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Clouds, Glaciers & Monasteries: A 5-Day High-Altitude Retreat in Georgia

Just 3.5 hours from Dubai lies the majestic Great Caucasus, ancient stone watchtowers, and centuries-old qvevri wine culture.

Murat Özdemir

Murat Özdemir

Türkiye & Caucasus Specialist

December 05, 2025·6 min read
Clouds, Glaciers & Monasteries: A 5-Day High-Altitude Retreat in Georgia
Key Highlights At A Glance
  • Direct flights from DXB to TBS take only 3 hours and 30 minutes.
  • GCC residents receive visa-free entry upon arrival in Georgia.
  • Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) features dramatic vistas of Mount Kazbek (5,054 meters).
  • Gergeti Trinity Church stands solitary at 2,170 meters against glacier peaks.

The Ascent Along the Georgian Military Highway

Leaving the bohemian balconies and leafy boulevards of Tbilisi, the Georgian Military Highway winds north through the Aragvi river basin. Passing the 17th-century fortress of Ananuri, the road climbs steadily over Jvari Pass at 2,379 meters.

As the mountain valleys widen, the snow-capped volcanic cone of Mount Kazbek looms into view, standing guard above the alpine hamlet of Stepantsminda.

Visual Perspectives

Captured during Al Yahmaa private expeditions and inspections.

Clouds, Glaciers & Monasteries: A 5-Day High-Altitude Retreat in Georgia gallery 1
Clouds, Glaciers & Monasteries: A 5-Day High-Altitude Retreat in Georgia gallery 2
Murat Özdemir

Written by

Murat Özdemir

Türkiye & Caucasus Specialist at Al Yahmaa Tourism LLC

Based in Dubai, advising high-net-worth travelers, organizing private aviation itineraries, and curating rare experiential journeys across the Middle East and beyond.

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