Was in Maderia in February was very cold. We go to Tenerife regularly and weather is warmer there.
South Africa is Fab. Take in quiet week near Cape Town to rest, lots of holiday lets, that can be rented for a few days, then explore the area. Bolders Beach is lovely with lots of Penguins, you can almost touch them they are so near. They will stay near but wont allow you to touch them.
The drive around the Garden route is really nice. Stellenbosh is excellent if you like to see wine making, try one of their picnics, they are very enjoyable.
Dont forget to do a game reserve, the magic of the animals, that is if you like animals, you will remember for ever. Go to the best you can afford, it is worth it. The rest of the trip accommodation is cheap and plentiful. Driving is on left hand side too. Car hire is cheap. Stay on the main roads, dont drive after dark.
South Africa is cheap once you get there. The weather is excellent in Jan. The temperatures around Cape area is lovely about 25deg. around Hout Bay, Galway Bay and Clifden is beautiful. There is no time change, so no jet lag.
Dubai is lovely and restful. Do go to see the 7 star Hotel, Burg al Arab, a sight to behold.
All the hotels ar good there, the heat at that time of year is ok. Enjoy wherever you go. Good Luck Browtal