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With its lush rainforests, dazzling islands, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine, it's easy to see the attraction of a Malaysian holiday. And with direct flights from Dubai taking just seven hours, UAE travellers are unsurprisingly jetting off to explore this diverse and engaging country.

From the skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur to the lush emerald tea fields of the Cameron Highlands, this Southeast Asian gem blends modern city life with rich tradition and natural wonders. Malaysia is a destination that caters perfectly to Muslim travellers, with a plethora of halal dining options, prayer-friendly facilities, and family-focused experiences making it a top choice for couples, families, and groups alike.

Enjoy the buzz of Kuala Lumpur

Start or end your trip in Kuala Lumpur, a true city of contrasts. With gleaming temples, traditional temples and vibrant street markets, there is plenty to explore in Malaysia’s capital. Ascend the Petronas Towers, the tallest twin towers, to marvel at sweeping panoramic city views. Or shop til you drop at the nearby luxury shopping hub Suria KLCC Mall. At night time the KLCC Park sparkles and entrances visitors with nightly light shows.

For a more traditional experience, head to Batu Caves. Just a short drive out of the city, here you’ll find 272 rainbow-coloured steps leading to Hindu shrines set inside dramatic limestone caverns.

Back in the city, food lovers can wander through lively halal-friendly night markets, sampling satay skewers, nasi lemak, and tropical juices.

Unlock the heritage and flavour of Penang

The place where culture and cuisine collide, Penang is widely considered to be Malaysia’s food capital. Head to the UNESCO World Heritage site of George Town where vibrant colonial-era shophouses sit alongside vibrant street art and aromatic hawker stalls. Chinese, Indian, and Malay influences are reflected in both the architecture and the food.

Take a ride up Penang Hill on the funicular railway, where cooler air and sweeping views await. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore Penang National Park, home to tropical rainforests, canopy walkways, and Turtle Beach, a nesting site for endangered green turtles.

Penang blends heritage and faith seamlessly with a raft of historic mosques such as the renowned Kapitan Keling Mosque.

Lay back in Langkawi’s island paradise

Just off Malaysia’s west coast, the 99 islands of Langkawi are a tropical haven. Soft sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and luxury resorts make this a top choice for relaxation. For adventure, take the Langkawi SkyCab cable car to the top of Gunung Mat Cincang for spectacular views, or walk across the Sky Bridge, a curved suspension bridge hanging above the rainforest canopy.

Visitors can kayak through mangrove forests, swim beneath Seven Wells Waterfall, or go island-hopping by boat. Langkawi is also duty-free, making it ideal for a little holiday shopping. Langkawi also offers many resorts with halal dining and family-friendly facilities, making it ideal for Muslim travellers.

Seek adventure in Sabah

On the northern tip of Borneo, Sabah is a dream for wildlife and adventure seekers. Hike to the summit of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s highest peak at 4,095 metres, for a challenging but rewarding climb. For something gentler, a boat cruise along the Kinabatangan River offers glimpses of wild orangutans, pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys.

If you are seeking a more safari style holiday, check out our suggestions for a trip to South Africa.

Snorkellers and divers will love the nearby islands of Sipadan and Mabul, renowned worldwide for their pristine reefs and marine life. In the evenings, the bustling Kota Kinabalu night market is the perfect spot to sample fresh seafood and traditional Malay dishes. For a more serene experience, visit the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, a stunning “Floating Mosque” built on a lagoon, which welcomes Muslim visitors and offers a peaceful place for prayer alongside its striking architecture.

Soak in the sun, sea and sand

If a beach break is what you’re looking for then Malaysia’s coastline can deliver. The Perhentian Islands are famed for their crystal waters and relaxed charm, while Tioman Island is a diver’s paradise with coral reefs and colourful marine life. Surfers flock to Cherating Beach, while Redang Island offers luxury resorts and fine white sands.

Closer to the mainland, Port Dickson makes for an easy seaside escape from Kuala Lumpur, while Langkawi (already mentioned above) is the ultimate island holiday. Whether you’re after relaxation, watersports, or romantic sunsets, Malaysia’s beaches have something for everyone.

If you can’t quite find what you’re looking for in Malaysia, why not visit Sri Lanka. Read our recommendations for a perfect Sri Lankan holiday here. 

Discover Malaysia with DW Travel

At DW Travel, we make planning your Malaysian getaway simple and seamless. From the gleaming towers of Kuala Lumpur to the beaches of Langkawi, we’ll design an itinerary that balances culture, adventure, and relaxation.

With our expertise in Halal-friendly dining, family-focused stays, and private guided experiences, you can travel with confidence. From flights and transfers to bespoke tours, every detail is taken care of, leaving you free to savour Malaysia’s beauty, flavours, and charm.