver's Heaven
Coron in northern Palawan has been a diver's and snorkeler's delight. With its famed World War II shipwreck dive sites, the awesome Twin Lagoon, and Barracuda Lake, this is a diver's top pick. These underwater experiences in Coron give thrill-seekers and marine life lovers from the UAE something truly unique.
8. Siquijor – Island of Mystics
Siquijor is enveloped in an aura of quiet charm and mystical tales. It is a small island with scenic white sands, picturesque waterfalls like Cambugahay Falls, and local traditions of spiritual healing. As such, visitors from the UAE looking for a place to unwind will find Siquijor both relaxing and intriguing, with its peculiar local stories to capture the imagination.
9. Samal Island – That 5-Minute Trip from Davao
Samal Island is just a soothing yet beautiful getaway from Davao City. The island's appeal is the perfect amalgamation of beach resorts, marine sanctuaries, and adventure parks. Travelers from the UAE wishing to fly directly to Davao may seamlessly incorporate Samal Island into their itinerary/diving, kayaking, or just soaking up sun by the shore.
10. Bantayan Island – Small Slice of Heaven
Bantayan Island, off the coast of Cebu, is lesser in all senses of the word but simply extraordinary. It has secluded beaches, slow-paced island living, and untouched Filipino island charm. For a UAE traveler wishing to avoid crowds and enjoy serene surroundings, Bantayan is a true hidden gem.
Conclusion
Stunning coastlines, friendly locals, and a mix of adventure with chillax, the Philippines is perfect for an escape for UAE travelers. Whether it was with whalesharks in Cebu, under tall palm trees in Bohol, or lost in hidden lagoons in El Nido, every island adventure becomes a memory to cherish. The food, culture, and natural beauty of the Philippines are what makes it a dream destination for many when they are planning an individual trip or a family get-together, providing something special in itself for every kind of traveler. For UAE residents, the ease of travel and relatively short flight duration further boost the already growing interest in this island nation.
Complete all easy steps for obtaining your Philippines Visa from UAE before packing your bags. A smooth visa makes a great start to a stress-free island holiday. First-timers or returnees who can't seem to get enough of the islands, Philippines shall always have their arms wide open to welcome you. So let the breeze pamper you, and let those lovely views take you and the alluring island make sure you never forget this tropical dream
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