Dons boss Derek McInnes hopes lightning strikes twice with a repeat visit to the Jebel Ali Centre of Excellence.
Aberdeen recorded 12 wins from 14 games after their training camp in the Middle East last January and a mid-season break comes at a good time for McInnes’ men, who played seven times in December and started their season in July with the Europa League qualifiers against Siroki Brijeg.
The Reds have three weeks between games – their last Premiership match was against Hearts on December 30 and they return to the pitch on January 20 against St Mirren in the Scottish Cup.
Uzbek opponents Lokomotiv Tashkent have been lined up for a friendly at the end of the tour, which sees the Dons away until January 16.
McInnes said: “I felt it was important to get away again because last season we got so much benefit from it. In the years before that we tailed off a bit and didn’t finish the season strongly, but last season we did.
“When you have an early start for Europe like we did then the break is perfect because it lets you recharge the batteries mid-season before going again.
“The facilities in Dubai are first class, it’s great to get some warm-weather training to make sure we come back ready for the Scottish Cup tie at the end of the month.”
Also out in the Emirati city at the same time as Aberdeen are Scottish champions Celtic. There is also a strong Dons support overseas and Joe Lewis expects a good number of Reds fans to travel to Dubai.
He said: “We had a lot of new faces in the summer and it takes a while to get to know each other. We’re all quite tightknit now, so we’re pleased with where we’re at. Team-bonding is a big part of it and we’ve got a big fanbase there. A lot of ex-pats will get an opportunity to see us when they wouldn’t normally do so.”
“I don’t know who I’m rooming with yet but Kenny (McLean) is my room-mate at home, so we get on quite well. You don’t spend too much time in the room there – you’re training or putting your feet up in the sun. Or getting on the golf course, hopefully.”
Since his arrival from Cardiff City at the start of last season, Lewis has not missed a game and has made himself an integral part of McInnes’ plans. He feels his performances this season have not been at the same level as a year ago but is happy to contribute where he can to the team’s success.Lewis said: “I’ve made a couple more mistakes this season but I’m still happy with where I’m at. Hopefully, I can go into the second half of the season, maintain good consistency and do my part for the team.”